Joe Russo is an incredible drummer. His ferocious style on the kit has led to an ever-growing legion of loyal fans, justifying his royal nickname of “Sir Joe Russo”. He’s not the drummer we deserve…he’s the drummer we need. With his work with the Benevento/Russo Duo, the quartet known as G.R.A.B. featuring Trey Anastasio and Mike Gordon, Furthur with Bob Weir and Phil Lesh, and of course Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Russo has ingrained himself as one of the most important drummers in the improvisational music scene.

In honor of Russo’s birthday, let’s take a look back at some of these projects and how Russo has elevated himself into one of the best drummers in the world. Below, you can find videos from The Duo in Philadelphia from way back in 2004, The Duo with Mike Gordon in 2005, a clip from G.R.A.B.’s debut performance at Bonnaroo featuring Phil Lesh, a full set from Furthur at Madison Square Garden, and a smokin’ second set from Almost Dead with John Mayer. Also in there is a full show from the Shpongle Live Band, another band that Russo has played with, when he has time.

Enjoy this video retrospective of Russo’s work and join us in wishing him a happy birthday!

Benevento/Russo Duo – Pontiac Grill in Philadelphia – 1/29/2004

[Video: super vince]

Mike Gordon w/ The Duo – “You Enjoy Myself” – 12/31/2005

[Video: telekinetica]

G.R.A.B. w/ Phil Lesh – “Goin Down The Road Feeling Bad” – Bonnaroo 2006

[Video: CapturedAlive]

Furthur – Madison Square Garden – 11/20/2010

[Video: jamman6565]

Shpongle Live Band – Troxy London – 10/23/13

[Video: ÆNRICO]

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead w/ John Mayer – Brooklyn Bowl – 10/13/17

Happy Birthday, Sir Joe Russo!