The Upbeat Hang

Drummers are a special breed for sure and in this 45th Episode of The Upbeat Hang Duke and K Bo (Amy is off this week) explore that unique bond that timekeepers share with one another. Part of that bond is supporting one another and sharing insights on performing, technique, equipment, and, generally coping as a musician. When done in a group setting some call it a "drummer's hang." Listeners will be interested to hear about what drummers talk about and why some think these performers and their kinship is so unique. Check it out.

“Playing” with technology....have we crossed the line where technology is no longer just an aid to enhance our performance to where it is now a necessary component of our musical arsenal? In this 44th episode of The Upbeat Hang Duke, K Bo and Amy explore the ever-changing role that technology has played vis-a-vis many musical performers. The trio debates the pivotal question of when is too much simply too much? Just as importantly, they ask if the audience really cares if musicians autocorrect their own personal touch and idiosyncrasies out of the equation entirely? Check out the podcast on the Upbeat Hang YouTube channel!

What starts out as a discussion on the topic of sugar and its effect on health, gradually unravels as you get an honest glimpse of what happens behind every production somewhere along the line: the inevitable train-wreck. Some are visible and others are not; some are intentionally released and others just slip out; some are funny and some are cringeworthy. In this 43rd episode of The Upbeat Hang Duke, Amy, and K Bo come to you unfiltered and they bring with them various, and increasing technical “train-wrecks” that just led the cast to say, “post it…why not?” The cast of The Upbeat Hang believes that one cannot take him or herself too seriously and in this episode, they practice what they preach and simply just take a moment to chalk this one to just good old laughter—at themselves. Enjoy. For the video version, visit: https://youtu.be/qZf9bAABVGc

Drummer, songwriter, vocalist, and model Jotan Afanador does it all and in Episode 42 of The Upbeat Hang, K Bo, Duke, and Amy find out more about this Bronx, New York, native. Best known as the drummer for international sensation Romeo Santos as well as the Latin megaband Aventura, Afanador has traveled and played around the world to huge crowds spanning various continents. Additionally, as an originator of adding drums to the “Bachata” rhythms, Afanador has made a name for himself and the artists that he performs with. Viewers/listeners will be sure to be entertained by the energetic and effervescent Jotan Afanador. Disfrutar!

The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame—is it reality? ...an illusion? ...or worse, a politically motivated decision? In this 41st episode of The Upbeat Hang Duke, K Bo and Amy examine the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame ahead of this year's class of potential inductees. In particular, the trio discusses whether any of the potential inductees should be inducted, whether there are current members who do not belong, and, whether there are certain artists who have not been admitted but should be. We also examine whether the scope of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame has been enlarged to encompass acts that are not considered “rock n' roll” and how this concern can be resolved. Check out their picks and please share yours in the comments section! Music by Joystock. www.Joystock.org

In this 40th episode of The Upbeat Hang, Duke and K Bo welcome Modern Drummer writer, Russian native, and, phenom drummer Ilya Stemkovsky. Ilya has played for a number of nationally-touring groups including a long stint with the San Francisco-based electric jazz group The OM Trio who were winners of the SF Bay Guardian's 2001 Reader's Poll for best local jazz band. OM has also been featured in The Washington Post, The Village Voice, and, Jazz Times Magazine. Ilya has also performed with the Philadelphia-based electro-pop group Brothers Past which has been featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer and URB Magazine. Currently, fans can catch Ilya performing with Jersey Shore staple Eddie Testa. In this episode, we talk with Ilya about a new baby and his observations on the music industry. The music at the beginning and end of the podcast is from Ilya's original band OM. Learn more about OM at omtrio.com Catch Ilya during his live dates at facebook.com/eddietestaband

The elusive “holy grail” of songwriting is finding that piece of music that people consider “timeless.” And what makes a track or an album timeless? Simply put, music that doesn't get old and forgotten no matter when it was written. In this 39th Episode of The Upbeat Hang, Duke, K Bo, and Amy go back 50 years, all the way back to 1971, to explore and share their picks for “timeless” music from 50 years ago. As many avid fans of music history know, the year 1971 spawned a great amount of music that remains very relevant—and popular—today. To many people, that year generated plenty of “timeless” music. To see who we chose for our “timeless” album picks from 1971 you will want to check out this episode.

