Rufus "Speedy" Jones

A brilliant soloist and an explosive player, Rufus Jones always lived up to his nickname of "Speedy." He originally started out on trumpet, switching to drums when he was 13. Among his early associations were with Lionel Hampton (1954), Henry "Red" Allen and Maynard Ferguson's Orchestra (1959-63). He led his own quintet during 1963-64 (resulting in a Cameo Lp that was his only album as a leader). Rufus Jones gained fame for his work with Count Basie (1964-66) and followed that up by being a sparkplug for Duke Ellington (1966-70). He notably also appeared with James Brown. Never an overly subtle player, Rufus Jones could always be counted on to light a fire under other players and he certainly made an impact during his periods with Basie and Ellington.

Rufus "Speedy" Jones - Count Basie Drum Solo 1965

Maxwell Custom & Vintage Drums - New York City

"Speedy" Jones - Duke Ellington 1967

Rufus "Speedy" Jones Drum Solo with Duke Ellington - 1969 Tivoli - Copenhagen - Danmark

"Speedy" Jones - Duke Ellington 1967 JUST THE DRUM SOLO

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