Jerry Hooper

Jerry Hooper (1954–2025) was a Kansas City-born and raised musician, jazz keyboardist, and founder of the popular local band Brass Rewind, whose passion for music defined his life and brought joy to audiences across the Midwest even while building a successful banking career.

Biography

Early life

Born July 29, 1954 in Kansas City and raised in Raytown, Missouri, Jerry began piano lessons at age 7, often riding his bicycle to lessons. He attended Raytown South High School, where he was a standout pianist and flutist in the school’s award-winning jazz band. That early love of music stayed with him throughout his life.

Arrival in / connection to Kansas City

Born and raised in the Kansas City metro area, Jerry’s musical roots and lifelong connection to the local scene were formed here. Even as he pursued a career in banking, music remained central, culminating in fulfilling a dream of leading a band in his hometown.

Career / contribution

While respected in financial services (leadership roles with Commerce Bank, BMO Harris, Fifth Third, and INTRUST Bank over four decades), Jerry is best remembered for his music. A jazz enthusiast and accomplished keyboardist, he founded the popular Kansas City band Brass Rewind in 2019, inspired decades earlier by Blood, Sweat & Tears’ “God Bless the Child.” Under his leadership and steady keyboard playing, the band became a staple at festivals and events across the Midwest, drawing audiences to their feet and inspiring nights of dancing. The band continues his legacy.

Later years

Jerry faced a courageous battle with ALS, continuing to embody his generous spirit, kindness, and love of music until his passing on August 17, 2025 in Liberty, Missouri.

Death + memorial

Jerry Hooper passed away peacefully at home on August 17, 2025, surrounded by family. No services were planned at the time. His legacy lives in the music he loved, the family he cherished, and the generosity he shared. Family suggests donations to the ALS Association or supporting local music like Brass Rewind.

Defining contributions to Kansas City

1. Founded and led Brass Rewind, a beloved KC band that became a staple in the local and Midwest music scene, fulfilling a lifelong dream and bringing live jazz/funk energy to festivals and events.
2. Served as a dedicated musician and community figure whose passion inspired other musicians and audiences, even while maintaining a full professional career in banking.
3. Embodied the spirit of KC music through his keyboard work and band leadership, connecting generations and keeping the joy of live performance alive in the metro area.

Cultural legacy

Jerry Hooper is remembered as a kind, passionate musician who turned a childhood dream into a vibrant part of Kansas City’s music community. His story—from early jazz band days in Raytown to founding a popular band later in life—highlights resilience, generosity, and the enduring power of music in KC. The band Brass Rewind continues as a testament to his impact.

Contemporaries + collaborators

• Members of Brass Rewind and local KC jazz/funk musicians
• Fellow performers at Midwest festivals and events
• Family and friends who supported his musical journey

Sites in KC associated with this person

• Venues and festivals across the Kansas City metro and Midwest where Brass Rewind performed
• Raytown South High School (early musical roots)
• Local music scenes tied to his keyboard work and band leadership

Source materials

• Obituary and tributes from family and musicians
• Local coverage of Brass Rewind performances
• Personal stories from band members and friends highlighting his influence

Controversies + complexity

None noted; remembered for his positive spirit, music, and generosity.

Sources