Besides unmatched technique, Joe was about the most musical player ever. He never lost sight of the fact that the solo should compliment the song and not be focused solely on showy technique. Truly a drummer's drummer
Man, Joe was just an incredible player. My first teacher actually studied with Joe and we pretty much did everything that Joe showed him (I got lucky there). One more thing before he died my drum teacher actually got him to sign my Master Studies Book II, which I still have. It looks like chicken scratch because by that time his eyesight was really bad, but just wanted to share that little story. As far as your video, it was fantastic as always. Love seeing Joe get the love he deserves! Much love brother!
Drew Godsell right on man! Hope all is well and trust me check out Joe! You will be amazed not only at his technical ability, but more importantly his musicianship. Incredible talent!
Joe Morello's autograph would truly be something to treasure. One great artist getting a keepsake from another great artist !! So cool!! .I have always thought his solos were more melodic and more enjoyable to watch and listen to than many other greats!!
Morello was a MONSTER. Here's the thing about his playing that slays me though: he had all of the technical facility in the world, but he NEVER played anything that wasn't swinging like crazy with a deep groove, he never played anything that wasn't tasteful tasteful tasteful, and he never played anything that wasn't musical. His solo on the record version of Take Five is something I still listen to on a regular basis. That solo is a lesson in musicality, taste, and technique. I love how much space there is between the notes and the beautiful phrasing, and I love the dynamics. Morello was one of the best to ever pick up a pair sticks. He was a master, in the truest sense of the word.
I studied with Joe for about six years. He was a beast of a musician and he was one of the most humble and gracious and kind human beings you'll ever meet.
We are spoiled by our rock-solid hardware. Try doing this with a 1950s Ludwig kit. Joe was THE BEST, a combination of Ringo (melodic) and Rich (hard driving, when he wanted to be). No wonder Dave pried him from McPartland!
@@TheOsfania Bro., glad you know the history with Marian... a wonder performer. Somewhere I read, or saw her story on Joe..a lot of cats came for the audition...most of them did their wild thing and pretty much left..she turned and looked at Joe saying, "Quit holding up that wall and come play." He did and the rest is history....
I really loved the humility you showed in this video. "That shit is hard". There are so many drum videos out there and it's so refreshing to see a great player meet his match and acknowledge it! I hope that comes across as a compliment, it's intended as one.
I studied with Joe at NJ School of Percussion back in the 90s. Not only was Joe a technical master with a prodigious level of talent, but he was also a really nice guy. He was very generous about providing the best mentorship he could to every one of his students. At the end of every lesson he would ask me, “have I helped you ? Do you feel like you got your money’s worth ?” That left me pretty speechless, because not only did he help me tremendously, but I would have paid just to be in the same room and watch him do the impossible on a practice pad. I watched him do his famous left-hand triplets while sitting right beside him with our twin Remo practice pads, and I STILL cannot believe what I saw. Also Joe had a quick wit and would tell stories of life on the road with Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, and Louie Bellson (who remained a close friend of his). I had a lesson booked when Joe was sadly taken from us. I miss him all the time, what a super guy and GREAT teacher.
I wonder who taught Joe, did he have lessons or self taught using books in stick control and rudiments? My teacher died last year sadly but told me when he was young he took a few lessons from his hero's in NewYork including Joe. The older I get the more I appreciate his genius, technique, dynamics, independence and musicality. Just listening to Morello improves your playing haha!
John Collins Joe studied with Joe Sefcik and then George Lawrence Stone, author of Stick Control. Stone also taught Gene Krupa, by the way. He was so impressed with Morello that he dedicated his second book, Accents and Rebounds to Joe Morello. Morello’s second book, Master Studies Part 2, contains many of his own variants of the exercises from Accents and Rebounds. Joe was a master at maximizing the effectiveness of practice. He taught me SO much. Ways to use the exercises in Stick Control and put a spin on them to make them more challenging and even musically useful, for example. What a fantastic teacher, and a really really nice man. I miss Joe every time I sit behind the kit, because he helped me to become a much better player.
I have always loved Joe. He was the reason I learned traditional grip and got into drum line (I wanted to learn stick control like he had and understand rudiments). Right when I started learning to play the drums back in school this performance was one of the first I ever saw, he made me completely fall in love with the drums. I had never imagined that the drums could be so incredibly musical until I listened to him. “Playing the drums with your hands? Striking different sections of the drumhead and Using space between notes as a way to create a melody with a drum set?! How in the world?!” I thought. His control, the phrasing, the pocket, the groove. This man made music with that drum set, true music. The way he complimented the piano, how he followed the bass groove. Pure genius. Joe could make the drums talk, sing and even dance sliding away from him. The true definition of a music legend.
I hate to be "that guy" but Morello is not wearing a "three piece suit" in this video, and I've never seen a picture of him in one. A "three piece suit" includes a vest, jacket and pants.
@@xs10z Let’s be honest with ourselves. Drummers like Morello could have been wearing a hazmat suit complete with respirator and gloves and it wouldn’t have mattered.