Even though everyone in the country just voted for their pick for president, in November of 2020, in Episode 38 of The Upbeat Hang, Duke and K Bo share their picks for president (and the accompanying cabinet members) which can only be chosen from the drummer community. Huh? Drummers for public office? Sound crazy? Well maybe, but this was a lot of fun. Tune in to find out who the guys picked for office and then BE SURE TO TELL US WHO YOU WOULD CHOOSE!.

Anger. It's an emotion that we all deal with at some point in our life and sometimes, even on a daily basis. However, everyone's approach as to how to handle this natural human emotion can sometimes vary greatly. In Episode 37 of The Upbeat Hang podcast, Duke and Amy share their thoughts about how to address, contain, and deal with the emotion of anger. Do you lash out? Attend therapy? Exercise? Here, listeners will get a behind-the-curtain peek as to how the two hosts of The Upbeat Hang themselves resolve internal issues brought about by anger. This is surely a topic that will hit home with every listener. Please let us know in the comments how you deal with it!

In Episode 36 of The Upbeat Hang podcast, Duke, and Amy get the opportunity to sit down with Angel Ramirez, Jr., who is a founding member of the Latin pop boy band, Barrio Boyzz. The Barrio Boyzz hit the scene in the 1990s when they placed various singles on the Billboard Latin Pop charts including their number one hit entitled, Wherever You Are (recorded as a duet with the late artist Selena, and placing on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs). The group went through line-up changes and eventually disbanded. However, in this episode, listeners will be thrilled to learn that the pop group is reuniting for an album and hopefully a supporting tour. Listeners will also hear Angel talk about his outlook on life and its challenges, as well as the group's anticipated comeback, and, some other surprises along the way. Enjoy!!!

In Episode 35 of The Upbeat Hang, K Bo and Duke reflect back on the year that passed since the legendary timekeeper of the band Rush, Neil Peart, had died. Peart, a household name to musicians and particularly drummers, left an impressive legacy that spans many iconic records and tours and today, that legacy is building and expanding more than ever. However, in this episode Duke introduces some pretty obscure (and interesting) facts about “The Professor” which are a bit off the beaten path. The guys round out their discussion with a fast forward to 2021 which includes a conversation about “dry January.” Check it out. Special thanks to lukenield for the use of the intro/outro music.

Earlier this year, (in Episode 25, if you want the shortened version) we spoke with Tris, who was candid about many aspects of his career and his life. This talented and humble human being has toured, performed, and recorded with countless hit artists, all over the globe. In this episode, you get to see the full, unedited interview, where he talks about singing, playing the harmonica, Mitch Mitchell, Jimi Hendrix, overcoming cancer, heartbreaks, playing memorable gigs, finding his life partner, and so much more. Of course, he also discusses Kenny Loggins, Chicago, Al Jarreau, Chaka Kahn, Anita Baker, and others. Enjoy!

If “free” ever good? In this 33rd episode of The Upbeat Hang, K Bo, Duke, and Amy examine that very premise vis-à-vis performing as a musician in the Jersey Shore cover band circuit. More specifically, is it acceptable (or even desirable) for musicians to offer their services for free to venues or, does playing for free dilute the market? Does it open doors to musicians to find “paying” work? These and similar arguments are bantered about in this engaging episode which any working musician will want to weigh in on. Check it out.

“Cut!” This popular filmmaking expression has been uttered by directors for decades in the movie business and in Episode 32 of The Upbeat Hang, we visit with an up and coming director and former NYPD member, Brian Pollock. Brian is the proud recipient of the Manhattan Film Festival's 2020 Junior Lifetime Achievement Award and in this segment, we delve into Brian's interesting journey which began when he was a first-responder on 9/11 all the way up to his contemporary status as a filmmaker, director, writer, and performer. Clearly a visionary, storyteller, and intellect, in this episode Brian shares his thoughts on writing, creating, and delivering a story that will surely resonate with his audience.

