Digest

This podcast episode features an interview with Andy Newmark, a highly accomplished session drummer. The conversation spans his career, beginning with his early influences and transition from playing in various bands to becoming a professional session musician. He details his experiences working with a diverse range of artists, including Carly Simon (where his audition involved playing on pillows!), Sly Stone (describing a memorable and unconventional audition), George Harrison (during the challenging Dark Horse tour), David Bowie (on the iconic *Young Americans* album), and John Lennon (on *Double Fantasy*, highlighting Lennon's professionalism and the unique live vocal recording process). The interview also touches upon his work with Roxy Music, filling in for Paul Thompson. The podcast explores the evolution of the music industry, the challenges of adapting to different artists' styles, and the importance of maintaining artistic integrity. Andy's journey, from his roots in Black music to his embrace of British music, is a central theme, highlighting his "anglophile" nature. The episode concludes with thanks to Andy and the producer, Ben Jones, and a brief mention of future episodes and a sponsor advertisement.

Outlines

00:00:41

Andy Newmark's Musical Journey and Early Career

This chapter covers Andy's early musical influences, his transition from playing in bands to session work, and the context of the Blur vs. Oasis singles battle. It also includes his early drumming experiences and the story of his first major gig with Carly Simon.

00:28:16

Working with Iconic Artists: Sly Stone, George Harrison, and David Bowie

This section details Andy's experiences working with Sly Stone (including his audacious audition), George Harrison on the *Dark Horse* album and tour, and David Bowie on *Young Americans*, highlighting the unique challenges and collaborative processes involved in each project.

01:05:42

John Lennon, Roxy Music, and Career Reflections

This chapter covers Andy's work with John Lennon on *Double Fantasy*, his time with Roxy Music filling in for Paul Thompson, and broader reflections on his career, including his transition from Black music to British music and the changes in the music industry.

01:16:39

Podcast Conclusion and Sponsor Message

The podcast concludes with thanks to Andy Newmark and Ben Jones, the producer. It includes a brief discussion of Andy's career and musical influences, a mention of future episodes, and a Verizon advertisement.

Keywords

Q&A

• What was the most challenging aspect of working with different artists?

  Adapting to each artist's unique style while maintaining one's musical identity.

• How did the music industry change from the 1970s to the 1980s?

  A shift towards synthesized sounds and greater use of technology impacted the demand for session musicians.

• What advice would you give to aspiring session drummers?

  Practice diligently, understand music theory, cultivate a professional attitude, and network.

• Can you describe a memorable studio session?

  The session for John Lennon's *Double Fantasy* stands out due to Lennon's professionalism and the live vocal recording.

• What is the most important lesson you've learned?

  Maintaining integrity and not compromising artistic vision, and the value of strong industry relationships.

• What is the main topic of this podcast?

  An interview with Andy Newmark, discussing his career, musical influences, and journey from Black music to British music.

• What is the significance of Andy's description as an "anglophile"?

  It highlights his deep appreciation for British culture and music, contrasting with his American background.

• Who produced the podcast?

  Gimme Sugar Productions.

Show Notes