Dickie Harrell, the original drummer for Gene Vincent’s Blue Caps, passed away at the age of 82.
He was known for his exceptional drumming skills and contribution to Capitol Records’ early 1960s catalog.
For those who are unfamiliar with his name, fret not, as this article will give you a glimpse into his life, music career, and legacy. Keep reading more.
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Who was Dickie Harell?
Dickie Harrell was born on August 27, 1940, in Portsmouth, Virginia. He started playing drums at a young age and was soon performing in the school band and some local country bands.
At the age of 15, he began working with Gene Vincent’s Blue Caps, which became his stepping stone to success. He was the youngest member of the band but quickly proved himself as a talented drummer.
In the mid-1950s, Gene Vincent’s Blue Caps gained popularity with their hit singles “Be-Bop-A-Lula,” “Race with the Devil,” and “Bluejean Bop.” Dickie Harrell’s drumming skills added to the band’s distinctive sound. He played in their most famous live performances, including the Ed Sullivan Show and Australian tour in 1957.
Despite the band’s brief success, Dickie Harrell continued to play for Gene Vincent until the early 1960s. He then contributed to Capitol Records’ early catalog with some instrumental tracks, including “Ram-Bunk-Shush,” which showcased his drumming prowess.
In 1982, the Blue Caps reformed for an album, which featured Dickie Harrell on drums. The album received critical acclaim and was a testament to his enduring influence in the music industry. Over the years, Harrell’s contribution to music and his collaborations with other musicians earned him a reputation as one of the greatest drummers of his time.
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Dickie Harell cause of death
On Wednesday, May 31st, Dickie Harrell passed away suddenly. The exact cause of his death has not been disclosed, but friends, followers, and family members have expressed their heartfelt condolences over his passing.
Dickie Harell Obituary
Dickie Harrell may have left us, but his music and legacy live on. He was a remarkable drummer whose contribution to Gene Vincent’s Blue Caps and the early 1960s Capitol Records catalog make him a significant figure in the music industry.
He inspired many musicians and drummers with his exceptional skills and unique style. Although we mourn his passing, we can remember him through his music and be grateful for the influence he has had on rock and roll. Rest in peace, Dickie “Be-Bop” Harrell.
Tributes Pour to Dickie Harrell
Lisa Pankratz
Feels like a gut punch to hear that Dickie Harrell has passed. Without question the Gene Vincent records he played on are a cornerstone of my rock and roll heart. I return to them frequently, have never gotten tired of them and they never fail to inspire.
I only met him in person once, but having him as my facebook friend and having Dickie “Bebop” Harrell putting stickers on my posts was a thrill every single time. You will live on, you will be missed. RIP, Dickie.
Dave Crimmen
I just heard the very sad news that a good friend of mine, Mr. Dickie Harrell has passed. He was the drummer for Gene Vincent’s Blue Caps and is on all of their hit singles like”Be Bop A Lula”, “Lotta Lovin” and “Dance Top The Bop”. I was honor to sit in with the Blue Caps in the 1990’s when they played the DNA Lounge here in San Francisco and again in Viva Las Vegas and the Rockabilly Hall of Fame in Jackson, TN. He was VERY active on Social Media and was always “Liking” my posts and making comments. He will be missed. The again, he’s probably jamming right this minute with Gene and the rest of the band.
Deanna Meeks Hornback
My heart is hurting sooo much tonight. My Dad’s wonderful friend has passed away. Dickie Harrell was a beautiful soul. A true friend to my Dad, and faithfully called him when Dad was fading away. He constantly checked on Dad and he was one of the first that I called when my Dad passed away. Thank you Dickie for being a lifelong friend to not only him, but me as well. He would check in on me often to see how I was doing ♥️ You have left a deep hole in everyone who has been blessed to know you. We send all of our love and prayers to Donna 💔
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