286 - Homer Steinweiss (Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings): Creating vintage sounds for modern music - Drummer's Resource: Conversations with the world's greatest drummers and music industry pros.
July 17, 2017

286 – Homer Steinweiss (Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings): Creating vintage sounds for modern music

Homer Steinweiss is not a generalist. If you want a straight ahead Jazz drummer or a rock drummer, call someone else. But if you’re looking for vintage soul and afrobeat drums, Homer is your guy. He’s a specialist by design and he likes it that way. Known for his work as a founding member of Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings, Steinweiss has been sought out for that vintage sound by producers and notable artists like Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars, Sheryl Crow, Amy Winehouse and others. There is an underground world of funk and soul that transcends time and makes you wonder if the music you’re hearing is from 2017 or 1977 and Homer is at the epicenter, honoring the tradition.

“What we need is more people who specialize in the impossible.” – Theodore Roethke (Tweet this)

Homer Steinweiss talks about:

  • Early influences
  • The first time he got turned on to James Brown
  • Starting his first band and playing internationally
  • His focus on groove and tradition
  • Why he specializes
  • How he came to work with Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars and others
  • The economics of being a studio drummer vs a writing contributor
  • much more

Resources / Links / People Mentioned:


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