Category Archives: Audio

Freddie Gruber’s Influences

Posted on September 2, 2026 by Scott K Fish

SKF NOTE: Respected drum teacher Freddie Gruber’s drum students include Neil Peart, Steve Smith, Dave Weckl, and Vinnie Colaiuta. Gruber, a product of post-World War 2 NYC, is known by his peers of that era as a visionary jazz drummer. … Continue reading →

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Fred Below: The Spiritual Side

Posted on August 20, 2026 by Scott K Fish

SKF NOTE: Fred Below is arguably the father of Chicago electric blues drumming. Any one who wants to know how to play drums in a Blues band needs to listen thoroughly to Fred Below. This July 9, 1982 interview was … Continue reading →

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Staying Sane as a Drummer

Posted on July 21, 2026 by Scott K Fish

SKF NOTE: Fred Below is arguably the father of Chicago electric blues drumming. Any one who wants to know how to play drums in a Blues band needs to listen thoroughly to Fred Below. This July 9, 1982 interview was … Continue reading →

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Blues v Jazz Drumming: No Difference

Posted on July 20, 2026 by Scott K Fish

SKF NOTE: Among my interviews with drummers, a few are the only known interviews – at least full length interviews – with a few drummers. Jim Gordon is one. Frankie Dunlop is another. And Fred Below is a third. Fred … Continue reading →

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Donald Bailey, Sr’s Unique Drum Angles

Posted on July 19, 2026 by Scott K Fish

SKF NOTE: Jim Keltner once recommended I interview for Modern Drummer Donald Bailey, Sr. Keltner raved about Bailey’s drumming. I knew Bailey by name only and I dismissed Keltner’s suggestion. Much later, after hearing Bailey’s great work with Jimmy Smith, … Continue reading →

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