Legendary jazz drummer Billy James has died
in Philadelphia at the age of 73.
James died Friday night at Mercy Hospital after struggling with
complications from asthma. That's according to his longtime
girlfriend, Danita Lyburn.
James was originally from Pittsburgh and played with jazz greats
including Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Sonny Stitt and many others.
He was a longtime mainstay at Philadelphia jazz clubs, including
Ortlieb's Jazzhaus and Chris' Jazz Cafe.
Funeral arrangements have not been set.