In Episode 31 of The Upbeat Hang, we welcome former NFL cheerleader, fitness and beauty guru, and current commentator for Monster Jam, Kimberly Cantoni-DiRoma. Having concluded a successful career as a “Jets Flight Crew” member for the N.Y. Jets, Kimberly talks about her experiences professionally cheering (including working a Pro Bowl event), moving on to being a sports entertainment host, and, starting a family. Always an engaging and effervescent personality, Kimberly shares her thoughts on her drive and determination to reach the pinnacle of her capabilities. Listeners will be intrigued to explore the interesting world of professional cheering and sports entertainment hosting.

Did you ever wonder what it would be like if one of your musical idols had never died and he or she was still alive today? What would they be doing? In Episode 30 of The Upbeat Hang, we examine this very question. After soliciting suggestions from our audience, K Bo, Duke, and Amy ponder what some of your favorite artists might be doing today. Indeed, it is an interesting proposition to debate and an even more interesting proposition to put to the imagination and in this episode, we try to bring the artists of yesteryear into the present day. What do you think??

In this fast-paced world, technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace. Indeed, that fact makes protecting your creative works a priority now, more than ever before. Enter Richard Liebowitz. In Episode 29, listeners will get to hear from Mr. Liebowitz, who is one of the nation's preeminent copyright attorneys, as to how to go about protecting their intellectual property in this torrid landscape. As an added bonus, The Upbeat Hang solicited questions from subscribers as to what their concerns were with protecting their intellectual property and we asked Richard for suggestions and direction in addressing these concerns. Any discussion where technology intersects legal protection of intellectual property is bound to be a compelling one and listeners will surely benefit from the advice of Mr. Liebowitz. Check it out. https://richardliebowitzesq.com

For centuries, few things have captivated our imagination as much as magic and illusion and in Episode 28, K Bo, Duke, and Amy sit down the magician/comedian phenom Steven Brundage. Steven became a household name after he captured the attention of the nation on America's Got Talent when he amazed the judges with his Rubik's cube magic tricks. Since then Steven has gone on to dazzle and perplex audiences all around the world with his wit, illusionary craftwork, and steel-trap mind techniques. In this episode, we get to see a more personal side of Steven and peak behind his curtain of illusion as well as we get to witness some of his magical work up close and personal. Always the performer, Mr. Brundage ensures that K Bo, Duke, and Amy left with jaws open and we bet yours will be too. Check it out. https://www.stevenbrundagemagic.com https://davidblaine.com

In Episode 27, K Bo, Duke, and Amy attempt to answer the age-old question which has been asked in entertainment circles since the beginning of time; who is the all-time greatest at their particular craft or instrument? In this instance, the debate centers around Led Zeppelin's thunderous percussionist, John Bonham, and Rush's “Professor” of the drum kit, Neil Peart. Both artists come with their own legendary status however, for as many parallels that can be seen between the two, there are just as many divergent qualities between this pair of epic timekeepers. In this Episode, the Upbeat trio examines and discuss the similarities and differences between these two drummers in trying to come to a conclusion as to who is the greatest rock drummer of all time; is it “Bonzo” or“The Professor”? Check it out.

In Episode 26, K Bo, Duke, and Amy bid goodbye to Summer 2020. In what has been nothing short of an unusual time for us all, the trio remembers best what they each took out of the recent past warm summer months. The gang also offer their first annual pre-season NFL Superbowl picks. With professional sports being slightly unpredictable this year, The Upbeat Hang weighs in on their odds-on favorite to win it all. And last but certainly not least, The Hang's own Duke Clement has announced that he will be hitting the studio shortly to record a new single. However, only Duke knows the who, where, and why of the track. Tune in for K Bo and Amy's predictions as to what to expect on Duke's upcoming new single in this latest episode of The Upbeat Hang.

Every great record has a “B” side which is simply another way of looking at the same artist. In Episode 25, K Bo, Duke, and Amy explore the “B” side of one of the most iconic and well-known drummers in the music business; Tris Imboden. Tris's resume is vast and well documented and most know him for his long-standing runs with the Hall of Fame band Chicago as well multi-Grammy winner Kenny Loggins. However, there is a “B” side to Tris which is equally as good as the “A” side. That “other” side includes his experiences as a lifelong master surfer, cancer survivor, accomplished harpist, and, even his experience on an internet dating site which led him to meet the love of his life. Always engaging and thought of by many to be one of the nicest guys in the business, check out our sitdown with the one and only Tris Imboden.

