WWSGD?

It’s an old joke: How many drummers does it take to change a light bulb? The standard answer is three: one to change the bulb and two more to discuss how Steve Gadd would have done it.

It's inevitable that something great will resonate. Steve laid down the track for 50 Ways to Leave your Lover in 1975 and here we are, 50 years later, still marveling at it. There are numerous other examples of his genius in all manner of music styles, and always in service of the music and of drum artistry.

I have to admit that I have my own Steve Gadd moments, when I try to emulate his energy, his musical taste and, above all, his discretion. The mental conversation usually goes something like this: "What would Steve Gadd do? ... No, not that!"

I like the term emulate. It does not mean copy. It means to use something as an inspiration to your own playing.

There are very good reasons to copy licks from other players. It’s called research. I like to think of it as going to the source, perhaps the original innovator. The goal is to absorb all that material and then let become part of your personal palate. And it will.

But don't just copy the licks, also look at the ideas behind them. Go a step further and emulate the musicianship, the professionalism, the energy, the creativity.

There's much more to Mr. Gadd than a catchy militaristic beat. Plus there are so many great drummers past, present and future that you should have no trouble finding lots of inspiration free for the listening.

Now, what would Antonio Sanchez do?

Technical Note: Recent research has shown that a “What would ____ do?” approach is actually a great way to operate. By merely asking yourself the question, you put yourself into a mind set that is more creative.

Photo credit:  Skrypko Ievgen | Dreamstime.com