Jim Gordon has died

[woowoomachine]

Wrecking Crew member (and all around musician) Jim Gordon has died. Despite his mental and legal troubles, he was one of the youngest of the Wrecking Crew and, being the one who played the "plastic orange juice cups" I had always hoped that someone would find a way to interview him to find out a bit more about them.


https://variety.com/2023/music/news/jim-gordon-drummer-layla-cowriter-dead-1235555775

[Robbie Mac]

He also wrote the second part of “Layla”.

[guitarfool2002]

One of the greatest rock drummers of all time, pretty much undisputed among his peers. One of my all time favorite drummers too. Just check his credits and I guarantee if you're not familiar with his work, you'll be surprised at how many familiar songs he was on. Very troubled, yes, but his legacy is and always will be in the music.

More could be said, but it's easier today just to look it up and judge for yourself. He was an incredible drummer and added his skills to quite a few Beach Boys songs from my favorite era of their music, including Smile.

And for other examples, listen to the full Layla album, the song "Classical Gas" which is ubiquitous by now and shows how much Jim could drive a studio band, "Apache" by the Incredible Bongo Band which is one of the most familiar drum break samples out there, and a ton of others....that's all.

RIP Jim

[juggler]

He also wrote the second part of “Layla”.

... and cheated his co-author and ex, Rita Coolidge ...
https://www.billboard.com/music/rock/rita-coolidge-layla-memoir-delta-lady-eric-clapton-derek-dominos-7318951/

[juggler]

It's sad, though, what became of Jim.  He was obviously a very talented guy -- a brilliant musician in his own right.  And, of course, he was all over the 'Smile' sessions.  I believe there are photos of him with in a fire hat from the MOLC sessions.   It's pretty clear that Jim was Brian's 2nd choice when Hal Blaine wasn't around.  IIRC, during the late '66/early '67 Smile period, Hal spent a fair amount of time in Vegas playing live with Frank and Nancy Sinatra and the rest of Rat Pack crowd.

[The Old Ranger]

Jim should have been the #1 drummer choice. He was a better and more adaptable  musician and his drum sound and tone were better. IMHO