In Episode 24, K Bo, Duke, and Amy explore the inner workings of one of the most iconic musical artists of all time; the vocal, instrumental, and performing paradigm commonly known as Freddie Mercury. Mercury was the long-time frontman and most-instantly recognizable voice of the legendary English rock band, Queen. Formed in 1970, Queen went on to become one of the world's greatest rock n' roll bands in history and that continued all the way up to Mercury's death in 1991. In this episode, the upbeat trio talk about Mercury's exceptional abilities as not only a vocalist but also as a composer, innovator, personality, and, performer. Consideration is also given of the late Mercury's personal life as well as his jealously guarded privacy. Special features also include factual trivia about Mercury's life as well as a discussion about where Freddie would have been today (as a performer) had he survived. Special thanks to artist Jorge Mora for this episode's amazing artwork! Follow Jorge on Instagram @jorgemoracaricaturas or on Facebook- Jorge Mora

In Episode 23, K Bo, Duke, and Amy visit with New Jersey's own homegrown monster talent, the venerated Jerry Gaskill, whom many know as the longtime drummer of the ever-popular band, King's X. For decades, the band has been revered by its loyal following which in large part comes as a byproduct of the trio's consistent display of excellence in performing and recording. Here, Gaskill himself talks about his contributions not only as the drummer for the band but also as a writer and an intellect who helped guide the group through its steady ascent to success. Listeners will also be thrilled to take in Gaskill's persona which shows why Jerry is one of the more popular personalities in the business today and adored by musicians and fans alike. Witty yet direct, Gaskill pulls no punches and he tells it like it is which makes this Episode a must listen. Welcome, Jerry Gaskill! Jerry's second solo album: https://ratpakrecordsamerica.com/jerrygaskill King's X website: http://kingsxrocks.com

In Episode 22, K Bo, Amy, and Duke enjoy an energetic sit down with the ever so busy and dynamic drummer/motivational speaker/actor/author/producer, Rich Redmond. Redmond is largely known for being the journeyman timekeeper behind mega-country artist, Jason Aldean, however, listeners soon learn that Redmond's other exploits also make him a must-see commodity well beyond the drum kit. Thus, although Redmond has performed and/or recorded with so many marque artists like Aldean, Garth Brooks, Kelly Clarkson, Bob Seger and so many more, his motivational speaking performances also rival those of contemporaries such as Tony Robbins. A staple of the Nashville music scene, fans of music will also be interested to hear of Redmond's experiences performing at national music awards shows, his experiences performing on a multitude of television shows, as well as his venture into the world of acting. Check out the band (The Wolfe Brothers) Rich has written songs for: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1McMRetlMqavXFC8TCVfma?si=krafaZ6wTamOXH9hBbXbuA Rich's website: https://richredmond.com Follow Rich on Instagram Rich's custom cases: https://humesandberg.com/rich-redmond/

Professional ice hockey is one of the most demanding sports on the planet. It is a game of skill that requires one to perform with speed, precision, and toughness regardless of whether the player is in the NHL or in the minor leagues. The evolution of players' abilities and advances in equipment have also increased the demands on not only the athletes themselves but also those who are responsible for coaching and preparing the player for the next level. Enter Coach Billy McCreary. The name “McCreary” is a household name in the hockey world as many are familiar with the lineage which dates back several decades. Billy McCreary is continuing that lineage by taking the City of Danbury, Connecticut, by storm in his first year as head coach of the FPHL's Danbury Hat Tricks. McCreary, a former professional player himself, has quickly transitioned into his second career as a coach and general manager and in Episode 21 of the Upbeat Hang, we get to hear of Coach McCreary's journey to coaching as well his philosophies on development, discipline, and destiny.

