It was around 1975, when a drummer friend asked me if I had ever heard of Tony Williams. At the time as a young student I had not. He said, “Oh you have to hear his playing!” Well, almost immediately I began listening to some of Tony's stuff - and I was floored!
At that time, I was listening mostly to Top 40, and of course Max Roach, Buddy Rich, Louie Bellson, Elvin Jones, and lots of Rhythm & Blues.
On Top 40 radio at the time they played everything and most all styles except jazz. I was so impressed by Tony's explosive playing – yet, he could be so incredibly sensitive. His fast singles slowly building around the toms inspired me to start the intro of ‘Norwegian Wood’ on my self - titled CD “The Count Pacie Jazz Trio” (Because of You) recorded in 2006.
Also Tony’s jazz ride cymbal patterns… His fast singles split up between the hands and bass drum and his famous flam hits at the end of a song.
‘Seven Steps to Heaven’ was one of my all -time favorites with Miles Davis, and the Stan Getz Quartet at Montreux 1972 -- Featuring Stan Getz on tenor saxophone, Chick Corea – electric piano, Stanley Clarke – bass, Airto Moreira – percussion with the amazing Tony Williams on drums.
Honestly, it would have been impossible for me to really study all of Tony's recordings in detail - but what I have heard over the years definitely influenced my drumming.
Luckily, I was able to see him perform live on three different occasions… First at a place on Long Island, and then at Saratoga Springs - both concerts were held in the 1970’s. Later on in the 1980’s Tony performed in Chicago, Illinois with the VSOP group. All three shows were truly memorable… To this day - “I say thank you to the great Tony Williams”.
Ralph Pace Jr. began studying at age four under the guidance of his father, drummer, author, and inventor Ralph C. Pace.
Ralph Sr. was known for writing ‘Variations of Drumming’, and the ‘Sounds of Rock and Roll’ series. Ralph Pace Jr. is featured on the cover of his father's ‘Rock and Roll’ volumes. Ralph Sr. also invented the ‘Set the Pace’ practice pad drum set.
Ralph Pace Jr. also studied with notable instructors Jim Chapin, Joe Cusatis, and Joe Morello. He also attended Drummers Collective, and the International World Festival at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass.
His musical contributions include performing with many notable artists, and appearing on albums such as ‘Back to Brazil’. Ralph has also been featured in videos showcasing his drumming - including a YouTube video demonstrating double bass drum techniques.
His career includes performing with artists like Crystal Gayle, Gary Morris, and the Count Pacie Jazz Trio, as well as producing and playing drums for singer -songwriter Minnie Murphy.
