on DRUMS, with John Simeone

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Join us for a nostalgic journey through the decades with Ken Talve, a gifted guitarist and my bandmate in the Ken Talve Trio. Ken opens up about his musical evolution, starting from his high school days when he was mesmerized by the blues and iconic bands like the Allman Brothers. Together, we reminisce about our days in the city lofts, endless rehearsals, and unforgettable club gigs that shaped our vibrant musical careers. With candid tales and a shared love for creating original music, we reflect on past collaborations and our continued passion for music in the Ken Talve Trio.

Have you ever wondered how a seasoned musician can gauge a band's quality without even hearing them play? We explore this intriguing skill and celebrate the impressive journey of my daughter, Kara, a Berklee graduate who has made waves in the industry with her award-winning compositions for projects like The Simpsons. From working with renowned drummer Chad Wackerman to Kara’s blossoming career, the episode highlights the joys and challenges of nurturing talent in the music world, emphasizing creativity that flourishes without undue pressure.

As we traverse through the phases of a musician’s life, we share humorous anecdotes about gear talk, elusive stage setups, and the rise of tribute bands. With reflections on the changing landscape of live music from past to present, there’s a bittersweet nostalgia for the camaraderie of earlier gigging days. We wrap up with thoughts on recent performances, the struggles of self-criticism, and a personal decision to step back from the stage, all shared with humor and a heartfelt farewell. Join us as we celebrate the journey, the passion, and the ever-evolving tapestry of a musician's life.

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Reconnecting with an old friend can be a heartwarming and enlightening experience. Imagine being separated for 15 years and then finding yourselves together again, not just as friends but as musicians who once shared the stage. This episode brings you the remarkable story of how I, John Simeone, reunited with the talented Al Quinn, our keyboard player from the band Street Life. Listen as we laugh and reflect on our unexpected reunion at Wildwood State Park and Al’s early days, beginning his musical journey at just eight years old, inspired by the timeless tunes of the Beatles.

Ever wondered how different life paths converge and diverge? This episode takes a closer look at our distinct musical journeys. Hear about the excitement of discovering music later in life and the contrasting experience of growing up immersed in the sounds of Steely Dan and Santana. We share how transitioning from organ to piano and classical training shaped our musical identities, with fascinating insights into the influence of shared mentors and the unique experiences of practicing and performing on these instruments. You’ll also get a glimpse into our educational paths and the impact of passionate teachers on our careers.

Balancing music with an engineering career presents its own set of challenges and rewards. In this episode, we discuss the practical reasons behind seeking a stable day job while nurturing a passion for music, and reflect on the vibrant yet demanding music scene of the 1980s. From local gigs to international tours, discover personal anecdotes about performing with legendary bands like the Stanton Anderson Band and renowned artists like Joel Rosenblatt. We wrap up with a candid chat about our future collaborations and the joy of sharing our love for music. Don’t miss this engaging episode filled with heartfelt stories and a deep appreciation for the art of music.

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What happens when a love for music meets the classroom? Join me and my longtime friend, Joel Levy, as we reminisce about our musical adventures from the 1980s and dive into Joel's incredible journey from Syracuse to the stage. You'll hear about Joel's early days playing the clarinet in fourth grade, his switch to the saxophone, and the unforgettable moment at the Eastman Theater that solidified his decision to make music his career. Joel's story is a testament to the power of dedicated educators and the magic of live performance.

Our conversation takes an emotional turn as we explore the highs and lows of balancing a teaching career with a passion for music. From memorable gigs, like the "Phantom of the Opera" themed performance, to the heartfelt advice from loved ones that kept Joel going, we cover it all. Discover how Joel overcame his reluctance to teach full-time, found joy in education, and pursued advanced degrees with guidance from renowned musicians like Eddie Daniels. This episode is a deep dive into perseverance, adaptability, and the fulfillment that comes from following your true calling.

We'll also shed light on the broader challenges and triumphs of music education today. Through personal anecdotes and engaging discussions, we highlight the ongoing struggle for recognition that music teachers face and the positive academic impacts of music education. From humorous performance mishaps to concerns about the decline in live performances and young musicians, we reflect on the past and look toward the future. Celebrate with us the transformative power of music, the role of community bands, and the enduring passion that drives musicians of all ages. Don’t miss this nostalgic, insightful, and inspiring episode with Joel Levy.

