Musician of the Week: John Anderson

(Credit: Courtesy of John Anderson)

If you like playing drums or like watching people play drums, John Anderson should be your hero. The Springfield drummer has played for more bands than anybody you can think of. I thought it might be interesting to ask him questions about drumming since, you know, he's played with the freaking Osmond Brothers and my favorite instrumental band, Rags to Rich's. You can see the legend for yourself on Friday night at Galloway Station. You'll probably want to ask him all your lifelong drumming questions, too.

About the show:
Vic Vaughn Band (featuring John Anderson)
Galloway Station
8pm
$5

Interview:
You're playing with Vic Vaughn on Friday night. What's his music like?
John Anderson: Vic's a great guy with a lot of soul. His music is very energized with funk, R&B, and rock elements as well as a hint of the blues. Vic's a great guitarist, showman and really knows how to entertain. It's always a blast playing with him!

How long have you been playing drums and how did you get so good?
JA: I've been playing since I was about seven years old. I'm 38 now so it's been a while. Thanks for thinking I'm good. Flintstone vitamins. Lots of time in public and college school bands, listening to all kinds of music -- not just what I really like --- practice, practice, practice. And private lessons from some great teachers in the past have really seemed to help me gain some confidence. Also a big thanks to all the bands and musicians that have let me jam with them. Nothing compares to playing music with others. That's the best way to learn.

How many bands do you think you have played with?
JA: I've been blessed to work with quite a few. From national touring acts (Dust for Life, Farewell June) and American icons (The Osmonds), to a local group I'm still playing with for over ten years (Rags to Rich's), every situation has been a good one. I still can't believe I've gotten to experience a lot of the things I've been involved with. I still can name each group but the list would take up the rest of this interview. Thank you, everyone!

Do you ever have hard time remembering song structures or beats when you're going from band to band?
JA: Not usually, If I am performing with someone I haven't played with for a while, I'll spend the day of the show refreshing my brain with the tunes we've played before. Of course, for every show there are countless hours of rehearsing and personal practice. Music is kind of like driving back to the house you grew up in. The road gives you signs as you go along and you find your way.

Your Myspace page says you're "longing to tour." What's your favorite thing about being on the road?
JA: Traveling to new places and meeting new people. I love seeing the world.

Is there a Led Zeppelin or The Who song that's too hard for you to play on drums?
JA: All of them. Those guys were geniuses. I can only emulate, never duplicate! I'd give it my best though.

Have you ever tried playing any other instruments?
JA: I dabble on bass guitar, but never in front of anyone else. I'm a closet bassist. Bass rocks!

OK, here are some drummer questions people probably annoy you with. I'll start with a stock Beatles question; Do you think Ringo Starr totally sucks or was he a genius:?
JA: Ringo was the perfect drummer for the Beatles. Remember they had Pete (Best) first but Ringo put them over the top. His stuff is tough to figure out, but then again, nobody writes like the Beatles anymore. Ringo is the epitome of a songwriters drummer.

Who are your top 3 drummers?
JA: Vinnie Colaiuta, Vinnie Colaiuta, Vinnie Colaiuta, and everyone else who plays the instrument and drags their gear in and out of venues each night.

Who is the most overrated drummer of all time?
JA: Probably me or the chick from the White Stripes, although the White Stripes rock.

Who is your favorite singer/songwriter/drummer?
JA: Darren King from Mute Math. He's from this area and I understand he writes a lot of their tunes. I really like the band, too. One of my personal favs right now.

OK, a couple more non-drum questions. What's your favorite place to play in Springfield?
JA: You're trying to get me in trouble man, every place that will let me play is my favorite. All the clubs in Springfield have been great and very accommodating to me through the years. I love 'em all!

Favorite place to play in Branson?
JA: There used to be a place called The Down Under that rocked. Now, anyplace that pays!

Favorite place to get a cocktail?
JA: The Highlife: good people and good drinks served in big boy glasses. If I want a good beer, Patton Alley Pub. Only place in town where my brand is on tap and I feel welcome all the time.