Remembering Jo Jones who was born Oct 7, 1911. Papa Jo Jones shifted the timekeeping role of the drums from the bass drum to the hi-hat cymbal, greatly influencing all swing and bop drummers. Buddy Rich and Louie Bellson were just two who learned from his light but forceful playing, as Jones swung the Count Basie Orchestra with just the right accents and sounds. If Max Roach and Kenny Clarke are considered the fathers of modern drumming, than Jonathan Jo Jones has to be the godfather. By way of his work with Count Basies band from 1936 to 1944 and 1946 to 1948, Jones redefined the concept of a drummer. He lightened up on the four-beats-to-the-bar standard of bass drum playing, was possibly the first to use the ride cymbal as the main timekeeping accessory, and did things with the hi-hats that are still being studied today. Jones ability as a melodic and humorous soloist reminds one of a virtuoso tap dancer who makes everything look easy. Jones continues to be a major influence on everyone who played--and plays--drums. Dr. Bruce H. Klauber
Posted on: Tue, 07 Oct 2014 21:31:31 +0000
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