Drummer
Born: 13 June 1940
Died: 31 August 2014
Bobbie Clarke, a celebrated figure in the drumming world, is often referred to as "the Man Who Drummed the World." While many of his admirers may not be aware, this legendary musician hails from Coventry.
Born Robert William Woodman in Coventry on June 13, 1940, Bobbie's early passion for drumming was ignited by jazz rather than rock. He cited Eric Delaney as a significant influence, alongside the iconic Gene Krupa. A pivotal moment came in 1954 when he heard Duke Ellington's "Skin Deep," featuring drummer Louis Bellson, which he still regards as the finest drum solo he has ever encountered. Bobbie eventually transitioned to rock and roll, joining Vince Eager's Beat Boys, which included Tony Belcher, Tex Makins, and Alan Le Claire. This ensemble frequently performed at the renowned "2 I's" coffee bar in London's Old Compton Street, earning a reputation as dependable and skilled backing musicians. They later reformed as the Wildcats to support UK rocker Marty Wilde, with whom Bobbie recorded tracks such as "High School Confidential," "Too Much," and "Mean Woman Blues."
After parting ways with Wilde, the Beat Boys reemerged, taking on the role of Billy Fury's backing band. During this successful period, Bobbie encountered Vince Taylor, a musician whose impact on his career would be profound. Taylor, originally from Britain but raised in America, drew inspiration from rock legends like Gene Vincent and Elvis Presley. By 1960, Taylor was making waves, and Bobbie joined his band, the Playboys. Reflecting on their collaboration, Bobbie noted, "Vince Taylor was one of the greatest rockers... I instinctively knew what he was going to do, and he knew what I was going to do." Their synergy flourished during their four-and-a-half years together, despite Taylor's occasional absences due to personal struggles.
Bobbie played on Taylor's classic "Brand New Cadillac," solidifying his reputation as a skilled drummer. By 1961, he was performing under his real name, Bobby Woodman, with his own group, The Bobby Woodman Noise. They had the honor of playing at the prestigious Olympia in Paris, where they were joined by Wee Willie Harris. Vince Taylor, attending as a friend, impressed the backstage crew with his soundcheck, leading to a billing change that placed him at the top of the show. This performance resulted in a six-year recording contract with the Barclay label.
As Bobby Woodman transitioned to Bobbie Clarke, the band toured extensively across Europe, releasing a series of popular records, including "Lovin' Up A Storm," "So Glad You're Mine," "Memphis Tennessee," and "Let's Play House." Taylor's turbulent personality reportedly inspired David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust character. By 1963, the backing band disbanded, prompting Bobbie to spend a year with French rock legend Johnny Hallyday's Golden Stars before Hallyday's conscription into the French army. Bobbie continued to perform with his Noise and remained active in Europe, notably releasing the single "My Babe" under the Vince Taylor name with Bobbie Clarke's Noise.
In 1965, Bobbie relocated to America, where he collaborated with Arthur Lee's band Love and recorded "The Elves Themselves," featuring Frank Zappa and Jimi Hendrix. Unfortunately, his time in the U.S. was cut short when he was deported due to a marijuana possession charge. Back in the UK, he briefly joined Roundabout, a band that would later evolve into Deep Purple, but left after a short period and was replaced by Ian Paice. He then joined the psychedelic pop band Bodcast, which included future Yes guitarist Steve Howe. Though Bodcast did not achieve commercial success, they contributed to shaping the future of progressive rock.
In 1974, Bobbie's band The Noise reunited with Vince Taylor, and in 1987, he released the EP Bobbie Clarke: The Man Who Drummed the World. Reflecting on his career, Bobbie stated, “I had a wonderful time. I still play the drums, I still go over to France to do guest spots, and we still get great write-ups everywhere. I’m not as young as I was, but I still enjoy life.” Bobbie Clarke remains a true legend born in Coventry.
