The Bernard Purdie Interview: Steely Dan, Aretha Franklin & "The Purdie Shuffle"

Bernard Lee "Pretty" Purdie (born June 11, 1941) is an American drummer, and an influential R&B, soul and funk musician. He is known for his precise musical time keeping and his signature use of triplets against a half-time backbeat: the "Purdie Shuffle." Purdie is known as a groove drummer with immaculate timing who makes use of precision half note, backbeats, and grooves. He often employs a straight eight groove sometimes fusing several influences such as swing, blues and funk. He created the now well-known drum pattern Purdie Half-Time Shuffle that is a blues shuffle variation with the addition of syncopated ghost notes on the snare drum. Variations on this shuffle can be heard on songs such as Led Zeppelin's "Fool in the Rain" and Toto's "Rosanna" (Rosanna shuffle). Purdie plays the shuffle on Steely Dan's "Babylon Sisters" and "Home At Last".
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[@RickBeato]

If you guys want to see me do more travel content and interviews, please consider becoming a member of the Beato Club to enable me to do more of it. Check it out here: rickbeato.com/beatoclub

[@channelthegetdown8495]

You have struck solid gold Mr. Beato. I got tears in my eyes as I type this. A beat & a half fill, that's all they get. You make it count. The King of making a groove "sit" Mr. Bernard Purdie 🤌

[@rogermoscrop4523]

Small donation Rick £-$, from then other side of the pond ~ Robust health Sir, incredible 👍

[@Mr.FixIt1979]

This is fantastic 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏

[@restedjazz]

Rick! GREAT interview w/my Friend, Bernard "Pretty" Purdie!! His hometown is Elkton, MD. and he still has Family & Relatives living there. I used to manage a DrumShop in Elkton and Bernard used to drop in unannounced and spend the entire day with us! [I was always curious whether his Family would be ticked-off bcause he'd spend more time, or so it seemed, with us at the DrumShop, then with them!!] Such a well spent day when he was visiting us. He'd even tell us when he'd be coming back to Elkton to visit Family and said he would LOVE to do a Drum Clinic w/us! l'd ask local Musicians to sit in w/Bernard for this Clinic, too. [He actually did quite a few Drum Clinics for us over the years. Bernard was ALWAYS generous with his valuable time.] The DrumShop would be PACKED w/people, and not just Drummers!! So, Rick, well done! l'm glad you ENJOYED yourself w/Bernard! [l saw your "perpetual smile", man!!] And l'm glad you asked him about those "Hit Maker" signs he'd bring to those Recording Sessions! Crazy!! Again, GREAT interview, Rick! ~steve ps: Bernard's book is both informative and a good read NOT just for we Drummers! The book gives good insights into the Recording Sessions w/those "Who's-Who-in-American-Music". Bernard's played w/most, if not all of them! Also, read the Bernard vs. the Beatles chapter!! Very interesting... ~s

[@sungam314]

Great interview with a wonderful man. BP bringing that old school charm and chops. Amazing. But Rick - one thing, your channel is not self funded. It is funded with advertising. A lot of it. PBS is self funded and has sponsors. Maybe what you need is sponsors and you could cut out all the advertising. Keep on Rockin!

[@realbser1956]

When Bernard tells Rick that this is basically the best interview he’s ever done, I’m tearing up. I don’t know why. Just the joy of seeing him behind that kit and hearing his philosophy and the fact that he’s 83. This interview belongs in a time capsule. Thank you Rick and Bernard. Both legends. 😃

[@AxeMan808]

Dag I thought I was weird for doing that. It was when they both bashfully shook at the end there. I'm glad no one at work saw me; that would have been a long explanation. Especially after I'd earlier referred to an example (the extended Cross Stick / Latin one @ 1:08:26 after "I can do ANYTHING [...] Just don't over-shadow - aw lemme just show ya" ) as "Oh man... That's just FILTHY." But you know, in a Baseline Junkie kinda way. Pronounced 'fillfee.'

[@tristramshandy9326]

I found myself in the same place. Just tearing up hearing them communicating on such a genuine musical level. Great stuff!!

[@l8tapex]

same

[@mikedaly4123]

Me too

[@joechampion4484]

83!?!?!?!?!! I’m reminded of the the current tours of two of the greatest musicians ever, Pat Metheny and John McLaughlin, respectively in their 60’s and 70’s, still making some of the greatest music of their careers. For true musicians( not entertainers), making music is the fountain of youth. GREAT INTERVIEW RICK! Thank you, and thank the universe for Bernard “Still Pretty” Purdie! 😂🤣👏🏾❤️🙏🏿

[@mgscano]

Rick, you started your career as a musician, while in the future you’ll be remembered as a prominent historian

[@pc2908]

Extremely well put. Rick has been the most influential person in my life, in understanding music as a whole…not just the outcome. Mahalo Rick!

