Tony Bellson, a renowned jazz drummer and composer, passed away on February 20, 2012, at the age of 85. He was the son of Louie Bellson, one of the greatest drummers in jazz history, and Pearl Bailey, a legendary singer and actress. Tony Bellson inherited his parents’ musical talent and passion, and made his own mark in the jazz world.
Early Life and Career
Tony Bellson was born on June 26, 1926, in Rock Falls, Illinois. He grew up in a musical family, as his father was a famous drummer who played with Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Harry James, and many others. His mother was a star of Broadway, film, and television, who won a Tony Award for her role in Hello, Dolly! and a Presidential Medal of Freedom for her humanitarian work.
Tony Bellson started playing drums at the age of three, and by the time he was 12, he was performing professionally with his father’s band. He also learned to play piano, trumpet, trombone, and vibraphone. He attended the Juilliard School of Music in New York, where he studied composition and orchestration.
Tony Bellson played with many jazz greats throughout his career, such as Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Quincy Jones. He also composed and arranged music for various artists and projects, such as Count Basie, Woody Herman, The Tonight Show Band, and The Muppet Show. He was known for his versatility, creativity, and swing.
Personal Life and Legacy
Tony Bellson married Jeanette Kountz in 1951, and they had four children: Candace, Tony Jr., Lisa, and Louie. They divorced in 1974. Tony Bellson remarried in 1981 to Sandra Joy Anderson, and they had two children: Alexander and Christina. They remained married until his death.
Tony Bellson was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, and he fought bravely against the disease until he succumbed to it on February 20, 2012. He died at his home in Barrington, Illinois, surrounded by his family. According to Daily Herald, he was cremated and his ashes were scattered over Lake Michigan.
Tony Bellson left behind a rich musical legacy that influenced generations of drummers and jazz lovers. He was honored with several awards and recognitions during his lifetime, such as the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Fellowship in 1994 and the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame in 2008. He also received an honorary doctorate from Northern Illinois University in 2009.
Tony Bellson was a humble and generous man who loved his family and friends. He was also a devout Catholic who credited God for his talent and success. He once said: “I thank God every day for giving me the gift of music.” He will be remembered as one of the most talented and influential drummers in jazz history.
