Last Updated on 2 months by Vijay Kumar
Jim Gordon (James Beck Gordon, July 14, 1945 – March 13, 2023) was an American drummer, songwriter, and record producer, celebrated as one of the most talented session musicians of the late 1960s and 1970s. Known for his versatility and precision, he played with rock, pop, and soul legends, and was a founding member of Derek and the Dominos. Despite his musical brilliance, Gordon’s life took a tragic turn due to severe mental illness, leading to a violent crime that overshadowed his career.
Career
Gordon began his professional career in his late teens, quickly becoming one of Los Angeles’ most in-demand session drummers. He was part of the elite group of musicians known as The Wrecking Crew, performing on countless hit records. His drumming can be heard on tracks by The Beach Boys, The Byrds, Frank Zappa, Joe Cocker, George Harrison, and many others.
In 1970, Gordon joined Derek and the Dominos alongside Eric Clapton, Carl Radle, and Bobby Whitlock. He co-wrote the haunting piano coda of Layla, one of rock’s most iconic songs. He also played on George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass and numerous other landmark albums.
Gordon’s work was defined by a perfect blend of power, groove, and subtlety, making him a favorite among top producers and artists. His ability to adapt to different genres from rock to R&B to jazzcemented his reputation as one of the greatest drummers in music history.
Murder
Jim Gordon, the acclaimed drummer for Derek and the Dominos, committed a shocking crime on June 3, 1983, when he killed his 72-year-old mother, Osa Marie Gordon, by striking her with a hammer and stabbing her, later claiming he was driven by voices caused by untreated paranoid schizophrenia. In 1984, he was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 16 years to life in prison, where he remained after repeated parole denials due to his ongoing mental illness, until his death on March 13, 2023, at the age of 77.
Death and personal life
Jim Gordon died on March 13, 2023, at the age of 77. He married two times with singer Renee Armand and dancer Jill Barabe. He was survived by his daughter ( born 1968 ).
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