Buddy Rich

About

Jazz drummer and bandleader who appeared on more than sixty albums as a sideman and leader. He played with an array of groups, including Tommy Dorsey's orchestra.

Before Fame

He was playing professionally in Vaudeville at eighteen months. He worked as a bandleader at as early as eleven years old.

Trivia

He was never formally trained and started playing percussion at a year old with spoons.

Family Life

He was born to Jewish parents Robert and Bess Rich, both of whom were Vaudeville performers. He had one daughter, Cathy, with his wife Marie Allison.

Associated With

He has recorded with Louis Armstrong.

Video

Buddy Rich Highlights