Forgotten: The Epic Rise and the Tragic Fall of Drum Legend Jim Gordon

 Despite not having the fame of a popular rock star, Jim Gordon was present and active in the music industry from the 1960s to the 1980s. He enjoyed the luxurious lifestyle of being surrounded by attractive women and traveling frequently between London and Los Angeles, living like a rock star. His exceptional talent as a session drummer led to numerous recording sessions that resulted in many successful songs, making him one of the most sought-after drummers of his time. His remarkable skills can be heard across a wide range of albums.

However, regrettably, this is a tragic story involving a highly talented musician who received the prestigious Grammy Award and collaborated with exceptional songwriters. He contributed his incredible skills and added a touch of his unique talent to iconic songs like "Layla" (he also contributed to writing the piano melody). George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass is a significant and highly acclaimed three-album collection, considered to be the artist's best work.

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Jim Gordon was widely recognized as a highly dependable and skilled session drummer, and he had the ability to demand up to three times the typical payment received by other session musicians.

He started his professional journey in 1963 when he was just seventeen years old, supporting the successful Everly Brothers. Afterward, he gained a reputation as one of the most in-demand drummers for recording sessions in Los Angeles. He was mentored by the renowned studio drummer. Hal Blaine who played on over 35 U.S. #1 hits).

The likes of John Lennon, George Harrison, The Everly Brothers, Frank Zappa showcased his versatile musical talent by providing the rhythm for a diverse range of artists including Leon Russell, Traffic, Gordon Lightfoot, Seals & Crofts, Jackson Browne, Joan Baez, and Bread.

During the peak of his professional success, it was rumored that Gordon was extremely occupied as a studio musician. He would travel from Las Vegas to Los Angeles every day to participate in two or three recording sessions, only to fly back in time for his nightly performance at Caesars Palace.

Between 1969 and 1970, Gordon went on tour as a member of the supporting band for the musical group Delaney & Bonnie, who also had him in their lineup at the moment. Eric Clapton. Afterwards, Clapton assumed control of the band's rhythm section. While touring, Gordon's behavior became problematic due to the excessive consumption of alcohol and drugs, revealing an unsettling side to his personality. He displayed traits of ambition and manipulation, and at times, even violence.

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Gordon's personality disorder played a significant role in the downfall of Derek and the Dominos. This became even more severe when he was charged with murder in 1983. On June 3rd of that year, Gordon went to his mother Osa's house in Hollywood, assaulted her with a hammer, and ultimately killed her by stabbing. He has been incarcerated ever since.

He was found to have schizophrenia, but it was only during his trial in 1984 that he received an accurate diagnosis. Unfortunately, his lawyer could not argue insanity in his defense because of a recent change in California's legal system. As a result, Gordon was given a prison sentence of sixteen years to life in 1984.

In recent times, Jim Gordon was a man who had been largely overlooked by the rock & roll industry, as he has only a small chance of being released on parole. Although, there was a fleeting moment on Feb. 24, 1993, when he and Eric Clapton received recognition for their rock songwriting abilities by winning a Grammy for their song "Layla." Unfortunately, James Beck Gordon sadly passed away in prison in on March 13, 2023, at the age of 77.

Next time you hear John Lennon’s “  Imagine  ”, Stephen Bishops “On and On”,   Glen Campbell’s "Wichita Lineman" or Steely Dan's "Rikki Don't Lose That Number." pay close attention to the rhythm of one of the greatest and most forgotten about drummers in rock history.

3 Little Known Facts About T. Rex

   Are T. Rex the band that rocked the 70s?

  But did you know, one, Mark Boland, their frontman, was a mod before glam rock, sporting sharp suits and a Vespa?

  Two, T. Rex's iconic song Get It On was almost rejected for its suggestive lyrics.

  Three, their album Electric Warrior stayed in the UK charts for an astonishing 44 weeks. T. Rex, more than just a glam rock band.

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3 Little Known Facts About Three Dog Night

   Welcome to our world of music trivia. 

  Did you know Three Dog Night, the popular American rock band, got their name from an Australian Aboriginal custom? On colder nights, they'd sleep with three dogs for warmth, hence a Three Dog Night.

  And here's a curveball. Despite their seven gold albums and 21 Billboard Top 40 hits, the band never won a Grammy. Shocking,  isn't it?

  Lastly, their hit song, Joy to the World, was initially considered a throwaway track. Unbelievable, but true.

  That's all folks. If you enjoyed these snippets, don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more. Keep rocking!

3 Little Known Facts About Dire Straits

   Cue the rock music,  ready to delve into the lesser-known realm of Dire Straits?

  Fact 1. Dire Straits wasn't their original name. Before achieving fame, they performed as Cafe Racers.

  Fact 2. Their iconic track, Sultans of Swing? It was inspired by a dismal jazz band playing in the corner of a nearly deserted pub.

  Fact 3. Brothers in Arms was one of the first albums directed at the CD market, and it paid off, becoming one of their best-selling albums.  

