Heartbreaking: Jim Keltner American drummer and percussionist Just Passed Away At the Aged of 82…see..more… Jim Keltner is one of the best studio drummers in the world, having recorded and played with John Lennon, Eric Clapton, John Fogerty, George Harrison, Neil Young and Simon & Garfunkel. But few outside of the music business know his name, and he’s okay with that. He told me he has never sought the spotlight. In our exclusive interview series, Keltner discussed many things, including his early influences, relative anonymity as a popular musician, involvement with the “12 Drummers Drumming” charity auction for veterans with PTSD and Cream drummer Ginger Baker’s African influences. Here, in Part 1, we focus on two of the most famous talents he has had the pleasure of working with: Clapton and Lennon. Following are edited excerpts from a longer conversation.
Jim Clash: The list of those you have recorded with reads like a who’s-who in the music business. Let’s discuss some off them. How about Eric Clapton?
Jim Keltner: That’s a special case [laughs]. I wish this unbelievable stuff [his anti-vaccine stance] hadn’t happened. What Eric has done to himself is something nobody seems to be able to explain. And he is not explaining it, either, which is the worst part. He’s just doubling down. I hope he can find a way out. But it doesn’t change my opinion of the man. I can’t tell you how much I love Eric, one of my very favorite to play drums with, an unbelievable guitar player. He also is a great singer. When he connects with a good song, like any good artist, you can’t go wrong.
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