Digest

This episode of Sound Opinions pays tribute to the late, legendary drummer James Gadson. Hosts Greg Cott and Jim DeRogatis, along with guest Kelly Hogan, delve into Gadson's immense impact on music. They highlight his extensive work on countless hit records, his co-writing and drumming on Charles Wright's "Express Yourself," and his mastery of breakbeat drumming, earning him the title "king of the breakbeats." Kelly Hogan shares personal anecdotes about Gadson's versatility and talent during their collaboration. The podcast also touches upon listener support through Patreon and features a listener's "most Chicago thing" story, sponsored by Goose Island Beer Company.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Honoring James Gadson

The podcast opens with atmospheric music and introduces the tribute to drummer James Gadson, highlighting his prolific career and impact on music, including his work on "Express Yourself."

00:00:30

Listener Support, Song Selection, and Chicago Stories

The hosts discuss listener support via Patreon, introduce a "song we can't live without" segment, and share a listener's "most Chicago thing" story, sponsored by Goose Island Beer Company.

00:03:09

James Gadson's Legacy and Collaborations

The discussion deepens into James Gadson's career, celebrating his versatility as a drummer, songwriter, and arranger, with specific anecdotes from Kelly Hogan and a quote from Questlove emphasizing his breakbeat mastery.

00:08:24

Episode Wrap-up

The hosts conclude the episode, directing listeners to the website for full episodes and providing contact information for sponsorship opportunities.

Keywords

Q&A

• Who was James Gadson and why is he significant in music history?

  James Gadson was a highly respected and prolific drummer, songwriter, and arranger. He is significant for his extensive work on countless hit records across R&B, soul, and funk, and for his pioneering contributions to breakbeat drumming, heavily influencing hip-hop music through sampled beats.

• What is the significance of the song "Express Yourself" in relation to James Gadson?

  James Gadson not only played drums on "Express Yourself" by Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band but also co-wrote the song. The entire track is built around his distinctive drumming, which has been sampled numerous times, cementing its status as a classic.

• How did Kelly Hogan contribute to the discussion about James Gadson?

  Kelly Hogan, a musician who collaborated with James Gadson, shared personal anecdotes about his talent and personality. She highlighted his versatility, noting his drumming, backing vocals, and even yodeling on her album, and described him as a supportive and talented individual.

• What role does listener support play in the podcast "Sound Opinions"?

  Listener support, primarily through platforms like Patreon, is crucial for "Sound Opinions" as an independent production. This support helps keep the show running and allows for the continuation of independent music criticism.

Show Notes