James Gadson, Prolific Funk and Disco Drummer, Dies at 86

Key Points:

• James Gadson, a renowned session drummer known for his work with Diana Ross, the Jackson 5, and Bill Withers, has died at the age of 86 following surgery and a subsequent fall, according to his wife Barbara.
• Born in Kansas City in 1939, Gadson started his musical journey in a drum corps before serving in the Air Force and later transitioning to drums, supporting artists like Otis Redding and Sam Cooke early in his career.
• After moving to Los Angeles, Gadson became a sought-after session musician, contributing to iconic tracks such as the Jackson 5's "Dancing Machine," Bill Withers' "Lean on Me" and "Use Me," Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive," and Thelma Houston's "Don’t Leave Me This Way."
• Though he released only a few singles under his own name, Gadson's extensive later work included collaborations with Beck, Justin Timberlake, Harry Styles, and D’Angelo, showcasing his lasting influence across multiple music genres.
• Praised by fellow musicians like Questlove, Gadson is celebrated for revolutionizing breakbeat drumming and leaving an indelible mark on the art of danceable drum patterns.