Don Lamond

Don Lamond was an American jazz drummer known for his exceptional talent, versatility, and dynamic playing style. Here are some key facts about him:

1. Early Life and Career Beginnings: Don Lamond was born on August 18, 1920, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He began playing drums at a young age and showed prodigious talent as a musician. Lamond's early influences included jazz drumming legends such as Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, and Chick Webb. He honed his skills as a drummer through years of practice and playing in local bands before embarking on a professional career in music.

2. Big Band Era: Don Lamond rose to prominence during the big band era of the 1940s, a period characterized by the popularity of large jazz orchestras led by bandleaders such as Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, and Woody Herman. Lamond's powerful and precise drumming made him a sought-after session musician and a valued member of various big bands. He performed and recorded with some of the most prominent bandleaders and musicians of the era, including Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, and Woody Herman.

3. Versatility and Musical Adaptability: Don Lamond was known for his versatility as a drummer, capable of playing in a wide range of musical styles and settings. He excelled in swing, bebop, and Dixieland jazz, as well as in more contemporary styles such as cool jazz and hard bop. Lamond's ability to adapt his playing to different musical contexts made him a highly respected and in-demand musician, sought after by bandleaders and recording artists across the jazz spectrum.

4. Later Career and Legacy: In addition to his work as a sideman with various big bands and jazz ensembles, Don Lamond also pursued a successful career as a freelance musician and studio drummer. He performed on countless recordings and soundtracks for film and television, contributing his impeccable sense of time, dynamic range, and musical sensitivity to each project. Lamond's drumming style, characterized by its crisp articulation, inventive fills, and infectious swing feel, continues to inspire drummers and jazz enthusiasts to this day.

5. Recognition and Influence: Don Lamond's contributions to jazz music were recognized and celebrated by his peers and audiences alike. His name remains synonymous with excellence in jazz drumming, and his recordings serve as a testament to his enduring talent and musical legacy. While he may no longer be with us, Don Lamond's impact on the world of jazz endures, ensuring that his influence will be felt for generations to come.