The Most Influential Drummers of All Time

Buddy Rich

Buddy Rich was best known for his speed and power. He was trained as a jazz drummer and conductor, but it was his background in music that really led him to a future of success. He taught himself how to read music at the very young age of 4, and at 5 he was playing the drums in an off-Broadway pit band. By the time he turned 14, he was already leading bands on world tours. 

Starting Them Young

By the age of 15, Buddy Rich was one of the highest-paid drummers in the entire world. He stayed committed to his art as the industry began to change around him. He was just as versatile as a drummer as he was curious about the forward direction of music. 

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The More You Know

  • During a fundraiser for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, someone donated $35,000 so that VH1 Classic would have to play “99 Luftballons” on repeat for an entire hour.
  • Got a song stuck in your head? That’s called an “earworm.”
  • None of The Beatles could actually read music.
  • Creedence Clearwater Revival has the most No. 2 Billboard hits—without ever hitting No. 1.
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Post originally appeared on Upbeat News.