[@stevegee9087]

You have summed it up perfectly. What an amazingly important, and informative interview. Thankyou Rick, and thankyou Bernard!

[@jordandangelo180]

Absolutely man. This is something I’ll listen to many times over and over again. When I first saw the notification that there was a new Rick Beato video up and of all people, Bernard Purdy, the creator of the Purdy Shuffle, man who played on the legendary Steely Dan tracks and tons of other sessions I knew I was going to save this one for a day a time to sit down and watch from beginning to end, which was hard because I normally click right away, but I knew this one would be special and man was it. This is easily my favorite interview Rick ever did. Rick asked all the right questions and gave Bernard all the time he needed to answer and his answers took you back in time and you can tell he loved telling those stories. Amazing job Rick.

[@chris27708]

Probably one of the best interviews i have seen , any aspiring musician needs to watch this and learn from Bernard the man is a legend.

[@toddschrocatart]

He’s capturing technical details nuance and soul of a generation of music and musicians that no one else could or would do. National Treasure

[@leemarsh3569]

That’s not an interview, it’s a masterclass ! Awesome work Rick

[@makeadifference4all]

So much humility for one of the greatest rock drummers to repeatedly talk about "staying out of the way" of the other musicians in the band. I love how he also emphasizes the feel and groove of the music. And his joy in talking about and listening to music is infectious.

[@RycheForOrder]

Wished all musicians understood the "stay out of the way" philosophy.

[@papa_pt]

Seeing how much he lit up at these tunes had me cracking up. So awesome to see that passion

[@thesolersystemofgames841]

​@@RycheForOrderj

[@frankkuth5635]

The man is pure gold

[@kevindrake6826]

God Bless B.P!!!

[@beckbeat]

I’m super excited about this. In 2013 I had a one-on-one lesson with Bernard Purdie at the Clef Club in Philadelphia, PA. It was absolutely incredible. I've always loved the feel and joy in his playing and a dream came true when I got to sit down and learn from him. On a side note: We were supposed to meet at a studio in NYC. I drove up from Philly, but Mr. Purdie was a no-show. I was disappointed. On my way back he called me personally and apologized. He had a family emergency. He asked me where I lived. I told him. The next day he came down to Philly to give me my lesson. Talk about being a professional. I'm forever grateful.

[@badcornflakes6374]

Post drumming videos, showed us what you learned.

[@AeroDude73]

Wow. Incredible story. Total class in his coming to You!!

[@jchrizzy6995]

Something I really want to do before a lot of these older guys are gone is get some lessons. I hear gregg bissonette gives lessons over zoom, and id like to improve on drums enough to get some lessons in the next few years - gregg probably has many more years left though tbf

[@giantmetalcrickets2020]

Two things: 1. Rick is the best music interviewer I've every seen. Every incredible, historic interview ends with the artist gushing about how much they enjoyed the experience. 2. I truly believe Rick will have a real, positive impact on music going forward. Think about that! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

[@RickBeato]

🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@jmazoso]

@@RickBeato i got that feel from the Sting interview too

[@Alan-zi2rs]

I totally agree Mr Beato is nearly an anagram of the Beatles .. Rick does interviews like the Beatles played on the roof .. good stuff 👌

[@giantmetalcrickets2020]

@@jmazoso yeah, just the look on Sting's face as he started to realize how deep it was going to be was amazing.

[@giantmetalcrickets2020]

@@chezchezchezchez lovely person and teacher. one of the all time greats. the tone and pocket are as tasty as it gets.

[@77Cardinal]

To hear a legend keep saying "it's the engineers" and then describing how recording engineers made him a better player; controlling his sound so they could control the mix while he kept his playing simple to make room for everybody in the mix was a crucial lesson for me. That and seeing him talk about how he's humbled himself to serve the music and sharing what he's mastered.

[@spurts]

Amen

[@lorenzomeloni6088]

There's an incredible elegance and laid-backness in his playing, that stays exactly the same when you hear him talking. He speaks the same language with his hands and his words. I was especially moved by the Porcaro bit, seeing him so happy to know that some kid was there to listen and make music move on. No sense of competition, just admiration for a fellow artist. That's a sign of true intelligence. Bravissimi.

[@markcatanzaro9699]

Bernard Purdie is THE DEFINITION of what it means to be a living legend! Being recorded as far back as the 60's and still going strong in 2022!!! That's incredible IN ANY PROFESSION! God bless him!

