Welcome to SoulDrummers.com

This website is dedicated to the drummers of an era that is now condsidered to be "old school" by many.

The time period I am referring to is primarily between the 1960's through the 1980's.

While there are a million drummers in the universe, this website only pays homage to the drummers that

played and recorded in such a way that would be deemed to have soul - hence, SoulDrummers...

While I appreciate all types of drummers: from Rock to Big Band to Pop to Jazz. This site is dedicated to the unsung drummers of the 70s era.

SoulDrummers.com is a mini-encyclopedia on drummers who made what's been termed "Soul music".

Also, I will give notice to contemporary "funk drummers" who still lay down the funk behind the kit.

If you know of any drummer not mentioned and who should be mentioned, simply email me their name(s) and recording history to: Fnkdrmmr@aol.com.

 

Drummers are listed alphabetically

Click on the drummers' pic to see the large version of their picture.

Click on the underlined link to hear the drummers' behind the kit.

Enjoy and Learn.

The Website is still being designed. A forum is coming soon.

Webmaster: fnkdrmmr@aol.com

 

 

Russell Batiste, Jr. - is the current drummer for the modern-day Meters. Russell joined The Funky Meters, the reincarnation of the funk band The Meters, in 1989. The Funky Meters without Art Neville currently plays under the name Porter Batiste Stoltz (PBS) - (with George Porter, Jr. on bass, Brian Stoltz on guitar, and Russell Batiste, Jr. on drums). As a funk drummer, and I'm sure other drummers as well, don't realize the dept of creative gratitude we funk drummers owe to "N'awlins" drummers. Russell is carry a big touch, following behind Zigaboo. It's safe to say, he's doing a great job. Batiste soloing.

 

Calton Barrett, RIP- There is no denying the vibrations of a "one-drop" and other syncopated riddems reggae drummers brought to the world. Mr. Barrett, along with Bob Marley and the Wailers have blessed the world with true positive vibrations. Lively Up Yourself at MSG. Playing One Drop in concert.

Carter Beauford - Mr. Beauford is the drummer for The Dave Mathews Band. For some reason, Mr. Beauford reminds of Billy Cobham when on the drums. Yes, I know, Mr. Beauford is not a strict funk drummer. However, is a one of newer drummers on the scene making a name for himself. Here's Mr. Beauford playing Trippin' Billies.

 

Poogie Bell - another fellow New Yorker. Mr. Bell has the destinction of working with names such as Chaka Khan, Marcus Miller, Roberta Flack, Erykah Badu, David Bowie, David Sanborn, Al Jarreau, Vanessa Williams, Randy Crawford and many more. Mr. Bell has also written gold-charting hits with the Force MDs. Poogie playing a solo.

 

Fred Below, RIP - was one of those Blues drummers that laid the foundation for what's now called "funk drummng". Below, with his signature beret, was Blues-man, Little Walter's drummer. Afterwards, Below formed a group called Aces. Here's a sample of Aces with Below jamming with Mr. T-Bone Walker. Here is Mr. Below demonstrating the ever-popular original blues-shuffle.

 

Ernest "Bilbo" Berger - was the drummer for the R&B group, HeatWave. I feel honored putting "Bilbo" among the influential funk-drummers of the 70s. It surprized me to learn that "Bilbo" was a Czechoslovakian Jazz/Blues drummer. For years, as a kid, as I practiced to Heatwave's hits, I always thought "Bilbo" was a "Black" drummer, especially when he snuck in those Jazz riffs in HeatWave's Boogie Nights!

 

Gaylord Birch, RIP- Birch was the drummer for the Pointer Sisters during 1974 and performed many live performances with the group. Birch also appeared in the band Santana during 1976 and again in 1991 as well as playing the drums for a number of Herbie Hancock performances. He was also briefly a member of the Jerry Garcia Band. Birch also played drums briefly with Cold Blood, and is on the recording "Cold Blood Live at the Record Plant Sausalito". Here is Gaylord with The Pointer Sisters.

