Bev Bevan

The stage lights dim, and a thunderous applause echoes through the venue—a familiar sound marking the moments just before Bev Bevan steps onto the stage. Known predominantly as the drummer for the iconic Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) and later, for Black Sabbath, Bevan’s career exemplifies a legendary drummer who left an indelible mark on rock music history. Born in Birmingham, England on November 24, 1944, Beverly "Bev" Bevan emerged from the heartland of the British music revolution. From early childhood, Bevan was exposed to the siren’s call of rhythm. At first glance, his initial career orientation seems atypical of a future rock star. Before plunging into music, Bevan briefly worked at The Beehive, a department store in Birmingham, where he likely stockpiled more than just products, but dreams and aspirations for the sounds he one day wanted to create. That ordinary job was soon swapped for a drum kit, the cornerstone of Bevan's future legacy. Bevan’s first significant foray into the music industry came when he joined Denny Laine and the Diplomats. Although the band itself didn't gain significant fame, it carved an initial path for Bevan within the bustling 1960s British music scene. With the band's dissolution, Bevan's opportunities expanded, culminating in a serendipitous union in 1966 with Carl Wayne, Roy Wood, Chris "Ace" Kefford, and Trevor Burton to form The Move, a group that would soon see itself catapulted into musical acclaim. The Move was a trailblazer, known for their eclectic mix of rock and pop, often with a psychedelic influence. Their track "Flowers in the Rain" became the first song played on BBC Radio 1 in 1967, cementing a piece of history with Bevan's steady drumming backing the iconic melody. Bevan's tenure with The Move was critical in honing his skills and preparing him for the seismic shift that lay ahead—the formation of the Electric Light Orchestra in 1970. Electric Light Orchestra, or ELO, emerged from the remaining threads of The Move, with Jeff Lynne and Roy Wood aspiring to create a rock band with symphonic influences. Bev Bevan’s drum beats anchored ELO’s ambitious fusion sound, noted for its blending of rock music with classical arrangements. As ELO’s music took flight, Bevan became part of a revolutionary movement that saw album after album climb the charts. His work on albums such as "Eldorado," "Face the Music," and "Out of the Blue" showcased his ability to provide percussion that was simultaneously powerful and artfully intricate. However, the history of ELO was not without its shadows. As the band expanded their horizons, tensions and dynamics shifted. Yet through it all, Bevan remained a constant until the group disbanded in 1986. Following ELO, Bev Bevan briefly joined the legendary Black Sabbath in the 1980s, stepping in for Bill Ward. This period infused Bevan’s drumming style with even darker, more intense tones, befitting Sabbath's heavy metal paradigm. In the late 1980s, Bevan sought to re-energize the ELO legacy, crafting a new band dubbed Electric Light Orchestra Part II. Attempting to recapture the magic of ELO, Bevan enlisted a mix of new and former musicians. While ELO Part II didn’t reach the commercial heights of its predecessor, Bevan's dedication to music was unwavering, keeping the dream alive with consistent touring and new recordings. Bevan’s life beyond the stage is equally enthralling. His 1980 autobiography "The Electric Light Orchestra Story" offers a raw glimpse into the whirlwind of life as part of ELO. Besides drums, Bevan took on a new role as a DJ, hosting radio shows on BBC WM—a medium where his articulate storytelling and compelling voice found a new audience. The later years brought reflection and recognition. Bevan was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 as a member of ELO, a crowning achievement that acknowledged his profound contributions to the world of music. Despite his semi-retirement, Bevan occasionally emerges for special performances, reminding old fans and newcomers alike of his remarkable talent. From a Birmingham department store to the stages shared with rock royalty, Bevan’s career has been anything but conventional. He broke and redefined barriers, blending genres, rhythms, and sounds into music that defied expectations. Bev Bevan's journey is a testament to the timeless power of rhythm, and the beating heart that he brought—and continues to bring—to every ensemble in his long, storied career.