Gene Krupa (January 15th, 1909 – October 16th, 1973), was an American jazz drummer, bandleader and composer who performed with energy and showmanship. His drum solo on Benny Goodman's 1937 recording of "Sing, Sing, Sing" elevated the role of the drummer from an accompanist to an important solo voice in the band. In collaboration with the Slingerland drum and Zildjian cymbal manufacturers, he was a major force in defining the standard band drummer's kit and was considered "the founding father of the modern drumset".
History with the Macy's Parade[]
Krupa only appeared at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1962 and 1963.