David F. Gibson was a Philadelphia-born jazz drummer whose precise, hard-driving beat powered legacy editions of the Duke Ellington, Count Basie (under Frank Foster), and Cab Calloway orchestras, among many others.

A graduate of Temple University, Gibson became a first-call New York City drummer who toured and recorded widely; his credits include performances with Joe Williams, Clark Terry, the Sun Ra Arkestra, the Odean Pope Saxophone Choir, Diane Schuur, Woody Herman’s orchestra, and more.

Beyond his work as a sought-after sideman, Gibson led his own groups and issued recordings under his own name (the Dave Gibson & Friends series and other releases), and he was also active as an educator and clinician — serving on faculty and teaching the next generation of jazz musicians.

Gibson was widely admired for his swing, drive, and musical generosity; colleagues and jazz communities across the country celebrated his skill and warmth after his sudden passing on July 30, 2025, at age 72.

Time: 5:30 pm EDT

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