Louie Bellson Legacy
Louie Bellson Legacy
Louie Bellson Legacy: GUESTBOOK
Tony Cappiello
May 14, 2012
What was Louie's warm up routine and did he use Metal Drumsticks for it?
Thanks,
Tony Cappiello
Bothell, WA
Preface by Mrs. B: Since I am not a drummer, I sent this question to the bandleader of one of Louie's bands, who is also the owner of the metal drumstick company Louie endorsed, Power Wrist Builders.
RESPONSE
Well all I can reference is what Louie … told me when I first showed him the metal sticks. He did try them and said: "the black ones were like the ones (I) used to practice with and warm-up with many years ago … “
He never really passed along any 'warm-up' routines. He simply said "... warm-up the way you would play ... Use the metal sticks and warm-up with the same routine that you would with your wood sticks. THEN when you switch back to your wood sticks; (you’ll) 'feel' the difference."
… I think the 'black model' is the most representative model for his legacy since it's probably the one he may have … seen …
Excerpted response from Terry Loose
Power Wrist Builders
http://taloosegroup.com
Sticks Wicks
May 8, 2012
Just wanted to check in and, say Hello To all and, Mrs.B..I was watching one of my jazz drummer videos about Gene Krupa... Louie talks about Gene through out the video..It shows what a class act Louie is..I really enjoyed watching Louie explaining how He and Gene used to jam at Genes home and how they both learned from each other.. wow..what it must have been like seeing the two Great Ones..jamming.I miss You Louie,Craig
Mrs. B: Craig, you have got to get the famous drummers T-shirt with these 2 of the 4 iconic figures. Click T shirts to see, or Cat./Order form to order.
Ronald Jung
May 5, 2012
Preface by Mrs. B: I debated all weekend how to edit/excerpt/cut the following Guestbook entry for space consideration. However, I finally gave up because it's so well crafted, and it so accurately describes the treasured nature of Louie Bellson. So, patience, please; I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
I first heard about Louie Bellson from my Uncle who had played in Big Bands in the mid to late 1930's. He had never mentioned Mr. Bellson's name to me until I started to play drums in my late teens. There were only two things that my late Uncle would say about Mr. Bellson: he was a great drummer/percussionist and the nicest guy you could ever meet. After his glowing praise of Mr. Bellson I read every thing I could find on him. I discovered that the overwhelming consensus by everyone, from musicians and laymen alike, was that he was as famous for having a great personality as he was for his superlative musicianship. I especially admired the way he gave credit to the drummers who came before him.
Now I know this might seem a little strange but, I sincerely believe the following experience actually happened. Sometime during the early 1990's, I was waiting on line for a bus at the Port Authority Terminal in New York City. I was tired for some reason and I dozed off while I was still standing on line. I was not fully asleep but, in one of those half awake/half asleep states. Suddenly, in a slight semi-circle facing me on my left side stood Big Sid Catlett, Papa Jo Jones and Chick Webb. They were in a lively discussion about drums and drummers and even though I was not participating in their conversation I felt that they had generously accepted me as a fellow drummer. At that moment I had not played my drums for some time but, they seemed to be encouraging me to return to the enjoyment that I had always experienced whenever I sat behind a drum set. Just as suddenly, I awoke from this dreamlike state and to this day I honestly believe that these three great drummers had reached out to me. They had reminded me of what I was missing and they were also inspiring me to continue to play my musical instrument of choice.
I am telling you this brief story because Mr. Bellson had always spoken highly of these three great musicians. His praise for these men influenced me to follow in his example and to mention their names whenever I spoke with others about music. My admiration for Mr. Bellson led me to discover who he respected and this in turn enabled me to come to respect these great drummers from the past. Without Mr. Bellson's positive outlook about life and people I would have never had this life changing experience. Soon afterward I returned to my drums and I eventually gave drumming demonstrations in my daughter's elementary school. Some of the other children's parents approached me after school when I picked up my daughter and said that their children told them if I could be a cool drummer then their own parents might be cool. These parents thanked me but, they should have really been thanking the great Louie Bellson and the great men he respected.
