I agree. He was tirelessly innovating, and he was rigorous about it by always choosing the best players and letting them influence him as well. He also wasn't afraid of calling out other musicians on their crap, or praising others for playing brilliantly ("motherfuckers" he called them in his autobiography).

I believe his contribution to music was more profound because he kept evolving and maintained his no-bullshit attitude. I admire that as both a musician and a software engineer. I'm grateful for this link showing up on HN too!