Groovin Hard Buddy Rich Style-Ken Loomer Big Band

As one of the rare drummer Big Band leaders today,I learned the most from Buddy Rich is that you must give 100% to the music you play at all times. I became a fan of Big Band music from the first time I saw Buddy live with his amazing Big Band back in 1969. When I heard those great arrangements Buddy played by his young musicians and the drive and energy he put into the music,I knew that is the way it should be done.As a Big Band leader,I pick the music and musicians I want in my band and thanks to these great musicians ,I`m able to keep the sound of a roaring swinging Big Band alive today.This wonderful Don Menza chart he wrote of Groovin Hard is what my Big Band is all about. Austin Vickrey took the excellent tenor sax solo on this chart and as the drummer I wanted to drive the band and make the music feel good.I saw Buddy Rich so many times in the 70`s and 80`s play these type of small clubs and you could feel the energy and watch up close what he and the band were playing that made the music so exciting to hear. It was always about the music first for Buddy and I feel the same way. I love playing these type of charts and of course always looking for new ones to do in a exciting way. I`m doing what I can as a drummer band leader to keep the sound of a swinging Big Band alive and swinging!