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What happens when a high school jazz band drummer from Vermont decides to take a spontaneous leap of faith and move to New York City? Join us as we chat with Sam Merrick, the talented drummer for the Broadway show "And Juliet," who shares his incredible journey. From local gigs in Boston while pursuing a communications degree at Boston University to a serendipitous bartending job in Times Square that led to valuable connections, Sam’s story is a testament to the power of chance encounters and seizing opportunities.

Ever wondered what it takes to transition from live, improvisational gigs to the structured world of Broadway performances? Sam opens up about the pressure of auditions, adapting to strict musical scores, and balancing different types of gigs. We explore the contrasting demands of club dates versus long-running shows like "Hamilton," and how versatility and stepping out of routine can keep the musical experience fresh. Sam also sheds light on the physical and mental toll of performing in musical theater and shares anecdotes from the fast-paced environment of Broadway.

Discover how modern drumming trends and social media have influenced Sam's career, and the balancing act of maintaining personal relationships while navigating the unpredictable music business landscape. From remote recording sessions to the unique passion drummers have for their craft, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the life of a Broadway musician. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation with Sam Merrick, as he shares his insights, experiences, and the joy of making music.

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They say time flies when you're having fun, but never so quickly as when you're jamming with an old friend like Mark Newman. Our laughter echoed through the studio as Mark recanted the time he salvaged a guitar from the trash—a fitting prelude to his remarkable journey from a wide-eyed kid enthralled by '50s rock 'n' roll, to the seasoned guitarist we know today. This episode peels back the curtain on the music industry, presenting tales of bands formed and friendships solidified, all against the ever-changing backdrop of the world’s sonic landscape.

Imagine auditioning for the very instruments you play. That's just one of the humorous ideas we toss around while discussing the peculiarities of music scenes and the nature of musicianship. Mark's narrative, woven with the threads of influence from The Beatles to The Rolling Stones, captures the essence of creative evolution. From high school gigs to the brink of record deals, our discussion navigates the complex interplay between ambition and the pure love of music, highlighting the soulful detours and career-defining moments that can only be appreciated by those who've lived it.

As the chords of Woodstock's legacy fade into the acoustics of New York's vibrant scene, we traverse the industry's tides alongside Mark. The episode crescendos with his stirring recitation of "Running Hard in the Rain," echoing the perseverance and passion emblematic of a musician's life. Whether it's navigating the murky waters of club date gigs or cherishing the unexpected call from John Oates, this symphony of stories is a testament to the tumultuous yet triumphant life in the rhythm of music. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the melodies and memories that define a true artist's path.

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Have you ever found yourself caught between the steady beat of work life and the syncopated rhythms of a musical passion? My friend Don Olsen, a savvy electronics manufacturing business owner, joins me for a stroll down memory lane to chat about our earlier days, the laugh-filled experiences with jazz musicians, and the art of juggling careers with the melodies that truly make our hearts sing. We swap tales from the trenches of Dave Ferrin's band, ponder the impact of part-time musicians on the industry, and can't help but chuckle at the memories of musical disputes and the strong bonds formed through shared tunes.

Strumming through life's soundtrack, Don shares how his love for music began with a humble guitar, spurred by the folk era and my brother's own musical ventures. We explore the electric feeling of joining a first band and the deep, almost mystical connection music forges among those who let it steer their souls. From my time with The Majestix to transitioning to bass, it's clear that even as we face the realities of aging and our changing health, the reverberations of a well-played note can sustain us through the years, acting as an unwavering companion to our life's journey.

As we wrap up, Don and I dissect a singer's distinctive vibrato, and though we part ways with laughter, the resonance of our discussion leaves a lasting echo. This talk isn't just about reminiscing; it's about recognizing the evolution of the music scene, confronting the challenges that technology presents to live performers, and saluting those musicians who still manage to dance through the noise. So lean in, lend your ear, and perhaps you'll find a fragment of your own rhythm reflected in our harmonious farewell.

