World renowned drummer Ed Thigpen passed away on January 13th aged 79.

Ed Thigpen

Born in December 1930 Ed worked with many artists including Dinah Washington, Oscar Pettiford, Ernie Wilkins, Charlie Rouse, and Bud Powell, and spent 3 years in Billy Taylor’s trio before joining the Oscar Peterson Trio in 1959. He is probably best known for his work with the legendary pianist recording albums such as Night Train, West Side Story and We Get Requests.

After his stint with Peterson he recorded and played with Ella Fitzgerald betweek 1966 and 1972 at which time he relocated to Copenhagen playing with artists such as Kenny Drew, Clark Terry, Milt Jackson and Monty Alexander. He also became an in-demand clinician and teacher.

Renowned as an expert with the brushes he released a book “The Sound Of The Brushes” and a DVD “The Essence Of Brushes” in addition to his book “Rhythm Brought To Life”.

Ed is survived by his son Michel, daughter Denise and granddaughter Nikita.

Watch the video below to see an example of Ed’s amazing brushwork:

Ed Thigpen “owns” the brushes on YouTube.