Traps, the Drum Wonder: The Life of Buddy Rich

I thought I knew something about Buddy but after reading this book I realized I didn't have a clue. The book is written honestly by his biggest fan.

I have been in awe of Buddy Rich's musicianship since hearing him live at "Lennie's on the Turnpike" in MA back in the sixties. He could 'suggest' a melody during his solo's better than any drummer I've ever heard (in 62 years). Mel Torme's biography is just fine at portraying Buddy Rich. Read it and judge for yourselves!

Being a big fan of the late Buddy Rich, I was searching for a book that not only chronicled his life, but gave me insight into the legend. This book did it all. I could not put the book down. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys drumming, jazz or just a good biography. Hats off to Mel Torme. His book is wonderful.

This book made me laugh and cry so intensely, in equal amts. I'm sure partly because I had followed him so closely from the time I was 14 or 15; I'm now 40. I can't resist at least one quote from the book. When he was in his last days and had the first of many serious convulsion attacks due to the tumor; the nurses were frantically wheeling him into the operating room that very well could've been his death bed, as they were beginning to put him under, the nurse understandably serious asked Buddy if there was anything he was allergic to. With his typical smirk he cracked "Yeah! Country & Western!"

Mel Trome tells the whole story, as only he can. This is truly a labor of Love from one great musician to "the greatest drummer who ever lived." For a drummer (ex Air Force Band) and fan, who was blessed to have seen Buddy in concert several times, this book brings home the complete story . It is also an easy read. Thanks to Mel for a great book!