Cozy Cole - Topsy
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Cozy Cole – Topsy I / Topsy II (1958)
A phenomenal drum-driven instrumental from veteran jazz drummer Cozy Cole, whose unexpected chart success with "Topsy" became one of the more unusual hits of the late '50s. Originally written by Edgar Battle and Eddie Durham, the tune dates back to 1937, when it was recorded by Count Basie and His Orchestra. Cole transforms it into a swinging, high-energy workout, combining big-band jazz arrangements with a rock 'n' roll sensibility.
Split across two sides of the 1958 single, "Topsy I" and "Topsy II" showcase Cole's remarkable technique, with the latter featuring an extended drum solo that became the record's main attraction. The single was a huge success, with "Topsy II" reaching No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and topping the R&B chart for six weeks. It also earned Cole a gold disc and reached No. 29 in the UK singles chart.
A fascinating meeting point between swing, jazz and early rock 'n' roll, "Topsy" is a landmark drum record that helped bring instrumental drumming into the pop charts, paving the way for the drum-led hits that followed in the years ahead.