Ndugu Chancler

Ndugu Chancler

(1952–)

Los Angeles, CA, United States

Los Angeles-born drummer who played with Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, and Bobby Hutcherson while still in college. Joined Herbie Hancock's Mwandishi band, where Hancock gave him the name 'Ndugu' (Swahili for 'brother'). Also played with Weather Report and George Duke. Played drums on 'Billie Jean,' 'P.Y.T.,' and 'Baby Be Mine' on Michael Jackson's Thriller — making pop's most iconic groove the work of a jazz drummer. Passed away 2018.

Ndugu Chancler's albums

Thriller
Thriller
Michael Jackson · 1982

The drummer on 'Billie Jean' — Ndugu ChanclerNdugu ChanclerNdugu Chanclerンドゥグ・チャンクラー — was a jazz musician who had played with Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard while still in college. His name 'Ndugu' (Swahili for 'brother') was given to him by Herbie HancockHerbie HancockHerbie Hancockハービー・ハンコック during his time in Hancock's avant-garde Mwandishi band. He also played with Weather Report. Pop history's most recognizable drum groove was the work of a jazz drummer. Chancler also played drums on 'P.Y.T.' and 'Baby Be Mine' on Michael JacksonMichael JacksonMichael Jacksonマイケル・ジャクソン's Thriller.

— Ndugu Chancler, Drummer on 'Billie Jean,' Dead at 65 — Rolling Stone

Ndugu Chancler's albums