Swing-era drummer, a musician from childhood. During the 40's and 50's played in orchestras led by Teddy Powell, Benny Goodman, Charlie Spivak, Harry James, Claude Thornhill. In 1945, replaced Buddy Rich as drummer with Tommy Dorsey. Later became a studio musician for Norman Granz, as backup musician to stars like Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald. Also recorded with leading jazz musicians, including Art Tatum, Roy Eldridge, Oscar Peterson, Coleman Hawkins, Ben Webster, Benny Carter, Herb Ellis and Erroll Garner.