-- submitted by Ronald Jung
Mrs. B: To Ronald: "Amen!"
To All: FYI, some of these iconic heroes are depicted on the following products: Art print, T-Shirt and drinking/pencil Cup. Available on the Gift Shopping page.
Rita Taddeucci
May 2, 2012
Oh, this is so very sad! My love and heartfelt condolences go out to the Bellson and Payne families! Josephine lived at my dad's house for a while when he was growing up. I saw Josephine a few times at Louie's concerts. A very lovely lady.
Love and light,
Rita
Cathy Cupito
May 2, 2012
All of my love to you all in the loss of your loved one ....he left beautiful music to fill your hearts .... he left memories for you to cherish ...
Lots of love, Cathy
CATHY CUPITO
May 2, 2012
So sorry about your loss .... all my sympathies go out to you all at this time ....
lots of love, Cathy
And may you all cherish the memories she left you ....
Ty Shivers
May 2, 2012
My sincerest condolesense to the Bellson and Payne Families.
Craig Wicks
May 2, 2012
Dear Bellson Family, It seams like life goes by....so, quickly for us all...God Bless Tony..I am so sorry for your loss please except my condolences,Craig
Craig Wicks
May 2, 2012
Dear Mrs B, I am so sorry to hear this news....My heart goes out to The Bellson family...May God Be With Her...R.I.P.Josephine.. With Love,Craig
Candy Bellson
May 2, 2012
R.I.P. Aunt Josephine....Give my Dad my love....
John DeChristopher
May 2, 2012
My deepest condolences to the Bellson family...
John DeChristopher
Zildjian Company
Larry Alexander
May 1, 2012
My condolence, just know that those who go before us ready the path for followers to be joined together in the realm of after life.
Ken Hitchcock
May 1, 2012
Francine and the Bellson family, My deepest condolences to you all on your loss. Even though I never met Josephine, but if she was anything like her brother,
I'm sure she was a complete joy to be around and to know!
Love, Ken Hitchcock
Lodi Carr
May 1, 2012
So Sorry for your Loss. She's probably dancing in Heaven with Her Little Brother Louis. Love, Lodi Carr
Mark Silva
May 1, 2012
God Bless , "My Condolences" To The Bellson Family
From: Mark D. Silva
Shaun Blackstock
May 1, 2012
Condolences.......
Alex Cohen
May 1, 2012
Another memory of LB in a photo (not digital) of LB, Gerry Mulligan, and Bobby Shew sharing a late night moment aboard a jazz cruise back in 90's. Such warm place he and all his music keeps in my heart. All the best to Mrs B and the family. Alex from New Zealand
Alex Cohen
May 1, 2012
My condolences. This memory is always warmed by the memories of LB....and his wonderful music as it beams from my speakers. My best to her family. Alex Cohen in New Zealand
joseph lani
April 25, 2012
loved louie, actually was able to trade fours with him years ago at drummers collective nyc
Mrs. B: Joseph, I remember that. Thanks for sharing.
Michael Del Priore
April 1, 2012
... thanks for the info.......as to the tee' shirts , I LOVE THEM! both are fine and you should have them at the chicago show. I'll see you then. michael dp.
Mrs. B: Note: The shirts he refers to are the "Bellson Band Logo" shirt and the "Beam Me Up Louie" shirt, which can be found on the Cat./Order form . The show he refers to is Rebeats' Chicago Vintage Drum Show, May 19-20. See Calendar page.
James Lewis
April 1, 2012
Hi Mrs B
I thought I'd drop you an email just to let you know we had our end of term "band" performance at Morley College London, and as I said I proudly wore the T/Shirt I recently purchased, which (no surprise) brought one or two comments which I hope will encourage more people to "check out" the music of L.B. We had a great evening, and everyone played well.
best regards,
James Lewis
Mrs. B: Note: The shirt he refers to is the "Bellson Band Logo" shirt which can be found on the Cat./Order form .