 

Curt "Kirkee B" Bisquera - Yeah, yeah yeah...I know. Mr. Biquera is technically a "pop/rock" drummer. However, Mr. Bisquera's resume speaks for itself. Mr. Bisquera has worked with Josh Groban, Mick Jagger, Seal, Elton John, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers among others. Also, Mr. Bisquera has shown on some clips that he's one funky brother. Also, Mr. Bisquera is one of the young drummers who was fortunant to play on a platimun selling hit - in a world of technology that appears to be anti-drummers, lol. The platimun selling hit that Mr. Bisquera's played on is: Bonnie Raitt's, Let's Give Them Something to Talk About. Also, Curt promoting Remo Heads. His website is: www.CurtBisquera.com

 

 

James Black, RIP - many drummers don't recognize the name, but if one did some basic research on New Orleans music, James Black's name and playing would come up. While Black did numerous Jazz works, in the drum world Black is known for his funky track: "Hook & Sling" By Eddie Bo. Black worked with Fats Domino and Ellis Marsalis.

 

Larry Blackmon - yes, the lower chakra cod-wearing lead singer for the R&B Funk group Cameo is a drummer. Early Cameo shows and video show Mr. Blackmon donning a double-bass drum Tama set. Listen to the entry solo on "She's Strange" and you'll hear Mr. Blackmon's funky palette. As a kid, I purchased a Modern Drummer when they did an interview with Mr. Blackmon and Modern Drummer had pictures of Mr Blackmon playing his single-headed Tama set. "Sparkle" is another R&B classic with Mr. Blackmon on the drums.

 

John Blackwell - came on the scene drumming with greats such as Cameo, Prince, and others. Mr. Blackwell is so good, he makes drummers scurry back to their sheds and practice. Solo, Jamming with Cameo.

 

John Bonham, RIP - was obviously a Rock drummer, but his style & feel places him in a catagory of being a Soulful drummer. Bonham was the pulse for the Rock group Led Zepplin. Out of all the hits Led Zep had, Fool In The Rain is just one of the popular drum tracks by Bonham. Moby Dick Solo.

 

Jerome "Bigfoot" Brailey - was brought to my attention and I stand corrected. Mr. Brailey is a R&R Hall of Fame inductee. Jerome was also the co-writer of "Tear the Roof Off the Sucka" as well as the drummer on The Chambers Brother's hits. Jerome's list of GOLD & Platinum recordings go back to being the hit drummer on the UNIFIC's hit recordings "Court of Love" and "Beginning of My End.”, The 5 Stairsteps "Ooh Child", The Chambers Brother's, as well as major collaborations; including Herbie Hancock, Buddy Miles, Buckethead, Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones, Pharaoh Sanders, James Blood Ulmer, Bill Laswell and others. Jerome now has his own band, MUTINY and had a hit recording "LUMP" on the soundtrack of Al Pacino's movie "Cruising". Here is BigFoot playing with George Clinton. Bigfoot playing in 1977 with Parliment Funkadelics. Here is BigFoot with The Chambers Brothers. Here is BigFoot soloing.

 

Gerry Brown - has the distinct title of being bassist Stanley Clarke's friend and the first drummer Mr. Clarke has ever played with. Mr. Brown is also the lucky Soul to have played on Stanley Clarke's School Days album. Mr. Brown has also occupied the seat as Steve Wonder's drummer for over two decades. Also, Mr. Brown has recorded with the likes of: George Benson, Marcus Miller, Lionel Ritchie, John Lee, Sonny Fortune, Alfonso Johnson and Phillip Bailey. He also has worked with the NDR Big Band , Brothers Johnson, Roberta Flack, Joe Sample, Slide Hampton, Tom Harrell, Larry Coryell, Dave Samuels, Chuck Loeb and Chick Corea. Funk Solo. Gerry sharing the stage with the great Louie Bellson (RIP).

 

Ronald Bruner, Jr. - is one of the young drummers who is putting a stamp on what drumming should be. At the young age of 23, Mr. Bruner has already worked with with: Lee Ritenour, Roy Hargrove, Tribal Tech, Larry Carlton, Marcus Miller, Kirk Whalum, Robben Ford, Patrice Rushen, Clark Terry, Johnny Hodges, and Gerald Albright and the great George Duke. Mr. Bruner is currently on tour with Marcus Miller. Solo at Pasics. Another blazing Solo.

 

Gordon Campbell - is one of the blessed Souls to have the fortunant reality of backing the great Earth, Wind, & Fire. After hearing Mr. Campbell play, you'll agree, it's well deserved. Sound Check Solo. Please note: the webmaster could not find any pictures of Mr. Campbell. If you have any pictures of Mr. Campbell, please email them to Fnkdrmmr@aol.com. Thank you.

