(Reference). Chick Webb's short professional career (he died at age 30) served as an inspiration to young drummers at the dawn of America's big band/swing era. Simply stated, Webb is the guy who inspired the guys, who inspired the guys, who inspired you. Gene Krupa: Chick taught me more than anyone. Buddy Rich: As a soloist, Chick had equal at the time. Papa Jo Jones I don't speak of Chick Webb, the drummer, I speak of Chick Webb, the epitome. And Webb accomplished this as a black man crippled with a debilitating disease in a segregated society. His contributions as a drummer/bandleader changed the course of music in America, t the least of which was discovering Ella Fitzgerald. Author Chet Falzera chronicles Webb's greatness in this celebration of the little giant including the recreation of Webb's drum set.