William Henry “Chick” Webb (1905 – 1939) born in Baltimore, Maryland) was an influential American jazz drummer and bandleader. He was known for his exceptional talent on the drums and his leadership of the famous Chick Webb Orchestra. Despite his short stature (he was often described as quite small) and a debilitating spinal condition, which required him to be in a wheelchair for most of his life, Webb’s energy and skill behind the drum kit were remarkable. His band became the house band at the Savoy. He became one of the best-regarded bandleaders and drummers of the new “swing” style. Drummer Buddy Rich cited Webb’s powerful technique and virtuoso performances as heavily influential on his own drumming, and even referred to Webb as “the daddy of them all.”
Webb’s band became one of the top swing bands of the 1930s, and he was a key figure in the development of the swing era. One of the most famous moments in his career was discovering and launching the career of Ella Fitzgerald. Ella sang with Webb’s orchestra and gained fame for her vocal prowess, and after Webb’s untimely death in 1939, Fitzgerald would go on to become one of jazz’s greatest voices.
Chick Webb passed away at the young age of 34, but his influence on jazz drumming and big band music remains significant.
YouTube Video Link: The Savoy King: Chick Webb & the Music That Changed America”, https://video.uohnit.com/v/RJIf4i