Sidney "Big Sid" Catlett was born on January 17, 1910, in Evansville, Indiana. From an early age, he was trained in piano and drums, thanks to a music teacher hired by his mother. After moving to Chicago, Catlett received his first drum kit and was influenced by drummers like Zutty Singleton, Warren "Baby" Dodds, and Jimmy Bertrand.

In 1928, Catlett began his professional career with Darnell Howard and later joined Sammy Stewart's Orchestra in New York City, performing at the Savoy Ballroom. Throughout the 1930s, he worked with prominent musicians such as Benny Carter, McKinney's Cotton Pickers, Fletcher Henderson, and Don Redman. Between 1938 and 1942, Catlett became Louis Armstrong's preferred drummer and also played with Benny Goodman.

Catlett successfully transitioned into the bebop era, contributing to Dizzy Gillespie's recordings in 1945 and participating in a notable concert with Gillespie and Charlie Parker. He continued to perform with various ensembles, including Armstrong's All-Stars from 1947 to 1949, and led his own bands during the late 1940s. In 1950, he performed with Hoagy Carmichael.

Known for his tasteful and supportive drumming style, Catlett was praised for his ability to integrate his sound with the group, never overshadowing other performers. He was inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1996.

Sidney Catlett passed away from a heart attack on March 25, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois. His legacy lives on through his contributions to jazz music and his influence on future generations of drummers.