Buddy Rich (1917-1987) was considered the greatest jazz drummer in the world. Beginning in vaudeville as a teenager, Rich established himself as a premier jazz percussionist, performing with many of the pioneering big band groups from the '30s through the '50s, including the aggregations of Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey, Les Brown, and Harry James, before forming his own band.
He was the guest star in The Muppet Show episode 522. Rich spoke positively of the experience in a 1981 interview:
References[]
- Kermit the Frog lists off Rich's name in a list of Animal's drum idols in episode 110 of The Muppet Show.
- In a series of mock break-out quotes on the back of the 1977 Sesame Street album Big Bird Leads the Band, Rich is one of several music personalities spoofed. Drummer "Budgie Rich" calls the album "A musical tweet."
- For an interview with Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem to promote the Muppets, when asked who their musical influences have been, Animal responds with "Krupa! Rich! Moon! Baker!," which are the drummers Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Keith Moon of The Who and Ginger Baker of Cream and Blind Faith.[2]
Sources[]
- ↑ Jazz Professionals Buddy Rich interview, talking to Les Tomkins in 1980. Interview posted on Jazzprofessional.com.
- ↑ WTDP? Exclusive: Mayhem Returns! Veterans Dr. Teeth & The Electric Mayhem keep on rockin’. November 7, 2011. whatsthatdudeplay.com.