Psycho9263 When Joe told the story to me in his typically humble fashion, he said he gave up the violin because he realized at any early age that he would “never be Jasha Heifetz” so he decided to take up another instrument. He was so funny, too. I once asked him about stick twirling, and he replied, “you mean this stuff ?” (at which point he twirled a little) “I used to do that all the time until I found out it doesn’t record well...” Hahaha
As his bass drum was creeping away, he pulled it back with his right hand, while never missing a beat. I first heard Joe when the album came out and he was immediately my favorite drummer. Over 55 years later, he is still my all-time favorite. Because of Joe, I switched from rock to jazz in 1966 and searched for a professional jazz drummer to teach me and I lucked out, being in the right place at the right time, to find someone who reluctantly gave me a chance. He said I was the only student he ever had because he never taught anyone. He was a lot like Mr. Miyagi in "The Karate Kid", who forced me to start with the bare basics and made sure I was sincere in my desire to learn. I never became a professional drummer but I have been moonlighting with professional jazz groups since 1967. Still practicing and still learning. Thank you, Joe! You planted the seed.
Fantastic lesson Austin! Take Five is a classic. I think Joe Morelo is one of the most musical drummers out of all the greats. He seemed to play behind the beat.
10 years ago this became my favorite solo I've ever heard and inspired me in many ways -- Huge thanks to you for breaking it down and covering how crazy it actually is!!
There is only one thing about this solo that I can add. Joe, along with his bandmates, helped make this the single best selling jazz song of all time. This song. This solo. Best selling. People aren't stupid (rhetorical question, LOL). I don't know about your channel, and your drumming abilities, but I love your comments. This looks hard to do, but Joe makes it look easy. And if you say that what he did is hard, and you try it and pull it off, more power to you. Merci.
Very much enjoy your production values, your drumming and your easy, laid back style. Side note...I was fortunate enough to attend a Joe Morello clinic at Iowa State in 1970, as a high school freshman and 4 year drummer, at the time. It was an amazing workshop that blew this kid away. One of the things I remember Joe commenting on was his drum stool. He said he preferred the non-collapsing 'container' ones for the storage capabilities and because "the collapsable ones...do." He also joked about being "the best drummer on my block. Hey, I worked New Year's, right?"
Austin, I'm 76 and we knew when we bought the, "Time Out" LP new in1959 that Joe was from another planet. The rhythms and time sigs for that entire LP were off the charts....his musicality echoing the melody lines on tunes like, "Everybody's Jumping" on his kit was so fantastically different than anyone we'd heard before.... Also, Joe got his start with Marian Mcpartland's Trio. That left hand of his a lot of cats would like to clone...there's also a cat here on YT in another video commenting about how he was across the hall from Joe and was hearing a very fast roll, when he entered the practice room Joe was doing all of it with his left hand....and the pattern you're playing starting at 6:58 is the Bossa Nova pattern a lot of dudes used all through the 60's, but it's not real Choro or Bahia rhythm from Brazil. And this LP is a total knockout: ua-cam.com/video/t-5fNXDVASU/v-deo.html I love everything you do Bro...
I just found your channel today. I like how you break things down and have respect for the drummers. I can't add much to the comments about Joe. H'se is a legend. I've sub'd to watch more of what you produce. I can play but I really never got good with the rudiments ( I was young and I wanted to play ) Now I realise I have to go back and learn them to become better. Have you ever listened to Level 42? 1981-1987. The drummer was Phil Gould. He's my favourite drummer and has a pocket a mile deep.
I usually dislike drum solos because often its more of a demonstration of speed. Conversely, it's absolutely wonderful to watch a master like Joe Morello used speed and technique as the means to power a musical and melodic drum performance. What a joy!
Joe is one of the greatest to ever breathe ... I recommend Brubeck live at Carnegie Hall . check out tune Three To Get Ready off that live record for some of the best brush playing you will ever hear. Joe was an absolute treasure with ridiculous musical sensibility and melody ... ideas for days ... technique to support all of that ... and was one of the only 3 players of the time who could not be left in the dust by the freakish physical abilities of Buddy ... the other 2 are Louie Bellson and Ed Shaughnessy. your videos are always fantastic Austin ... keep doing what you do for the drum community
You show a real love and knowledge of what you do. And humility, too rare. That Morello piece is something I go to when feeling low. Cheapest, best therapy you can get! Many thanks!
He's the reason I started making an effort to keep them on 2 and 4 during solos, it keeps a clear reference of the beat so you don't get lost and the crowd doesn't either. He was so amazing
That's because his left leg isn't on the hi hat. The guy sitting there is playing the open close on the 2's and 4's. Look closely. Left leg NOT playing hi-hat.
I'm embrassed to admit I did not really know Joe's playing. I grew up in the Buddy camp (for good reason), but Joe is right up there, and that says it all. Peart, Chambers, Morgenstein, Palmer, Paice etc... all give props to Buddy, but I never really hear them speak of Joe, or if they did, I must have missed it. EIther way, thanks Austin for shedding light on Joe's greatness. Wow!
Hey man! I really dig this study the greats series. It’s been awesome to see the constant growth of your channel and the great content that you are posting. As a fellow drummer and educator it really helps me grow musically as well! Thanks for your hard work! Keep up the great work 🥁🥁
Great video, man! Take Five is one of those pieces no ones wants to play at the jam anymore, but they don't realise you can still make it sound fresh. And hell those left hand triplets are hard.
