Max Roach (1924–2007) was a pioneering American jazz drummer and composer, instrumental in the development of bebop. Born in North Carolina and raised in Brooklyn, he began drumming in gospel bands at age ten. Roach collaborated with jazz luminaries like Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Miles Davis, revolutionizing rhythm by shifting the pulse to the ride cymbal and introducing polyrhythms. In 1952, he co-founded Debut Records with Charles Mingus, one of the first artist-owned labels. His 1960 album, "We Insist! Freedom Now Suite," addressed civil rights themes, reflecting his commitment to social justice. Roach's innovative approach and activism left an indelible mark on jazz and beyond. ([britannica.com](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Max-Roach?utm_source=openai))