Bill Bruford is an esteemed English drummer, composer, and producer known for his innovative work in both rock and jazz music. Born on May 17, 1949, in Sevenoaks, Kent, Bruford first gained prominence as a founding member of the progressive rock band Yes, before establishing himself as an influential force in the genre through his work with King Crimson from the early 1970s to 1997. His use of irregular time signatures, coupled with a unique approach to the drum set that emphasized melodic as well as rhythmic content, helped redefine the role of the drummer in rock music.
Bruford's career, while steeped in rock, also ventured deeply into jazz, with his creation of the jazz-fusion band Bruford in the late 1970s, followed by the formation of the Earthworks ensemble in the 1980s, which balanced jazz improvisation with electronic music elements. His solo works and collaborations are wide-ranging, including the albums "If Summer Had Its Ghosts" together with Ralph Towner and Eddie Gomez, and the percussively expressive "Music for Piano and Drums" with pianist Patrick Moraz. After a prolific career spanning over four decades, Bruford retired from public performance in 2009. His most recent releases, like "In Tokyo" and "Every Step a Dance, Every Word a Song" with Michiel Borstlap, celebrate his legacy and showcase the range, innovation, and finesse that have made him a towering figure in the world of music.
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