Brother, I just wanted to say thank you for these videos. They have been tremendously helpful for this drummer. Plus, Austin, you come humbly, kindly and reverently. Not to mention the fact that you are a beast. Thank you my man it is very appreciated. God bless.. 🙏💙
Great job Austin !! 1. I feel that it is worth mentioning his left leg does kind of a double bounce on beat five, I’m sure that is helping him keep time (I actually lived in Greece for about seven years and they play lots of five, seven, and nine rhythms. I learned early on to create little “dances“ to help me understand where I am, and to not have to count all the time. 2. At 3:20 he plays a left hand ride whist pulling the kick back in place... next gig he had a drum rug! LOL 3. I love watching the audience (especially the hot chicks in the front row) who seem to be really engaged in what he is doing. For me that was the golden age to be a drummer. Now it’s just like “hit 2 & 4” and then go home (I know that’s not true, but sometimes it does seem like it). Anyhooooo, my 2 cents ! Thanks again
Morellos hands were just so sharp, it’s something I’ll always chase, his technique was absurdly good. But how musical the guy was, that’s what makes him so special.
Hey Austin, I'm 57 and studied with Joe for a year or two, around 1990. He was a good friend and a terrific teacher as well as a genius performer as we can all see in that video. Your analysis of his solo is great, it helped me break down some of the ideas in there and make it seem a little less overwhelming. The only really intense technical thing to reach for in this solo is his continuous/accented 16th notes in that famous left hand. It's a combo of finger control, a tiny bit of push-pull and just flat out work. He worked on that stuff MANY hours a day, any chance he got, and then used it in solos in a truly musical way instead of just some sort of athletic competitive nonsense--THAT was the greatness of Joe: it was all MUSIC, never just technical slick stuff. Thanks for your great presentations!
Excellent analysis Austin. I studied with Frank Bellucci in NY who was one of Joe’s top students. Frank’s got all of that finger stuff dialed in. Check him out. He’s like a diamond in the rough for that Morello style.
I've studied many of Joe's solos while in college and I applaud you for your effortless explanation breaking it down for young students. It took me so long to get to the point where I could transcribe his solos and you make it so easy to follow. Awesome!
Nice job man! Joe Mac who recently retired as owner of Eames drum company; studied with J.M. for 12yrs. Always inspirational to watch those classic videos. Cheers!
I studied with Joe. To be able to watch him up close and demonstrate those techniques was mesmerizing. Had a lot of fun with him. He was such a nice guy, too!
I saw him in a clinic at the Navy School Of Music during the 80’s. I am still amazed by his technique! He was a GIANT of a SOUL! RIP!!! GOD HAS ALL OF THE BEST DRUMMERS!!!
Incredible! Well done breaking it down! I love the climax. Similar to Todd Sucherman demoing paradiddlediddle-paradiddlediddle-paradiddle for modern drummer in 2008. I’ve been in love with those patterns ever since!
"That shit is hard" indeed! that's when I asked my drum tutor, "What's the hardest and most disciplined grooves to play?" and he said Jazz, I made up my mind - that's where I'm at! The harder you practice the easier the playing gets. I've attempted this solo many a time and I thought I did okay, but no where near the master. I grew up with Jazz, bebop mostly and swing. Of Jazz drummers Joe Morello, Philly Jo Jones, Gene Krupa and Art Blakey were my go to guys, even though I did appreciate the styles of others like Buddy Rich, I was more moved by the ornamentation of simple grooves that built up but never over took the song or tune. Dynamics and simple patterns beat speed and tricks for me. But practice your one hand rolls and triplets in hard and soft dynamics and they become a colour on your palette. I took up learning African Djembe drums a few years back and played sometimes in a Samba band, all add to your colour palette or sounds and rhythms. Do you play other instruments? i think that helps too, learn all you can.
Love Joe, definitely a master of the craft and really pulled me into jazz drumming with his style. I always thought that ‘bongo’ sound in some jazz tracks was an actual set of bongos... I figured it was dubbed, or maybe the drummer did some licks on bongos and then picked up his sticks for the set. Now I realize I’m hearing a snare played with HANDS! Amazing effect, and one I will definitely practice and add to my tool bag. Thanks for enlightening!
Simply wonderful. Subscribed. I'm a very amateur percussionist, just play bodhrán. But I'm fascinated by complex rhythms, and play polymetric/polyrhythmic music on my double psaltery. Joe Morello was indeed great, and you did a very good job analyzing his solo. _Take Five_ was the first jazz album I ever bought, shortly after it came out. cheers from sunny Vienna, Scott
god damn, austin! that's how a youtube tutorial is done! real mastery. your videos are entertaining and educational at the same time. thanks so much! 😁😁👌🏽🍻
Bravo..not only a great tribute, but executed with great skill Austin..love ur videos..u make a it look easy..and it’s anything but!!!..ur motions are very fluid and controlled
I had several lessons with Joe at Drummers Paradise in Staten Island back in the day. His smoothness would blow me away. I am so happy to have recorded those times with Joe on cassette.
Excellent analysis! Great job you did here! I just subscribed. I was fortunate enough to meet Joe, at one of my gigs. What a great guy he was! Absolutely gentleman & he was very complimentary. Can't wait to watch more of your videos!
Great vid. I'm around same generation drummer as you, and what you mentioned bout Joe (well as others from this period), is what I've discovered from UA-cam. Previous to these old UA-cam vids, always thought drumming has progressed more thru later years, but these old Jazz greats. ..Morello, Rich, Krupa, and few others were about as good as anyone in modern times as well.They invented this stuff for the rest after.
