Biography
Despite lacking exceptional precision as a timekeeper, Sonny Greer matched Duke Ellington's Orchestra perfectly from 1924 to 1951, supplying both vibrancy and sophistication within its rhythm section. Their first meeting took place in 1919 while Greer performed in the Howard Theatre's orchestra in Washington, D.C. He reached New York initially alongside Elmer Snowden and joined Ellington's Washingtonians as one of its founding musicians when the ensemble consisted of only five players. Greer's drumming matured in tandem with the group's development, his expansive percussion setup—featuring a gong, chimes, timpani, and vibes—contributing directly to the band's distinctive "jungle sound." He stayed until 1951, when disagreements with Ellington regarding his drinking and declining dependability prompted a departure to Johnny Hodges' newly assembled ensemble. Afterward he performed with Red Allen, Tyree Glenn, and J.C. Higginbottham, led his own band in 1967, and appeared with Brooks Kerr's trio throughout the 1970s.
Albums
