545 – James Gadson: Developing your own sound

This episode originally aired on October 31, 2013
In this session, the legendary Motown drummer talks about his start in Kansas City to how he became one of the most recorded drummers of al time. James has appeared on hit records with Charles Wright’s Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band, Dyke and the Blazers, The Temptations and a long list of Motown records too numerous to mention. James Gadson not only defines an era but has also served as an influence on drummers across the globe for decades and still does to this day.

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” – Henry David Thoreau

In this episode you’ll hear James Gadson talk about:

• How James got started with drumming
• James’ move to LA and session work
• The transition that he made form Jazz to R&B
• The signature James Gadson sound
• Recording with Bill Withers
• The Motown Scene
• Hearing himself on the radio for the first time
• James’ new book “Behind these Sticks” (unfinished)
• Much much more!