Bobby Donaldson

During the '50s and '60s, Bobby Donaldson was prolific soul jazz, mainstream and hard bop drummer who worked smoothly with host of players. He played with bands in his Boston hometown duing the early 40s, then played with Russell Procope during his army service in the New York area. After the war, Donaldson toured and recorded with Cat Anderson in 1946 and 1947, then studied composition and arranging. He worked two years with Edmond Hall at the Cafe Society; then came engagements with Andy Kirk, Lucky Millinder and Sy Oliver's band that was recording under Louis Armstrong's leadership. Donaldson played in 1953 with Buck Clayton at one bar and Red Norvo at another. From the middle '50s through the '60s, Donaldson played on numerous sessions. These included periods with Clayton, Helen Merrill, Mel Powell, Ruby Braff, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Bobby Jaspar, Herbie Mann, Andre Hodeir, Kenny Burrell, Lonnie Johnson, Frank Wess, Willis Jackson and Johnny Hodges. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide