What are your current projects
I am currently working with a new project put together by Roy Ayers called Superstars of Jazz Fusion which is a group comprising of Roy Ayers, Lonnie Liston Smith, Wayne Henderson, Ronnie Laws & Tom Browne….we play all the music they wrote back in the 70’s. I’m also working on a new album featuring some of those artists. There is also some recording looming with Amy Winehouse.
What was your first gig?
My first gig was with my family band when I was a kid…playing original rock songs….but my first professional gig was with Jean Toussaint, a saxophonist who use to play with Art Blakey…I really learnt a lot playing with him and he was a very encouraging guy.
When did you start playing, and who were your biggest influences when you were starting out?
I got my first set of drums when I was 9 and my first influences were Mark Helm from ‘The Band’ and when they use to back Bob Dylan and Alex Acuna from Weather Report ….but I didn’t know who they were at the time of course. Later on I got more into jazz and Drummers like Papa Jo Jones, Elvin Jones, Tony Williams and Ralph Peterson who later became my teacher.
What is the most important thing you’ve learnt, perhaps something which changed your approach to playing?
Playing in church really altered the way I feel and play music. The church I grew up in was not a gospel church as such (although I am very much into that sound) but playing songs in that context helped me to think about something higher than myself and the drums . It was also about playing with sensitivity and support.
What advice would you give to young or new players wanting to get gigs?
Persevere with trying to make better music, be a nice person and turn up on time! Preparation is the key to success.
What is the one thing a student should bring to Rhythmfest?
Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. oh…that was 2 things!
What are you going to be covering (in pretty general terms) in your masterclass?
How to make music feel good as a drummer ie keeping time/pocket, complimenting other musicians/ artists, and playing a song AND…how to expand your vocabulary as a drummer with the use of the rudiments, Rhythmic formulae and experimentation.
What are the essential things a new drummer be spending their limited budget on?
apart from the obvious…sticks and instruments…spend money on going to see musicians play live….so much can be gleaned from watching other players.
Anything else you want to say?
Come to Rhythm fest….you will be challenged, inspired and refreshed and we are planning on having a lot of fun!
