Chalupa Posted October 2, 2011 Report Posted October 2, 2011 This was posted by the Jazz Bridge Fan Page on Facebook just a little while ago... Got a call...one of the greatest drummers, George "Butch" Ballard... played with Duke Ellington.. Count Basie and other greats... he was in his 90's... passed last night? Info still sketchy... as soon as I know more... will share. He told me once that Duke wrote Caravan just for him. He's with Ms. Jessie and God now! Hope this info is somehow wrong but fear the worst. What a loss. The last musician who could say they played AND recorded with Duke, Pops and Count Basie. Oh and he got his start playing with Fats Waller. He would have turned 93 in December. Thanks for the all of the great music, the awesome stories, and for being a shining light to so many. Much respect to you. Quote
Chalupa Posted October 2, 2011 Author Report Posted October 2, 2011 Great article from AAJ http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=24210 Quote
jazzbo Posted October 3, 2011 Report Posted October 3, 2011 (edited) Well, if he was serious about "Caravan" being written for him, he's wrong (written by Tizol, first recorded in '36.) RIP Butch! You played your ass off! Edited October 3, 2011 by jazzbo Quote
Chalupa Posted October 10, 2011 Author Report Posted October 10, 2011 http://articles.philly.com/2011-10-09/news/30260473_1_inquirer-prestigious-band-musicians Quote
Hardbopjazz Posted October 10, 2011 Report Posted October 10, 2011 RIP George. 92 is a good long life. Thanks for always swinging. Quote
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