I was looking through the catalogue of photos we have all contributed to this site and it is truly breathtaking in its content. Yes, there are some duplicates, which is inevitable, but the volume and quality of the photos and articles is superb. Big thanks to all of you who have contributed and let us continue to add to this collection of material celebrating the lives and playing of the finest drummers in the world. Most of these drummers come from America, Canada and the UK but we are almost certainly missing material from the great Tabla and other hand drummers of India and throughout Asia, South America and other parts of the world (food for thought!) - We largely celebrate the lives of the great Jazz Drummers, which is only right because the art form of jazz has given such pleasure throughout the world - also it was the drummers that supplied that pulsing beat that thrilled audiences everywhere. When we consider how the art of drumming has developed from the early days of Baby Dodds, Tony Sbarbaro, Tubby and Minor Hall, Zutty Singleton and so forth to the extraordinary technique and ability of Gene, Buddy, Louie, Papa Jo, Max, Art and all those other drum stars that have given us such joy. What about today? We have honored many players such as Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Gadd, Steve Smith, Dave Weckle and so on but what about the myriad of rock/pop drummers that abound - have they added to the art of the great drummers? Its such a difficult question to answer - because since the mid 50s until today popular music has dominated the air waves and continues to draw massive audiences globally - the drum magazines explore the lives of todays heroes, their drum kits, cymbal collections etc just as we all thrilled to the set up of the jazz and swing heroes. I struggle with this question (and I welcome your comments) because as a producer of concerts in more than 25 countries as well as being a former professional drummer I watch so many of these drummers live and watch in awe at their physical strength and energy - their playing very much supportive and providing exactly what the music requires, which is the role of any drummer - but are they great drummers and have they pushed the boundaries of the art of drumming? Buddy used to say that there should never be the term hes a rock drummer or hes a big band drummer - the drummer should be able to play in any musical situation - maybe this is ultimately what should define a great drummer - someone who can play it all Thanks again to all of you who make this Great Drummers Group so interesting and such fun. Keep swinging!!!
Posted on: Sun, 24 Aug 2014 11:38:05 +0000