Juan Carlos Sosa Trombert
March 26, 2012
Dear Francine: I think that it is about time to have a biographical video of Louie and his whole career. Other Jazz legends have full videos and Louie must have one two. I hope we can have it soon with your incredible work on preserving Louie´s contributions to world music.. My best regards from Ecuador. Juan Carlos Sosa Trombert
Mrs. B: Thanks, Juan Carlos. Meanwhile, see Bio & Beyond Page for
Louie Bellson - (NAMM) Oral History Program
"Louie Bellson: Hometown Hero"
Louie Bellson - Smithsonian Jazz Oral History Project
Candy Bellson
March 25, 2012
Thank You Aunt Francine...grateful for your post of my Dads passing....
James Lewis
March 14, 2012
Good afternoon Mrs B (if I may use that),
Thank you so much for the package I ordered. The T-Shirt is great and I will be wearing it at our term end band concert. I also watched the DVD last night and was simply blown away with the performance.
I'm sure you've heard it a thousand times but I have to say I don't think we will see the likes of that level of "drumming" ever again, so it is very fortunate that we have these DVDs. And as the (4 famous drummers) Art Print says, "gone but not forgotten".
Again my thanks,
James Lewis, London, UK
(a very satisfied customer)
Mrs. B: You're quite welcome, James. (Wow, what a testimonial!)
Let this be a reminder for all to check out the updated Gift Shopping page.
Noreen Jackson
March 6, 2012
I just saw the sacred musci CD of Louie. How incredible to know that Louie is with Our Lord and making heavenly music. There are many mansions and one must be a jazz mansion.
Mrs. B: Thanks for your note, Noreen. We'd love to know what you think of the album after you've heard it. Please write back and let us know.
Charlie Harrington
March 4, 2012
My deepest condolences. Buddy, Big Sid, Louie, and Tony. Heaven must be swinging like crazy!
Brad Stein
February 28, 2012
I had the pleasure of working with Tony at Slingerland. One of the highlights of working there was joining Tony at lunch time with co-workers. He was always upbeat, cheerful and fun to be around.
My Father and I went to the O'Hare Hilton to see his band on occasion. He had such a high energy level with great technique to match.
My deepest sympathies to the Bellson family.
Godspeed, Tony
John DeChristopher
February 27, 2012
Dear Francine,
I'm deeply sorry to learn of Tony's passing. I met him several times through Louie and like his brother, he was a wonderful man. He will be missed but he's with Louie now.
I just returned from New York where we remembered our friend Freddie Gruber and there were many great stories told and of course Louie was remembered too...
Sincerely,
John DeChristopher
Avedis Zildjian Company
Craigie Zildjian
February 27, 2012
Francine,
We're so sorry to learn that Louie's brother Tony has passed.
Please extend our sympathies to his family on behalf of everyone here at Zildjian.
All the best,
Craigie Z.
Terrey Langford
February 25, 2012
I played with Tony in the 60's we had a quartet, also played with Smokey Stover and Tony in the Quad cities & Chicago. He will really be missed.
Gus Tripilas
February 25, 2012
Sad news about Tony, he and I were about the same age. I'm still drumming, years ago Tony and I practiced together at the Belson music store. He will be missed.
JOE NEWBERRY
February 25, 2012
So sorry to hear this. Tony was a good friend of mine in the 60's & 70's and a fine tastfull drummer. He helped me a lot and I still have his black pearl ludwigs from the 60's. All the Bellsons were good people and will be missed.
william lewis III
February 25, 2012
what a sad day indeed... Uncle Tony to me... fonds memories of this gentleman was 'meticulous' when taking care of his Mercury on the ranch. Seriously folk, what a handsome man too, inside and out, like all the Bellson men. Be happy Grandma PeeWee....
My deepest sympathies to the family, T-Tony and Candy..... Please know you I love you and I'm so sorry for the lost of your dad.
Jim Mittica
February 24, 2012
My sincere condolences to the Bellson family.