 

Teddy Campbell - is another contemporary drummer on the scene making a name for himself. Mr. Campbell is known for being the American Idol drummer. Check him out a clinic. Solo.

 

Will Calhoun - is the drummer for the Funk-Metal band, Living Colour. I've seen Wil is various drumming situations and each time he's proven that he's a in the top caliber of drummers today. He has also played with Jungle Funk and HeadFake, recorded several jazz albums as a leader, and has appeared as a sideman with a diverse group of acclaimed artists, including Pharoah Sanders, B.B. King, Herb Alpert, Dr. John, Jaco Pastorius, Wayne Shorter, Marcus Miller, Public Enemy, and Ronnie Wood. He plays in the song Crimson Deep, from What Lies Beneath album, by the Finnish Symphonic Metal singer Tarja. Will's website is: http://www.willcalhoun.com Here's Will soloing. Here's Will jaming with the master Bassist Doug Wimbush.

 

Terri Lynn Carrignton - Yes, yes, yes, another Jazz drummer. But if you truly undertsand the progression of Jazz playing, you would know that most funk drummers are Jazz drummer and vicer-versa. Terri has played with Jazz legends Dizzy Gillespie, Stan Getz, Clark Terry, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Joe Sample, Al Jarreau, and many more. She has toured with each of Hancock's musical configurations (from electric to acoustic) between 1997 and 2007. Currently, Terri is a teacher at The Berkely School of Music. Hear Terri with Herbie Hancock playing Watermelon Man. Terri's Website: http://www.terrilynecarrington.net/

 

Dennis Chambers - was one of the drummers behind the Funkalicious Parliment Funkadelics. Known for his commercial success as a studio drummer with Sugar Hill Records and Parliment Funkadelic. Chambers has worked with the "who's who" in the music industry. Currently, Mr. Chambers is the drummer for Carlos Santana. Solo #1, Dennis playing the Rosanna Groove & Purdie Shuffle, Dennis playing a funky Fat-Back groove. Dennis' Website is: http://www.dennischambers.com

 

Leon Ndugu Chancelor - is the sound behind Michael Jackson's (RIP) Billy Jean. That's has to be the pinnacle in anyone's career. Along with being one of the few drummers who has the privilage of working with the great gloved one, Ndugu has worked with the likes of Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, George Duke, Patrice Rushen, Hubert Laws, The Crusaders, Frank Sinatra, Weather Report, Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers, Thelonious Monk and John Lee Hooker. Ndugu given a clinic. Ndugu with George Duke playing Reach For It.

 

Mike Clark - is one of those unsung drummers that has given the drum-world so much and is rearly recognized for his contributions. Although, Mr. Clark is a be-bop Jazz drummer, during the 70s, Mr. Clark tapped into a playing-style that only a few could tap into - that style is now called funk drumming. Mr.Clark sat behind the kit with the world-renowned Head Hunters and sold millions of record with Herbie Hancock on the Thrust album and others. Actual Proof. M. Clark w/fellow Head Hunter Paul Jackson. His website is: www.mikeclarkmusic.com

Billy Cobham - is appropriately titled Mr.Cobham. Mr. Cobham is a monster on the drums. Mr. Cobham was the "house-drummer" for CTI records. Whether he's playing fusion jazz or a straight funk track, Mr. Cobham commands your attention like no other drummer. Mr. Cobham has played for greats such as: Miles Davis (RIP), Stanly Turrentine (RIP), George Benson, Mahavishnu Orchestra and others. Here's Mr. Cobham showing us how to lay down the funk.

 

Chris Daddy Dave - is one of the contemporary drummers making a name for himself. Mr. Dave has played with groups like Mint Condition, Erika Badu, and now Maxwell. I must also note that Mr.Dave was recently featured on the cover of Modern Drummer - Cudos! Solo.

 

Dennis Davis - Mr. Davis was recently brought to my attention by a fellow drummer. I'm almost ashamed to say, for years I admired the funky tracks David Bowie gave with his song like; Fame, Young Amercians, and a countless number of other hits, but didn't know who was laying down those tight drum tracks. Well, it turns out that it's a fellow New Yorker, Mr. Dennis Davis. Here's Mr. Davis at a club gig in New York.

