Buddy Rich Plays “West Side Story” Medley
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Artist:
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Album:Buddy Rich: Swingin' New Big Band
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Track:"West Side Story" Medley
If Buddy Rich never played anything but this medley, he would still be regarded as the world's greatest jazz drummer. As originally arranged by Bill Holman, this medley includes the Overture and the songs "Cool," "Something's Coming," and "Somewhere." Of particular interest is the drum solo, one of the most famous aspect of this medley as well as a showcase for Buddy Rich's dexterity, control of volume levels and the sheer excitement he generates throughout the entire band. Indeed, the band plays with an electricity found on too few recordings. The "West Side Story" Medley became a classic work with Buddy Rich and one which he became identified with for the rest of his career. Various versions clock in at 10 minutes (this one) to almost twenty minutes depending on Rich's inspirations at the moment he was playing. It's truly an unforgettable moment in the annals of jazz and of all music. Even Leonard Bernstein, the composer, rated Rich as his favorite performer and this his favorite performance of his music. Now that is quite an endorsement!
Comments (5)
ok so you are killing me with the retu8rn trips to my youth - great chart and a great band.
i had a chance to play with Bill Holman a few times in the midwest - he has always been one of my fav arrangers
of course you know the Terry Gibbs dream band records?
we should also start a buddy rich joke thread
Miles Trane,
Yes, I am very much aware of Terry Gibbs' "Dream Band" recordings. A pair of friends have these and made tape copies of every one of them. However, I have the first one which is a killer. The guy just literally astounds me! Now about a Buddy Rich joke thread. Hmmm. Now that would be interesting as there probably hundreds that could be done.
Glad you enjoyed everything!
Yours truly,
musikfriend
thanks for a wordefull music its a great stuff its really killing me thats the type of music that i use to enjoy thanks a million times
themba,
Thanks for the kind compliments! I always love "West Side Story" and will always listen to it no matter who the performers are, whether orchestral or jazz. It's great that you love the music! Thanks for the rave review!
Yours truly,
musikfriend