Alan Donath
February 24, 2012
Hi Francine,
I am sorry to hear about the passing of Louies brother Tony. I didn't meet him, but I want to share my thoughts of sympathy with you at this time. Also, I just found out your father passed away some months ago, and I want to tell you I am sorry to hear that and I'm am sending you my thoughts, prayers and sympathies
Sincerely,
Alan Donath
Mrs. B: Thanks for your kindness & sensitivity, Alan.
Previously, I had chosen not to eblast that (& other) info at the time, but after several inquiries/urgings from fans, here goes.
DEAR BELLSON FANS: Please also note the passings of Louie's father-in-law (July 25, 2011) and Louie's sister (April 13, 2010) on the News page.
Dom Famularo
February 24, 2012
Tony was always a gentleman and true to the high Bellson standard of personal greatness. I met Tony in 1976 and was honored to hear him play. The Bellson brothers together again has heaven jumping with music and joy!
FRANK SPATAFORA
February 24, 2012
My deepest sympathy to you and your family for your loss...God bless
Ernie Durawa
February 23, 2012
I first met Tony when he worked at Slingerland Drum Company and then again in Moline,Il.
Very nice gentleman ! RIP
Ernie Durawa
Crystal Shepeard
February 23, 2012
Sending you my love and condolences. Hugs to you.
Matt Connors
February 23, 2012
Our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Tony Bellson on behalf of myself and Remo, Inc. Unfortunately, I didn't have the pleasure of talking with Tony all that often, but when I did, he was always one of the nicest, funniest, and most enjoyable people I've had the pleasure of talking with. He will be greatly missed.
Sincerely,
Matt Connors
Remo, Inc.
Debby Bellson Boggs
February 23, 2012
Dear Aunt Francine,
So sorry we have to say goodbye to another family member . It's been many years since I've seen Uncle Tony.Would love to talk to all my cousins. I would have loved to have seen all 4 aunts and 4 uncles together just once as adults. We always saw them singly, and not often enough. Knew all aunts and uncles except Uncle Hank and DeeDee. By the way, dad(Frank) never played drums, he was the clarinet teacher. The 3 younger boys went the percussion route. Question...did Uncle Tony chew doublemint gum like dad and Uncle Louie did? Hugs and prayers for all who weep. Take comfort, he's safe and content . Love to all...
Russ Mann
February 23, 2012
I didn't know Louie had a brother, let alone the fact that he, too, was a drummer. My condolences to you, Mrs. B, and anyone else affected by this recent loss.
Eric Frank
February 23, 2012
Dear Mrs. Bellson,
I am so sorry to hear the news about the passing of your brother-in-law Tony. Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss.
Sending my best thoughts and wishes to you the rest of the Bellson family during this difficult & sad time.
Sincerely and respectfully,
EF
Eric Frank – DRUM! Magazine
Bob Mertz
February 23, 2012
Francine and the Bellson family have my sincerest sympathy and condolences. If Tony was anything like Louie, then he had a good life. RIP, Tony Bellson
Craig Horn
February 23, 2012
We are deeply saddened to loose Tony Bellson. Although it has been over 50 years since I had the pleasure and honor to know the Bellson family, I shall never forget their kindnesses shown me as a young drummer in Moline, taking refresher lessons from Mr. Bellson and hanging out at the music shop as time and opportunity allowed. I am blessed to have had such an opportunity and shall treasure my memories of all the Bellson family forever.
Terry
February 23, 2012
I never met Tony. But being a Balassoni, he had to be good.
Craig "Sticks'Wicks
February 23, 2012
Dear Bellson family and, Mrs B, I am so sorry for your loss...I pray for the Bellson family at this time of need..My God Be With Tony....God Bless You All.! Love, Craig
Butch Miles
February 23, 2012
I'm really, really sorry to hear this news. I met Tony a very long time ago and liked him immensely. Now the brothers are together again. God Bless You Tony.
Larry A.
February 23, 2012
Our sincere condolence, Prayers for strength and comfort for you.
Love YOU ALWAYS,
Larry and Jason
Paulette Dozier
February 23, 2012
To the Bellson Family,
I did not know Tony Bellson, but I send my deepest condolences. May he RIP.