Morris Day - Yes, Mr. Morris Day is a drummer. Mr. Day played in Prince's junior high school band and even played on some of Prince's early hits. Mr.Day shows how being versitile can go along way for a drummer. Also, if any reader knows of a link with Mr. Day playing drums, please email it to fnkdrmmr@aol.com.

 

Kenwood Dennard - although Mr.Dennard is known as a Jazz drummer, in New York during the beginning of the Hip Hop era, Mr. Dennard gave shows blasting some funky beats. He will go down in history as one of the drummers on Sting's CD playing Little Wing. Here's a clip from 1985. Solo. His website is: http://www.kenwooddennard.com/

 

Lowell Sly Dunbar - Mr. Dunbar invaded the States when reggae slid into the sub-consciousness of Americans on the 70s. Mr. Dunbar, along with his partner, Robbie Basspear, gave us the smooth sounds of Rockers & Dub. Here is a taste of Answer Riddems.

 

Sonny Emory - I first saw Mr. Emory when he was the drummer for the great Earth, Wind, & Fire. His drum solo blew me away! Here's is Mr. Emory with EWF: Solo.

 

Greg Errico - came to the world's attention with Sly and the Family Stone. If you listen to any of Sly's hits, you'll feel Mr. Errico's Soul. Hear him with Sly playing Hot Fun in The Summertime. Mr. Errico left Sly's group and toured with David Bowie and the Weather Report co-leader, Joe Zawinul.

 

 

Steve Farrone - is the timekeeper and pulse regulator for the Average White Band (AWB) - Ferrone stepped on the music scene with James Brown sound-alike AWB.- Mr. Ferrone played drums for The Who before The Who became the music giants of Rock Music - and this was done at the ripe age of 12 years old! Ferrone has since become a sought-after session drummer and currently backs Tom Petty. A favorite AWB funky track is A Love of Your Own. Check out Mr. Ferrone on tour with Mr. Geogre Duke: Solo Here is Steve laying down a funky beat.

 

Tiki Fulwood (RIP) - The original drummer for The Parliment Funkadelics. I remember having a conversation with one of the members of the Funkadelics, Sa'd. As a drummer, I mentioned the drummers of the Funkadelics. Sa' d stated I needed to go back and listen to some early Funkadelic tracks, and listen for Tiki Fulwood. Needless to say, after hearing Tiki on the skins, I was a true Tiki follower. Here is Tiki with other Funkadelic members backing Ruth Copeland.

 

Ed Greene - is one those drummers who played on some of the funkier tracks in the 70s. Ed has played with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Steely Dan, Hall & Oates and Leo Sayer, among others. It's even rumored that Ed was the studio drummer for some of Barry Whites', RIP, greatest hits. Here is Ed Greene with Bob Marinelli playing Led Zep's The Lemon Song.

 

 

Steve Gadd - What can I say? A lot of drummers feel that Mr. Gadd is over-rated. I beg to differ. Mr. Gadd plays every note expected and nothing more. That's hard for a drummer that doesn't understand the maturity that comes with drumming over decades. If you listen to Mr. Gadd's commercial work and his Jazz work, you'll hear why Mr.Gadd is placed on a drummer's pedestal. Pocket Groove. Pariddle Groove. His website is: www.drstevegadd.com

 

 

James Gadson - is a mystery man in the studio drumming world. While his career spans over 50 years, including his drumming with Dyke & the Trail Blazers, Gadson's work is known when he played on great songs like, Cheryl Lynn's, Got To Be Real, Marvin Gaye's Let's Get It On, and Diana Ross' Love Hangover and hundreds more...When growing up in New York City during the beginning of the Hip Hop era, it shocked me to hear the amount songs the DJ's played and scratched with James Gadson dumming on them. When the creator's of the Linn Drum Machine wanted authentic drum sounds for their historical drum machine, they sampled James Gadson. Also, check out a Hip-Hop sample favorite: Let a Woman Be A Woman. Use Me by Bill Withers in the 70s. James Gadson today (2009) playing Use Me.

 

David Garibaldi - is the pocket pulse for the Oakland group, Tower Of Power. Mr. Garibaldi gave us secondary remote hi-hat funk classics such as "What is Hip?", "Squib Cakes", and a host of other funk classics. Here is Mr. Garibaldi playing a Pocket of Soul.