There are few measuring sticks of talent greater than the “Lights on Broadway” and in Episode 20, K-Bo, Amy and Duke sit down with the uber-talented actor/singer/writer/artist Jarvis B. Manning, Jr. Manning currently plays the part of Al Bryant, an original member and co-founder of the epic Motown group, The Temptations, in the Broadway smash hit Ain't Too Proud. The show chronicles the history of the legendary group and in addition to playing Bryant, Manning also plays the part of Norman Whitfield who was a staple in the Motown scene and he also produced virtually all of The Temptations' music in addition to co-writing some of the group's biggest hits. Listeners will quickly learn what made Manning a first-call for his roles in Ain't Too Proud as the young artist demonstrates a masterful understanding, desire, and ability to perform at the top of his craft. A Texas native who frequented Louisiana on family visits eventually moved on to Broadway, Manning has left little doubt with theatergoers that his own lights are shining bright. Initially excelling in sports, then into so many artistic roles, listeners will be interested to hear Manning describe his fascination and dedication to studying and recreating the magical genesis of the Motown greats. Follow Jarvis on Instagram: @brainart Check out his nightclub performance in Canada with the band The Grind: https://youtu.be/Ubp_XytqLgk Purchase his single “Suga Foot” on iTunes

In this Episode, Duke gets the opportunity to have an exclusive sit down with Nick Jones, the Vice President of well-known custom drum maker, Noble & Cooley. Although there are many boutique and custom drum companies in existence today, virtually none can rival the rich and illustrious history of Noble & Cooley which dates all the way back to January 1854. Since then, the famed Massachusetts company has been developing its craft first by creating musical drums (some of which were used by military drummers in the Civil War), then toy drums, and then finally reconnecting with its professional-level drum making abilities again in the 1980s. Since the company's reemergence in the musical drum making business, Noble & Cooley has earned a reputation of excellence which is second to none. In this Episode, Jones, a 7th Generation descendant of the Cooley line, takes time to explain the unique and painstaking manufacturing techniques and processes employed by N & C to create the legendary quality drums that they have produced for so many generations. noblecooley.com https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sideshow-podcast/id471295309 #nobleandcooley

In Episode 18, K Bo, Amy, and Duke spend some time chatting with a guest of a different kind—Olympic athlete and Virginia native, Marie Toussaint. Toussaint, a longtime New Jersey resident and graduate of the prestigious Monmouth University, takes time to talk about her preparations for the now-canceled 2020 Olympics (Tokyo) as well as the accompanying disappointment surrounding its cancellation. However, not one to be bested easily, Toussaint sheds light on her resilient mindset and undaunted determination that will prepare her for competition whenever the 2020 Olympics are rescheduled. In this episode, Toussaint also talks about her ventures in her second career as a beauty pageant contestant. The vivacious Toussaint compares and contrasts the distinctions and commonalities between both careers that are sure to be of keen interest to all listeners of the podcast. Here's a link to the movie scene referenced by Amy: https://youtu.be/-sUKoKQlEC4 Follow Maria on Instagram: @mariah2saint

Be sure to check out the video of this podcast at https://youtu.be/rBzCQHhn860 In Episode 17, K Bo, Amy, and Duke take advantage of a special opportunity to sit down with three of the hottest in-demand drummers in the business; Todd Sucherman (Styx), Van Romaine (Enrique Iglesias), and, Mark Schulman (Pink). Cumulatively, these three household names have performed in many of the world's largest arenas, recorded on hundreds of records, and, worked with many international acts. Additionally, the members of this special trio have been the recipients of many awards for achievement and recognition in their trade. Admittedly, getting three artists of this magnitude together in one session would ordinarily be very difficult, however, the unusual circumstances surrounding the music business (and society in general) made this sit down possible and, very unique. So join us as we explore a different (and more casual) side to these iconic timekeepers. We also delve into some other projects that Messrs. Sucherman, Romaine, Schulman are venturing into away from the drum kit. The trio gets to share some laughs and reflect on some of the things that have occurred throughout their time on the road as well as the highly unusual, extended time away from touring.

In this 16th episode of The Upbeat Hang, join Duke and Amy (K-Bo was unavailable at the time of the interview) as they welcome one of the pre-eminent drummers in the music business, Todd Sucherman. In 1995, Sucherman burst on to the scene when he replaced former Styx drummer John Panozzo. Since then he has continued to tour, perform, and record with the legendary band as a permanent member. Besides being a master technician at his percussive trade, Sucherman has also excelled as one of the most proficient and in-demand timekeepers while also furthering his penchant for teaching, educating, and maintaining a high standard of drumming that all drummers can aspire to. In this episode, Sucherman discusses all of the above as well as his debut solo album entitled "Last Flight Home" (in which he serves as lead vocalist, drummer, and percussionist). Sucherman also shares his insight with listeners as to his new homelife adaptations while he and Styx spend an extended time away from the road and studio due to the COVID-19 crisis. Clearly a household name for his drumming capabilities, join us as we explore a different and more personal side to this musical aficionado. Be sure to pick up his solo album "Last Flight Home" as well as his amazing recorded performance on Antoine Fafard's "Borrowmean Oddysey." http://www.toddsucherman.com/store/ https://antoinefafard.com/product/borromean-odyssey-packages/ https://styxworld.com