Leonard Cervantes
February 23, 2012
My father Leonard Sr. was a good friend of Louie, Tony and all the Bellsons. I remember meeting Tony when I was a kid. I think the Bellsons still had the music store in Moline. Tony gave me a harmonica on one occasion and drumsticks and a practice pad on another. He was a kind man and a great drummer.
Cynthia Bellson
February 23, 2012
Aunt Francine thank you so much for posting the link on Daddy. I know this must be a difficult time for you too with the anniversary of Uncle Lou's passing. Much love to you!
Kerry Crutchfield
February 23, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear about Tony, he was really a great guy. I'm guessing he is helping Louie set up his drums right now in Heaven.
Bob Van Lindt
February 23, 2012
First time I learned he had a drummer brother. Now that's heavenly music for sure!
Mrs. B: Actually, all Louie's brothers were/are drummers. (Ref: the passing of Louie Bellson's brother Tony Bellson. See News page.)
Keith Hamlin
February 20, 2012
I'm sure Louie and Buddy are sharing the drum chair in Heaven. God would not give such men there enormous talent, only to have them silenced in the hereafter. I am reminded of how much I love Louie every time I gaze at my autographed picture of him.
Much love to you all.
JIM BUCKLEY
February 19, 2012
I've heard his band many times and the music goes right to your soul. God Bless Mr Bellson
Mrs. B: Thanks, Jim. Please join our mailing list (small box atop any page).
Greg Burrows
February 18, 2012
Still miss Louie Bellson, and his warm, all-heart personality. I'm grateful that I got to know him. Thank you Mrs Bellson for keeping his legacy very much alive--he's a national treasure.
Tom Mongelli
February 17, 2012
To generations he has yet to influence, he'll start as a name, grow into a model and continue as a legend.
Larry Alexander
February 17, 2012
Missing you and think of you often, the memories are part of my treasures Francine thanks for
helping to keep the treasures and the memorize
alive and shareing all of the beauty.
Larry A.
Joe DeRose
February 17, 2012
Louie will always have a special place in my heart.
He was like a second father to me. He shared so much with me about music and life.
He will truly be missed and loved always.
Much Peace and Love
Joe DeRose
Brent Bell
February 17, 2012
Louie and I talked a little after we had the band practice. He was easy to talk to and I could tell had a many interesting stories still to tell from the unique long association in many bands. He still was exciting to listen to in the few Musicians Warehouse BigBand rehearsals I played my sax and flute in.
Louie played the San Jose Jazz Festival and his humorous comment when asked how old are you? I’m ... 39 in this leg and 39 in the other. His playing stuck in my mind since his BigBand played Disneyland a few times years ago.
A new avenue of discovery is now open with the Emails, Website, and Tribute Concerts for Louie Bellson the legend with drums!
Thanks, Brent Bell
Frank Steele
February 16, 2012
I never saw Louie in person, but I loved watching him on TV, videos, etc. That self-assurd smile when he played said it all. There was such a a look of happiness as he played, and he made me proud to be a drummer. Louie was "the man." Great players (in the old days) were said to have "sat low in their chairs." Louie sat as low as any of them.
David, Margaret, and Peter May / Cafe Cordiale
February 15, 2012
We have beautiful memories of this gentle man with a heart of gold and a smile that went on forever. Thank you Francine for sharing these lovely memories of Louie, the man and his music. We always enjoyed your visits all those years We miss you both.
Love & Hugs ....
The May Family
David Case
February 15, 2012
I had the pleasure of meeting Louie Bellson in the 90's in the downtown Los Angeles area after a show he did there in a beautiful outdoor setting at the watercourt. He was a absolute gentleman and I will forever cherish the memory.
Vince Santaluce
February 15, 2012
Louie Bellson One of a kind he is the musical drummer.