  That's a wrap! Enjoyed the ride? Craved more rock trivia? Hit like, share the love, and don't forget to subscribe. Keep the music alive.

3 Little Known Facts About The Goo Goo Dolls

 Catch this, Goo Goo Dolls fans. Bet you didn't know Johnny Rzeznik,  frontman, was voted Most Beautiful Person by People Magazine in 1995.  

  Also, the band's initial name wasn't Goo Goo Dolls, but Sex Maggot. How's that for a switch?

  Lastly, did you know the hit song Iris stayed on billboard charts for a whole year before it was actually released as a single? Now that's impressive.

  If you're digging these rockin' facts, smash that like button, drop a comment, share the and don't forget to subscribe for more. Keep rockin'!

3 Little Known Facts About The Amboy Dukes

 Crave a taste of rock history? Here's a quick trip down memory lane with three lesser known facts about the Amboy Dukes.

  One,  they weren't always the Amboy Dukes. They started as the Royal High Boys, then the Lords, before settling on their iconic name.

  Two, their monster hit Journey to the Center of the Mind? It's said to be an unintentional psychedelic anthem. Songwriter Ted Nugent swears he had no idea it was about a drug trip.

  Three, despite several lineup changes, the band never officially broke up. They simply evolved, eventually morphing into Ted Nugent's solo career.

  If you enjoyed this rockin' trivia, do hit like, share, comment, and don't forget to subscribe for more. Keep the music alive!

3 Little Known Facts About Thin Lizzy

 Welcome to the world of rock and roll. Ever heard of Thin Lizzy?  Sure you have. But here are three facts you probably didn't know.  

  One, their name, inspired by a comic book robot, Tin Lizzy.

  Two, the band's first hit, Whiskey in the Jar. Not their original. It's a traditional Irish song, centuries old.

  Three, Phil Lynott, the band's lead vocalist and bassist. He was also a published poet. Who'd have thought, right?

  If you want more rockin facts hit like drop a comment share the love and subscribe keep the rock alive folks!

3 Little Known Facts About Muse

  Dive into the world of Muse, a band that's been rocking our world since 1994.  

 First, did you know they were originally called Rocket Baby Dolls? They changed their name after winning a local battle of the band's competition.

  Second, ever notice the band's obsession with the number 3? Their third studio album, Absolution, ironically also reached number 1 in three countries.

  Lastly, they are not just musicians but also philanthropists. They've performed multiple charity concerts including a gig for War Child in 2013.

 If you found these facts interesting, give us a thumbs up, drop a comment, share this short, and don't forget to subscribe for more fascinating tidbits. Stay tuned!

3 Little Known Facts Montrose

   Cool your engines and tune in because we're diving into three lesser-known facts about the iconic rock band Montrose.

  Fact 1. Did you know Montrose's debut album was produced by none other than Van Halen's future producer Ted Templeman?

  Fact 2. Their self-titled debut album didn't chart in the UK or the US, but it's now considered a classic.

  And Fact 3. Montrose's original lineup lasted for only two albums. Quick as a flash, wasn't it?

  If you enjoyed this bite-sized rock trivia, do us a solid like, comment, share, and don't forget to subscribe. Keep rocking!

Read our post on "The Rock n' Roll Life of Ronnie Montrose", where we remember and celebrate the memory of Ronnie and the gift of music he shared with the world.

3 Little Known Facts Silvertide

 You've heard of Silvertide? This rock band has some fascinating facts up its sleeve.

  First, did you know they initially formed under the name Vertigo? Quite a spin, huh?

  Second, their debut album Show and Tell was released in 2004 but they'd already opened for Van Halen a year prior. Talk about a fast rise to fame.

  Lastly, they've been on hiatus since 2005 but reunited in 2013. Still rocking, still rolling.

  Enjoyed these tidbits? Share your thoughts and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more rockin' facts.

3 Little Known Facts About Korn

  Buckle up for a rapid-fire rundown on the band Korn.

  First off, did you know that Korn was originally named Creep? They changed their name to Korn as a nod to a twisted inside joke.

  Secondly, their groundbreaking album, Follow the Leader, was recorded in a haunted house, adding an extra layer of chilling authenticity.

  Finally, they're credited with creating the genre Nu Metal, a blend of heavy metal and alternative rock. Who knew, right?

  If you're as intrigued as we are, hit that like button,  drop a comment, and share this with your friends. Don't forget to subscribe for more fascinating facts.

3 Little Known Facts About REO Speedwagon

   Catch the wind,  we're diving into three lesser known facts about the rock legends, REO Speedwagon.

  One, the band's unusual name. It's derived from a flatbed truck model studied by keyboardist Neil Doughty in transportation history.  

  Two,  their hit song Keep On Loving You. It was one of the first rock ballads to top Billboard's Hot 100.

  Three, their album High Infidelity. It didn't just go platinum, it went platinum 10 times over. Now that's a record worth spinning. 

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 Rock on!

3 Little Known Facts About Aerosmith

   Hey there, rock and roll aficionados. Ever heard of Aerosmith? Sure you have. But did you know these three obscure facts?

