Bill Goodwin

Short Biography

F. Bill Goodwin (born: Los Angeles, California, January 8, 1942) is an American jazz drummer. Bill has been a professional drummer since 1959, and has performed with many jazz instrumentalists such as: Bill Evans, Dexter Gordon, Art Pepper, Jim Hall, George Shearing and Bobby Hutcherson, and singers such as June Christy, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, Mose Allison and Manhattan Transfer. Joining the performing ensemble of vibraphonist Gary Burton brought him to the East Coast in 1969. After a three year stint with Burton's group, Bill settled in the Poconos and worked the local hotels and resorts. It was there that he and bassist Steve Gilmore met. Goodwin and Gilmore are both charter members of The Phil Woods Quartet (now Quintet), joining at its inception in February 1974. He was also featured on Tom Waits' album Nighthawks at the Diner in 1975, and worked with Steely Dan during the mid-70's.Bill has been a featured performer at the W. C. Handy Music Festival for many years, serving as a member of the performing ensemble known as the W. C. Handy Jazz All-Stars, alongside musicians such as guitarist Mundell Lowe, pianist / vocalist Johnny O'Neal, vibraphonist / drummer Chuck Redd, guitarist Tom Wolfe and pianist / vocalist Ray Reach.Bill is the son of Bill Goodwin, long-time announcer and actor best known for his many years on the Burns and Allen radio program, and subsequently The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show on television. He currently teaches jazz drumming at William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey.