A leading American rhythm and blues drummer, best known for his innovative work with Little Walter and Chess Records in the 1950s. He is considered a key figure is establishing the foundations of Chicago blues.

He was born in Chicago, and started playing drums in a high school jazz band. After being conscripted into the US Army, he joined the 427th Army band where he played with Lester Young. After war service, he played in clubs in Germany before returning to the US in 1951.

Back in Chicago, Below found that jazz was in a lull and blues gigs were what was happening. Then Muddy Waters' drummer Elgin Evans introduced Below to a group called  the Three Aces, comprising Junior Wells and brothers Louis and Dave Myers. As a jazz drummer, it was rough fit at first. But then harmonica player Little Walter left the Muddy Waters band and was replaced by Wells. Little Walter wanted to play with the Aces and as 'Little Walter and the Four Aces', they became one of the top electric blues bands in Chicago. Unfortunately, their first records were released as 'Little Walter and the Nightcats' (or 'and His Night Caps' or even 'and His Jukes') which led to some dissension.

In 1955, Below left Little Walter's live band to concentrate on working as a session musician for Chess Records. However, he continued to play on Little Walter's records, as well as hit records for Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Jimmy Rogers, Elmore James, Otis Rush, Junior Wells, Howlin' Wolf and others.

The Myers brothers and Below briefly re-formed under the Aces name to tour Europe in 1970.

Below died from cancer in Chicago in 1988 at the age of 61.