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When Lee Finkelstein lays down a beat, it's not just rhythm—he's telling a story, painting a landscape. It's a philosophy I, John Simeone, share wholeheartedly. Our recent conversation took us on a tour through the world of drumming, where we unpacked the essence of what it means to truly play for the music. Lee, with his wealth of experience across genres, emphasizes the idea that serving the song trumps personal showmanship. We riff on the camaraderie between drummers, the joy found in simplicity, and the magnetic pull of a groove that unites a band. 

The heartbeat of our episode pulses with discussions on live performance and the wisdom Lee shares gleaned from playing with legends like the Blues Brothers band and stepping in for David Garibaldi with Tower of Power. As we explore the shifting tides of the music industry, we offer nuggets of advice for up-and-coming drummers striving to stay relevant. Join us as we share stories of triumph, the humbling moments of our careers, and the lessons that resonate beyond the stage. It's a rhythmic ride that speaks to the core of every musician's spirit.

Lee has recorded, performed with and backed up Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Nancy Wilson, Grover Washington Jr, Eric Gale, The Oregon Symphony Orchestra & Randy Brecker, Isaac Hayes, Eddie Floyd, Bette Midler, Blood Sweat & Tears, Russ Freeman, Julio Iglesias, Frankie Paul, Johnny Winter, Steve Cropper, Lou Marini, Will Lee, Paul Shafer, John Tropea, Leon Pendarvis, Alan Rubin, Saturday Night Live, Dave Valentine, Cornelius Bumpus, Anthony Jackson, Mary Wilson, Daryl Hall, John Oates, Hudson River Rats, Joey Ramone, Vaneese Thomas, Mario Cruz, Jens Wendelboe, Don Blackman, Oz Noy, Buzz Feiten, Neil Jason, Deena Miller, Dave Fields, Jay Prince, Bill Heller, Cosmic Oven, Derretub Snub, Hadrian Decree, Red Flannel Hash Band, Small Talk/Jim Small Band, The Paper Bag, Timberwolf, Yasgur's Farm, Jim Pin Band 5+2-1, Eclipse, Funk Filharmonik, The Zen Tricksters, Major Domo, Chick Singer Night NYC, Jonny Rosch, Bobby Harden, Stevie Cochran, Ed Palermo Big Band, Napoleon Murphy Brock, Wycliff Gordon, Marc Ribler, Jack Daley, JT Bowen, Southside Johhny, Bowling For Leftovers, Dead On Live, Felix Cavaliere and The Rascals, Felicia Collins, David Spinozza, Vernon Reid, Corey Glover, Bill Murray, Chris Noth, Ben Vereen, Friends of the Brothers, the Royal Scam and Paul Sorvino.   

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As a young drummer, tapping rhythms on school desks and dreaming of the big stage, I never imagined I'd be trading stories with a Broadway legend like Bill Lanham. Yet, here we are in a heart-to-heart, delving into the thrills and spills of his career, from the electrifying beats of Les Misérables to the high-stakes world of live theatre drumming. Billy's family tapestry is woven with threads of classical piano and doo-wop vocals, a heritage that beats strong in his passion for rhythm and sets the stage for our conversation.

Picture yourself in the orchestra pit, lights dim, the audience hushed, and the conductor's baton about to fall. Billy takes us behind the scenes of this pressure-cooker environment, sharing the laugh-out-loud mishaps and nail-biting precision required when subbing for another musician. Meanwhile, he reflects on the bedrock role of a drummer—less about the solos and more about the soul, providing the groove that keeps the musical world spinning. It's a testament to the unseen heroes of the band, grounding flights of jazz solos and anchoring the soaring vocals of Broadway stars.

It's no secret that the music industry's rhythm has changed, skipping beats as seasoned artists navigate the torrent of new talent. Billy and I muse over the evolution from bustling wedding circuits to the intimacy of jazz trio jam sessions with Al Quinn and Dave Segal.  These are the moments that define a musician's journey, where the craft transcends performance and becomes a shared heartbeat between artist and audience. So, slip on your headphones and prepare to be swept up in the rhythms of a life rich with music, as I sit down with Bill Lanham, a drummer whose story beats with the pulse of Broadway itself.

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