An American drummer and arranger, often considered one of the most influential session musicians in Nashville history.

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, he became a professional musician at the age of 11 and went on his first world tour at the age of 14 with Chet Atkins. He first worked with Charlie McCoy and went on to play with two of his own groups, Barefoot Jerry and Area Code 615.

However, he was best known as a session player and worked with a number of well-known musicians, notably including Bob Dylan (Blonde on Blonde, Nashville Skyline, John Wesley Harding) and Neil Young (Harvest, Harvest Moon, Tonight's the Night). He also worked with J.J.Cale, Bob Seger, Elvis Presley, Donovan, George Harrison, Joan Baez, Dan Fogelberg, Jimmy Buffett and Kris Kristofferson.

In 1979, Buttrey played on Chuck Berry's final studio album, Rock It. In addition to studio work, he was a member of Neil Young's touring band, the Stray Gators and played in the group Rig.

He died of cancer in Nashville in September 2004.