Louie Bellson setting up his drums - October 10, 2008

Louie and assistants set up his Remo drum set in preparation for a concert. Unfortunately this would turn out to be one of Louie's final performances. It was an honor to help him with his drums at this and at the following concert in Davenport, Iowa a few days later. Louie still did a lot of the set up himself and also did all the tuning. Truly a master at his craft who still greatly enjoyed playing even though age had slowed him down. R.I.P. Mr. Bellson.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Louis
• Belson
• Rock
• Falls
• Illinois
• zildjian
• drummer
• master
• jazz

[sullydude24]

I met Buddy, but I wish I met Louie. Buddy wasn't very warm to those he didn't know. I bet Louie was better at that.

[KRO222]

I met them both, Buddy didn't have much to say, Louie was a sweetheart.

[gothickid13]

is he still alive?

[KRO222]

No, He passed away this past Valentine's Day at the age of 84

[deputy1229]

This was great to see. Even up to that age and celebrity status he was setting up his own drums.

He was truly a legend and a gentleman.

RIP Louie!!

[vmqndt]

Indeed, WELLMAN...indeed! A life of dedication, absolutely beautiful video!! R.I.P., Louie...

[wolowolowolo]

Thanks for posting this wonderful clip

[wicksjm]

God Bless Louie Bellson. He was one of the kindest, most giving people I have ever met. A true gentleman. Thanks for posting this, it's beautiful.

[johnnywilks]

I saw him at Preston Guild Hall in '79, he gave me a pair of sticks marked "The LB model" and said, "Son, you can't buy these in the UK". What a gentleman.

[kynancecove]

This Bring a Tear to my eye because my first thought is where is his family to help him to set up then I think thouse guys surrounding Louis should be say "Look Mate sit down & we will set your kit up then you can tweek it when we finished" because they look like they are not helping much as [[[THIS GUY IS/WAS A DRUM INOVATOR and atleast Mr Rich level of player

buy"intensive care" Bellson @ his best AVERY SAD SIGHT BUT

THANKYOU LOUIS FOR INSPIRING ME TO MAKE SOUND

TO SIR LOUIS& FAMILY

[upbeatmantis86]

shouldn't a young guy be helping louie set the kit up.. ???

[drummer78]

In some ways it is inspirational. He still had an obvious attentiveness to detail and craft. He seems as meticulous about his drums (despite his age and health) as ever.

[drumuitar]

This just makes me hurt to watch this. Seeing how Parkinsons and age had ravaged Louie's body is heartbreaking. Louie was the sweetest, kindest person on the planet. God Bless You

[northdrummer]

As I watch this in my room full of drumsets,I think,I remember when I saw Louis at a Guitar Center in Beverly IL. back when I was a kid. He was awesome and personable. Let everyone ask questions,then play some,ask questions. As we drummers age (46 for me now) It's not how great or bad you play, it's how you love to play! Love to play,even if it is just to sit behind the set and tap around,or just admire the beauty of each set,as each has it's own personality. Here's Louis best friend on display

[paddioche]

i had a set of them roto toms 14&16' there fun to play with, i miss em now sweet kit rip louie