As we spoke, he described the influence of the stars he’s performed with over the years. From the Neville Brothers he learned to leave windows open in complicated musical arrangements. At one time, he said, he tried to play everything he knew in every song. But fellow Neville Brothers Band keyboardist Gerald Tillman advised him that where funk is concerned, less is more. From Bonnie Raitt he learned to patiently hone his musical craft while putting in time on the road. From Robbie Robertson he learned to ruminate over an idea until a song naturally emerges. From guitar legend Keith Richards he learned the power of a compelling riff.
Menu