Tony Allen

[Mook]

Anyone heard of this guy, a revolutionary Nigerian Drummer who worked with Fela Kuti? Got a CD of his recently 'Afro Disco Beat' & it's changed some of the ways I think about beats, it seems he was a huge influence on Ginger Baker too. Can only find one clip of him on YouTube - this guy really should get more recognition, I'm sure he must've influenced thousands of western Drummers, be it first or second hand...

[criz p. critter]

Oh YEAH! I was thinking about starting a thread for Tony Allen... I was amazed that no one had done it yet. Just hadn't gotten around to doing it. So thanks, Mook, for getting it started.

Every drummer on this forum should definitely check out some of Tony's work with Fela Kuti, or his solo stuff. iTunes store has 6 or 7 of his records, as well as most of Fela Kuti's. The guy was a total original, the virtual creator of Afro Beat drumming. His beats are driving, highly syncopated, and spot on in the groove. Not only was he a great drummer, he was also the music director for Fela's various bands over the years.

Fela and Tony were one of the big influences that were going around all over the world in the late 60's and '70. I love that period. I think that was such a great and fertile time for music. Miles Davis, James Brown, Sly Stone, Fela Kuti––as well as lots of others––they were all listening to and influencing each other's work, percolating and cross-pollinating funk, jazz & rock.

Anyone else out there a fan of Tony's? Well, speak up! Anyone reading this that hasn't heard him yet? Well, check him out. You'll be amazed.

[criz p. critter]

One more thing... you're right, Mook. Tony Allen was an influence on Ginger Baker. In fact, there is a record by Fela Kuti that features Ginger playing alongside Tony. It's called "Fela Kuti featuring Ginger Baker & Afrika 70" (wow, what a creative title!). They play really well together. The only part where I lose interest in this record is where Ginger takes a solo. Not that he's not a great soloist--I'm a big fan of Ginger and his soloing... It's just that throughout the rest of the record they groove together so well, that it's a letdown for me when they stop.

[BringoDingo]

I have all of Fela's albums, and have loved Tony's beats for years. he's the drummer for the Good, the Bad, the Queen now. Great player.

[handito]

I've tried to start a couple of Tony Allen threads, but they all just died out without any replies. I am glad, however, that you have seen the light:D

[Hark Noah]

He's the guy from The Good, The Bad and The Queen album isn't he? Best album of 2007 for me. He has a strange style, hardly moves when he's playing. Great beats though.