Pioneering New Orleans-born drummer who performed with most of the great jazz musicians of the 20's to 50's. Recorded with Louis Armstrong (Savoy Ballroom) and Earl Hines. Also led various bands and sextets at the 'The New Deal Club', 'The Flagship' and 'The Three Deuces' in Chicago. Went to New York with Carroll Dickerson's band in the mid-30's. Toured Europe in 1952 with the Bill Coleman All Stars.