 

Omar Hakim - a fellow New Yorker known to many as one of the drummers for Weather Report. Hakim has an impressive resume listing Tom Browne, David Bowie, Madonna, Carley Simon, and Sting to name a few. Here is a solo track with Weather Report: Where The Moon Goes...., also Mr. Hakim's solo with Sting is a must see: Burn For You. lastly, if you get a chance to hear Weather Report's Db Waltz. you'll hear why Mr. Hakim is such a sought after drummer.

Willie Hall - aka, "Too-Big Hall", Mr. Hall is one those Tennesee drummers who gave that Soulful pulse in 70's. He played with the Bar-Kays band and Isaac Hayes' band "The Movement". In the seventies, as part of the Stax-Volt Recording Section Team from 1968–77, Hall backed dozens of major Stax artists on recordings, including such artists as The Emotions, Little Milton, Carla and Rufus Thomas, Johnnie Taylor, The Staple Singers, Albert King and Isaac Hayes. Hall produced Hayes' last Stax album, and did percussion on Hayes' albums Hot Buttered Soul and The Isaac Hayes Movement, as well as his Theme from Shaft. Hall with The Bar-Kays playing their hit Holy Ghost.

 

Roger Hawkins - is the infamous Muscle Shoals studio drummer. While the name may not ring a bell to most people, I'm sure their music does. Roger played on hits such as: Areatha Franklin's; Chains of Fools, Respect, The Staple Singers'; I'll Take You There, Wilson Pickett's; Mustang Sally, & Millie Jackson's; I Don't Want To Be Right, and that's just to name a few. Here are more added to Mr. Hawkins' list of artist: Johnnie Taylor, Cat Stevens, Duane Allman, Paul Simon, Bob Seger, Rod Stewart, Bobby "Blue" Bland, Traffic and Willie Nelson.

 

Gerald Heyward - another fellow New Yorker who came onto the scene with acts such as Teddy Riley, BlackStreet, Ms. Mary J. Blige, and others. Here is Mr. Heyward in a clinic. Solo.

 

Yogi Horton, RIP - In the 1980s Yogi was the go-to-guy for hundreds of TV commercials, as well as recordings by Diana Ross, Stephanie Mills, Gladys Knight, Cheryl Lynn, Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, Grover Washington Jr., The Alessi Brothers, Ashford & Simpson, and the late Luther Vandross. But Yogi's versatile playing skills went beyond R&B. He also did sessions with John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Bill Laswell, Hall & Oates, The B-52's, and David Byrne and others. Yogi giving advice on gigging.

 

Paul Humphrey - is one those drummers that is technically a Jazz drummer, but because of Jazz music's decline, drummers had to put on several hats to survive. In this case, Mr. Humphrey became an "I play everything" type of player. My Humphrey, along with James Gadson and others, laid the drums tracks to Marvin Gaye's Let's Get It On. Mr. Humphrey also played on Steeley Dan's Black Cow. Also, Humphrey played with such greats as: Frank Zappa, Jimmy Smith, The Four Tops, Al Kooper, Jackie DeShannon, Natalie Cole, Albert King, Quincy Jones, Dusty Springfield, Jean-Luc Ponty, Michael Franks, Maria Muldaur, and so on. Here's Mr. Humphrey on The Lawrence Welk Show.

 

 

Al Jackson Jr., RIP - is one of the house drummers for the soulful Stax Records' sound. Jackson has hundreds of hits, and is practically known for his drumming with Booker G and the MGs. Al Green's track I'm Glad You're Mine is a classic. Here is Al Jackson with Booker T & MGs. Here are Booker T and MG's in concert.

Steve Jordan - is the one time drummer for the David Letterman Late Night Show. I remember as a child staying up past my bedtime just to see and hear the show's
"house" band. especially Mr. Jordan. Today, Jordan plays with major Rock names such as Keith Richards, John Scofeild, John Mayer and others. Here's a funky track from Scofeild's with John Mayer CD titled Plays the Music of Ray Charles: I Don't Need No Doctor. The Groove is Here. Mr. Jordan's website is: www.SteveJordan.net. Steve discussing the history of Rock 'n Roll.

