Steve Gadd – Drums

WHEN AND WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST GIG?
My first gig was an appearance on the Mickey Mouse Club in California, 1957. (Editor’s note: In Steve’s 1957 appearance on the Mickey Mouse Club he both tap danced and performed a drum solo!)

WHEN DID YOU START WORKING WITH JAMES?
My first job with James was a recording session in the mid 1980s.

WHEN WAS YOUR FIRST TOUR?
My first tour was with the School Band of America in 1961

WHAT ONE SPECIAL ITEM DO YOU ALWAYS TAKE ON TOUR?
Running gear.

WHAT’S YOUR PRE-SHOW ROUTINE?
Going to the bus and taking a nap.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY TOURING WITH JAMES?
I like touring with James because the music is great and the hang is fantastic.

_{Photos: Spencer Worthly, Michael Drazdzinski}

Michito Sanchez – Perc. (Jun 13 – Jul 4)

WHEN AND WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST GIG?
My 1st gig was at a Latin Supper Club in West NY, New Jersey called “El Liborio” around 1975. I was 14 years old. I was so lucky to be playing with Cuban music legends Facundo Rivero and Rolando Valdez. I played every Friday and Saturday night including the floor show. Awesome times!!!

WHEN DID YOU START WORKING WITH JAMES?
I believe it was May of 2011 when I was asked by Luis Conte and Jimmy Johnson to sub for Luis while he attended his daughters wedding.

WHEN WAS YOUR FIRST TOUR?
My 1st tour or touring experience was with Nell Carter (from the “Give me a break” TV show) She was an amazing singer and had an awesome band. Many of who are still working and playing at a very high level.

WHAT’S YOUR PRE-SHOW ROUTINE?
Pre-show or after sound check/dinner routine has always been the same for me. I go for a walk and enjoy a short cigar and a coffee.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY TOURING WITH JAMES?
Touring and working with James has always been on my Bucket list! For me it’s an honor sharing the stage with James and this band of absolutely amazing Musicians!!!

Luis Conte – Perc. (May 25 – Jun 10)

WHEN AND WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST GIG?
1st gig at Club Chez Pico, in mid LA. I was 18. I think I made 25 bucks that night; I thought I was the coolest dude.

WHEN DID YOU START WORKING WITH JAMES?
First worked with James in 1998 in the Live at the Beacon Theater concert.

WHEN WAS YOUR FIRST TOUR?
1st tour with “The Hues Corporation” (they had that hit song “Rock the Boat”). I was 21.

WHAT’S YOUR PRE-SHOW ROUTINE?
Eat and chill.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY TOURING WITH JAMES?
Touring with James is great. He is a great guy, the music is beautiful and everyone on the tour super-cool. It is a great band.

_{Photos: Michael Lutch, Eric Korenman}