81-year-old Billy Cobham is widely regarded as the greatest drummer in the world of jazz fusion. In the 1970s, he helped define the genre with explosive technique, intricate rhythmic language, and a boundary-breaking sound that dissolved the lines between jazz and rock.
Born in Panama, Cobham rose to prominence in 1970 as part of Miles Davis’ fusion ensemble, before co-founding the Mahavishnu Orchestra the following year alongside John McLaughlin. In 1973, he made his solo debut with Spectrum, recorded at Jimi Hendrix’s Electric Lady Studios. The album reached number one on Billboard’s jazz chart and has since become a cornerstone of fusion history. His shuffle groove on “Quadrant 4” is one of the most influential drum grooves ever recorded, while tracks like “Stratus” and “Red Baron” remain reference points more than 50 years later.
Over the course of his career, Cobham has appeared on more than 450 albums with artists including Miles Davis, George Duke, and John Scofield. He has released over 30 albums as a bandleader and has been inducted into both the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame and the Classic Drummer Hall of Fame. Now, at 81, he shows no signs of slowing down. Leading his quintet, Cobham continues to deliver the explosive, virtuosic fusion drumming that made him a legend.
Billy Cobham – drums
Victor Cisternas – bass
Gary Husband – keyboards
Bjorn Arko – saxophone
Rocco Zifarelli – guitar
