Donny,
Thanks for the update on Bellson. I did percussion and jazz drumming seminars with him at colleges over 40 years ago. Haven't kept up with him or spoken to him since about 1970 when I was playing Hello Dolly with the all black cast featuring Pearl Bailey(his wife) and Cab Calloway.

He was a super nice guy who was really great to talk with and unlike a few of the other "stars" of their times was very polite and respectful to all of us less talented folks.

Hammer

hammer your very welcome ....man can that cat bang!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFD6M3oSwUs&feature=related

R.I.P.

Donny,
Bellson was one of the first big time drummers to use the double base setup. At the clinics he would amaze everyone with what he could do with them. I think the first time I met him was in 1962 or 1963 in New York - I think it was at the famous Birdland club. Phil Woods was one of his sidemen. Don't remember who the other players were.

If you want to hear some really good jazz find one of Bellson's sextet albums -- good stuff. In fact, I think he has a Birdland album recorded live.

Hammer

Bellson was instrumental in me getting studio and TV work in California in the early 60's.

I'd see him and "Pearlie Mae" in Victorville. The great thing was, Pearl would insist that there be a shot of him sometime during every TV appearance. That was a big deal at the time.

She was a big loud honey, and he was a quiet gentleman...opposites, but it worked for them for many years.

He's an old school guy to be remembered and a great role model for young drummers. He's a guy my grandson learned a lot from.


Russ

That's too bad about Louis ... RIP ...

but DAMN!!! I've said it before and I'll say it again and again and again ... my next life, I want to be RUSS!!!

t.

Well that's not going to happen.......at least not until you agree to become an organ player first and an arranger player second .

chas

Give me yours or Russ' talent and chops and that's a deal .....
t.

I was looking around and found footage of Louis doing a college concert in October, 2008. That's 4 months ago, and supposedly the last time he performed. He wasn't at his best, obviously, but did himself proud.

What a way to end a distinguished career. He was "cool cat" personified.

Russ