The Cosmic Relationship – Quote from Jimmy Chamberlin

The Cosmic Relationship – Quote from Jimmy Chamberlin

“Everything for me revolves around my instrument. It’s been with me longer than anything else in my life. My ability to be a good father, husband, friend, composer, teacher, kite flyer, gardener, pet owner is reflected in my relationship with the drums. When I’m in the groove with work, everything else falls into place for me. I know that sounds simple, but it’s true. There’s a cosmic relationship between what you put into your music and what life gives you back.”

- Jimmy Chamberlin, Modern Drummer Magazine, February 2010

UPDATE 17/01/2010: Our pals over at HU have reposted these little snippets from the interview:

How JC developed his “signature”:

I really try to concentrate on being myself when I play. I know that sounds simple, but I think it takes years of emulating your heroes and practicing to finally arrive at the required amount of facility to just “be yourself” on an instrument. I think that’s where the hooks come in. When you can be yourself, only you can play like you. Things start to sound like a musical version of your personality.

How important is it for a drummer to understand harmony and chord structure:

Knowledge of harmony and melody is key if you want your drum parts to “sing the song.” I have always thought that you should be able to know what song you’re hearing just by listening to the drum part, and that’s what I strive for. The same goes for any instrument.

What’s the greatest lesson JC’s learned:

Everything for me revolves around my instrument. It’s been with me longer than anything else in my life. My ability to be a good father, husband, friend, composer, teacher, kite flyer, gardener, pet owner is reflected in my relationship with the drums. When I’m in groove with work, everything else falls into place for me.