In Episode 15 of the Upbeat Hang, Duke flies solo as he sits down with the iconic drummer and New Jersey native, Van Romaine, to talk about everything music. As a drummer who has been playing for 50 years, Van's accomplishments in recording, touring, writing, and musically directing are quite lengthy and well known in industry circles as well as amongst fans of all kinds of music. However, listeners will be quick to learn that despite his impressive resume, Van is about as down to earth as they come. One way or another, contemporary music fans have heard Van's touch and in this Episode, they gain an understanding of the drive and passion which has made this performer one of the most respected players in the music industry. http://www.vanromaine.com/ https://www.enriqueiglesias.com/ https://www.laxepk.com/ https://www.spindoctors.com/band Steve Morse Band on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4RvfPm4uzNgEzeAxBOAQZK?si=7dgh0W73QdyFQoGnGZS4dg LAX Band on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4RT7ICxVYktMGSlhR9fn7b?si=Xvv1McnQTsyk3AtcDDQZPg

In this special episode of the Upbeat Hang, Amy, K-Bo, and Duke share some Upbeat News. The trio had the opportunity to speak with a New Jersey County employee named Eric Mewengkang. Eric, a local hero is an owner of a 3-D printer and has teamed up with designers and other printer owners to mass-produce potentially life-saving face shields to protect Healthcare workers from exposure to the COVID-19 virus. Eric explains exactly what the printer is and how it works. Amy, K-Bo, and Duke briefly discuss staying home as a way to “flatten the curve” Following the rules that the government has put in place is the best way to combat the spread of COVID-19. They also speak about homeschooling and express their gratitude to all those on the front lines. If you are interested in joining up to help out or to contribute to Eric's Go fund me account, please visit: https://tinyurl.com/vhmfczb

Upbeat Hang's 14th episode welcomes Jason Pace, Hollywood actor, leading voice-over artist, director, Children's theater founder and father. In a stroke of luck, Jason's mom called Jason, just as the interview had started. Amy, K-Bo, and Duke saw the unique opportunity to get some inside info on Jason. As you'll hear, it resulted in some great stories directly from Jason's mother. Jason talks about his early years of childhood acting in his home State of New York, where his love for television began on a Kraft Mac and Cheese commercial. Jason talks about his well-thought-out plan to take his career to Los Angeles where he had his first huge break on the sitcom, Girlfriends. He discusses his transition from on-screen acting to voice-over work. Jason talks about his experiences with Disney Pixar films as the voice of the New York taxi in Cars 3 and his many voices on Finding Dory. He explains why he stays true to his New York sports teams and even tells of his days on the football field playing quarterback. Jason is sure to give credit where it's due to his 3 talented children and his hometown of Staten Island. American Sniper https://youtu.be/Iyjz2idY_CY 1:05, 2:17, 3:30, 4:39 Finding Dory (several characters) https://youtu.be/RI1PHNKxJIM 1:50 Cars 3 (new York taxi cab called “Fare Game”)

In Episode 13, K-Bo, Amy and Duke speak with Fred Beato about his experiences coming to America, meeting some of his heroes (almost), and more. Fred's enthusiasm for life makes him one of the most likeable personalities in the music industry. His pride in making professional quality products for drummers and musicians around the world is clear as he talks about his business Beato Bags. https://www.facebook.com/fred.beato https://www.facebook.com/NewBluesRevolution/ https://shop.beatobags.com/default.asp

Studio Legend Joe Porcaro joins the Drummers' Hang and discusses memories of developing his career in his home state of Connecticut, then eventually, packing up the family, and driving across the country to make a go of it on the music scene in Los Angeles. Joe discusses some great memories of working in the studio alongside his lifelong friend Emil Richards, as well as Larry Bunker, Frank Zappa, and of course Toto. He shares the story of how Miles Davis joined forces with Toto and the history behind his Diamond Tip drumstick.