[@roymoor]

No need, he's already blessed.

[@CaliforniaBushman]

Playing the Best Steely Dan Tunes he played on DURING the interview made this one of the coolest interviews of any musician EVER, Rick. So cool.

[@sv3931]

💯

[@spotteddogmemphis]

When he busts into it and remembers everyone who played with him on the track, it blew my mind.

[@theyapsta]

This is GOLD. I'm not even a drummer. I could listen to Bernard talk for hours. What an amazing interview.

[@nklzcyn]

Bernard most graciously gave my 9 year old son a lesson in playing the “Shuffle” at NAMM 20 years ago. What an amazing moment for a budding drummer!

[@johnnyo0507]

I was riveted to this interview and in the last minute it brought a tear to my eye. Mr Purdie will be 83 on June 11th. I couldn’t imagine a more incredible compliment to receive then the one he gave you regarding the interview. The man is a treasure. This is far from the last interview that you will do where the artist gets more enthusiastic because they are speaking to a respectful and knowledgeable peer who actually wants to talk music. Great job Rick.

[@pauldevro]

"it's long, so watch it in segments." if this was 3 hours i think most would still watch this all at once. This is incredible.

[@micheleparker3780]

Yes, I did, too!!! Couldn't help it!😍

[@eyesofchild]

I couldn’t turn it off. Beautiful.

[@Sean_Farmer]

Yup, I don't want to stop. This is pure gold!

[@artg2767]

Ditto that!

[@biffboffo]

I knew I was going to binge it in one shot, and I did.

[@deputy1229]

I always love listening to Bernard’s interviews. He absolutely loves what he does. No ego involved. This is the best interview I’ve seen with him. Man he really just lights up when he plays.

[@tompaul2591]

The way it should be!

[@marcwesley8513]

Great comment, he’s actually dancing and gyrating while enjoying what he’s doing, the epitome of …..passion….coming out his pores….

[@spud2go]

Bernard Purdie - the King of Groove and Master of the art of listening. I'd love to see Rick do an interview like this with Stewart Copeland - that would be awesome.

[@izzydeguy184]

that would be great... also, stewarts a maniac...

[@hunterkarr5618]

Oh yeahhhhhhhhhhh.🤞

[@diederikvanvleuten8341]

This is what happens if an interviewer who really understands music in all its aspects talks with one of the greatest drummers of all time. No time limits, no other interest than to serve music itself. And no underestimation of the viewers. This is how it should be and very seldom is. Dear Rick it is up to you and only you to secure in words the legacy of all those great unforgettable geniuses that touched our hearts for ever. Bernard Purdie is a living legend. I can’t wait for your four hour interview with Donald Fagen. Make it four days. You are a gem

[@telsutton]

If there's one man I'd like to see interview The Don, it's Rick. He deserves the honour of digging deep, for all of us. Now, who has his number in their filofax......?

[@podlou9939]

@@telsutton ❤

[@jml-rj5re]

@@telsutton Amen.

[@christianscott6963]

Steve Gadds and Bernard Purdie are the only two drummers I can think of that have signature beats named after them: Steve's 50 ways paradiddle beat, and Bernards Purdie shuffle

[@ANomia415]

Amen!

[@sambochen2010]

If the last 60-seconds isn't the most valid and heartfelt endorsement by Purdie of what Rick's been trying to do with his Legend Interview Series, I dunno what is? Publicists of legendary artists, pay attention to this!!

[@tommc49]

The man is a musical genius and also a sharp dressed man. Enjoyed this immensely. A legend.

[@LowEarthOrbitPilot]

O U T S T A N D I N G interview! I cried after having watched this, as I have been listening to (learning from, and trying to emulate) Bernard Purdie’s drumming for decades, and finally… FINALLY Rick Beato, the consummate professional gives him quite the respectable interview he so richly deserved, with space to articulate his thought process, and display his nearly unmatched skill and talent. THANK YOU, Rick, and THANK YOU, Bernard Purdie! ❤️❤️❤️

[@Itaivarochik]

“Having a positive feel about what you do is everything” what a great takeaway from this legendary drummer.

[@juliodicarlo5313]

No sabes qué bien me viene en este momento que hayas resaltado esta frase. Como verás no hablo inglés, apenas lo entiendo, y quizás se me haya escapado cuando BP la dijo. Muchas gracias. Saludos desde Buenos Aires.

[@1000jamesk]

@@juliodicarlo5313 It's at 22:05 if you wanna rewatch it.

[@BradsGonnaPlay]

He’s beyond sweet. Words will never describe what he’s brought to music, so I guess that’s why he spoke through the drums.

