657 – Colin Stranahan: Let the Music In
Colin Stranahan was born into a musical family, so at an early age he was introduced to a litany of music icons. That early education, plus the freedom to explore music on his own gave Colin a well-rounded palate to draw from. His love for the Beatles, Elvin Jones, and a slew of others is evident in his playing, but not in the mimicking sense, but as a representation of their overall approach to the music.
Stranahan’s objective is to leave the ego at the door, clear the path for the music to come in and let the music dictate what he plays. This can be heard in his playing and that approach doesn’t change whether he’s playing with Herbie Hancock, Dr. Lonnie Smith or any other luminary he’s worked with. Colin is always Colin. Ever serving the music and getting out of the way let it all happen organically.
Colin Stranahan talks about:
- Growing up in a musical family
- How his father impacted his musical tastes
- Discovering the Beatles
- His approach for giving music space
- Developing your own voice behind the kit
- Finding balance with multiple passions
- Resisting the urge to overanalyze
- His approach when playing with legendary artists (hint: it’s the same no matter who he plays with)
- Much More