On this episode of the Chiaroscuro Podcast, we feature drummer extraordinaire Louie Bellson.
About Louie Bellson
Bellson had a lengthy career and was an associate of many of the jazz greats, including Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Duke Ellington and Count Basie. He was also a prolific composer and arranger, and is probably known to many rock fans as the first drummer to use two bass drums. He was also well-known to many students over the years for his drum and band clinics in high schools and colleges. He led his own big band for a while, and recorded prolifically, with nearly 100 releases under his own name from 1952 to 1998.
About the Music
Bellson recorded one album for Chiaroscuro, called Salute with a great quintet featuring trumpeter Bobby Shew, saxophonist George Young, pianist Willie Pickins, and bass player Keter Betts. The album was recorded on one of the numerous jazz cruises that Chiaroscuro founder Hank O’Neal helped to produce.
About The Chiaroscuro Podcast
Chiaroscuro Director of Artistry & Repertoire George Graham produces and hosts The Chiaroscuro Podcast. Explore the works of other Chiaroscuro performers in our Artists Section. Check out other episodes of the Chiaroscuro Podcast here.
