Grady Tate(1932-2017)

His family encouraged his musical talent, and he was playing drums and singing in public at age 5. After his voice changed, he stopped singing for several years and concentrated on drums, inspired by a meeting with Jo Jones, the longtime drummer with Count Basie. He spent four years in the Air Force, performing in military bands, then studied English and drama at what is now North Carolina Central University, graduating in 1959.

[commenting on why he rarely played loud, showy drum solos] I hate solos. I can't play one to save my life. I think of myself as someone who can keep time.