Tim Shahady of Paiste came into the Drummers' Hang studio and spent some time hanging. Ken, Duke, and new host Amy inquire about Paiste products, endorsers, Tim's own band "The Lonesome Pines", and cymbal product development. The hang takes a small detour toward the topic of gongs and how surprisingly popular they are, and even the topic of The Gong Show's original host, Chuck Barris. https://www.facebook.com/LonesomePines www.paiste.com

In Episode 10, K-Bo and Duke welcome Amy to the podcast. Amy is a trained and extremely talented recording and performing vocalist and lead singer for several bands throughout New Jersey. K-Bo, Duke, and Amy focus on the classic Police album "Synchronicity," but also discuss a vast array of not-necessarily-related topics including: How real are reality TV shows? The conundrum of the National Anthem as it relates to singers and stadiums/arenas; The value of lyrics to a song; and ultimately, the making and result of The Police's fifth, and final studio album "Synchronicity", which included the tracks "Every Breath You Take" "Wrapped Around Your Finger" "King of Pain" and "Synchronicity II" On the original vinyl version of the album, the song 'Murder By Numbers' was not included. It was only available on the cassette release, and then the CD release (once CDs eventually became a 'thing'). This track has an extremely interesting story behind it, as you will hear in the discussions. Click the link to check out Andy Summers' documentary movie "Can't Stand Losing You: Surviving The Police" (1 hour 22 minutes) https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B011KK7XOO/ref=cm_sw_em_r_pv_wb_JrksQj0IMzkqs and Stewart Copeland's "Everyone Stares" (1 hour, 13 minutes) https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B07QQ3K9V1/ref=cm_sw_em_r_pv_wb_5PSvsJ1CHzbLX

In the second part of this two-part interview with retired industry icon, John DeChristopher: former Vice President of Artist Relations and Event Marketing Worldwide for Zildjian, John speaks about his continuing involvement with some of the best drummers in the business. He shares about his band Grand Theft Audio (from Boston, MA) and the scope of his musical pursuits. Having worked at DW Drums early in his career, John discusses the impressive growth of the company. He also shares some anecdotes about some mega-famous drummers, and shares a humorous story with Chad Smith and 80's heartthrob Jack Wagner. John mentioned how his bandmates: Paul Giannelli, Paul Candilore, Neil Porter and Charlene O'Neil Porter are just a blast to hang with and play with. If you like what we do or are getting anything at all out of this podcast, please support us by subscribing, and if you would, please give the show a good review! If you have any questions or suggestions for guests or topics, please email us at contact@drummershang.com

In Episode 8, K-Bo and Duke play "drummers' trivia" and share a few laughs. Drummers that were part of the drum trivia include: Mark Herndon (Alabama), Bobby Blotzer(Ratt), Anderson.Paak, Kimberly Thompson (Beyonce)John Densmore (The Doors), Harvey Mason, Buddy Miles(Jimi Hendrix), Terry Bozzio, Mike Portnoy, and more!

Hudson Music's Rob Wallis - Drummers' Hang Ep. 7 In Episode 7, Hudson Music founder (as well as founder of DCI Video, Drum Guru, Hudson Digital, and more) Rob Wallis shares some experiences with Steve Gadd, Neil Peart, meeting Mitch Mitchell, the experience of working with Liberty DeVitto -accessing the original, multi-track two-inch master recording Billy Joel tapes, learning about "Buddy World" and the controversy over the cover of the new Buddy book "Buddy Rich, One of a Kind" and provides a synopsis of the new book "My Las Vegas" which is a fascinating look into the incredible life of Louis Prima's longtime drummer Bobby Morris. Rob also talks about his drumming with several bands including his Allman Brothers tribute band "Soul Shine." Buddy Rich "One of A Kind" biography: https://hudsonmusic.com/product/buddy-rich-one-of-a-kind-with-cd/ Bobby Morris- My Las Vegas: https://hudsonmusic.com/product/my-las-vegas/ Roots of Rock Drumming: https://hudsonmusic.com/product/the-roots-of-rock-drumming/ Ron Spagnardi's books: https://hudsonmusic.com/?s=Ron+Spagnardi