[@paulmayerpiano]

RIght. It almost felt like an epiphany to me when he said it. Something that's so simple and so deep at the same time - like his playing.

[@danielmccar]

Wow. I am genuinely blown away. This interview needs to be archived in the Smithsonian. That is how important it is. And the way the Bernard appreciated the depth of the questions was so moving.

[@createlovehappy]

agreed. ...to be past done through generations.

[@dwightvoeks9970]

Were those Steely Dan sessions not some of the most incredible in modern music history? It's some of the grooviest music you'll hear and he's right. His grooves allowed everyone else to come in and add character. Every recording is so clear. You can hear every musician and vocal. Nobody is riding over anyone else. It's just great stuff.

[@kennyevans6197]

Don't ya just love this guy...Pure genius.....If you could transfer the Purdie shuffle into a walk that's the way i would walk through life........

[@ThomasLoyd]

This is a Master Class in LESS IS ALWAYS MORE! His common-place genius comes from less being more. Outstanding!

[@grbenny]

A master class that should be 101 for all drummers. For all musicians.

[@alanmiller7867]

Incredible! Not only could I listen to Bernard Purdie play drums all day, I could listen to him tell stories all day as well. His joy comes through in everything he plays and everything he says. He’s a rare soul.

[@bobcaron7894]

You got that right, Alan!!! Bernard Purdie is one-of-a-kind.

[@nikolademitri731]

I didn’t know anything about him till I watched this, aside from he played on some stuff I like. This makes me want to seek out his other work, just because I loved the interview so much. He’s a beautiful soul!

[@bobcaron7894]

@@nikolademitri731, true, one of the best drummers, and a seemingly nice guy!

[@jimjaremka8601]

I have to believe that a good part of Bernard's success as a musician is that he is such a beautiful person. I can see him having a good attitude during long, tedious sessions. Being easy to work with is always going to get you called back. You can tell that he definitely loves what he's doing.

[@patricklee7241]

I love his generation. It's historically rare now and it's sad to know as time passes we will loose more and more of these legends -- real, true to life musicians with real stories of life to share. I could listen to this all day. A rare soul indeed.

[@amilton2128]

I couldn’t follow Rick’s advice to watch this in several parts. I’ve watched it 3 times now in its entirety. And remain enthralled from start to finish.

[@ralex3697]

I will watch it over and over. Makes me really enjoy drums when played properly

[@doodleedledoo]

All my musical brothers and sisters who cherish this stuff, life is short and I love you and what we've all done together. Thank you Rick.

[@robwasnj]

We're blessed to have Bernard living in my part of NJ. He shows up and supports young musicians as well, have seen him several times at various events. Absolutely love what he's done for music.

[@robertmcgowan4149]

Had the distinct honor of being in Bernard's ensemble at the New School Jazz Program. Bernard is a masterful drummer but an even more immpressive human being. He changed my attitude & approach to the Tenor Saxophone. I will never forget my time with Bernard Purdie, a truly class act. Love him like a father! Stay well.

[@stevenreyes3680]

I got to see him at the Portland Blues Festival several years ago. I have the signed CD I bought there to add to my Purdie collection. Got to shake his hand too...

[@henrygiancarlo9832]

Hey, I'm living in nothern NJ and would absolutely love to see him live. Do you know if he's still performing?

[@cindipossidento5688]

That is so wonderful !!!!! Those kids will understand that wonderful time they had with Bernard !!!! 😘

[@metaphoria3]

A true ambassador and living Legend plus just seems like a nice genuine guy

[@rickthendersonjr]

Dude is 80 YEARS OLD and still plays better than 90% of the young drummers in popular bands, "gets it", and is a wealth of knowledge on how to play with "feel". Good stuff.

[@Huelogy]

Absolutely incredible "keep it simple"!

[@EMThomasTX]

Genius hero of a drummer. He does it effortlessly. Amazing man. Sound is vibration, music is life. What respect to music he possesses.

[@ReiMonCoH]

I love the rim shots with the finger tapping the snare at the same time. That’s a subtle piece of friggin drum Magic 🤘🏻😆🤘🏻

[@hardlymick]

The Purdie Shuffle is the musical evauivalent of Bernard's personality. His collaborative humility seems to be core to his legend. Whether he's playing or talking, I find myself smiling.

[@sorenvelice5088]

I love that happiness is explicitly the basis of his playing

[@staleyexplores]

very well said.

[@gsmith207]

Nailed it. Plus he makes the drums dance. Just epic

[@blasterkid2014]

that's so funny. I was smiling ear to ear just with Rick's first sentence...impossible to not love Bernard! I don't even play drums but he's awesome and I watch his lessons and interviews! (like this one!!)