Great video. Morello was so good that when he was a kid he used to go up to drummers he admired and get them to show him what they were playing (he always had really bad eyes). They would demonstrate, and he would nod and play it back exactly, then twice as fast. One of the best technical players in the history of the instrument. Danny Gottlieb studied with him for years.
Hey Austin, Totally loved that man 👨 Joe Morello was a beast and left a great legacy to follow and try to emulate. Beautifully done and of course great playing 👌- very inspirational . Cheers and thanks .✌️
I was lucky to take some lessons from Joe in N.J. in the 70s . He was the nicest, funniest,and caring person as well as a monster player . He loved kids and gave extra time alot . Just a fantastic and talented man ..
When you get into the section where joe plays the left hand triplets there’s actually a really good video of a later solo. I think it’s just called the great drum solo. In that video you get a REALLY good angle of the left hand. Apparently Eugene Wright ( the bass player) said Joe would practice that for fun until he mastered it. Just the finger strength alone is nuts!
Fantastic video, really insightful as this is one of the pieces I'm performing for my final year performance at Uni and this video is a fantastic breakdown of his solo. I have had lessons from a guy who has studied with Joe Morello and this is a great break down of his phenomenal playing. Thanks bud!
This piece is one of my all time favourites ( the most ) of jazz & one of my most favourite drum solos as well ! AMAZING ! I recently started drumming ,but I recognized how insanely difficult to play the solo part before I started drumming ! This tune was originally written for his solo by Paul Desmond ,the sax god ! 💜💜💜💜🥁🎵🐉🎤🎶👍💕💞p.s.Thank you so so much for this break down video !!! I really appreciate it ! 💖
I wish I would have seen that before I made this video! haha... I was just figuring this all out on my own from scratch but it looks like I at least got the time signature and paradiddle diddle thing right lol
Besides unmatched technique, Joe was about the most musical player ever. He never lost sight of the fact that the solo should compliment the song and not be focused solely on showy technique. Truly a drummer's drummer
Absolutely !
Definitely. He is so musical it’s crazy
I “see” what you did there
As great as this solo was, it was his solo on the recording that changed drumming history. Much more economical. Far fewer notes. No showy anything.
@@2ndAveScents i just figured out what you meant. Only took me three years
Man, Joe was just an incredible player. My first teacher actually studied with Joe and we pretty much did everything that Joe showed him (I got lucky there). One more thing before he died my drum teacher actually got him to sign my Master Studies Book II, which I still have. It looks like chicken scratch because by that time his eyesight was really bad, but just wanted to share that little story. As far as your video, it was fantastic as always. Love seeing Joe get the love he deserves! Much love brother!
That’s awesome man! Lucky to have that for sure👌🏼
and then you became a great drumer too .
I read this comment and thought "wow I gotta check this guy out he must be amazing" and then I read your name and I was like... oh.. explains a lot
Drew Godsell right on man! Hope all is well and trust me check out Joe! You will be amazed not only at his technical ability, but more importantly his musicianship. Incredible talent!
Joe Morello's autograph would truly be something to treasure. One great artist getting a keepsake from another great artist !! So cool!!
.I have always thought his solos were more melodic and more enjoyable to watch and listen to than many other greats!!
Morello was a MONSTER. Here's the thing about his playing that slays me though: he had all of the technical facility in the world, but he NEVER played anything that wasn't swinging like crazy with a deep groove, he never played anything that wasn't tasteful tasteful tasteful, and he never played anything that wasn't musical. His solo on the record version of Take Five is something I still listen to on a regular basis. That solo is a lesson in musicality, taste, and technique. I love how much space there is between the notes and the beautiful phrasing, and I love the dynamics. Morello was one of the best to ever pick up a pair sticks. He was a master, in the truest sense of the word.
K Porter agreed!..he had a unique understanding and appreciation for the underlying aesthetics of drumming which was beautiful to listen to
jim chapin too, he's one of my fave legends.
And the best thing about ALL that is that he was really humble.
Not really. He was good but no one cares cause he wasn't one of the greats.
Cause he couldn't
I studied with Joe for about six years. He was a beast of a musician and he was one of the most humble and gracious and kind human beings you'll ever meet.
3:18 He dragged that bass drum back without missing a beat. Gotta love it. Really enjoyed this Austin!
Jeff Randall Yea man, he ain’t letting no kick sliding pull him out of the pocket lol
We are spoiled by our rock-solid hardware. Try doing this with a 1950s Ludwig kit. Joe was THE BEST, a combination of Ringo (melodic) and Rich (hard driving, when he wanted to be). No wonder Dave pried him from McPartland!
@@TheOsfania Bro., glad you know the history with Marian... a wonder performer. Somewhere I read, or saw her story on Joe..a lot of cats came for the audition...most of them did their wild thing and pretty much left..she turned and looked at Joe saying, "Quit holding up that wall and come play." He did and the rest is history....
Yeah I saw that too and I thought I was the only one who's bass drum moves forward when I kick it too hard, lol!
@Roger Baker one of the best
I really loved the humility you showed in this video. "That shit is hard". There are so many drum videos out there and it's so refreshing to see a great player meet his match and acknowledge it!
