It’s been a rough month. Another one of my Poco band mates died this month, Paul Cotton. Then Charlie Watts passed away. I just learned that famed session drummer/percussionist Kenny Malone of Nashville died. Charles Connor died in late July. There are so many more. At my age, 67, the deaths of friends and peers and heroes come in waves. Since I bought Not So Modern Drummer in 2009, it’s been my policy to not publish breaking news about drums and drummers. NSMD is all “old news”, so forgive me if the obituary and memorial articles aren’t immediate. But I have written a short piece this week about Charlie Watts and how he inspired and influenced me. A friend of mine, Jim Basile, said “Charlie Watts was the Mel Lewis of Rock. I can give no higher compliment. For those of you familiar with Mel Lewis, you'll understand completely. For those of you unfamiliar with Mel, you NEED to be.”
I also want to recognize Don McAulay, Charlie’s friend and drum tech of many years, and express our sympathy on behalf of the whole vintage drum community. He messaged me today and said “Thank you George. It’s been a rough couple of months. Thankfully we spoke several times leading up to this and now we are all in rehearsals and grieving together which is what heals us all. Not sure you know this but when I bought as many NSMD magazines as were available, they were for Charlie. He really enjoyed the magazine.” See the picture above that Don sent to me of him, Charlie and Jim Keltner.
Please forgive me if there are many errors and omissions in this issue. I warned all the writers that I might be out of commission the last week of August due to cataract surgery. Prior to that I blew out my right foot (arthritis). I surprised myself and actually played bass drum with my left foot on a double pedal for a whole gig. Anyway the foot is fine now, the eye surgery is healing according to plan and I am managing to get this issue out on time. Will wonders never cease? I’m looking forward to subbing this coming Friday and Saturday night with the FreeWorld band at Rum Boogie Cafe on Beale Street here in Memphis. I’m going to take that double pedal just in case. :-)
My wife, Georgetta, says I’m an optimist. I think you have to be an optimist if you want to try to earn your living playing drums. My drummer son, Paul, got to see me play on stage for the first time in many years this past Sunday night. He told me that I’m still kicking ass! I needed that affirmation. Thanks, Paulie!