Who is Bernard Pretty Purdie?

Bernard "Pretty" Purdie is a renowned American drummer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest session drummers of all time. Born June 11, 1939, in Elkton, Maryland, Purdie has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry and has recorded for countless commercial albums, television shows, and films.

Aside from his musical feats, Purdie is also celebrated for being a commercial actor. He appeared in numerous advertisements for brands such as MCI, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Lipton Tea. One of his most memorable commercials is the classic 1992 Nike ad featuring Michael Jordan and Spike Lee.

In the commercial, Purdie is shown playing the drums while Jordan performs one of his signature basketball moves. The ad became an instant hit, and Purdie's performance was widely praised.

Purdie's incredible musicianship has made him a legend in the music industry, and his work as a commercial actor has cemented his status as a pop culture icon. He is known for his signature style of drumming, characterized by his use of a "Purdie shuffle" rhythm that has influenced countless drummers.

Despite his success, Purdie remains humble and continues to inspire upcoming musicians with his talents and hard work. He continues to play music and even teaches drumming at various music camps and workshops around the world.