Dusti Dryer

Dusti Dryer was just one year old when she was dubbed the world’s youngest musician. A photograph of her playing the harmonica, or rather holding it, was featured in a magazine and launched her career as a musician. Dusti took a liking to the drums and formed many small groups during her career, mostly all women, playing gigs in the Los Angeles area. Her groups were in highest demand during World War II when she played for army camps, clubs and ballrooms. In addition she played with many well-known artists such as the Andrew Sisters, Pinky Lee and Jimmy Durante. Dusti also appeared in movies and had a very early television program back in the late 1940s. She is thought to be one of the earliest musicians to play the newly developed Speed King drum pedal and she played Slingerland Drums most of her professional career. Well into her 90s, Dusti could be found playing in a group she helped form call the Groovin’ Grannies, all dressed up in sparkles while she shared her love for music and fun.