Podcast 131 - Antonio Sanchez: How to speak with the drums
October 4, 2015

131 – Antonio Sanchez: How to speak with the drums

In this podcast I talk to the all-time great, Antonio Sanchez. Sanchez, a four-time Grammy winner, frequently collaborates with some of the today’s most prominent jazz musicians like Joshua Redman, Chris Potter, Christian McBride, John Patitucci, Donny McCaslin, Danilo Perez, David Sanchez, Paquito D’Rivera, Kenny Werner, Marcus Roberts, Avishai Cohen, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Dianne Reeves, Miguel Zenon, Scott Colley, Dave Samuels, Luciana Souza, Billy Childs, and Claudia Acuña just to name a few.

Not only is Antonio a respected sideman, he has also released 5 successful records under his own name, and wrote the critically acclaimed score for the blockbuster hit, Birdman. His score for birdman won the Sound Stars Award for best Film Score at the 2014 Venice Film Festival and got nominated for the 2014 Hollywood Music in Media Awards for best original Film Score. Initially, Sanchez was also nominated for an Oscar for best film score but was unfortunately disqualified for a technicality. More on that in the interview…

“The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” – Confucius (Tweet this)

In this Podcast, Antonio Sanchez talks about:

  • His musical journey, starting in Mexico City
  • Moving to NYC
  • Collaborating with Jazz luminaries
  • His approach to playing melodically
  • Mistakes people make when soloing
  • Improving and soloing ideas
  • How to “say something” behind the kit
  • “Chops” and the misconception about them
  • The story behind the Birdman score (and the disqualification)

Resources and links mentioned:




Podcast Sponsors:

Antonio Sanchez Plays:

  • Yamaha drums
  • Zildjian Cymbals and Sticks (signature model)
  • Remo Heads and LP Percussion.