Drum Solo – 1982

Buddy Rich

There was only one Buddy Rich

Buddy Rich (1917-87) was a true phenomenon, a rather incredible virtuoso on the drums.

While he was often heard with big bands and could easily steal the show playing with a small group of all-stars, it was as a soloist that he had no peers.

For proof of that, here is a solo that he took in 1982 when he was 65.

While he could play more ferociously than others, Rich also was a master of dynamics and color.

Even if one just concentrates on what he plays with his left hand, this solo is quite remarkable.

-Scott Yanow