  One, Steven Tyler, the band's lead vocalist, originally wanted to be a drummer. Imagine how different their sound could have been.

  Two, Joe Perry, the lead guitarist, once left the band to become a short order cook. Yes, you heard that right.

  And three, Aerosmith's hit song, Walk This Way, was almost tossed in the trash bin. It was saved by producer Rick Rubin, who convinced the band to give it another shot. Mind-blowing, huh?

  If you enjoyed these tidbits, show some love. Like, comment, share, and don't forget to subscribe for more intriguing revelations. Stay tuned, stay rocking.

3 Little Known Facts About KISS

 Ever wondered about the secrets behind KISS, the iconic rock band? Here are three fascinating facts.

 First, before settling on KISS, the band considered names like Albatross and Crimson Harpoon. Imagine that.

  Second, their famous logo was designed by Ace Frehley himself, the band's lead guitarist.

  Lastly, although known for their catchy rock anthems, none of the original KISS members knew how to read music. They played by ear. Surprised?

  Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you enjoyed this snippet of rock history, hit like share and subscribe for more intriguing facts. Stay tuned!

3 Little Known Facts About The Rolling Stones

   Brace yourselves, Rolling Stones aficionados. Here are three lesser-known facts about your favorite rock and roll band.

  First, did you know that the Stones were originally called the Blue Boys? Quite the transition, wouldn't you say?

  Second, before they rocked the world, they were humble students.  Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were childhood friends who reconnected in college over shared musical passion.

  Lastly, the iconic tongue-and-lips logo. It's inspired by the Indian goddess Kali, not Mick Jagger's mouth, as many believe.

Intriguing, right? If you enjoyed these tidbits, do us a favor,  like comment,  share, and subscribe. Keep the rock and roll spirit alive,  folks.

3 Little Known Facts About Van Halen

 Ever wondered about the secrets behind the legendary band Van Halen? Well buckle up!  

  First off, the iconic logo? It was designed by Dave Bhang, a master of album art.

  Secondly, their first album wasn't self-titled by choice, but due to a lack of consensus.

  Lastly, did you know Eddie Van Halen's iconic Frankenstrat guitar was self-built? He combined parts from different guitars to get his unique sound.

  Intrigued? Dive deeper into the world of Van Halen. And remember,  if you enjoyed this quick bite of trivia, hit like, share and subscribe.  Your comments are always welcome. Keep rocking!

We recently finished a long form article on the Life of Eddie Van Halen over on Medium check it out!

3 Little Known Facts About Black Sabbath

 Cue the heavy metal thunder, it's trivia time.

 First, Black Sabbath, the godfathers of metal, initially called themselves Earth. A cinema across the street showing a horror film titled Black Sabbath inspired the iconic name change.

  Second, their chilling track Iron Man isn't about the comic book hero, it's a tale of a man who time travels into the future and becomes a steel-clad entity.

  Lastly, the band's original line-up included a saxophonist and keyboardist, quite different from the doom-laden sound they're known for, isn't it?  

Enjoyed these nuggets of rock history? Give a thumbs up, comment your thoughts, share the knowledge, and subscribe for more. Keep the metal alive.

Suggested post: "The Rock n Roll Life Of Ronnie James Dio"

3 Little Known Facts About The Grateful Dead

  Welcome to a quick dive into the world of The Grateful Dead.  

Did you know they were initially called The Warlocks? However, upon discovering another band with the same name, they switched to The Grateful Dead, inspired by a folklore dictionary.

  Next, their iconic steal-your-face skull logo, it was created for the band's equipment cases to avoid theft, a blend of charm and practicality.

  Finally, their legendary Fare Thee Well concerts in 2015, they raked in over 50 million dollars, making them the most successful concerts in history.

 Enjoyed these fun facts? Please like, comment, share and subscribe for more. Until next time, keep rocking!

3 Little Known Facts About U2

  Ever pondered over the Irish rock band U2? Well, here's the scoop.    

 One, they weren't always U2. They were initially Feedback and then The Hype.

  Two, their record-breaking 360 tour was inspired by architecture, not music. It's a nod to the theme building at Los Angeles International Airport.

  Three, Bono's iconic glasses aren't just a fashion statement. He suffers from glaucoma, making his peepers sensitive to light. Now, isn't that something?

If you enjoyed these tidbits, do us a favor. Hit like, drop a comment,  share the love, and don't forget to subscribe. Until next time, keep the trivia coming.

3 Little Known Facts About Rush

 Ever wondered about the secrets behind the legendary rock band Rush? Dive into these three lesser-known facts.

  First, despite their success, they've never had a number one hit in their home country Canada.

  Second, their iconic song, YYZ, is actually the airport code for Toronto's Pearson International.

  Third,  drummer Neil Peart wasn't the original drummer.  He replaced John Rutsey after their first album.

  Intrigued? Unearth more music mysteries by liking, sharing and commenting. Don't forget to hit subscribe for your daily dose of surprising stories.