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
Danny ‘Kootch’ on Recording 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
Read MoreHugh 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
Read MoreMeet Session Superstar Nicky Hopkins
Do you know the music he made with a long Who’s Who list of classic rock superstars? Now get to know the session keyboard star
Read MoreSam Cooke, By Those Who Knew Him
“Sam had a big influence on anybody,” said soul singer Bobby Womack. “To me, cancer would be good if Sam gave it out. I’m serious.”
Read MoreThat Haunting Vocal On ‘Gimme Shelter’
When you hear “Rape, murder, it’s just a shot away” on this Rolling Stones hit, does it give you chills? It’s Merry Clayton, who was just 20-years-old at the time
Read MoreLoving ‘Cheers’ to My Late Mate, Ian McLagan
Rob Patterson praises Small Faces/Faces keyboard player for being the best rock star mate a fan might ever want and a friendly, unpretentious hail-fellow-well-met to any and all of his fans.
Read MoreHappy Birthday to Drummer Kenney Jones
He’s in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a co-founder of Small Faces and Faces, and joined The Who in 1978
Read MoreWaddy Wachtel Talks About Linda, James, and His Career as a Session Ace
Our conversation with the guitarist who has been a “first-call” player for decades, recording and touring with such stars as Ronstadt, Taylor and Carole King
Read MoreRemembering 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
Read MoreJim Gordon: From A-List Drummer to Convicted Killer
He’s played on hundreds of hits but you won’t find any gold records on his wall: Since the ’80s he’s been locked away for murder.
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