Best Classic Bands | Key Players Archives

Key Players

Behind the creation of great music that lives forever are musicians whose contributions can make a critical difference in recordings and live performances. We feature those players and how their talents bring something special to the mix

The Scene: Key Players

Danny Kortchmar on Playing With Carole, James, Jackson, & Don

Our interview with Danny Kortchmar about his “new” band and of his phenomenal legacy as a session musician, songwriter and producer

The Scene: Key Players

Hugh Masekela, Jazz Trumpet Great: Unlikely Pop Star

The “Father of South African jazz” appeared at Monterey Pop, recorded with the Byrds, scored a #1 pop single and toured with Paul Simon

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Joe Vitale: A Chat with the Master Musician

“There was so much recording going on. The music business was really alive back then,” said Vitale about the ’70s. His credits include Eagles, CSN&Y & more.

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Remembering Toto Drummer Jeff Porcaro

Toto founding member Jeff Porcaro was one of the most-recorded drummers ever, adding magic to whatever he played on by many major pop and rock acts

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Remembering Tom Leadon, Founder With Tom Petty of Mudcrutch

The pair formed the band in Gainesville, Fla., as teens. One of his brothers is Bernie Leadon, a founding member of Eagles

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Certified Pre-Owned: Unreleased Traveling Wilburys Album

A viable—make that wonderful—Wilburys album is still out there, lurking.

The Scene: Key Players

Remembering David Lindley, Multi-Instrumentalist With Jackson Browne’s Band

He was the featured accompanist for Browne’s band throughout the ’70s and recorded with Linda Ronstadt, Graham Nash and David Crosby, among many others