Spotlight on Great Percussion

Since I’m wading into the waters of the business of percussion, (I’m selling musical instruments at Sinclair Sound), I’ve been mulling over what I know about the subject. One thing I know, sadly, is I wish I could play a drum set. My attempts have mostly generated envy for those who could hold a steady beat.

Today, I’m trying my first link to a YouTube video. I found a performance by an artist who’d really impressed me at a concert. The video is of Elton John, but the artist that caught me by surprise was percussionist Ray Cooper. I didn’t even know his name until I searched for him. At the concert I saw, I was really struck by the guy’s rather robotic style and uber-cool looks. It was a show in itself. His solo starts around the 4 minute mark. Check it out.

New Michael Jackson Single

Has anyone else been a long-time praying for a Michael Jackson reunion—you know, one with the original members? Yeah, I know it’s one guy, but didn’t he used be played by someone who looked a lot different? (Was that Dick York or Dick Sargent? I get confused). Anywho, you need only check out the Ed Sullivan “ABC” performance on YouTube or ”Beat It” to weep with sorrow over the loss of a national treasure. Man that kid had the moves.

When I saw that Michael Jackson was releasing a single for the first time in 7 years, my heart skipped a beat. Yeah, I know, he hasn’t done anything of musical significance in a middle-schooler’s lifetime, but I’ve never fully given up on him. So, hooray, Micahel version 7.0 is launched. And what’s that new single?

“The Girl is Mine.”

No way. Bandits have taken over a computer server farm. The pentagon could be hit next. Somebody take the whole ‘net down until we get it all secured.

Well, it’s the only explanation. Out of the entire Michael Jackson catalog, the last song that anyone needs to be reminded of is “The Girl is Mine.” I’m waiting for Paul McCartney to file suit…not because he’s been replaced by will.i.am, but because mention of the “The Girl is Mine” is a reminder that he was involved in the debacle as well.

C’mon, Michael, you’re clearly willing to get help from friends. So, how about new song ideas, not just new backing tracks. Time to stop with the nostalgia and do something with teeth.