Hal Blaine

I don't know how many times I've watched film of the "Wrecking Crew" producing the classic works we hear all the time without realizing who the true performers are. In Hal Blaine, I saw a flawless musician of the highest caliber. I was particularly interested in the drums, after having had lessons from the great Bill Letang, who also left condolences here. Hal made everything he did seem effortless. I'd try to duplicate a fill or groove of his, thinking it'd be easy, only to be...

I felt like a excited little kid when Mr. Blaine answered my message to him on facebook. I only wish I could've made the effort and travel cross country to meet him. I only listen to music that contains his beat and I really only listen to that part. The singers and other musicians are great but I only hear the beat of Hal Blaine. I hope that his soul is elevated to a wonderful place. He deserves eternal peace and happiness. I am so grateful for the beautiful music he helped create. My...

I DIDN'T KNOW I COULD LEAVE A COMMENT, I'LL SAY THAT WHERE WOULD MUSIC ITSELF BE WITHOUT THE PERFORMANCES THE ONE AND ONLY HAL BLAINE PLAYED ON, 40 NUMBER 1 HITS, OVER 35,000 RECORDINGS, ALL THE FIRST CALL GANG PLAYERS DID JUST THAT, MR. HAL BLAINE WAS THE GREATEST, HAVE MISSED HIM DAILY, I'LL CONTINUE DOING SO, CENTILLION THANKS SIR.

I met this giant several times & he was one of the most gracious, unaffected people I've ever met. He was probably the most listened-to drummer of all time, with the exception of Ringo Starr. When Cathy Rich wanted to record her own album, Buddy called his friend Hal because he said he "wanted the best." That says it all. As they said about Lincoln: "Now he belongs to the ages..."

Never met Hal but have been a fan my entire life. I've heard it said he was your 9 or ten favorite drummers but you didn't realize it. Ubiquitously sweet in the soundtracks of life across generations. Without a doubt, the greatest drummer who ever lived, who I understand once said, if you smile, youll be around a while; if you pout, soon youll be out. Blaines advice to younger rock and roll drummers: keep your nose clean, arrive early, play your music to the note, and show genuine interest in...

Hal - You were an incredible drummer. I would have loved to see you perform in the Pet Sounds sessions. It was magic.

Thank you for your incomparable contribution and influence to all us musicians and especially us drummers! God broke the mold!