Drummer Buddy Rich began performing in vaudeville at 18 months. Born in Brooklyn in 1917, he was still in diapers when he appeared with his family as “Baby Traps, the Drum Wonder.” By age 11, Rich was leading his own band and by adulthood, after adding composing and conducting to his accomplishments, was already considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Rich is best known for his superhuman speed, flawless technique, and showmanship. Read Who Cares? about the struggle for dignity at Woodruff Home for the Aged, “a lively place where old people go to die.” Learn more about the book and its characters, aged 9-90, in NOVELS.
Bernard “Buddy” Rich discovered his affinity for jazz as a toddler
Woodruff Home for the Aged, where aging with dignity battles corporate greed
