Bernard Purdie was playing Sonor drums when I saw him. He was a Sabian endorser. He was in a small Sabian booth, large enough for 10-15 people. He is great with people, loves to communicate music and drumming. There’s a Youtube video of Bernard…playing…talking…playing…talking…through his Purdie Shuffle groove. It’s amazing to watch.
Bernard started working with Aretha Franklin in 1970. His earliest – 1966 - recording dates include Herbie Mann, Jack McDuff, Freddy McCoy and Gabor Szabo. He has played on hundreds of record dates. One of my favorite Bernard Purdie drum tracks is “Memphis Soul Stew” with King Curtis. He also created the drum track to “Rock Steady” by Aretha Franklin.