Who Is Jim Gordon (musician)? Age, Biography and Wiki
Jim Gordon was born on July 14, 1945, in Los Angeles, California. He emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry, known for his exceptional skills as a session drummer, songwriter, and performer. Over his illustrious career, Gordon worked with some of the biggest names in the music business, earning recognition for his contributions to rock, pop, and jazz genres. His unique ability to blend various musical styles made him a sought-after drummer during the 1960s and 1970s.
Gordon's biography is marked by his significant achievements, including collaborations with artists such as Eric Clapton, George Harrison, and Frank Zappa. Tragically, his life took a turn due to personal struggles, and he passed away in 2023, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire musicians worldwide.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 14, 1945 |
| Age | 77 Years |
| Birth Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 13 March, 2023 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Jim Gordon (musician)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Jim Gordon was known for his tall stature, standing at approximately 6 feet (183 cm). His weight during his active years fluctuated around 180 pounds (82 kg), although precise measurements for his later years are less documented. Throughout his career, he maintained a fit physique, essential for the demanding nature of drumming.
Gordon was raised in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles and attended Grant High School. He passed up a music scholarship to UCLA in order to begin his professional career in 1963, at age 17, backing the Everly Brothers. He went on to become one of the most sought-after recording session drummers in Los Angeles.
The protégé of studio drummer Hal Blaine, Gordon performed on many notable recordings in the 1960s, including Pet Sounds by the Beach Boys (1966); The Spirit of '67 by Paul Revere & the Raiders; Gene Clark with the Gosdin Brothers by Gene Clark (1967); Who Knows Where the Time Goes by Judy Collins (1968)The Notorious Byrd Brothers by the Byrds (1
968); and the hit "Classical Gas" by Mason Williams (1968).
At the height of his career Gordon was reportedly so busy as a studio musician that he flew back to Los Angeles from Las Vegas every day to do two or three recording sessions and then returned in time to play the evening show at Caesars Palace.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Jim Gordon's personal life was somewhat private and complicated. He married twice during his lifetime, but details about his spouses and relationships remain relatively guarded. As of 2025, there are no public records regarding a girlfriend or boyfriend after his last known marriage. His relationships often took a backseat to his demanding career in music, and he appeared more focused on his artistic endeavors rather than maintaining public romantic relationships.
In 1983, in a psychotic episode associated with undiagnosed schizophrenia, Gordon murdered his mother and was sentenced to 16 years to life in prison, remaining incarcerated until his death in 2023.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2023, Jim Gordon's net worth was estimated to be around $10 million. His salary throughout his career varied but was significantly boosted by his work as a session musician, where he earned substantial fees for recording sessions and live performances. His contribution to major artists and albums allowed him to secure a comfortable financial situation. As of 2025, his estate continues to generate income through royalties from the extensive catalog of music he contributed to.
Career, Business and Investments
Jim Gordon's career kicked off in the 1960s when he became a sought-after session drummer in Los Angeles. He played on many hit records, solidifying his reputation in the industry. Notably, Gordon provided the iconic drum solo on "Layla" by Derek and the Dominos, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Throughout his career, he also dabbled in songwriting and was credited for co-writing songs that became hits for various artists. Despite facing personal challenges later in life, Gordon's creativity remained prolific during the early years of his career. Investments in music-related businesses and properties further contributed to his financial portfolio, reinforcing his position in the entertainment world.
Social Network
Although Jim Gordon was not an active figure on contemporary social media platforms due to his era, his legacy lives on through the conversations and tributes shared online. Fans and fellow musicians commemorate his works and contributions through various social media channels, highlighting his impact on the music industry. Posthumous tributes and discussions can be found on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, celebrating his life and music.
Education
Jim Gordon's formal education in music is less documented, but it is evident he honed his skills through practical experience and collaborations with industry legends. His early exposure to the music scene in Los Angeles provided him with invaluable lessons that aided his rise in the competitive world of professional music. Although little is publicly available regarding his academic background, his life and career serve as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and natural talent.