[@williambauer8224]

It’s funny you say that about smiling. I was sitting in my car stuck in traffic listening to this and found myself smiling as well.

[@rhythmista7707]

I've been playing drums for 39 yrs, and I am now 51. After watching this interview, I feel like a brand new drumming student. Mr. Purdie is not just a drumming pioneer, he is a historically important aspect of classic and modern drumming. Absolute legend. Once again, Mr. Beato knocks it outta the park with another great interview. 👍

[@ThorneyedWT]

Music based on shuffle is not really my thing, but this man's attitude, personality, craftsmanship and dedication are contagious.

[@amin4993]

He's got the chops for sure, but he's so nice and fun it's infectious.

[@ThorneyedWT]

@@amin4993 and most of all he really loves what he does. When he starts to play, you see that it makes him genuinely happy. So many musicians these days turned their craft into demanding sports challenge or ego competition, or just a job they do for living. So few make music because they just love it =(

[@mistersniffer6838]

Makes me warm fuzzy n happy!!

[@nicolatrois7279]

you can't help but love Mr. Purdie's smile, voice and laugh, he is adorable and humble

[@nicknewman7848]

He's an abstract artist. The way he talks about simplicity and reciprocation is awesome.

[@lhinze]

I loved the story about Jeff Porcaro sitting in on sessions, watching and learning. Not only was Mr. Purdie happy to answer questions and teach, he seems genuinely thrilled at others using his Purdie Shuffle as inspiration for creating their own unique brand of drumming.

[@TimothyReeves]

this was so great to hear!

[@RaincloudmusicTFS6]

From what I gather, Jeff and Purdie became friends. Sweet!!!

[@tranholmen]

Bernard's energy is so contagious. I'm just sitting here grinning. He's such an intuitive and intelligent person. You can tell he's really spent time thinking about these details and the solutions he comes up with aren't only optimized for him - he's thinking about the entirety, the other musicians and in the end the life that the song is going to take on when all the parts meld together.

[@jeffreydavid6794]

That green earrings high hat fill is my favorite drum part in All music Ever. When I was a kid I would just fast forward to that part over and over and over again.

[@AngeloSantelliMusic]

It’s that air in the high hat

[@offshoretomorrow3346]

It's in Aretha's Rock Steady too, right?

[@ralex3697]

The man is such a legend, it’s beyond belief. So articulate, remembers everything. Hard to believe he’s 83. My absolute favourite drummer, there are so many great musicians but Bernard Purdie is next level.

[@AngeloSantelliMusic]

@@offshoretomorrow3346 si senoro

[@offshoretomorrow3346]

@@AngeloSantelliMusic Gracias!

[@SaintKines]

"Dont worry about them ghost notes, that's just a little rebound". I love Fool in The Rain and had to know more about why I loved that beat so much. It led me to this treasure of a man.

[@user-oy7gz5bf2h]

Same!

[@johncollins5552]

I adore Purdie, have you seen the Curtis Mayfield play at the BBC Grey Whistle Test ...some of the most sublime hihat playing ever, check that out!

[@RhettShull]

What an absolute legend, great interview Rick!

[@gurumajuindonesia]

Indeed, dammmn amazing and a genuine person He is!

[@GEORGE_WARD]

Went to see Steely Dan on @ the Concord Pavilion 2 nights ago. Home At Last may have been their best song that night because they faded out and faked an ending. The band kept moving over Donald Fagen's chords and everyone thought it was a different song. But then I heard the purdie shuffle again and suddenly they came back in with the chords for a last chorus.Tremendous

[@Sean_Farmer]

You took the words right out of my mouth. 100% pure legend!

[@Arturo-sm1tb]

Besides being such a drum legend, he is a wonderful human being.

[@organicwest]

Rick is always wondering what is wrong with today's music. The absence of guys like this would be a good place to start. Rick must have walked away with a huge smile on his face after this interview.

[@TheMightyKingzuru]

This is top deck stuff. Mr Purdie's approach to drumming is very deep, well thought-out that his grooves come out as simple and laid-back as possible to the listener. He's also a good teacher and excellent conversationist.

[@jaidillon1790]

When he started playing along to home at last though... goosebumps.

[@backtothepasture]

Bernard Purdie and Chuck Rainey, what a force!! Together on all those great records like Aretha's "Rock Steady" to every song on "The Royal Scam", just superlative.

[@sirjer73]

My favorite studio session rhythm section. I'm glad Rick highlighted Green Earrings. Go on KZbin and hear the version without the guitars. Killer!!!!

