Man that was awesome, thanks for posting that Kelly. I saw Buddy about a year before he died, his playing then was great as well. Before the concert started, I walked up to the band stand, and took mental note of Buddy's drum and cymbal set up. I heard this loud deep voice say, hey kid, get of the stage we're getting ready to start. I looked up, and it was Buddy.

After the concert each one of us kids lined up outside the bus. We were allowed 1 question and autograph each, no photographs. I walked into the bus, the door shut behind, there was Buddy sitting, with a security guard behind him. He signed my Zildjian famous drummers set up book. He said, oh it's you again, what's your question, and make it quick. I asked, why he was using a 20" Rock Ride with his band, his reply was. Well kid, Zildjian has made a Swing ride for me yet!

I walked off the bus, he yelled, hey kid. I turned around and he said, the heavier ride cuts through the brass section easier than a thinner one. He smiled, and I said, thank you Mr. Rich.
That was my one and only experience with Buddy. I thought he was a bit sarcastic, but yet funny.