gene krupa
Eugene Bertram Krupa (January 15, 1909 – October 16, 1973), known as Gene Krupa, was an American jazz drummer, bandleader and composer who performed with energy and showmanship. His drum solo on Benny Goodman’s 1937 recording of “Sing, Sing, Sing” elevated the role of the drummer from an accompanist to an important solo voice in the band.
In collaboration with the Slingerland drum and Zildjian cymbal manufacturers, he was a major force in defining the standard band drummer’s kit. Krupa is considered “the founding father of the modern drumset” by Modern Drummer magazine.
American jazz drummer and bandleader Gene Krupa (1909 - 1973) plays both sides of a cymbal, circa 1940. (Photo by FPG/Archive Photos/Getty Images)
American jazz drummer and bandleader Gene Krupa (1909 - 1973) at his drum kit, circa 1940. (Photo by FPG/Archive Photos/Getty Images)
