Obituary of Andrew McLuckie White

Andrew "Andy" McLuckie White Beloved Rock Drummer Andy White of Caldwell, New Jersey died peacefully at home in the arms of his beloved wife, Thea on Monday, November 9, 2015. Andy was born in Stranraer, Scotland on July 27, 1930. He grew up in Glasgow where he joined the Boy Scouts and played drums in their bag pipe band from the age of 12. In his early adulthood he apprenticed as a patternmaker in a foundry during the day while drumming at night with semi-pro bands. By the age of 22, Andy moved to London and his talent quickly earned him a reputation, leading to a six year job with the Vic Lewis Orchestra that included a three week tour of the United States with Bill Haley & His Comets at the top of the bill. During this tour, he became immersed in the rock and roll style of the era. Andy played drums for Frankie Laine and did three tours in South Africa with Johnnie Ray. He quickly became established as a session drummer in London which ultimately led to a fateful day in September 1962 when the Beatles came to London to record for the first time in the "big city." The producers were unsure about Ringo Starr, who had recently replaced Pete Best, so they hired the "go to" rock and roll drummer, Andy White to record "Please Please Me," "Love Me Do" and "P.S. I Love You." With typical modesty, Andy claimed "it could have been anyone I suppose but it was me." He then went on to drum for Tom Jones' first hit, "It's Not Unusual." He also worked with Engelbert Humperdinck, Dusty Springfield, Petula Clark, Herman's Hermits, Chuck Berry, Shirley Bassey, Lulu, The Rolling Stones, Eddie Cochran and many others. Concurrent with his studio work, Andy also played drums for theatrical shows in London. He played the full run of "Stop the World I Want to Get Off" with Anthony Newley, "Jesus Christ Superstar," and others. From 1964 to 1975 Andy toured the world with Marlene Dietrich's cabaret act under the direction of soon-to-be famous Burt Bacharach. From 1979 to 1983 Andy played with the BBC Scottish Radio Orchestra. His return to Glasgow led him back to the world of bag pipe bands and he joined the British Caledonian Airways Band. Andy married Thea in 1983 and immigrated to America where he became a respected drumming instructor for the New York City Police Pipe Band, the New York Corrections Emerald Pipe Band, and the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh in West Orange, NJ. As a member of the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association, he judged pipe band competitions all over the east coast. A member of the First Presbyterian Church in Caldwell, he enjoyed accompanying the wonderful choir on occasion. Andy's last gig was as drum instructor to actor John Magaro in the 2012 David Chase film "Not Fade Away" starring the late James Gandolfini. He is survived by his loving wife, four sweet nieces, six dear nephews, two close brothers-in law, a lovely sister-in-law and nine adorable great nephews and nieces. A celebration of Andy's life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Caldwell, New Jersey on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at 1:00pm. Arrangements are in care of the Codey & Jones Funeral Home of Caldwell, NJ. To extend condolences or share a memory, please visit www.codeyjonesfh.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the West Essex First Aid Squad, UNICEF, Doctors without Borders, or The Actors Fund which assists all professional performing artists in times of need.