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Drumming News
On April 3, 2024 we lost Albert “Tootie” Heath, a drummer of impeccable taste and timing, who passed away at the age of 88 in a hospital in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was the last surviving member of the legendary Heath Brothers band, a trio of jazz virtuosos hailing from Philadelphia.
Born on May 31, 1935, in Philadelphia, Albert Heath was immersed in music from a young age. Raised in a household where jazz flowed through the veins of his family, he found his passion for drumming under the influence of his older brothers, saxophonist Jimmy Heath and bassist Percy Heath. Their home became a hub for jazz, shaping Albert’s musical journey from the outset.
Heath’s career took flight when he ventured to New York in 1957, where he made his mark on John Coltrane’s inaugural recording session as a leader. His rhythmic prowess soon saw him collaborating with jazz luminaries like Wes Montgomery, Herbie Hancock, and Yusef Lateef, leaving an indelible imprint on the jazz landscape of the era.
In 1975, Heath, along with his brothers Jimmy and Percy, formed the Heath Brothers band, a powerhouse trio that mesmerized audiences with their musical synergy. Together, they crafted an unparalleled sound that blended sophistication with soul, earning them a place among jazz royalty.
Throughout his illustrious career, Heath’s drumming style epitomized the essence of modern jazz. With a sound that was finely tuned and a sense of time that was both precise and fluid, he captivated listeners with every beat. His ride cymbal work, reminiscent of his idol Kenny Clarke, possessed a whispery elegance that defined his distinctive sound.
Despite witnessing the evolution of jazz from the bebop era to more contemporary styles, Heath embraced the change with open arms. Refusing to dwell on nostalgia, he recognized the necessity for music to evolve alongside society’s technological advancements, acknowledging the shifting landscape with grace and adaptability.
Beyond his contributions as a drummer, Heath’s impact extended to teaching and mentoring aspiring musicians. For over three decades, he shared his wisdom and expertise as a faculty member of the Stanford University Jazz Workshop, inspiring generations of young talent to pursue their musical dreams.
In his later years, Heath’s profile as a bandleader flourished, particularly with his trio featuring pianist Ethan Iverson and bassist Ben Street. Together, they embarked on a musical journey that pushed boundaries and explored new horizons, reflecting Heath’s unyielding commitment to artistic growth and exploration.
In 2014, Heath made Santa Fe his home, where he spent the final chapter of his life surrounded by the tranquility of the New Mexico landscape. His legacy as a jazz master was cemented in 2021 when he was named an NEA Jazz Master, a fitting tribute to a lifetime devoted to the art form he loved.
Albert “Tootie” Heath’s passing leaves a void in the jazz world, but his spirit lives on through the timeless rhythms he shared with audiences around the globe. As we bid farewell to a true legend, let us celebrate his legacy and the enduring impact of his music, which will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.
Albert Heath is survived by his wife Beverly Collins Flood, his sons Jonas Liedberg and Jens Heath, stepsons Curt Flood Jr. and Scott Flood, stepdaughters Debbie and Shelly Flood, and several grandchildren. Though he may have left this world, his rhythmic heartbeat will forever echo in the annals of jazz history.