Jeffrey K. Filippi, DC
February 15, 2012
On behalf of the millions of Louie fans thanks so much for keeping his memory alive. I had the pleasure of signing his get well book many years ago. I'll never forget the time when he invited me and my brother-in-law back stage at the Circle Star where he was performing... I was a high school student at the time and was totally blown away and could hardly belive that Louie was talking to me in his dressing room while he was buttoning his shirt!! That meant so much to me.. What a wonderful wonderful person and , of course, stellar musician!!!! I also had the opportunity of seeing Louie perform at the Cubberly School around the late 80's/90's and was fortunate enough to have him sign a colorful sketch of him holding sticks. I now have this prized possession along with a signed drumhead mounted on the hallway outside of my xray room where I see it M-F while I'm at work!!! The good Lord really out did Himself when he blessed us with Louie..God Bless you Francine for being an important part of his life... and now ours!!
Angela Wheatley
February 15, 2012
Our son Joshua 17, has been greatly inspired by Louie from an early age. He has watched and practiced to his early recordings. Josh is eternally grateful to have been able to study the Master and Genius Louie on drums. Josh has just been accepted to Berklee College of Music with a scholarship. Whilst attending the Berklee Summer Program he was also selected as the All Star Jazz Drummer. Louie will continue to be a source of inspiration to our son as well as challenging him to aim higher. Louie was and continues to be a wonderful blessing to this world
Juan Carlos Sosa Trombert
February 15, 2012
Louie is still alive, his music will live forever.
Lois Shearer
February 15, 2012
Louie will always be close to our hearts. His great music will live on for years to come as a great drummer and musician.
Dr. Paul Krieger
February 15, 2012
Louis Bellson is (his music still "is") the quintessential drummer who can bring melody and harmony to a drum kit. There have not been many in the modern age who have this talent. Thankfully Louie's music lives on and that is worth celebrating. Thank you, Louie, for bringing the joy of your beautiful music to our lives.
Ron Weinstein
February 15, 2012
Louie, after 3 years I still talk to you. You were always invincible in life and continue to be to all.
Love you madly
John Mruk
February 15, 2012
You, Buddy, Gene and Mac must have a lot to say to each other up there and the drumming must be great. We miss you Louie.
Percy Wade
February 15, 2012
His music always inspirational.
jerry cerasani
February 15, 2012
louie, what a great drummer and a great man!
Albert Alva
February 14, 2012
Thanks to CD's , Video, DVD's, and sheet music, Louie's memory and creativity can be with us forever. Keep up the good work Francine!
Andy Conversano
February 14, 2012
Louie, my all-time favorite drummer...glad to have met you and glad even though things got tight I was able to hang onto your old kit...I bet you're playing' up a storm up there !
Vincent Dee
February 14, 2012
In 1060, Rogers Drum Co. sponsored a drum contest in Chicago and Louis was their star and host. I came in 7th and was 10 years old and had my photo in the Chicago Tribune. Soon I became friends with Barrett Deem and he gave me private lessons and got to meet Louise on several occasions. I will always cherish him!
Tom zick
February 14, 2012
Thank you both for defining love beyond what others understand
Larry Jaworske, President Founder Cymbal Doctor co.
February 14, 2012
Saw Louie perform LIVE several times in his career. Most notably in Boston in the 80's and 90's. As a young drummer in the sixties I was impressed with he and Buddy doing battle. I started playing double bass because of him! Some guys can do it all on one, but two bass drums balance the kit visually and give it the WOW factor when played to the max. Missing your taste and chops Lou!
DeVonne Gardner
February 14, 2012
The heartbeat of every living thing pulses with each beat of Louie's drums. His masterful skills never failed to inspire and excite!
Shaun Blackstock
February 14, 2012
Louie-Just typing that name makes me feel good-Your music will always be with us......
Ndugu Chancler
February 14, 2012
Great works live forever.Great workers are remembered by their great works.
Ndugu Chancler
John Georges
February 14, 2012
Louie's play enspires me to play every day. His musicianship and trechnique will live in me forever.
chris jimenez
February 14, 2012
I will trully miss his drummin , it meant so much to me when he felt I was at a location I shouldnt have been at playing the drums so Ileft and never gone back I hope they have pasta at the dinner table mmmmm pasta I got to go keep on drummin everyone
Lloyd Dent
February 14, 2012
Louie and his music will be with me always.
