Kevin Hays – Keyboards

WHEN AND WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST GIG?
Well, I’m not sure if it was my first but early on in the mid-80’s, while still in high school, I landed a gig at a soul food restaurant in the meat packing district of NYC. As I recall it I would play for 6 hours, was paid $60 and got 50% off the ribs (theirs, not mine).

WHEN DID YOU START WORKING WITH JAMES?
I just started this past year, doing a couple of private gigs. This is my first tour with James, and I’m super-excited!

WHEN WAS YOUR FIRST TOUR?
My first tour was in 1986. I left Manhattan School of Music after being invited to go to Spain with a NYC band that was heading over there. It was very exciting to encounter all the new people, places, food and other wonderful things!

WHAT ONE SPECIAL ITEM DO YOU ALWAYS TAKE ON TOUR?
A netti pot. Gotta keep those nasal passages clear!

WHAT’S YOUR PRE-SHOW ROUTINE?
Enjoying the crudités backstage. And I usually take a little quiet time to get centered.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY TOURING WITH JAMES?
Well, this is my first tour with James but so far it’s been a joy. He has such open energy and a heart that shines through, musically and personally.

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}