I hope that comes across as a compliment, it's intended as one.
"That shit is hard, man." You're killing me, sir! Excellent video.
You would never tire of a Joe Morello solo. He reached the inner rythum that is in us all.
And did it with more taste and style than any other.
That's a really good point. His playing feels familiar, even if we've never heard it before.
I studied with Joe at NJ School of Percussion back in the 90s. Not only was Joe a technical master with a prodigious level of talent, but he was also a really nice guy. He was very generous about providing the best mentorship he could to every one of his students. At the end of every lesson he would ask me, “have I helped you ? Do you feel like you got your money’s worth ?” That left me pretty speechless, because not only did he help me tremendously, but I would have paid just to be in the same room and watch him do the impossible on a practice pad. I watched him do his famous left-hand triplets while sitting right beside him with our twin Remo practice pads, and I STILL cannot believe what I saw. Also Joe had a quick wit and would tell stories of life on the road with Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, and Louie Bellson (who remained a close friend of his). I had a lesson booked when Joe was sadly taken from us. I miss him all the time, what a super guy and GREAT teacher.
Buddy was awesome!
I wonder who taught Joe, did he have lessons or self taught using books in stick control and rudiments? My teacher died last year sadly but told me when he was young he took a few lessons from his hero's in NewYork including Joe. The older I get the more I appreciate his genius, technique, dynamics, independence and musicality. Just listening to Morello improves your playing haha!
John Collins Joe studied with Joe Sefcik and then George Lawrence Stone, author of Stick Control. Stone also taught Gene Krupa, by the way. He was so impressed with Morello that he dedicated his second book, Accents and Rebounds to Joe Morello. Morello’s second book, Master Studies Part 2, contains many of his own variants of the exercises from Accents and Rebounds. Joe was a master at maximizing the effectiveness of practice. He taught me SO much. Ways to use the exercises in Stick Control and put a spin on them to make them more challenging and even musically useful, for example. What a fantastic teacher, and a really really nice man. I miss Joe every time I sit behind the kit, because he helped me to become a much better player.
Far More Drums tells you everything. Legend.
The 49 people who gave this a thumbs down, just stop it. You’re not proving anything
I bet they have 5 fingers alongside those thumbs.
jealous drummers
@fallout new vegas lonesome road dlc I am curious as to why you disliked it
Been watching that solo for YEARS. One of my favorites ever.
I have always loved Joe. He was the reason I learned traditional grip and got into drum line (I wanted to learn stick control like he had and understand rudiments).
Right when I started learning to play the drums back in school this performance was one of the first I ever saw, he made me completely fall in love with the drums. I had never imagined that the drums could be so incredibly musical until I listened to him. “Playing the drums with your hands? Striking different sections of the drumhead and Using space between notes as a way to create a melody with a drum set?! How in the world?!” I thought.
His control, the phrasing, the pocket, the groove. This man made music with that drum set, true music.
The way he complimented the piano, how he followed the bass groove. Pure genius.
Joe could make the drums talk, sing and even dance sliding away from him.
The true definition of a music legend.
Lol. You mentioned "stick control". Did you know that Morello was a student of George Stone?
@@VanMoon Yup, I even bought the “Stick Control” drum exercise book. Great stuff.
When drummers wore three pieces suits and didn't break a sweat.
Yeah, watched Louis Bellson tear it up in a suit. Consummate pros.
@@donovanjones4175
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I hate to be "that guy" but Morello is not wearing a "three piece suit" in this video, and I've never seen a picture of him in one. A "three piece suit" includes a vest, jacket and pants.
@@xs10z Let’s be honest with ourselves. Drummers like Morello could have been wearing a hazmat suit complete with respirator and gloves and it wouldn’t have mattered.
@@xs10z
Oh. It’s THAT guy.
No roller coaster drumsets..no jungle gyms..just talent
Did you know Joe Morello originally played the violin? At 6 years old he was a featured soloist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Psycho9263 When Joe told the story to me in his typically humble fashion, he said he gave up the violin because he realized at any early age that he would “never be Jasha Heifetz” so he decided to take up another instrument. He was so funny, too. I once asked him about stick twirling, and he replied, “you mean this stuff ?” (at which point he twirled a little) “I used to do that all the time until I found out it doesn’t record well...” Hahaha
@@U2WB That's quite a story.
The facility Joe had with the violin and the degree to which he could play it, are tbe reasons why he was so musical with his drumming.
As his bass drum was creeping away, he pulled it back with his right hand, while never missing a beat. I first heard Joe when the album came out and he was immediately my favorite drummer. Over 55 years later, he is still my all-time favorite.
Because of Joe, I switched from rock to jazz in 1966 and searched for a professional jazz drummer to teach me and I lucked out, being in the right place at the right time, to find someone who reluctantly gave me a chance. He said I was the only student he ever had because he never taught anyone. He was a lot like Mr. Miyagi in "The Karate Kid", who forced me to start with the bare basics and made sure I was sincere in my desire to learn. I never became a professional drummer but I have been moonlighting with professional jazz groups since 1967. Still practicing and still learning.
Thank you, Joe! You planted the seed.
I believe JM has the only drum solos I've ever heard that held my interest the whole time, and even after multiple views
Joe and Buddy were ahead of their time. Such a big influence for todays drummers.
