Buddy Rich

Buddy Rich, born Bernard Rich on September 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, was a virtuoso American jazz drummer and bandleader known for his technique, speed, and power. His career spanned seven decades, beginning as a child prodigy who played vaudeville at the age of 18 months, evolving into one of the world's premier jazz musicians. By the time he was eleven, Rich was performing as a bandleader, and in his teens, he was already earning acclaim on Broadway. Throughout the 1930s, '40s, and '50s, he played with a constellation of jazz legends, including Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey, and Harry James, before forming the Buddy Rich Big Band in 1966. This ensemble, which played together until his death in 1987, left an indelible mark on the jazz world with its energetic performances and sophisticated arrangements.

Rich's discography captures the breadth and depth of his artistry, with live recordings such as "Trios (Live)", "Norwegian Wood (Live On The Ed Sullivan Show, December 31, 1967)", and "Birdland (Live)" showcasing his unparalleled skill and innovative drumming techniques that continue to influence musicians to this day. Albums like "The Lost Tapes" and "Just in Time: The Final Recording" offer a glimpse into the enduring legacy of a musician who, through his explosive performances and relentless pursuit of perfection, pushed the boundaries of jazz drumming. Despite struggling with health issues in his later years, Buddy Rich's passion for music never waned, making him not just a remarkable drummer but a symbol of dedication and excellence in the world of music.

Related Artists Spotify Logo
Art Blakey
Max Roach
Tony Williams
Elvin Jones
Philly Joe Jones
Louis Armstrong
Latest Release
undefined album image
Trios - Live
Album - 10 Tracks - Released September 1, 2023
Collage of Genre Images

RecentMusic users are tracking Buddy Rich and over 156,400 other artists to know when they release the new music.

Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the artists you love!

Get Started
  1. September 1, 2023
  2. August 29, 2022
  3. May 1, 2020
  4. June 12, 2019
  5. September 15, 2017
  6. September 15
  7. September 8
  8. February 17, 2015
  9. May 9, 2014
  10. December 10, 2013