My guest today is Warren Odze. Warren is a successful drummer who has had a rich, versatile career; he has played, recorded &/or toured with Rod Stewart, Judy Collins, Bernie Leighton, Milt Hinton, Hank Jones, Peter Allen, Henry Gross as well as played on countless Broadway shows.

Warren appreciates that his parents introduced him to quality music, listening to legends like Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald and Louie Armstrong. Jo Jones (aka Papa Jo Jones) was a family friend and actually played Warren’s bar mitzvah! He shares honest insights of the world of a professional musician, wisdom that applies to life in general. He talks openly about his own sobriety and lessons he learned after his divorce to be a better father. He  marvels at musicians who, regardless of the intense pressure they are under, can bring chill to the gig. Warren names ‘the magic cats’, inspiring musicians like Steve Gadd, Elvin Jones, Frank Sinatra and Chick Corea, who embody being in the zone. He describes his personal journey of stage fright and anxiety and his determination to learn to relax, get out of his own way, so he could perform from a more grounded, intuitive place. Here’s a taste of some of Warren’s wit & wisdom: “I’m a first generation spoiled Long Island brat!” “When you are 18-20 years old, you are supposed to feel like you are going to change the world!” “I never really wanted to practice, I just wanted to play!” “I’m not famous and I’m not the best, but I’ve had a charmed life.” “Knock it out of the ballpark, wherever you go!” “There is no bad gig!” “All roads lead to Carvel” “Build it and they will come!” “The real sign of success is a dental plan.” “If you can’t chill there is no gig” “I have an acute case of wanderlust.” “I want to get to the finish line with peace and honor.” "(Broadway is) like a recording session where you never get a take but keep trying over and over again." Enjoy the podcast! Links: Internet Broadway Database All Music Facebook