I was sad to learn that Louie Bellson has died.
While in Chicago performing along side Louie’s nephew, a fine tenor sax player himself, I had a chance to meet this legendary jazz drummer. Louie was doing a sound check in the lounge of the hotel where we stayed and we popped in to say hello. Louie came over to our table and was funny, engaging, and very friendly. After a brief visit and several familial jabs at his nephew, Louie went back to his set and impressed us all with his quartet. It was truly memorable.
At a hotel in Santa Fe, New Mexico while on the road, Max Roach was performing in the lounge. He too is no longer with us. That is an evening I will never forget as I sat mesmerized for 2 hours listening to Max, Odean Pope, and Cecil Bridgewater.
Rest in peace, Louie and Max …. and say hello to Pearl!