TESS GAYOD
February 14, 2012
MR BELLSON WILL ALWAYS BE FOREVER IN MY HEART... GOD BLESS HIS SOUL!!!
Corky Douthitt
February 14, 2012
Just a repeat of the time I got to meet Louie and shake his hand. What a gracious and generous man. When Buddy Rich speaks well of anyone, that is truly the mark of a Gentleman. Miss you, Sir! and Bless you Mrs. B !
Chet Falzerano
February 14, 2012
The legend lives on in our hearts. God bless you Louie!
Penny Wilks
February 14, 2012
We love and miss our Uncle Louie. He will always be in our hearts and our memories.
The Bellson Family
Earle (Doc) Van Gilder
February 14, 2012
I had the good fortune to grow up in Moline, Ill. and to have bought my first sticks from Louie's Father. An amazing family with Louie Bellson still a "living legend."
Preston Smith
February 14, 2012
What A pleasure to meet Louis Belson At Spazios years back . Such a wonderful man and a great piece of the puzzle was he of American Jazz Music . I started out as a drummer and he was a hero for sure! A true Legend!
Terry
February 14, 2012
It's a beautiful, sunny, bright, cheerful, warm day in San Jose. The only thing missing, is my friend, Louie.
Louie Pastor
February 14, 2012
I miss Louie. Speaking of "love" (How do you like that transition Francine?) It was from seeing LB, listening to LB and finally meeting LB that I fell totally in love with the instruments of my choice- the drum set. Mr. Bellson was a living legend that transcended the drum set and was a symbol of what musicianship was all about. All this while he maintained his humility and his kindness toward others. Louie Bellson is not gone. He is just away for awhile. I look forward to seeing and listening to him again. Louie Pastor, Manhattan Beach, California
Tony Berkman
February 14, 2012
Mrs.B,
Thank you so much for the Valentine's Day Greeting.Hearing Louie's bass drums fills my heart and put's an extra kick in in my step today...LOVE
Craig "Sticks" Wicks
February 14, 2012
Dear Louie, You were... always and, still are My Hero...Louie I play my Remo acousticon snare that you also used thru the years....Your Always There With Me..God Bless You Great Jazz Man !!!!..Craig
Ken Winter
February 14, 2012
Louie! You continue to inspire me! When I listen to your recordings and turn the volume up, your drumming makes the speakers pulsate and the walls rattle; giving you life once again!
Dom Famularo
February 14, 2012
LB, you still inspire me everyday. Your spirit, your music, your humility is alive and influencing people globally! I speak of you in all my events and the legacy you have left will live forever!
Thank you for letting me in your life!
Herb Stark
February 14, 2012
Just listened to 'Soar Like An Eagle.' Some things never get tiresome or grow old. Louie's driving drum solos in that composition...especially that flourish at the end reminds me why I and his legions of fans will never tire of Louie's amazing talent. Thank you Francine for keeping his memory alive!
Joe Simon
February 14, 2012
I can't believe its been three years.
I miss you Louie, and will forever remember meeting you and spending a little time with you.
Most Sincerely,
Joe
Royce and Lee Bell
February 14, 2012
We have a great love for this very gentle man, whose talent just soared over many of his peers. Ever the teacher, he never failed to reach out to younger players and to speak with his fans in ways that many major entertainers can only aspire to do.
We have listened to Louie for years and have taken advantage of the sometimes coincidental crossing of our paths with his concerts. And, having loved and respected Louie and Pearl, we were overjoyed to meet the current "Mrs. B"--a classy lady who jealously guards Louie's memory and truly honors his legacy by her diligent attention to his music and memorabilia.
We cannot believe it has been 3 years, but February 14 will always be far more to us than just a day to exchange kisses, pink hearts, and appropriate gifts.
We loved Louie! And, love him still...
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