Gene Krupa: Jazz Legend

Gene Krupa
Jazz Legend

This historic DVD focuses on the man who made the drums a solo instrument. A landmark retrospective, it includes such special features as vintage video clips & printable drum charts.

From the Author:
As the writer/producer/creator of "Gene Krupa: Jazz Legend"--as well as our newest effort, "Gene Krupa: Swing, Swing, Swing!"--my mission was to let the music of this drumming legend speak for itself. The essence of Gene Krupa is in his performances, and this program presents over a dozen complete performances of Gene in action, along with Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Teddy Wilson, Charlie Ventura and many more. This video has been acclaimed worldwide, and some writers have even maintained that this video actually marked the beginning of the burgeoning swing craze. After all, Gene Krupa was not only a jazz legend, but remains the original "King of Swing."

Gene Krupa made the drums a solo instrument, and he remains one of the most famous drummers in history. Rare footage from the 1940´s. Featured is an interview with Krupa, commentary from Louis Bellson and narrated by Steve Allen. Bonus DVD Features include: Six never-before-seen performances, Eight additional audio tracks featuring Gene´s brilliant performances, Printable drum charts, Internet connectivity.

The New York Times:
This PBS documentary features jazz legend Gene Krupa playing on the drums with many of the great names in music. Archival film clips capture Krupa at his best accompanying other jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Roy Eldridge, and Benny Goodman. Interviews with family, friends, and colleagues give the viewer insight into the man behind the drums.

The program culminates with the historic battle of the drums between Krupa and fellow musician Buddy Rich