Versatility Remains His Key
by Chris DiGirolamo
One of the most exciting drummers on the scene today has actually been on the scene for some time. From his early days with jazz guitarist Earl Klugh (with whom he still tours) to his current drum chair with the Derek Trucks Band, Yonrico Scott has been a mainstay in a difficult business, cheated death, and now backs some of the most soul-stirring music to hit the scene in years. He will be on the road this month with the Derek Trucks Band. I recently had the opportunity to sit with one of the kindest men in the drum world, Yonrico Scott.
InsideCx: Tell us about your early days of playing the drums.
YS: I started playing at 5 years old in Detroit, where I was born. At that time, Motown was happening and it was a great place to be hearing music. My mother was a gospel singer as well. So I was playing to gospel music from a very early age. I also studied drums with the Motown studio session players and was around all of those cats from an early age. So my groundwork was very solid. I was very blessed.
InsideCx: With such a storied start, where was the first big break for you as a drummer?
YS: When I got out of college I moved to Atlanta and played with all of the jazz players in the area, but the first real obvious break for me was when I started playing with vocalist Pebro Bryson. I played with him for five years. Through this I knew things were clicking and moving forward for me as a professional player.
InsideCx: On the influence side, who grabbed your ear?
YS: Motown's Roy Brooks was like the Detroit Max Roach. He was huge for me. Then Elvin Jones, who was from my area. Elvin was a monster who I just loved to listen to and watch. Tony Williams was another. I used to follow Tony Williams from city to city. I never followed anyone but Tony! (%laughs%)
InsideCx: Most challenging gigs for you?
YS: Derek Trucks Band is challenging every night. I also played with the Atlanta Symphony, which was tremendously challenging. They required a lot of discipline. I have also done a ton of Broadway productions, which were always a lot of fun.
InsideCx: What contributed to your development as a player?
YS: Stick control, the rudimental stuff. But I would say the biggest part, believe it or not, was learning the piano and vibraphone to develop a real sense of melody. I hate hearing drummer jokes! Learn the harmonic and melodic side so that you are a well-rounded musician. When we have harmony questions in the band, Derek usually asks me. Do the most you can as a player to be well rounded. If you can hear the changes and understand them, you can absolutely enhance the parts you play.
InsideCx: Tell us a bit about your health scare.
YS: I had a heart aneurysm. It was the same thing that actor John Ritter had. I actually felt it coming and was able to get to the hospital in time, but it was a rough road. It was due to extreme high blood pressure and I wasn't taking care of myself, but now that's all changed. I feel great!
InsideCx: I understand you sell artwork on drum skins.
YS: It started out doing set lists with graphics. I have almost 1500 set lists with graphics that I do for the band every night. That went on to doing art on drum skins. And now it's a big part of my creativity. You can check it all out at www.yonricoscott.com.
InsideCx: Words for the upcoming drummer?
YS: Just be positive about your approach and be a complete drummer. Don't let them tell you drummer jokes!
