Louie Bellson

Referred to by Duke Ellington as “not only the world’s greatest drummer...(but also) the world’s greatest musician!”, Louie Bellson has expressed himself on drums since age three. At 15, he pioneered the double bass drum set-up. At 17, he triumphed over 40,000 drummers to win the Gene Krupa drumming contest.

Some people may remember Louie's wife, Pearl Bailey, the singer/actress.  Pearl was not only famous for show business, she was sort of a politician.  U.S. President Richard Nixon selected, Peal, as his Official White House Ambassador.   I remember her for countless visits on late night talk shows in the 60's and 70's.  She also was the co-star of possibly the best Black Movie of pre-civil rights tiem, "Carmen Jones."  Louie and Pearl were a great couple.  And I am sure he never stopped loving her.

Louie, was an unbelievable musician, and my dad(Ben L. Littlejohn Sr.) and Mom's good friend. We will deeply miss Louie with his wife at Holiday dinners and his great music and generous way.  God bless his current wife Francine and fans.  But I'm sure he lives on some where.  ...............Ben (Larry) Littlejohn Jr.