I met Dave at Milwaukee's Summerfest in 1976. He performed with his son's, Darius and Dan at the Miller Jazz stage sharing it with Maynard Ferguson. We were performing not far away at the Pabst International Pavilion and we took turns catching each others shows. It was an honor to meet such an icon. He is beloved among musicians, will be missed and his immense legacy will live forever as a pioneer of modern Jazz.
Dave was an amazing talent and introduced me to the great Joe Morello who along with his mentor Billy Gladstone transformed my instrument and gave it a new voice. I am forever grateful. Only Buddy Rich tops Joe in my book. RIP Dave.
Joe Morello - Eugene Wright - Dave Brubeck - Paul Desmond