Prominent Indigenous Musician Robert Tree Cody Passes Away at the Age of 72

Renowned Native American flutist and vocalist, powwow performer, multi-award recipient, and Lifetime Achievement Awardee, Robert Tree Cody (Maricopa/Dakota), peacefully departed on September 14, 2023. He graced this world for 72 years.

Enormous in stature, standing at an impressive height of 2.07 meters (6.79 feet), the indomitable “Tree” was among the trailblazers who disseminated traditional Native American singing and flute melodies across the globe. Over the course of his illustrious career, he launched eleven full-length albums through Canyon Records. He also contributed his artistry to numerous compilations and collaborative endeavors, featuring fellow artists such as Will Clipman, R. Carlos Nakai, Tony Redhouse, Hovia Edwards, Ruben Romero, and Janice Marie Johnson from A Taste of Honey.

A five-time recipient of Native American music accolades, Robert Tree Cody delivered a notable performance that secured him the Best New Age Album honor at the Second Annual Native American Music Awards for Maze, a project enriched by the talents of Tony Redhouse and Rob Wallace. At the Third Annual Awards, Robert clinched awards for Best Latin Recording and Best World Music Recording with Native Flamenco, where he joined forces with guitar virtuoso Ruben Romero. The Fourth Annual Awards saw Robert’s collaboration with Janice Marie Johnson on the award-winning composition “Until The Eagle Falls.” Tree earned an impressive total of 14 nominations across diverse categories, also claiming victory as the Best Male Artist and Best Flutist at the Native American Music Awards. Furthermore, in 2007, his collaboration with Will Clipman on the album Heart of the Wind garnered a Grammy nomination.

Janice Marie Johnson fondly recalls her initial encounter with Tree: “Robert “Tree” Cody was my good friend and colleague. When I first met “Tree,” he looked at me and asked, “What is your tribe?” I responded Stockbridge–Munsee Community. I asked him how he knew I was of Native American descent? Without hesitation, he responded, “I can feel your spirit.” He welcomed me into his world with open arms. “Tree” took me under his wings, guiding me and teaching me the Native ways. This was the beginning of a friendship that has withstood the test of time.

“The song, and music video, ‘Until The Eagle Falls’, was born from the creative energy that “Tree” and I shared. This project, featuring Robert “Tree” Cody, would have never happened had it not been for the inspiration and support I received from “Tree.” His heart, music, dancing, and knowledge touched me to the core. He will be sorely missed and forever remembered. May he Rest In Peace. Let love rain down.”

Native American Music Awards President, Ellen Bello, reflects, “Robert Tree Cody was undoubtedly one of the great pioneers to bring Native American flute music into mainstream acceptance with the intent of not only entertaining but also to heal. ‘Such is the magic of the flute’ Tree once said. The magic of the flute heals and brings people together.” She remembers Tree as being like no other. “He was at the forefront of the Native American music movement and was the first to merge Flamenco, Mayan and Aztec music with Native American flute music. He was versatile, inventive, creative, funny and yet traditional. He was an educator, mentor, and great storyteller who loved to share his knowledge with others. He was also a great supporter of NAMA, and a good friend. When Tree finally met his true love, Rachel, that’s when he appeared to be his most content. We share in Rachel’s heartache and loss and offer our condolences and prayers. Tree will be greatly missed, but will forever be remembered through the legacy of his music.“

On September 14, 2023, following an extended battle with a severe illness, Robert Tree Cody peacefully passed away at the age of 72, with his devoted spouse Rachel at his side. The arrangements for his funeral are currently in progress, and a crowdfunding initiative has been initiated to assist in fulfilling his final wish of resting in peace at his ancestral home within the Salt River Pima Reservation.

Robert leaves behind his beloved life partner and companion, Rachel Kee-Cody, from the Pueblo of Santa Ana (New Mexico).

As the news of his departure reverberated, a multitude of friends and fellow musicians began sharing their heartfelt sentiments:

Robert Tree Cody was a larger-than-life presence in many ways. I had the privilege of recording two Canyon Records albums with Tree: White Buffalo and the GRAMMY-nominated Heart of the Wind, both of which showcase his mastery of the traditional Native American flute. As much as we all feel the loss of his musical and cultural contributions, I will miss Tree most as a friend whose humor, comradery and joie de vivre were every bit as impressive as his physical form and his artistic gifts. He will be fondly remembered, and he leaves the world an enduring legacy. ~Will Clipman, percussionist and recording & performing artist

Robert Tree Cody was someone who was larger than life, both metaphorically and literally, with his six feet ten frame who in a crowd at a powwow or event could never be missed. He was always encouraging myself and other artists, he wanted to see his friends and family succeed in whatever it was they put their minds to. A selfless artist himself, Tree would give the shirt off his back to anyone that needed it.  There will never be another Robert Tree Cody, he was one of a kind. The world lost one of the last remaining OG’s of the Native flute. – Cody  Blackbird

He made a flute come alive…. like the light of a sunrise. He was a talented musician and performer, and an outstanding human being, whom I will remember with gratitude and reverence. My deepest condolences to all his Relations, extended family, and friends. – Diane Varney

The Native American Flute world lost one of its best. Tree was a one of a kind player and person. He leaves a great legacy of music. Condolences to his friends and family. He will be deeply missed. – Ed Koban, Musician 

I Ioved hanging out with Tree and listening to his stories and of course his flute playing. He was always a pleasure to be with and I will miss him. – Joe Bello, NAMA 

A month after 9/11 it was the Awards show of all shows and I stumbled in to a spot with Janice Marie and Tree. I got to play drums with both superstars! I was scared to death because John Densmore from The Doors was in the third row watching me play. Then Tree gave me an encouraging look, and I was off. All I can say is that I love you, Robert Tree Cody. You and your awesome ways were so much fun. Best Times!!!!!  -DK

Robert Tree Cody was one of the earliest musical influences I had, and he helped shape my style of play. I had the good fortune to see him perform locally, and we shared the same lineup at Musical Echoes several years ago. Rest in peace, Mr. Cody, I’ll see you on the other side. – Jeff Ball

He was by far one of the most amazing native singers, flute player, dancer, and storyteller there was, and I will miss him tremendously. – Rosewita-Gary Briët-Wiskigeamatyuk 

Ahehee Askwali for your light, love, music, memories, magic, and mighty strength smiles shared.- Dawayesnium Sekayumptewa

My thoughts are about our visits, time, laughter, and stories we shared every time we met. Your music will live on with you in our hearts and memories. Peace my Brother – Buddy Big Mountain

I met Tree in 1975 at a powwow in Yakima, Washington. We talked, and I learned he was a dancer, and I told him I was lead guitarist for Xit. We hit it off, and he took me to all the tee-pees of all the people he knew at the powwow. It was an incredible experience. He will be missed!! – Michael Martinez

Read more about Robert Tree Cody.

Author: Angel Romero

Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.