Chaka Khan and Rosie O'Donnell - Yes, Ms. Khan and Ms. O'Donnell are drummers. And yes, they are not top line studio drummers or funk drummers. However, there is a novelty in seeing these successful women kick-it on the skins. 'Nuff said, let's hear them behind their kits. Here is Chaka Khan and Rosie O'Donnell doing their thing.

 

Abe Laboriel, Jr. - is another one of those drummers who is stamping his footprint in the music industry. Abe has toured with the likes of: Seal, Steve Vai, K.D. Lang, Sir Paul McCartney, Sting, and others. Here is Abe laying down the funk. Here is Abe with Sir Paul McCartney.

 

Gene Lake - came to my attention when a mutual keyboardist friend, Preston Fulwood, mentioned Gene's name to me. Preston told me that Gene was "wicked" behind the set. Between our busy schedules, we never met. However, I did some research on Gene - and Preston was not lying, Gene is indeed "wicked" behind the drumset. Gene resume reads: The R&B group Surface, Me'shell NdegeOcello, Maxwell, and D'Angelo in the 1990s; from jazz innovators Steve Coleman and Henry Threadgill, to fusion legends Joe Zawinul and Marcus Miller; from jazz/rap group Opus Akoben to acts that defy categorization, such as the wildly original rock/funk/jazz fusion group Screaming Headless Torsos. Solo Another Solo at a clinic.

 

Tyrone Lampkin, RIP- is one of the funky drummers that held down the pulse for Parliament and the Funkadelic. Mr. Lampkin was known for his distinction as being able to carry the funk of Mr. George Clinton. Here is Mr. lampkin playing FlashLight.

 

 

Ricky Lawson - Lawson is one of the few drummers that has the privilage of being on-call as Michael Jackson's (RIP) personal drummer. Mr. Lawson has collaborated with many artists including Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, Steely Dan, Phil Collins, Babyface, The Yellowjackets, Whitney Houston, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Bette Midler, Russell Ferrante, Toto, Al Jarreau, George Benson, Lionel Richie, George Duke, among others. Ricky in his home studio with a guest. Ricky playing around on the set. Mr.lawson w/Steely Dan. His website is: www.RickyLawson.com.

 

Bryan "Brain" Mantia - yeah, I know, he's a rock drummer. He's played behind Guns 'N Roses, Primus, GoldFlesh, etc. I recently saw him with the funk-master, Booty Collins and Brain held his own with some funky tight single-pedal foot action. Here is Brain is concert: Soloing with breadsticks - lol! Brain's webiste is: http://brainbeatz.com/

Harvey Mason - is a well known studio drummer. His list is so impressive, it would take pages just to name the artist he has worked with. While this track is "technically" a Jazz track, it's funky enough to be listed to on this website. Watermelon Man from Herbie Hancock's HeadHunter's CD - actually this entire CD is a drummer's dream. His website is: http://harveymason.com

 

Louis A. McCall, Sr., RIP - was the drummer for the R&B group ConFunkShun. ConFunkShun is a group still going strong today dispite Mr. McCall's death. ConFunkShun had platimun selling hits such as: FFUN, Shake & Dance With Me, Love Train.

 

Jonathan Moffett - hit our ear-waves when played on the R&B hit Don't Stop The Music, by Yarborough & Peoples. Moffet then got drummer's dream gig when he has hired by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson - RIP. Mr. Moffett has made a name for himself by working with greats like: Diana Ross, Madonna, Patti Austin, Elton John, Cameo, Peter Cetera, Julian Lennon, etc. Here is Mr. Moffett playing his new line of cymbals.

 

Joseph Zigaboo Modeleste - is the driving force laying the foundation for The Meters. While The Meters' gave us funk and showed us how funky we all should be, today Zigaboo is best known for his funky drum track sampled by AMarie: 1 Thing.Website: http://www.zigaboo.com

 

Brian Frasier-Moore - BFM caught my ears with his work with Usher. After doing research on Mr. BFM, I learned that he had worked with a slew of R&B and Pop artist: Janet Jackson, Aaliaya, Ginuine, Madonna, and Christina Aguilera. Now that's a resume. BFM discussing his new scnare.

 

Uriel Jones, RIP

Benny Benjamin, RIP

Richard Allen, RIP

The Motown Sound - I don't think there is a drummer in America, or the world, that hasn't been influenced by the greatness and musicainship of Motown. Motown's house band was appropriately called The Funk Band. Uriel Jones play. The Funk Band backing the Spinners playing It's a Shame.

