RIP Louie Bellson

by Raymond Powers on February 16, 2009

Luigi Paulino Alfredo Francesco Antonio Balassoni (6 July1924–14 February2009, better known by the stage name Louie Bellson.

{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

matth February 16, 2009 at 4:40 pm: Did Louie live in Ojai?
I don’t see the connection to Ojai. Just asking.
Enjoy the Ojai rain.
Matt

Reply
mk February 16, 2009 at 8:06 pm: I think the connection is that Ojai resident Raymond seems to be president of the “Dead Musician’s Society”

Reply
Raymond February 17, 2009 at 1:36 am: Just paying respects, my friends, just paying respects. He passed on last Saturday on Valentine’s Day. He was one of the greatest and a pioneer, thus an inspiration in whatever field of endeavor you choose. Aspire to your greatness.

Reply
mk February 17, 2009 at 7:00 am: thank YOU for the inspiration Raymond.
My day is that much brighter knowing that LB pioneered the use of double bass drum as well as an interracial marriage to Pearl Bailey coinciding with his stint as the only white member of the Duke Ellington orchestra.
He also did sessions with James brown.
LB is da man!!!

Reply

The Ojai Post