Even when the big band era began to fade, Buddy continued to work consistently. He performed in clubs and recorded with many jazz icons, including Charlie Parker, Art Tatum and Lester Young, and pushed himself to the limit and beyond. Even a heart attack in 1959 didn't slow him down, although he briefly toyed with the idea of more singing and less drumming. However, he always came back to the drums.

In the late 1960s Buddy formed a jazz band that was to remain a successful musical operation for the last two decades of his life. However, he wasn't always the easiest boss to work for. Like many driven artists, he was irascible and difficult at times, and his rants at band members were legendary, but he seldom held a grudge and his goal was always musical perfection.

His appearances on the Tonight Show were always a hoot. He and Johnny were long-time friends and had fun spearing each other with wisecracks. But sooner or later he'd play his drums. Sometimes he'd have a drum battle with the band's stickman, Ed Shaughnessy (who was also very good), but usually he'd just do his own thing.

Even in his '60s and in declining health Buddy was still amazingly energetic, and a number of those appearances are available on video. I've included one below and I'd encourage everyone to spend some time viewing others — brief glimpses of a unique musical genius, and a TV show that always did music right.