625 – George Fludas: Crossing Over

There’s a rich history when it comes to Jazz music and few know that history as well as George Fludas, a second-generation Jazz drummer from Chicago. Heavily immersed in Jazz at an early age, Fludas developed the musical vocabulary to speak on the bandstand, which lead to work with who’s who of Jazz greats, including: Ira Sullivan, Buddy Montgomery, Lou Donaldson, Frank Wess, Kenny Burrell, Betty Carter, Johnny Griffin, Benny Green, Roy Hargrove, Tommy Flanagan, Hank Jones, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, Benny Carter, Phil Woods, Junior Cook, Slide Hampton, and Bobby Hutcherson.

What makes George even more versatile is his love for Rock ‘n Roll (particularity John Bonham) which adds another element of power and authority to his playing, all while staying true to the history of Jazz and the characteristics that make music feel good.

As a musician we want to play with people we feel good playing with.

George Fludas

George Fludas talks about:

• How to learn from your idols without sounding just like them
• His early influences and how he chose what style he wanted to play
• Roles that talent and skill play in drumming success
• The value of education versus experience
• The things he encourages young drummers to work on

Resources/Links mentioned:

• Contact George: Website | Instagram | BONHAMOLOGY on YouTube