Aaron Kennedy is an Irish drummer living in the United States. He began taking lessons at the age of five with teacher, John Wadham. In his early teens, Aaron joined his Dad’s show band learning both professionalism, and musicianship. After years of performing up to five nights a week, Aaron continued to expand on his personal knowledge and experience.
Some of the groups and artists he’s worked with include: God is an Astronaut, Mary Coughlan, Relief, Caruso, Fracture, Don Baker, Sonny Knowles, Fearghal McKee, Susan Bluechild, Eric Eckhart, Ditch Cassidy, and many more. In 1999, Aaron founded the ‘Drumming Academy’ which he still manages. Later, creating ‘RhythmSaint’ A brand and alter-ego project which represents all of his music and drumming. He also established: Engage The Universe, which offers coaching and mentoring for music, business, sports, and life.
“I first became aware of Tony Williams from my drum teacher John Wadham. He had me listen to Tony playing with Miles Davis. “I want you to listen to this drummer and then tell me what you hear “. After what seemed to be a long while as the record turned – the hiss was silenced by the sound of a furious trumpet, drums, and upright bass. It sounded so raw - like the musicians were right there in the room with me.
I was instantly captivated by the energy of the music –
My young mind went into overload as I attempted to contemplate what was occurring. “That’s Tony Williams on drums” John Wadham said.
I had never heard his name before. I knew of Buddy Rich, Louie Bellson, and Gene Krupa and seeing Buddy on television numerous times. They were all incredible, but hearing Tony Williams play was totally different than anything I had previously witnessed.
To me, Mr. Williams (which was how I would address the drummers we discussed in my lessons… Mr. Rich etc.) as following right behind the trumpet – In the song as opposed to just playing the song. As I listened - it was as though Mr. Williams was following the path that Miles Davis left… I had no idea that Miles was the leader and these were his original compositions.
Aaron Kennedy
Each tune seemed to grab me and vibrate with essential truths. I had not established the truth concept until much later in my career. Then gradually I understood its true meaning. My first introduction to Tony Williams’ drumming had me a little nervous just trying to imagine playing those intricate patterns. When Tony began to solo… That was the defining moment I call – ‘Meeting Mr. Williams’.
The solo opened with a snare conversation. I recall thinking about that sound which was pure and unprocessed. The snare drum felt like it was in the room with me - feeling Mr. Williams’ sense of individualism and personality.
Since my youth, I’ve always been curious about the person beyond their incredible gifts… From racing drivers, actors, martial artists, scientists, poets and more. I want to know each man and woman behind the talent.
When one discovers how they got to where they are and what inspired them… You uncover a treasure chest of invaluable lessons. From editorials and film footage I came to understand the immense talent and passion that Tony Williams had. He was incredibly open while also being very intentional. Mr. Williams in his solos was saying - “My name is Tony Williams… Drumming and music are my life”
As Tony concluded his solo the band joined in again. John nodded to me from across the room acknowledging respect for what we had just heard. I then commented – “hope I can play that well someday”. John simply replied “Practice” – He always had the utmost respect for all the well-known jazz drummers - insisting that we study each one of them intently.
After that day - I was on a mission to purchase my very first record album with Tony Williams on it. The following week I took the bus to Dublin… An hour and a half journey and went to my favorite record store. The jazz section was considerably smaller than the other genres. I did find several Miles Davis LPs - ‘Miles Smiles’ was the one I purchased. On my way back home, I kept reading the notes on the back of the album… I was intrigued and read it several times.
Over the years, I made several trips to Dublin from my home in Wicklow to find new music.
Buying vinyl was a great musical experience. It always gave me the feeling of being connected. Night had fallen by the time I got home from Dublin. It was too late to practice my drums so instead I listened to my new Miles Davis album over and over. ‘Footprints’ was the tune that spoke to me. ‘Orbits’ was another. The ride cymbal pattern was so clear and present. Yet, as soon as I identified the pulse, Tony would change it in terms of time and texture. I tried to play along, but always lost my place. After a while it all began to make sense to me.
Detail is another word with which I associate Tony Williams… Like hearing the wood of his sticks coming in contact with the rims -- It's immediate. Tony Williams always appeared to channel and control his energy to evoke raw emotion and tension. Something I continue to work on for myself.
By the time I heard ‘Dolores’ - I had a clearer image of Tony Williams in my mind. I listened repeatedly to begin processing his playing and thinking… To fully see him for the drummer he was.
No doubt, Tony was always very present in the music - but was respectful of the song form while being superbly expressive with his solos -- “I am Tony Williams” being spoken loudly each time.
While I never met Mr. Williams -- It's with great pleasure that I can be with him anytime I want… Every moment is a lesson in drumming, musicality, and spirit.
"Drumming enriched my life and has provided many opportunities for me. I learned from the best and work to inspire others to be inspired".