June 10, 2017, I first posted on my blog an audio excerpt from my interview with Will Calhoun. He was, at the time, the drummer with Living Colour. Here is what I wrote in that post’s introduction:

“Among my favorite interviews, I am sorry to say none of my interview with Will Calhoun ever saw the light of day. From what I’ve gathered reading through my notes, this interview was meant to be published in Modern Percussionist. But before Will’s interview was published, ‘Modern Percussionist‘ had ceased publication.”

Listening again this week, for the first time in a long time, this interview with Will Calhoun remains a favorite. I’ve decided to post the full length interview in four parts.

Part 3 is the first side of the second of two 90-minute cassettes used to record this interview.

Calhoun talks here about his approach to the drums, his cymbals, Mick Jagger as song producer, Jeff Beck, recording engineer Eddie Kramer, click tracks, John Bonham, drum heads, sampling, “Skin Deep,” Stax Records, Roger Hawkins, drum clinics, music business, MTV, Napoleon Hill.

It is entirely possible some of Calhoun’s opinions here have changed. He was 25-years old when interviewed. July 22, 2023, Calhoun will be 59-years old. Lots can happen in 34 years.

Calhoun has a wonderful new jazz album called “Life in This World,” available through is website: https://willcalhoun.com/ – Today Calhoun endorses Gretsch drums.