[@CaliforniaBushman]

Kid Charlemagne stood the test of time. The killingest drum groove of the entire 1970's. And one of the best of all time.

[@BennoSattler]

Totally. Just found that Aretha's Rock Steady features Purdie with the almost same groove - and the same fill from Green Earrings :-)

[@markfeagans9679]

This guy is a musical genius! I loved all his work with Steely Dan. His absolute love for what he does comes before money. And it shows in his words and his playing. I'm another that could listen to him talking for hours.

[@zackmano]

Just the way Bernard says the word "happy" immediately makes me feel happy. His passion for music and bringing people joy is just infectious. Love this guy! 🙌🏼💙🤘🏼

[@noiseinthebasement8139]

You can't hear Bernard play a groove without smiling and moving along. What an incredible feel!

[@weschesternc]

This is amazing Rick, this whole channel needs to go to the Library of Congress, these interviews are PRICELESS. Rick Beato YOU are a national treasure.

[@thomasdelaney3322]

Also would be great in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!

[@robertkroberjr.157]

@Wes Chester I was looking for this comment! 🎯🎯🎯

[@mvpautodetailing]

WOW! WOW! WOW! I fell in love with Mr. Purdie's heart, why? because Rick once again, you asked the perfect questions, allowed him to express himself fully throughout the interview, and Rick, you also bring the best out of these wonderful musicians. We live in an era where artist are only used for their talents, but no one truly cares and takes the time to appreciate them as people. I was so touched by your interview Rick with Mr. Purdie, that I just wanted to give you both a hug and embrace the beautiful conversation that took place in this recording. Rick don't ever doubt yourself why you are doing what you are doing today, you're touching generations with your program!!! I've got all my buddies, any my own 14 year old son to watch you KZbin channel now since he's learning and taking lessons with his guitar learning how to play blues.... I truly enjoy your show!!!!!!!!!!! Blessings.

[@bigtimedrum]

This video is a whole DRUM Lesson and music lesson with so much information and education , I love Bernard from the first time i heard him many years ago ....

[@mishkac4959]

Bernie's face when Rick plays Green Earrings is pure joy. That 3 hihat fill is perfection: hook, lead-in & funky as hell

[@GDawg2K2]

Awesome, I was an engineer in NYC from late 70s to 90s. Bernard was already legendary! I used many of those albums aa the musical & audio ideals to strive for! I can't believe he's in his 80s.

[@mx5534]

Seeing a legend, being interviewed by another legend just made my day. Even if you're not a drummer, the knowledge you pass down along to everyone else about everything you know and share with us Rick, is simply priceless! Thank you! 🙌🙌🙌

[@theduppykillah]

O M G this man is a monster what time what feel impeccable touch and tone. Some of best drumming I ever hear and the Brother the most sincere and humble man. Wow. Blown away

[@coolintruddle]

These interviews are Smithsonian worthy. Thank you Bernard Purdie, Rick and all the artists who gave their time and energy to document such a vast array of musical knowledge.

[@DeadKoby]

Bernard has 2 major reasons that he's a TOP TIER musician..... #1, He's good at what he does. #2 He's nice to people, and makes it about the music.

[@samrapheal1828]

Correctamundo ✔️

[@johndardi1334]

You can add #3 He loves what he does and he says that’s the most important part. You gotta love it. This guys loves to play the drums.

[@n1x1864]

He’s better than good at what he does.

[@soultylive]

As a guitarist, best interview I've ever watched! Way beyond "just" drum, it is THE music lesson:" "Get outta the way!"

[@liammc546]

You know he gets up every morning and adorns that sharp suit. Then puts his groove on.

[@jalander8817]

He’s a pro’s pro from a different era. Most of us walk around looking like broke degenerates.

[@angrybuzzy]

Close - he never takes his groove off.

[@ralex3697]

Total class this man

[@TheLateBoyScout]

12:40 He's playing ghost notes with his fingertips! That just blew my mind.

[@FreakingOutWithBillyHume]

I saw that too. Very interesting.

[@heckler73]

If you can find some of his other interviews where he talks about the development of his Shuffle, he talked about how it started with him rolling his fingers on the snare while trying to figure out how to make the triplets work more, or something to that effect, and then he had the epiphany.

[@edgarcetina9716]

Check out In Exile from The Pineapple Thief. Gavin Harrison also plays ghost notes with his fingers and sounds great.

[@jameslamm6634]

@@edgarcetina9716 I was about to suggest Gavin too

[@doomstar2472]

Can’t wait to see what he can do with his toes😎!!

[@dmleibo]

Bernard never ages. And what an ability to keep things loose and tight all at once.