 

Idris Muhammad (Leo Morris) - once again, another Jazz drummer, but Mr. Muhammad was a funk drummer before funk music was termed funk music. Mr. Muhammad was the drummer on Fats Domino's BlueBerry Hill. Also, Mr. Muhammad was a major influence during the 50's and 60s when Rock n' Roll was transitioning into Funk & Soul music. Mr. Muhammad played with the great Curtis Mayfeild, and others like Bob James. Solo. Look-A-Like with Bob James.

Yvete Preyer - was Issac Hayes, RIP, drummer and left Mr. Hayes to become Micheal McDonald's drummer. Yvete is a tight, funky drummer with that thing we call Soul. Here is Yvete with Michael McDonald.

 

Thomas Pridgen -

 

Andy Newmark - came to my attention when he joined Sly and the Family Stone after Greg Errico departed. When Mr. Newmark joined Sly's band, his audition story is a classic; young Newmark goes to Sly's mansion, Sly is in his bedroom with the lights out, drugged out of his mind (allegedly) - in the middle of the day, the other members of the band are walking around the mansion in a hypnotic fog. Sly comes out of his drug state, looks up to Mr. Newmark and simply asks him, "Are you funky?...". To me that's the perfect audition. Here's Mr. Newmark with Jeff Lorber playing Rain Dance.

 

Earl Palmer, RIP - Palmer is known throughout the music industry, but not to the younger drummers of today, Palmer should be revered as the architectual backbeat of what is now known as Rock n' Roll. While Palmer worked as a steady-working studio musician for more than 60 years, he is honored to have been the drummer on Little Richard's Lucille.

Jeff Porcaro, RIP - like John Bonham, Porcaro is "technically" considered a Rock drummer. However, if you listen to his studio work, as well as his work with his group Toto, it's easy to see why Porcaro feel is considered Soulful. Tracks like LowDown by Boz Scaggs and Rosanna by Toto are two favorites. Here is Mr. Porcaro explaining the Rosanna beat.

 

Bernard Purdie - is known for the "Purdie shuffle." While Purdie was known for his studio drumming with greats like Aretha Franklin, King Floyd, Hall & Oates, Steeley Dan, and a host of others. Among current day drummers,we all seem to admire the Steeley Dan track Home Alone and Babylon Sisters. Here is the Purdie Shuffle by the man himself. His website: BernardPurdie.com. Purdie recording Home At Last with Steely Dan.

 

John JR Robinson - where do I begin? JR's resume is so extensive and impressive, I can't even begin to tell you who JR has played for. Obviously, JR was the drummer behind Chaka Khan & Rufus. Also, JR is did some major recording with the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, RIP. Trust me when I say there are others. JR discussing his drum heads. JR on drums with Chaka. His website: http://www.johnjrrobinson.com

 

Tony Royster - I really do not know how to discribe this young man. Mr. Royster has been making a name for himself since he was a young boy playing a double bass set. Currently, Mr. Royster is Jay-Z's drummer. See Mr. Royster doing his thing.

Robin Russell - Mr. Russell was the driving pulse behind the R&B funk group, New Birth. I remember as child listening to the many New Birth albums and sitting amazed at the drummer layng down those funky chops that made New Birth one of the top R&B groups in the 70s. I Can Understand It.

 

Aaron Spears - came to the public's eye when he joined Usher's band as the drummer. Mr. Spears had a big seat to fill, and indeed he did. Here is Mr. Spears playing at The Modern Drummers 2006 show: Caught Up. Here is Mr. Spears on a blazing solo from his DVD: HyperJuice.

 

John "Jabo" Starks , Clyde Stubberfeild and Melvin Parker- are the pulse behind the great James Brown sound. Many great drummers admit that Jabo's, Clyde's & Melvin's funky beats laid the ground work for their playing today. Songs like Funky Drummer, Cold Sweat, Papa's Got A Brand New Bag, Sex Machine, and 100's of others gave us a direction in finding our Souls as drummers. Here's a taste from Jabo's & Clyde's DVD Funky Drummers. To really show the respect they rightfull desevre, James Brown's drummers have really shaped the world and full page should be dedicated to these masterful drummers. Melvin Parker, Maceo Parker's brother, was also instrumental in James Brown's sound. Melvin played on hits such as: "Out of Sight," "Papa's Got A Brand New Bag," "I Got You (I Feel Good)" and "Get Up Offa That Thing". Here is Melvin playng with James Brown on the Sammy Davis Show. Please note the speed and clarity of Melvin's application. The Sammy Davis Show.