Joe was a genius of time, and he made a magical sound on the kit. Dude you're no slouch yourself. I play guitar and I enjoy your work a lot.
Fantastic lesson Austin! Take Five is a classic. I think Joe Morelo is one of the most musical drummers out of all the greats. He seemed to play behind the beat.
Those women in the background are absolutely stunned by he's playing:)
Yes, they are ! And I think in love cause of a so beautiful performance !
@@keplergso8369 Yeas you can see that they are totally in love with him haha and I don't blame em!
I have loved this version of "Take Five" for years, the drum solo is amazing. It is even more amazing watching you break it down. Thanks.
10 years ago this became my favorite solo I've ever heard and inspired me in many ways -- Huge thanks to you for breaking it down and covering how crazy it actually is!!
There is only one thing about this solo that I can add.
Joe, along with his bandmates, helped make this the single best selling jazz song of all time.
This song. This solo. Best selling. People aren't stupid (rhetorical question, LOL).
I don't know about your channel, and your drumming abilities, but I love your comments.
This looks hard to do, but Joe makes it look easy.
And if you say that what he did is hard, and you try it and pull it off, more power to you.
Merci.
Very much enjoy your production values, your drumming and your easy, laid back style. Side note...I was fortunate enough to attend a Joe Morello clinic at Iowa State in 1970, as a high school freshman and 4 year drummer, at the time. It was an amazing workshop that blew this kid away.
One of the things I remember Joe commenting on was his drum stool. He said he preferred the non-collapsing 'container' ones for the storage capabilities and because "the collapsable ones...do." He also joked about being "the best drummer on my block. Hey, I worked New Year's, right?"
Austin, I'm 76 and we knew when we bought the, "Time Out" LP new in1959 that Joe was from another planet. The rhythms and time sigs for that entire LP were off the charts....his musicality echoing the melody lines on tunes like, "Everybody's Jumping" on his kit was so fantastically different than anyone we'd heard before.... Also, Joe got his start with Marian Mcpartland's Trio. That left hand of his a lot of cats would like to clone...there's also a cat here on YT in another video commenting about how he was across the hall from Joe and was hearing a very fast roll, when he entered the practice room Joe was doing all of it with his left hand....and the pattern you're playing starting at 6:58 is the Bossa Nova pattern a lot of dudes used all through the 60's, but it's not real Choro or Bahia rhythm from Brazil. And this LP is a total knockout: ua-cam.com/video/t-5fNXDVASU/v-deo.html I love everything you do Bro...
I just found your channel today. I like how you break things down and have respect for the drummers. I can't add much to the comments about Joe. H'se is a legend.
I've sub'd to watch more of what you produce. I can play but I really never got good with the rudiments ( I was young and I wanted to play ) Now I realise I have to go back and learn them to become better.
Have you ever listened to Level 42? 1981-1987. The drummer was Phil Gould. He's my favourite drummer and has a pocket a mile deep.
I usually dislike drum solos because often its more of a demonstration of speed. Conversely, it's absolutely wonderful to watch a master like Joe Morello used speed and technique as the means to power a musical and melodic drum performance. What a joy!
The Art of Great Drumming. Awesome brake down of a classic solo.
Joe is one of the greatest to ever breathe ... I recommend Brubeck live at Carnegie Hall .
check out tune Three To Get Ready off that live record for some of the best brush playing you will ever hear.
Joe was an absolute treasure with ridiculous musical sensibility and melody ... ideas for days ... technique to support all of that ... and was one of the only 3 players of the time who could not be left in the dust by the freakish physical abilities of Buddy ... the other 2 are Louie Bellson and Ed Shaughnessy.
your videos are always fantastic Austin ... keep doing what you do for the drum community
You show a real love and knowledge of what you do. And humility, too rare. That Morello piece is something I go to when feeling low. Cheapest, best therapy you can get! Many thanks!
Blows me away how he can have all that soloing going on and still keep that hi hit going on the 2 and 4.
I have never seen anyone who seemed to have two completely different brains working like him. Phenomenal!!
He's the reason I started making an effort to keep them on 2 and 4 during solos, it keeps a clear reference of the beat so you don't get lost and the crowd doesn't either. He was so amazing
Still tripping on that.
That's because his left leg isn't on the hi hat.
The guy sitting there is playing the open close on the 2's and 4's.
Look closely.
Left leg NOT playing hi-hat.
Are you guys blind?
I'm embrassed to admit I did not really know Joe's playing. I grew up in the Buddy camp (for good reason), but Joe is right up there, and that says it all. Peart, Chambers, Morgenstein, Palmer, Paice etc... all give props to Buddy, but I never really hear them speak of Joe, or if they did, I must have missed it. EIther way, thanks Austin for shedding light on Joe's greatness. Wow!
Thank you! Great work at breaking this down.
One of my favourite drummers ever! So much talent, technique and musicality! One of the best solos ever!
Joe is one of my favorites! Love that solo! Wonderful breakdown on this great piece!
Best drum solo ever morelo deserves a huge salut
You truly got the gift not only for performing but also teaching and presenting the material. Great job.
Hey man! I really dig this study the greats series. It’s been awesome to see the constant growth of your channel and the great content that you are posting. As a fellow drummer and educator it really helps me grow musically as well! Thanks for your hard work! Keep up the great work 🥁🥁
Amazing analysis and commentary. Joe played solos with so much expression and musicality. Your playing is great. You would have made him proud. Peace.