[@hacdmb41]

This man is so sweet, adorable, and endearing...and what an awesome legend of a drummer! I found him an absolute joy to watch and learn from! ♥️

[@allthings2allmen]

Totally agreeI I also enjoyed Chuck Rainey's sense of humor, but BP definitely beams! So many of the greats are just the most down to earth humble folk. As it should be.

[@bmanduprit2962]

I love how Bernard makes his own little appreciative noises when he plays 😊

[@johncitizen8828]

It’s the best.

[@pawelamaciwoda9086]

Whenever I feel down I watch Bernard's movies and his smile makes me so happy. Thank you Mr. Bernard and Rick! Back in 90's when I was playing my bass on 5th Ave. making some $, Mr Purdie ask me to come to his class to play with him for his students. He loved my groove and this was such a privilege to me ! God Bless You!

[@avi_was_here]

80 years old and still so much energy and youth. Wonderful interview, watched the whole thing and im not even a drummer

[@SailingGalway]

yes - I felt that vibe exactly. Which made me so happy - a young man who has been witness and a primary mover in music history

[@allenwilson530]

I could listen to Bernard talk about drums and music all day. I love hiw Rick is hanging on every word.

[@veritas41photo]

Gawd, I love the sounds he gets out of that set. Amazing! The list of tracks he has performed on is astronomically huge.

[@astrogoodvibes6164]

It's a privilege to have lived in a time when great art can be uncomplicated and a pure joy, that goes exclusively to gentle giants like the mighty and gracious Mr Purdie. Thank you Rick for reminding us of that joy in Bernard Purdie.

[@ericprothero9412]

You could palpably feel the pure joy of music and rhythm in this historical interview, Rick. Beautiful inner-workings of a genius drummer!

[@Dinostriadrums]

Uno de los más grandes maestros del groove. Además es muy simpático. Siempre habla acerca de la importancia de la simpleza y el sentimiento. 82 años!!

[@pick6whodat]

Mr Purdie is the groove godfather,, and such a sweetheart. What a magical interview and a master class in playing what song calls for

[@johndellaselva687]

In a million years drum machines will never replace the magic this guy and others bring to the music! Thank You Bernard!

[@chrisloesch5854]

This is so great. It takes 30 mins to understand his own lingo and pick up on his standards. He talks about keeping it simple but as anyone who has ever tried to play his grooves knows, they are anything but. It’s all about his feel and attitude. He’s a genius.

[@jamesrobertson976]

"Your gonna go back to the first second or the third!. ... I just want them to know that they have it" .....Bernard is so spot on and correct in this interview. God bless him.

[@KarlKeesel]

Mr. Purdie is like a Yoda for drummers, he have a complete understanding of the drums, a philosophy, he he even talk rhythmically he is one with the drums like yoda is with the force, love it!!!

[@ElijahRock92]

In a world where musical greats left us in their 40s, may we appreciate Rick taking the time and effort to get with near-82-year-old Mr. Purdie to give both him and us this wonderful interview. It truly was a treat and a blessing.

[@drdre4397]

I really wish Chick had done one of these before he passed, Rick is doing all genres of just absolute legends. Truly a blessing.

[@restedjazz]

Well said, ElijahRock92...!!

[@daltonidaho]

14:38 put a smile on my face! "Do you remember being there?", "oh yeah" and Purdie starts to play along. Thank you for this Rick! Enjoyed every minute.

[@Mike-bi8zu]

Amazing

[@FACELOWNER]

There's cool, there's very cool, and then there's Bernard Purdie, what a brilliant interview.! Keep up the great work Rick.

[@brandoncook2560]

OMG...as soon he started playing the shuffle....fingers tapping on the snare as he played...the pocket was soooo GLORIOUS. Made me instantly start dancing. Frickin' amazing.

[@paradiddle5150]

This man is almost 83, and he's such an inspiration. Legendary status, and there's no debate. Thank you Rick, for your contribution to the folks who stay interested in the greats, including you!

[@elambi]

I'm sure Bernard would want you to say he is almost 82. 🙂

[@paradiddle5150]

@@elambi June 11, 1939. I know my stuff brother, but he's 82 going on 28 mentally 😎

[@Mr.Neyetro]

@@paradiddle5150 Rick has his bday in the description.

[@timbragg9684]

Was he born in '41 or '39? - I'm getting different answers depending where I look!

[@paradiddle5150]

@@Mr.Neyetro It's still June 11, 1939.

[@bryanhoneywell896]

I'm not a drummer, but I watched this whole thing straight through (even though Rick recommended we watch in segments). What a charming man. It's hard to simultaneously pull of confidence and humility, Mr. Purdie had me from the get go. Sharp dresser too.

