Louie Bellson
American composer and musician
Louie Bellson Rank
About Louie Bellson
Born as Luigi Paulino Alfredo Francesco Antonio Balassoni, Louie Bellson gained notice for his notable works as a composer and bandleader. Some his great works include the hit albums: “The Driving Louis Bellson”, “Let’s Call It Swing”, “The Brilliant Bellson Sound” and “Thunderbird”.
Career
Growing up, he was good at drumming and he received his first award after competing against a number of drummers at the Slingerland National Gene Krupa Contest. Beginning his career, he was inspired by two great drummers, Big Sid Catlett and Jo Jones. Also, he worked with band leaders such as Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey and Duke Ellington. He served as the sideman to other composers such James Brown, Buddy Collette, Johnny Hodges and Benny Carter.
He, together with Benny Carter, released the following albums “Benny Carter Plays Pretty” and “In the Mood Swing”.
Aside from composing, he taught drumming at various schools and universities. For his good works, he earned an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (1985), which he received from Northern Illinois University.
Awards and honors
In 1994, Bellson was awarded the NEA Jazz Masters Award by the National Endowment for the Arts.
He was inducted into the Halls of Fame for the Modern Drummer magazine.
Personal life
He completed Moline High School and ten years later, he married Pearl Bailey. He lost his wife in 1990 and began a new marital relationship with Francine Wright in 1992.
Death
He passed away after suffering from a broken hip.
Trivia
He was the author of the book “Skin Deep”.
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F.A.Q. about Louie Bellson
When is his birthday?
Louie Bellson's birthday is on July 6, 1924.
In how many days is his birthday?
Louie Bellson's birthday is in 215 days
How old was Louie Bellson when he died?
He was 84 years old.
When did he die?
He died in February 14, 2009.
How old would he be today?
Louie Bellson would be 99 years old if he was alive today.
Where was Louie Bellson from?
He was born in Rock Falls, Illinois, U.S..