Born on this day in 1909: Gene Krupa

[mahatmakanejeeves]

Last edited Tue Jan 15, 2019, 08:47 PM - Edit history (1)

Hat tip, This Day in Rock

Gene Krupa

Eugene Bertram Krupa (January 15, 1909 – October 16, 1973) was an American jazz drummer, band leader, actor, and composer known for his energetic style and showmanship. His drum solo on "Sing, Sing, Sing" (1937) elevated the role of the drummer as a frequently used solo voice in the band.

He is also known for defining the standard drum kit used today in collaboration with brands Slingerland and Zildjian. Krupa is considered "the founding father of the modern drumset" by Modern Drummer magazine.

There was a Benny Goodman thread in the DU Lounge not too long ago. Here you go:

Given the day's events, sometimes you just need some Benny Goodman...

Meanwhile, here's a video of Sammy Davis Jr. and some friends:

[Crutchez_CuiBono]

1. Go Gene-o!

[MFM008]

2. I met Gene Krupa

in the early 70s, my Jr. High School class took a field trip to a radio station in Germany and he was there.
He only lived until 1973 so it was one of his last events.

[louis-t]

5. Got his autograph as a child in 1965(?)

Wish I could find it.

[Grasswire2]

3. I have seen those drums a number of times.

They belong (or did) to Brooks Tegler, who had a gig at the Ice House in Herndon VA. He also has a big band and is a Krupa historian.

[KatyaR]

4. Three of my favorite performers.

That was wonderful, thank you for posting that! They broke the mold with those three.