Butch Miles, one of the most celebrated jazz drummers of all time, passed away on February 2, 2023, at the age of 78. He was best known for his long association with the Count Basie Orchestra, as well as his collaborations with many other jazz legends. His death has left a huge void in the jazz world, and many fans and musicians have expressed their condolences and admiration for his legacy.
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Who was Butch Miles?
Butch Miles was born as Charles J. Thornton Jr. on July 4, 1944, in Ironton, Ohio. He started playing the snare drum at the age of nine, and majored in music at West Virginia State University. He began his professional career with the Iris Bell Trio, and then joined Mel Torme’s band for three and a half years. It was Torme and Buddy Rich who recommended Miles to Count Basie when the latter needed a drummer in 1975. Miles joined the Count Basie Orchestra and stayed with them until 1979, and then returned for another decade from 1997 to 2007. He also served as the band’s leader in the 1980s and 1990s.
Miles was influenced by drummers like Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, and Jo Jones, and developed his own style of swinging, driving, and dynamic drumming. He was a master of both big band and small group settings, and could adapt to any musical situation. He played with a wide range of jazz luminaries, such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Dave Brubeck, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, Lena Horne, Willie Nelson, and many more. He also performed at prestigious jazz festivals around the world, and appeared on TV shows, movies, and soundtracks. He recorded over 100 albums, and won three Grammy awards and several European awards. He was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame in 2011.
What was Butch Miles’ cause of death?
The exact cause of Butch Miles’ death has not been revealed yet, but he had been suffering from a serious lung condition for several years. According to Republicmonews, Miles was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in March 2014, a disease that has no treatment other than a lung transplant. He received a lung transplant and went through a period of recovery, but his health deteriorated again in 2023. He died in Austin, Texas, surrounded by his family and friends.
How did the jazz community react to Butch Miles’ death?
Butch Miles’ death was met with an outpouring of grief and tribute from the jazz community, as well as from his fans and admirers. Many musicians and celebrities shared their memories and condolences on social media, and praised Miles for his talent, personality, and contribution to jazz. Some of the messages are as follows:
- “So sad to hear about the passing of jazz drum legend, Butch Miles. Butch was my colleague at Texas State for 10 years & is one of the best drummers that I performed with. You never had to count when he was driving the big band bus. Such a sweet cat. Rest well my friend.” – Martin McCain, trombonist and professor at Texas State University
- “RIP Butch Miles. One of the greatest drummers of all time. I had the honor of playing with him many times. He was always swinging, always supportive, always inspiring. He will be missed.” – Harry Allen, saxophonist
- “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Butch Miles. He was a phenomenal drummer, a wonderful person, and a true Basieite. He will always be remembered for his infectious smile, his warm heart, and his incredible groove. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Butch.” – The Count Basie Orchestra
- “Butch Miles was one of my heroes. He played with such fire, passion, and joy. He made every band he played with sound better. He was also a kind and generous man, who always had a good word and a joke for everyone. I learned so much from him, and I will always cherish the times we shared on and off the bandstand. Thank you, Butch, for your music and your friendship. You are a legend.” – Scott Hamilton, saxophonist
Why is Butch Miles’ legacy important for jazz?
Butch Miles was not only a brilliant drummer, but also a vital part of the jazz history and tradition. He was one of the last links to the golden era of swing and big band jazz, and he carried on the legacy of Count Basie and his orchestra with pride and respect. He also influenced and inspired generations of drummers and musicians, who learned from his impeccable technique, his musicality, and his spirit. He was a true ambassador of jazz, who spread the joy and beauty of the music to audiences around the world. He was a jazz giant, who left behind a rich and lasting legacy. He will be sorely missed, but his music will live on forever.
