Percussion Discussion Podcast

Cindy Blackman Santana - Lenny Kravitz / Joss Stone / Santana / Cassandra Wilson / Buckethead

Cindy Blackman Santana is a virtuoso American jazz and rock drummer celebrated for her powerful, explosive style and technical versatility. Originally known for her deep roots in jazz fusion and a long tenure as the drummer for Lenny Kravitz (notably appearing in the "Are You Gonna Go My Way" video), she has been the regular touring drummer for Santana since 2016. She is married to guitar legend Carlos Santana, who proposed to her on stage during a concert in July 2010.  Musical Career and Influence Blackman Santana's career spans over four decades, beginning as a street performer in New York City in the 1980s.  Jazz Foundations: Heavily influenced by Tony Williams, she has released numerous jazz albums as a bandleader, including the critically acclaimed Another Lifetime (2010).  Collaborations: She has performed and recorded with a diverse range of artists, such as Pharoah Sanders, Cassandra Wilson, Bill Laswell, Joss Stone, and Joe Henderson.  Lenny Kravitz Era: She spent roughly 18 years touring and recording with Lenny Kravitz between 1992 and 2015.  Current Projects: She continues to release solo material, such as the 17-track album Give the Drummer Some (2020), which showcases her skills as both a drummer and vocalist.  Huge Thanks to Cindy for gicing me some time from her crazy schedule, i really appreciate it!  Equally huge thanks must go to friend of the podcast and legendary Free/Bad Company Drummer Simon Kirke for putting us in touch, Simon i am eternally grateful for all you do to help.  www.cindyblackmansantana.com  www.santana.com

Chris Allan - Ronnie Romero , Marco Mendoza, Guitar legends, sessions......

Joining me today is Chris Allan Chris is a prominent UK-based rock and metal session drummer known for his high-energy style and extensive touring experience. He is currently the drummer for Ronnie Romero, Marco Mendoza and performs in the popular theatre show The Story of Guitar Heroes.  Career Highlights * Ronnie Romero Band: Currently touring and recording with the acclaimed rock vocalist, including work on the album Backbone. * Marco Mendoza:  * The Story of Guitar Heroes: Performs extensively in UK theatres, showcasing drumming styles that have shaped rock history. * Malefice: Spent four years (2010–2014) as the drummer for this Metal Blade Records outfit, touring with heavyweights like Anthrax, Testament, and Arch Enemy. * Session Work: Has recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios and contributed drums to TV broadcasts including Radio 1 and the UEFA Champions League. * Tributes: A lifelong fan of Cozy Powell, Chris performed a tribute solo at Powell's memorial plaque unveiling in 2016 also performing at the last Cozy Powell Birthday Bash Equipment and Endorsements Chris is an official artist for several major industry brands, often featuring them in his studio and live setups:  * Cymbals: Paiste Artist, frequently using the 2002 and Formula 602 series. * Drums: Pearl Drums. * Drumheads & Sticks: Endorsed by Remo and Vic Firth.  www.chrisallandrums.com Huge thanks to Chris for taking the time to do this interview.

Bob Henrit Pt 2 - Argent, The Kinks, Drum historian, Author......

Bob Henrit is a prominent English rock drummer best known for his long-term memberships in the bands Argent and The Kinks  * Early Years: He first gained attention in the 1960s with The Roulettes, who served as the backing band for singer Adam Faith.  * Argent (1969–1976): As a founding member, he played on hits like "Hold Your Head Up" and remained with the group until they disbanded.  * The Kinks (1984–1996): Henrit replaced original drummer Mick Avory and performed with the band until their split in the mid-90s.  * Session Work: He has a prolific session history, contributing to tracks such as Unit 4 + 2's "Concrete and Clay" and working with artists like Roger Daltrey and Dave Davies.   * Author & Historian: In 2013, he published his autobiography, Banging On, and has written extensively for music publications like International Musician.  * Business: He owned Henrit's Drum Store in London, a famous hub frequented by legendary drummers including Ringo Starr and Keith Moon.  * Recent Years: Henrit has been open about his Parkinson's disease diagnosis, discussing how he manages the condition while staying active in the music community.   Bob is without doubt one of my favourite people and a fabulous drummer, he has so many remarkable stories to share and is always happy to do so! if you are lucky enough to see Bob at a drum show or event go and have a chat with him, you won’t regret it! Thanks for your time Bob!

Vicky O'Neon - Anastacia / Brian May / Independent

Joining me for this episode is Vicky O'Neon.  Vicky O'Neon is an award-winning session drummer, percussionist, and educator originally from Finland and currently based in the UK. She is widely recognised for her high-energy performances and her extensive work as the touring drummer and percussionist for American pop star Anastacia.  * Collaborations: Vicky has worked with legendary artists such as Brian May (Queen), Hans Zimmer, Nile Rodgers, and Clean Bandit.  * TV Appearances: She is a member of the house band for the American TV show Name That Tune.  * Technology Integration: A specialist in Ableton Live, she often incorporates electronic loops and hybrid drumming setups into her live sets and masterclasses.  Education  * Academic Background: She graduated with a BMus (Hons) in Popular Music Performance from BIMM London (formerly Tech Music School), where she received the "Top Overall Drummer Award".  * Social Impact: Vicky is a co-founder of the non-profits Girls Rock London and Rock Donna, which aim to empower girls and gender non-conforming individuals through music education.  * Online Content: She created the educational YouTube series Drumming Through The Decades, exploring the history of female-identifying drummers.   Huge thanks to Vicky for finding time in her busy schedule to chat.  www.vickyoneon.com

Brandon Toews - Drumeo / Drummer / Author / Educator

Episode 181 - -Brandon Toews  Brandon is a professional drummer, author, and educator best known as the Content Director and on-camera host for Drumeo, the world's leading online drum education platform. Drumeo Host & Producer: Since 2014, he has produced and hosted popular series like "Hears For The First Time" and "Genius Of," where he analyzes the styles of legendary drummers.  Author: He is the author of The Drummer’s Toolbox and co-author of The Best Beginner Drum Book.  Educator: Beyond digital content, he is a seasoned educator who has taught thousands of students through Drumeo and private lessons.  Performer: He performs internationally, including a 2025 appearance at the UK Drum Show. Education: He holds a Bachelor of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Popular Music from MacEwan University.  Influences: His playing style is influenced by a diverse range of drummers, from classic rock legends like Neil Peart to modern técnicos like Matt Garstka and Larnell Lewis.  Gear Endorsements: He is an official artist for Gretsch Drums, Istanbul Cymbals, Vater Percussion, and Evans Drumheads.  Huge thanks to Brandon for giving up his lunch hour at Drumeo to chat to me! much appreciated.  www.drumeo.com