William Paul "Willie" Ackerman, one of Nashville's most popular session drummers for over three decades, has died. Willie passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, December 13, 2012. He was 73 years old.
Willie Ackerman played with numerous country stars, including Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, George Jones, Waylon Jennings, Chet Atkins, and Willie Nelson.
The Nashville-born drummer also played on jazz great Louis Armstrong's last album, a collection of country standards.
In fact, Willie played on thousands of recordings as well as live performances, television shows, commercial jingles and radio broadcasts.
Willie was also the staff drummer for the Grand Ole Opry, hit television show Hee Haw, and the world famous RCA Studios.
