BACKSTAGE PASS with JOEY Q
 

The following questions come from an intimate opportunity we had to sit down and get to know who Joey Q really is. Where he comes from and what inspires him to become the artist that he is.

How old were you when you decided to become a drummer?
Well, I never really decided - my mom says I started beating on pots and pans as a kid. But, I actually started beating on drums when I was in Middle School. I didn't really pick drums, I actually wanted to learn Piano or guitar but they didn't have those options so my music teacher placed me in the rhythm section.  

Were your parents musicians?
No, but they were music lovers and they were very supportive. They placed my in the school band and bought me music records to listen to.

Which drummers made an impression?
Gene Krupa, Steve Gadd, Carter Beauford, Steve Jordan, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Akira Jimbo.

What kind of music do you enjoy playing?
I'm able to move freely among a variety of styles. But my forte is a mix of Latin Rock and Jazzy Pop. I guess you might call that Fusion.


What prompted you to focus on pop-rock drumming as well?
Well, fusion guys play a lot of notes, and pop-rock music is often simpler. That challenged me and gave me a new awareness. I remember hearing Steve Jordan, who's a very deep-pocket player. I realized that what sounded very open and simple and un-technical was actually very challenging to play, because it was about putting every note where it felt good. It was an eye-opener.

How has your gig changed over the years?
The types of gigs I play have changed. The venues tend to be larger fewer clubs, more concerts. There are more situations where I play alone in the studio, overdubbing my part. But there are still a lot of sessions where everyone plays together.
 
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