The Return of Emerson, Lake & Palmer

Presented by the Camden County Board of Commissioners: The Return of Emerson, Lake & Palmer

Saturday, September 21, 2024

Tickets: $39.50, $59.50, $69.50, $89.50

Scottish Rite Auditorium Member Presale: Tuesday, July 30th @ 10a thru Wednesday, July 31st, 10pm

(available to Scottish Rite Auditorium Members only. Available for purchase on etix and at the Box Office)

General On Sale: Thursday, August 1st @ 10am

Carl Palmer is a drummer’s drummer—an epitome of skill, precision, and charisma whose impact on rock music spans nearly four decades. As the driving force behind some of music’s most innovative and memorable bands, Palmer's legacy is firmly rooted in his work with Atomic Rooster, The Crazy World of Arthur Brown, Asia, and, of course, Emerson, Lake & Palmer. His drumming is celebrated for its technical brilliance, dynamic energy, and an engaging stage presence that has captivated audiences worldwide.

Early Life and Influences:

Carl Frederick Kendall Palmer was born on March 20, 1950, in Birmingham, England, into a musical family. His grandfather played the drums, his great-grandmother was a classical guitarist, and his father was a semi-professional entertainer who sang, danced, and played guitar and drums. With such a rich musical heritage, it was evident that Palmer was destined for a career in music.

From an early age, Palmer exhibited a strong passion for music. By the age of seven, he had already learned to play the banjolele, and his musical journey continued with classical violin studies. The pivotal moment in Palmer’s career came when he watched the film “Drum Crazy” (also known as “The Gene Krupa Story”) in 1959, which featured American film icon Sal Mineo and showcased the legendary drummer Gene Krupa. This film ignited Palmer’s fascination with drumming, and he soon began to immerse himself in the world of percussion.

Palmer's influences were shaped by iconic drummers such as Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich. The latter would later become a close personal friend, further fueling Palmer’s dedication to his craft. For his eleventh birthday, Palmer received a new drum set and immediately began his formal study of the instrument, laying the groundwork for his future successes.

Early Career and Breakthrough:

By the age of 15, Palmer had already made a name for himself as a respected working drummer. He joined Chris Farlowe & The Thunderbirds, and their recording of “Out of Time,” written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, became a major hit in the UK, propelling Farlowe to prominence.

At 18, Palmer joined The Crazy World of Arthur Brown, a band at the height of their fame following their hit single “Fire” (“I am the God of Hellfire...”). Palmer’s explosive drumming style was a perfect fit for the band’s theatrical and energetic performances.

In 1969, Palmer returned to the UK to co-found Atomic Rooster. With Atomic Rooster, Palmer experienced significant success as a founding member, helping to shape the band's distinctive sound and contributing to their rise in the rock scene.

The Formation of Emerson, Lake & Palmer:

The formation of Emerson, Lake & Palmer in 1970 marked a defining moment in Palmer's career. Teaming up with keyboardist Keith Emerson and bassist/vocalist Greg Lake, Palmer was instrumental in creating the band's unique blend of rock and classical music. ELP’s complex compositions, ambitious arrangements, and Palmer's impressive drumming solidified their place as one of the leading bands in the progressive rock genre.

Legacy and Influence:

Palmer's drumming is renowned for its dexterity, speed, and innovative techniques. His work with ELP, in particular, showcased his ability to blend rock rhythms with classical influences, creating a sound that was both powerful and sophisticated. His live performances were marked by their theatricality and virtuosity, making him a highly respected figure in the world of rock drumming.

As a consummate professional and dynamic showman, Carl Palmer has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His contributions to bands like Atomic Rooster, The Crazy World of Arthur Brown, Asia, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer have established him as one of rock and roll’s greatest drummers. Palmer’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and drummers, and his place in music history is firmly secured by his remarkable achievements and enduring influence.