Steve Smith and Buddy’s Buddies – Big Man’s Blues

“Big Man’s Blues” was written by tenor saxophonist Walt Weiskopf for “The Big Man” of the alto sax, Andy Fusco (1948-2021).

This extended version of the tune is played by Buddy’s Buddies during the concert “A Salute To Buddy Rich.” The show featured the Buddy Rich Big Band with guest drummers Phil Collins and Dennis Chambers. I performed with the Buddy’s Buddies small-group which led to Buddy’s Buddies becoming a recording and touring group. It all started with this unique line-up featuring Andy Fusco (alto sax) and Steve Marcus (tenor sax) with Will Lee (bass), Joel Weiskopf (piano) and myself on drums.

I invite you to dig into the Hudson Music vault to experience the entire concert. The Buddy Rich Big Band was in top form and the drumming by Phil Collins and Dennis Chambers that went down that night deserves to be heard! The video of the entire “A Salute To Buddy Rich” concert is available from Hudson Music.

- Steve Smith