[@brushstroke3733]

His style is classy, both on drums and in clothing choice. Man, I wish I had style like that! He looks and sounds sharp!

[@bertoray5497]

I couldn't help but grin pretty much the whole time.

[@GlenBerry]

I'm also not a drummer, and I also listened to the whole thing in one go. It was simply one of the most upbeat and interesting interviews I've seen in ages. Bernard Purdie is a well-established legend, and I can't imagine a more capable person to interview him than Rick Beato.

[@ChrisP872]

A drumming legend! I'm glad he's still with us.

[@johnhartke1189]

…..My face hurts from smiling the entire interview! Brilliant stuff, as per usual. Thank you, Rick.

[@robertmcgowan4149]

Had the distinct honor of being in Bernard's ensemble at the New School Jazz Program in New York City. Bernard is a masterful drummer & musician but an even more impressive human being. He changed my attitude & approach to the Tenor Saxophone & music as a whole. I will never forget my time with Bernard Purdie, a truly class act. Love him like a father! Stay well Robert NYC.

[@tuneafishrecords]

Pure genius in motion. I saw him sit in during a show at NAMM mid-song, and he changed the groove completely. One of the most amazing things I've ever seen or heard.

[@rmo52]

Always had to be his way no matter who he played with.

[@turtlevalley6947]

“Precious” indeed. Wonderful interview. I feel like going back and listening to everything he ever recorded now that he is my new friend.

[@moparedtn]

I started watching this as Rick suggests - with the thought of watching it in several segments. An hour :22 later, I had watched it all and totally lost track of time instead - and wanted more. Mr. Purdie, you have my total respect and admiration sir. Rick, you have my deepest gratitude for doing this, what truly should become a seminal track for generations to come. Thank you both, gentlemen! - Ed on the Ridge

[@dominicmesserly7489]

I did exactly that last night. What a humble great guy.

[@MissingMars]

Bernie is amazing, he stresses keep it simple and his style is so deceivingly simple & laid back but there is nothing simple about his drumming. That's his genius right there. He executes without going at the kit like a freight train. Break it down though & you'll see there's a whole lotta stuff going on -he is the best!

[@slipkid35]

I've spent the last day and a half mourning the loss of another great drummer, Mr Alan White, and seeing this interview pop up in my KZbin feed brightened my day considerably! The ending left a few tears but they were tears of joy and appreciation. Time waits for no one Rick, please keep doing what you are doing and documenting the tremendous talent that our generation has been blessed with

[@deansiracusa3966]

Thank you so much for doing these long form interviews with the masters of their skills! Nowhere else can you get so much detail!

[@sethcashman1011]

FINALLY got to watch this in its entirety. Will doubtless be watching many more times. Overwhelmingly great.

[@geffryg]

One of the best interviews ever, regardless of the subject. What a perfect match this was. And Bernard's humbleness as a person was the true background music.

[@rhondawilkins_]

" The Purdie Shuffle" influenced Jeff Porcaro's [ TOTO] " The Rosanna half time shuffle". Bernard is a huge LEGEND, as well as Papa Joe Porcaro and Jeff Porcaro! I love ❤ hearing these stories of Jeffrey Porcaro watching legend Bernard Purdie at a very young age. Jeff was definitely blessed 🙌 and HIGHLY FAVORED! Thank you Rick for making a LIVING LEGEND REAL LIFE JOURNAL of so much fantastic music 🎶 from the 60s and 70s.I feel like I just got a FREE 2 hour drumming lesson from one of the greatest drummers to ever make a beat on planet 🌏! Respect , much respect gentlemen

[@thewildbunchASD]

The day this wonderful man departs the world, is the day that music dies. Please stay with us forever mr. Purdie!

[@fordsrestorations970]

Beautiful simply Beautiful listening to the wisdom from this man . Rick you did amazing in this interview. My music will be simple and direct.

[@rb032682]

"relaxed energy" "sublime energy" "I'm gonna offer a groove they can't refuse!" ~ Berbard Purdie Like a guitar player who looks like he isn't moving his hands, I hear more notes than what Purdie appears to be playing. Amazing stuff.

[@shapshooter7769]

Ahh, yes Don Purdie. As long as he don't make Tattaglia more a pimp than Lialeh then I think we're good.

[@kristopherguilbault5428]

Also thank you Rick for giving this legend a definitive interview for all his fans to be able to look back on for years to come !

[@fatbottombiker3038]

It is so refreshing to see Mr. Purdie at 83 years young. His contribution to music is unbelievable. RIP Jeff Pocaro, John Bohnam and every drummer that you have inspired.