1. Sun Records Drummer Passes Away
2. Sun Records Drummer’s death.
J.M. “Jimmy” Van Eaton, a pioneering rock ‘n’ roll drummer who played alongside music legends Jerry Lee Lewis and Billy Lee Riley at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, has sadly passed away at the age of 86. The news of his death was confirmed by a family member on Friday, February 9.
Van Eaton, who was born and raised in Memphis, had been dealing with health issues over the past year before he passed away at his home in Alabama. His wife, Deborah, confirmed the news, according to The Commercial Appeal of Memphis.
Known for his bluesy playing style, Van Eaton was instrumental in creating the iconic early-rock hits at Sun Records, including “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” by Jerry Lee Lewis and “Red Hot” by Billy Lee Riley. He also played with renowned musicians such as Bill Justis and Charlie Rich.
Originally starting out as a trumpet player in a school band, Van Eaton soon found his passion for the drums. In a 2015 interview, he mentioned that the drums intrigued him and he decided to pursue them as his instrument of choice.
Van Eaton’s journey in the music industry began when his own rock ‘n’ roll band, The Echoes, recorded a demo at Sam Phillips’ recording studio. Through this connection, he went on to collaborate with Billy Lee Riley and later joined Jerry Lee Lewis’ band.
Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Records, once described Jerry Lee Lewis as the hardest man to play with, except for Van Eaton. This statement is a testament to Van Eaton’s exceptional talent and ability to work alongside such a demanding musician.
Throughout the 1950s, Van Eaton became part of a core group of musicians who performed at Sun Records. However, he eventually drifted away from the music business during the 1960s. In the 1970s, he made a comeback as interest in rockabilly grew following Elvis Presley’s death.
In the early 1980s, Van Eaton embarked on a career in the municipal bond business, which spanned four decades. However, he continued to pursue his passion for music. He was involved in the music production for the film “Great Balls of Fire,” a biographical drama about Jerry Lee Lewis. Additionally, he released a solo album in the late 1990s.
Van Eaton’s contributions to the music industry were recognized with inductions into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. A few years ago, he relocated from Tennessee to Alabama.
In addition to his wife, Van Eaton is survived by his son and daughter.
The passing of J.M. “Jimmy” Van Eaton is a great loss to the rock ‘n’ roll community. His drumming skills and musical talent will forever be remembered and cherished. May he rest in peace..
1. Sun Records Drummer Dies at
2. Sun Records Drummer Passes Away at.