Richie share with us the story of how he got the gig with Phil Collins; The development of the bracket that allows him to use a pedal to play percussion instruments with his feet called "the Gajate bracket" https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/LP388NP--latin-percussion-lp388np-gajate-bracket with (Don Lombardi, Frank DeVito, Martin Cohen, LP Latin Percussion). Richie recalls how the first video in the "Adventures in Rhythm" instructional video series came to be; the next generation of musical Gajate-Garcias; Armando Pereza; Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons; Tony Orlando; President Clinton; and much more! Check out Richie, Phil Collins and Nick Collins' percussion solo from their 2019 tour (fan video): https://youtu.be/_0djsQSlcqs Check out Richie's new book "Play Cajon Now" https://www.amazon.com/Play-Cajon-Now-Basics-Beyond/dp/151872261X

Chris shares he experiences with earthquakes, working with Roy Burns, NAMM 2020, how Aquarian products often come to fruition, the unique advantages and uses of T-tabs, how the Aquarian company came to be, Eric Moore, endorsements, the affect of the internet on the art of drumming, why acoustic drums stand the test of time, and more! Be sure to visit the videos of Chris playing: https://www.instagram.com/tv/B3DI1Iwgz32/?igshid=1fifefwoebttx and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfRMRU9arGI Check out Tom Cottone at: https://tomcottone.hearnow.com/ On Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/album/2ImWM6iNjFSZw6X6S2rQIg?si=QJ0qboroQ-G9Zxn5Obs7Fg Also at Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more!

In this first installment of a two-part interview, we talk with former Vice President of Artist Relations & Event Marketing Worldwide for Zildjian, John DeChristopher. John spent over two decades working closely with some of the world's greatest drummers and is highly respected within the drumming community. He retired from Zildjian a few years ago but maintains relationships with many of the artists which became his friends. Amongst other topcs, we begin to discuss his band in Boston, Grand Theft Audio, comprised of longtime friends: Paul Giannelli, Paul Candilore, Neil Porter and Charlene O'Neil Porter. And we start the discussion with him asking about if he will be at NAMM in 2020, and his response is that he's going to be staying home and enjoying the snow in the Northeast this winter...ha! In part I we discuss: The balance of marketing new-versus-existing Zildjian products, The disappearance of brick and mortar retailers , DC of Portsmouth, Professional Drum Shop Hollywood, The evolution of endorsement deals, Zildjian's deal with Modern Drummer magazine, Charlie Watts stories and more! But before we get started, K-Bo and Duke talk about "What Ever Happened To:" roto-toms and concert toms. Grand Theft Audio's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/gtaboston/services/

K-Bo and Duke spend time hanging with drumming legend, Simon Phillips. Simon's credits include a who's-who of musicians including (just to name a limited few) Toto, The Who, Jack Bruce, Jeff Beck, Brian Eno, Anthony Jackson, David Gilmour, Big Country, Jon Anderson, Duncan Browne, Asia, Steve Hackett, Gary Moore, Steve Lukather, Mike Oldfield, Joe Satriani ,Michael Schenker, Hiromi, Judas Priest, his own band Protocol, and many more! Simon discusses what appears to be a trend toward smaller drum kits and his response is pretty enlightening. Aside from maintaining his status as both an in-demand session and touring/performing drummer, Simon his also recognized as a world-class recording engineer. He shares some interesting audio engineering history, and reveals how he began discovering and developing his own engineering techniques. He describes the process of adding bassist, Ernest Tibbs, to the Protocol lineup, and talks about the Protocol 30th anniversary tour. With regard to his enduring career, Simon opens up about playing drums hard. Simon talks about his drum sticks and the changes they went through; recording the legendary THERE AND BACK album with Jeff Beck and Jan Hammer; and then takes a detour to his racing hobby before returning to the topic of drumming.

K-Bo and Duke banter about the drummers of classic rock and hard rock; sing the praises of Ringo and Charlie Watts, discuss post-summer gigging on the Jersey Shore, and assess the value of who they consider some of the most “under-rated” drummers.

In this episode of the Drummers' Hang, K Bo and Duke talk about Summer 2019 winding down and also some neat trivia for drummers. The guys also spend a few minutes talking to epic drummer and percussionist Wally Reyes, Jr., about his current tour with the legendary rock group Chicago, his solo career, and much, much more.