Martin Drew

b. 11 February 1944, Northampton, Northamptonshire, England, d. 29 July 2010, London, England. Drew began playing drums as a child, studying under the well-known dance band drummer George Fierstone. Despite this early start, it was some time before he became a full-time professional musician; however, once his career was underway, he was soon one of the busiest drummers in the UK. He played on numerous club and recording sessions, accompanying many British and American musicians during tours of the UK: these included Oscar Peterson (performing and recording with the pianist from 1974 through into the 21st century), Ronnie Scott, Buddy Tate, Dizzy Gillespie, Gil Evans and Freddie Hubbard. He also worked effectively with singers Ella Fitzgerald, Jimmy Witherspoon, Anita O’Day and Nina Simone. An outstanding mainstream drummer who was also comfortable playing bop, Drew was one of the most sought-after session drummers in the UK, and his subtly swinging skills enhanced numerous recording sessions. Martin Drew died of a heart attack in London on 29 July 2010 at 66 years of age.