Great video, man! Take Five is one of those pieces no ones wants to play at the jam anymore, but they don't realise you can still make it sound fresh.
And hell those left hand triplets are hard.
The most tasteful drummer we have had, superb human being and player.
My favorite jazz drummer. thanks for featuring this piece.
Thanks
Terrific! Thx
Another monster episode. Thanks for all the hard work!
Brother, I just wanted to say thank you for these videos. They have been tremendously helpful for this drummer. Plus, Austin, you come humbly, kindly and reverently. Not to mention the fact that you are a beast. Thank you my man it is very appreciated. God bless.. 🙏💙
Dope video man thanks for taking the time to break this Down! I’m getting by first drum set in over 10 years I can’t wait to jam out again !
Great job Austin !!
1. I feel that it is worth mentioning his left leg does kind of a double bounce on beat five, I’m sure that is helping him keep time (I actually lived in Greece for about seven years and they play lots of five, seven, and nine rhythms. I learned early on to create little “dances“ to help me understand where I am, and to not have to count all the time.
2. At 3:20 he plays a left hand ride whist pulling the kick back in place... next gig he had a drum rug! LOL
3. I love watching the audience (especially the hot chicks in the front row) who seem to be really engaged in what he is doing.
For me that was the golden age to be a drummer. Now it’s just like “hit 2 & 4” and then go home (I know that’s not true, but sometimes it does seem like it).
Anyhooooo, my 2 cents !
Thanks again
Morellos hands were just so sharp, it’s something I’ll always chase, his technique was absurdly good. But how musical the guy was, that’s what makes him so special.
I love this guy .... What great videos .. I've learned a lot from your videos .. thanks AUSTIN
That was an excellent video describing a solo that really has class and style. Thank you Austin!
Thank you for your brave and honest illustration of a great percussionist’s art. It helped me appreciate him even more.
Hey Austin, I'm 57 and studied with Joe for a year or two, around 1990. He was a good friend and a terrific teacher as well as a genius performer as we can all see in that video. Your analysis of his solo is great, it helped me break down some of the ideas in there and make it seem a little less overwhelming. The only really intense technical thing to reach for in this solo is his continuous/accented 16th notes in that famous left hand. It's a combo of finger control, a tiny bit of push-pull and just flat out work. He worked on that stuff MANY hours a day, any chance he got, and then used it in solos in a truly musical way instead of just some sort of athletic competitive nonsense--THAT was the greatness of Joe: it was all MUSIC, never just technical slick stuff. Thanks for your great presentations!
A lot of these channels are just noise. Not this one. These videos are done incredibly well, dude. Thank you, and keep up the great work.
Thanks man 🙏🏼
Excellent analysis Austin. I studied with Frank Bellucci in NY who was one of Joe’s top students. Frank’s got all of that finger stuff dialed in. Check him out. He’s like a diamond in the rough for that Morello style.
Great playing from Joe and great work from you, Austin! Bravo!
I've studied many of Joe's solos while in college and I applaud you for your effortless explanation breaking it down for young students. It took me so long to get to the point where I could transcribe his solos and you make it so easy to follow. Awesome!
Your breakdown of Joe's drumming was fantastic! You explain things well. I subbed immediately.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!!!! Wonderful detailed explanation and demonstration. It makes me appreciate Joe even more.
Thanks Austin - added value. Great deconstruction and articulation.
Nice job man! Joe Mac who recently retired as owner of Eames drum company; studied with J.M. for 12yrs. Always inspirational to watch those classic videos.
Cheers!
Nice! I was never blown away by the take-5 thing but I have to admit that this was impressive! Great video, Austin!
I studied with Joe. To be able to watch him up close and demonstrate those techniques was mesmerizing. Had a lot of fun with him. He was such a nice guy, too!
Two friends of mine took a few lessons from him. They said the exact same thing.
Seeing Morello’s skill and the skill in this video blows my mind.
I saw him in a clinic at the Navy School Of Music during the 80’s. I am still amazed by his technique! He was a GIANT of a SOUL! RIP!!!
GOD HAS ALL OF THE BEST DRUMMERS!!!
Incredible! Well done breaking it down! I love the climax. Similar to Todd Sucherman demoing paradiddlediddle-paradiddlediddle-paradiddle for modern drummer in 2008. I’ve been in love with those patterns ever since!
"That shit is hard" indeed! that's when I asked my drum tutor, "What's the hardest and most disciplined grooves to play?" and he said Jazz, I made up my mind - that's where I'm at! The harder you practice the easier the playing gets. I've attempted this solo many a time and I thought I did okay, but no where near the master. I grew up with Jazz, bebop mostly and swing.
Of Jazz drummers Joe Morello, Philly Jo Jones, Gene Krupa and Art Blakey were my go to guys, even though I did appreciate the styles of others like Buddy Rich, I was more moved by the ornamentation of simple grooves that built up but never over took the song or tune. Dynamics and simple patterns beat speed and tricks for me. But practice your one hand rolls and triplets in hard and soft dynamics and they become a colour on your palette. I took up learning African Djembe drums a few years back and played sometimes in a Samba band, all add to your colour palette or sounds and rhythms. Do you play other instruments? i think that helps too, learn all you can.
