Drummer / Percussionist Birthday Calendar

A collection of famous, celebrity drummer and percussionist birthdays plus drum and percussion manufacturer anniversaries.
Barrett Deems
Barrett Deems

Barrett Deems, born on March 1, 1914 in Springfield, Illinois, was an American drummer and bandleader, best known for his work with Louis Armstrong (1954-1958) as well as the claim of being the "world's fastest drummer."

Barrett started playing jazz based drums at the age of 5. At the age of 84, he was still playing at least one gig a week, mainly in his home town of Illinois. His speed drumming technique was even featured in the 1956 movie, High Society, with Bing Crosby and Louis Armstrong.

Barrett attested his drumming success to continious practice.

Deems died on September 15, 1998 at the age of 84.