Gene Krupa

Biography

Gene Krupa rose from the Chicago scene to become one of the most electrifying jazz drummers of the swing era, his contagious energy pushing percussion from the background into the spotlight. He led bands that thrilled audiences, recorded endlessly inventive solos and inspired countless young musicians to take up the sticks.

Beyond the stage, Krupa befriended fellow artists and fans, always speaking kindly of the spark that music gave him, and he now rests at Holy Cross Cemetery and Mausoleums, where his influence on rhythm and joy is fondly remembered.