Louie Bellson, the drummer and band leader who played with jazz greats for morethan six decades, died Saturday in Los Angeles from complications ofParkinson’s disease. He was 84. Bellson played with the Benny Goodman and Harry James bands until WWII, then later played with Tommy Dorsey and Duke Ellington among many others. The L.A. Times‘ obit recalls Ellington’s great regard for Bellson: "Not only is Louie Bellson the world’s greatest drummer…he’s the world’s greatest musician!"
Feb 17
2009
01:50 PM ET
R.I.P.: Louie Bellson, legendary jazz drummer
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This is truly a tragedy. Bellson is truly a legend – one of the first jazz drummers to truly develop his own voice on the instrument, one of the first drummers to use two bass drums, and one of the most musical soloists around. Add to that his reputation as an all-around great guy and you’re left with a man whose loss is a tragedy, but whose legacy will continue to shine for generations to come. God bless you, Louie; you’ll be missed.
I’m a drummer, and I grew up listening to him and Buddy Rich. Where has the time gone? I miss them both. God bless you Louie. You too Buddy.
I was lucky enough to meet Mr. Bellson when I was 18, I am a drummer and got the chance to sit behind his kit and play. He told me I was a natural and should keep playing. I have never forgotten that. What a great man, and a great loss to all musicians.
Player teacher, writer he gave to all.
Wasn’t he once married to Pearl Bailey?
Louie Bellson a Monumental Giant in the Drumming world , I,ve met and Studied with him at all clinics here in Hartford Conn, A menter to all and a Gentlemen to all people
Just because we admire someone doesn’t mean we will automatically agree with them. ,