Some drummers keep time. Others define it. Bernard “Pretty” Purdie belongs to the latter. His rhythms don’t just move songs forward—they give them life, character, and a feel so distinct that it is instantly recognizable. With each precise stroke and impeccable groove, he has shaped the sound of generations, leaving an indelible mark on jazz, soul, and funk. And now, at Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery, audiences will once again have the rare chance to witness a master at work.
Purdie’s drumming is more than technical excellence; it is storytelling in its purest rhythmic form. The signature “Purdie Shuffle,” a half-time groove laced with ghost notes and undeniable swing, has found its way into countless records, from Steely Dan’s Aja to Toto’s Rosanna. His touch is at once subtle and powerful, a paradox that only the finest drummers can achieve. But what sets him apart is not just his technique—it is his ability to make every beat feel human, lived-in, effortlessly cool.
His career is a history book of modern music. Having worked with Aretha Franklin, James Brown, B.B. King, and countless others, he stands as one of the most recorded drummers of all time. He doesn’t just play the drums; he converses with them, making them speak a language understood by anyone who has ever felt the pull of a great rhythm. In his hands, the drum kit is not an instrument but an extension of himself—a force that breathes and pulses in time with the audience.
As he takes the stage at Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery, the evening promises more than just music—it offers a moment to experience rhythm at its purest. There is no need for overproduction or theatrics; the groove alone is enough. Every beat carries decades of wisdom, every fill tells a story. Those lucky enough to be in attendance will not just hear music but feel it in their bones, as Purdie’s touch transforms a simple set of drums into something transcendent.
Even now, after all these years, Bernard “Pretty” Purdie remains a testament to the power of groove. He is proof that rhythm is eternal, that true mastery is timeless, and that a well-placed hi-hat stroke can say more than words ever could. When he plays, time bends to his will, locking into a pocket so deep it seems to stretch forever. At Prince Michel, for one unforgettable evening, those in attendance won’t just witness a performance. They will experience the essence of what makes music move, what makes it endure, and most of all, what makes it feel so undeniably good.