Andrew T Gibson Born & raised in Detroit, Andrew loved his city & was forever proud of its diversity, culture & musical heritage. Andrew began playing drums at the age of 10. By the age of 12 years, he was working professionally in the local clubs. Inspired by drummers such as Art Blakey he developed a unique melodic style. Drawing from his love of world music & diverse cultures, he incorporated these rhythms into his original music. Andrew played drums, percussion, piano & any other instrument he could lay his hands on. He was a producer, writer & gifted sound engineer. He was also talented in the visual arts such as oil painting and sculpture & spent many of his youthful years roaming the DIA. He was a long standing member of the DFM. Andrew performed with “the Fabulous Counts” for 10 years. His next venture was to become the “driving force” of the group “The Organization,” Among other artists, he performed with Spyder Turner, Jimmy Reed, Al Green, Albert King, Ronnie Foster, Herbie Mann, Lonnie Smith, Lyman Woodard, Tony Clark, Rena Scott, Grant Green, Gladys Knight & the Pips, The Capitals & The Originals among other top names. Andrew has performed with so many of the prominent local Detroit artists that the list is too long to name them all. Among some of his recordings (which include “Stand By Me” “Jan Jan” “Why Not Start All Over Again” & “Mr. Penguin.” ) 3 gold singles. Andrew was the voice and creator of the deep-voiced Mr. Penguin character & would be known as “Mr. Penguin” ever afterwards. In his last days, the hospital staff named him “Papa Cool” not realizing how close they had come to capturing his nature. Andrew served 2 years in the U.S. Army in Germany during the 1960’s. After a few years, he rejoined the Army & became the percussion section leader & Combo Director for the 70th Division Army Reserve Band. He served in the Army for a total of 27 plus years, performing all over the United States for troops, citizens & top brass including the likes of General Colin Powell. The Reserve Band also marched in the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade many times over several years & proudly performed at the 1994 FIFA World Cup Soccer Games. Andrew always looked on the positive side of life. We remember him for his love of history , his political insight & his deep warm laugh. He had so many stories to tell which people loved to hear over & over again. He always took time to listen to people & could slip into any culture & be accepted. The world has lost a beautiful creative, warm soul. His voice has been stilled in the present but he has left behind a gift of his recorded music which will keep his memory alive for years to come. Andrew is survived by his wife of 37 years Debra Gibson, his son Andrew Gibson Jr. & his grandchildren. His Last Words… “Its been a hell of a ride!”