Love Joe, definitely a master of the craft and really pulled me into jazz drumming with his style. I always thought that ‘bongo’ sound in some jazz tracks was an actual set of bongos... I figured it was dubbed, or maybe the drummer did some licks on bongos and then picked up his sticks for the set. Now I realize I’m hearing a snare played with HANDS! Amazing effect, and one I will definitely practice and add to my tool bag. Thanks for enlightening!
Simply wonderful. Subscribed. I'm a very amateur percussionist, just play bodhrán. But I'm fascinated by complex rhythms, and play polymetric/polyrhythmic music on my double psaltery.
Joe Morello was indeed great, and you did a very good job analyzing his solo. _Take Five_ was the first jazz album I ever bought, shortly after it came out.
cheers from sunny Vienna, Scott
....and all that with the bass drum creep happening! That solo is so musical too! Thank you Austin.....your drums sound sweet!
Terrific breakdown! Loved "That s**t is hard...." in regards to the machine gun left hand triplets.
Austin-- You're terrific. I'm probably older than your father (I'm 154 years old) but many thanks from an ancient for all this work you do.
you're ANIMAL playing drums man! and that sound of yours is just awesome
god damn, austin! that's how a youtube tutorial is done! real mastery. your videos are entertaining and educational at the same time. thanks so much!
😁😁👌🏽🍻
This fella should be on top of everyone’s list.!.
wow Amazing solo by Joe Morello. drummers like Joe are great inspiration, great video time without seeing the great drummers studying thanks!!!....
Bravo..not only a great tribute, but executed with great skill Austin..love ur videos..u make a it look easy..and it’s anything but!!!..ur motions are very fluid and controlled
Man you do an amazing job! PLEASE make sure you will never end whay you are doing
good job Austin. Nice break down of one of my favorite drummers. Merry Christmas Austin.
I had several lessons with Joe at Drummers Paradise in Staten Island back in the day. His smoothness would blow me away. I am so happy to have recorded those times with Joe on cassette.
If you ever get chance or find a way to share them, would love to hear them
Awesome video!! your kit sounds great 👍 Thank you for that demonstration.
Real nice job breaking that down. Joe was SO sick..chops out the ass but everything grooves and swings.
Excellent analysis! Great job you did here! I just subscribed. I was fortunate enough to meet Joe, at one of my gigs. What a great guy he was! Absolutely gentleman & he was very complimentary. Can't wait to watch more of your videos!
I so appreciate all your hard work on these videos. You play so well, too!
Great vid. I'm around same generation drummer as you, and what you mentioned bout Joe (well as others from this period), is what I've discovered from UA-cam. Previous to these old UA-cam vids, always thought drumming has progressed more thru later years, but these old Jazz greats. ..Morello, Rich, Krupa, and few others were about as good as anyone in modern times as well.They invented this stuff for the rest after.
Joe Morello is one of the most underrated drummers. He's often missing in top drummers' lists.
Joe was never "underrated," guy
Great video. Morello was so good that when he was a kid he used to go up to drummers he admired and get them to show him what they were playing (he always had really bad eyes). They would demonstrate, and he would nod and play it back exactly, then twice as fast. One of the best technical players in the history of the instrument. Danny Gottlieb studied with him for years.
Hey Austin,
Totally loved that man 👨 Joe Morello was a beast and left a great legacy to follow and try to emulate. Beautifully done and of course great playing 👌- very inspirational . Cheers and thanks .✌️
I was lucky to take some lessons from Joe in N.J. in the 70s . He was the nicest, funniest,and caring person as well as a monster player . He loved kids and gave extra time alot . Just a fantastic and talented man ..
When you get into the section where joe plays the left hand triplets there’s actually a really good video of a later solo. I think it’s just called the great drum solo. In that video you get a REALLY good angle of the left hand. Apparently Eugene Wright ( the bass player) said Joe would practice that for fun until he mastered it. Just the finger strength alone is nuts!
Thank you for actually tuning your snare! So few drummers do that now days!
This is an incredible analysis. VERY well done. Many thanks for this.
Fantastic video, really insightful as this is one of the pieces I'm performing for my final year performance at Uni and this video is a fantastic breakdown of his solo. I have had lessons from a guy who has studied with Joe Morello and this is a great break down of his phenomenal playing. Thanks bud!
This piece is one of my all time favourites ( the most ) of jazz & one of my most favourite drum solos as well ! AMAZING ! I recently started drumming ,but I recognized how insanely difficult to play the solo part before I started drumming ! This tune was originally written for his solo by Paul Desmond ,the sax god ! 💜💜💜💜🥁🎵🐉🎤🎶👍💕💞p.s.Thank you so so much for this break down video !!! I really appreciate it ! 💖
Missed this series waay too much, great content!
Great upload! Thanks for exposing me to the drumming of Joe Morello!
You might enjoy this video: ua-cam.com/video/wk_Th7vmLtY/v-deo.html
I wish I would have seen that before I made this video! haha... I was just figuring this all out on my own from scratch but it looks like I at least got the time signature and paradiddle diddle thing right lol
@@abbdrums Better late than never, I guess, haha.
Keep u the good work, I always look forward to your videos.
Man, that’s a great video concept. I’m gonna watch these forever. Keep it up!
And he’s alive!!!!!! I love these videos!!! Really inspiring!