Happy Birthday, Max Roach!

Max Roach was born on today’s date: January 10, 1924
He was a pioneer of bebop and is considered one of the greatest jazz drummers in history. He was educated at the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied classical percussion, and from 1972-1995 taught at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. He created a revolutionary technique known as “melodic drumming,” and was one of the few drummers to give solo concerts. His career began in the mid-1940s, and he made dozens of recordings from 1944 through 2002. Roach died on August 16, 2007.

Beyond brilliant. Do not try this at home (YouTube clip). Who else could do this?

Max Roach

Max Roach, who died in 2007, was one of the most accomplished and influential drummers of the 20th century, a master of poly-rhythms and unpredictable beats. He was the pioneer and grand master of "melodic drumming," teaching the world of jazz that drums could make musical statements, and not just keep time in the background.

He played with jazz legends, notably Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, and helped father the style of jazz called Bebop. His innovative way of playing defied expectations and elevated the drums from background instrument to lead.

An NPR special about Max Roach, hosted by Nancy Wilson:
www.npr.org/templates/player/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=12847242&m=12851569

Caravan, performed by Max Roach and Randy Weston

All of Me - Dinah Washington

1958 Newport Jazz Festival
Dinah Washington, vocals (and vibes!)
Terry Gibbs, vibes; Urbie Green, trombone; Max Roach, drums.