 

 

Jamal Thomas - Mr. Thomas is what I call, Maceo Parker's secret weapon. Mr. Thomas kept the pulse behind many radio hits for The SOS Band. If you never heard of Mr. Thomas play, please check out this clip with the great Maceo Parker: Shake Everything You Got.

 

 

Ahmir Khalib Thompson (?uestlove) - made his impression on the drummworld backing the hip-hop group, The Roots. ?uestlove kept himself busy backing and/or producing the likes of: Erika Badu, Common, D'Angelo, the great Al Green, Nikka Costa and others. The Roots along with ?uestlove are now the house band for the show Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Solo.

Tony Thompson, RIP - was the pulse behind the R&B group, Chic. Initially, Nile Rodgers, Chic's leader, wanted Omar Hakim to be the band's drummer. Omar at that time was too young to join Chic. Nile then recruited Tony Thompson. Thompson appeared with numerous artists such as Sister Sledge, Diana Ross, Jody Watley, Madonna (on her 1984 album Like A Virgin), Rod Stewart, Robert Palmer, Adam Ant (on his unreleased Persuasion album), Mick Jagger, and David Bowie (on his 1983 Let's Dance album and subsequent Serious Moonlight tour). Thompson was also a full-fledged member of the band Power Station along with Robert Palmer and John and Andy Taylor of Duran Duran. Tony discussing his studio recording style. In concert with David Bowie playing Modern Love.

 

Carlos Vega, RIP-

 

 

Narada Micheal Walden - is busy these days as a hit-making producer. In his early years, Narada was a drummer with Weather Report and even sang on his "radio pop" single titled: I Should Have Loved Ya. Also, check him out with Weather Report: Black Market. Narada also has an impressive resume of clients. Narada's website: http://www.nmwproductions.com/

 

Ricky Wellman - yep, another Jazz drummer. What most do not know is that Mr. Wellman was the driving force behind Chuck Brown's Bustin' Loose. Mr.Wellman is from the D.C. area where they religiously play Go-Go music. Needless to say, Go-Go music highly percussive and funky. Drum Solo.

 

Lenny White -

 

Maurice White - yes, the great Maurice White is a drummer. Mr. White was a session drummer for Chess Records and played on some early great Blues & Rock n' Roll hits: Fontella Bass' Rescue Me and Mary Wells' My Guy. Mr. White also played behind other great acts such as Etta James, Fontella Bass, Billy Stewart, Ramsey Lewis, Sonny Stitt, Muddy Waters, The Impressions, The Dells, Betty Everett, Sugar Pie DeSanto and Buddy Guy. A clip from an EWF documentary showing Mr. White on drums with Ramsey Lewis. His website is: www.MauriceWhite.com

 

Jimmy Diamond Williams - is the person in the far left of the picture. Diamond is the drummer for the funk-masters, The Ohio Players. Diamond's signature funk style laid the foundation for a lot of drummers to develop their funkiness. Here is Diamond on timbales on the David Letterman show. This is one of The Ohio Players' funky tracks - I wanna be free.

Earl Young - is the primary drummer for MSFB, Mother, Sister, Father, Brother. Earl is known for giving us that Philly Soul in the 70s. Many called the Philly Soul the disco beat. Earl founded the groups the Traamps. Earl even worked with the dynamic producing team Gamble & Huff. Earl discussing the Disco sound. The Birth of Sigma Sounds.

 

Zoro - came in to the public, at least to my knowledge, during the early 80's. Zoro has worked with names like: Lenny Kravitz: On Tour, New Edition, Jody Watley, Bobby Brown: Roni, Don't Be Cruel, and others. Here is Zoro at the Memphis Drum Shop. His website: http://www.zorothedrummer.com

 

 

 

 

 

"There's a vibration that most of us recognize as children when we all started expressing ourselves on pots & pans. That spiritual beginning as children later matured into us becoming accomplished drummers. I simply say that to say, I thank the Creator for the Gift of being able to touch people with my/our drumming abilities." Fnkdrmmr

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