Chad Wackerman – Drums

WHEN AND WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST GIG?

I was 10 when I subbed in a band that my father was playing in. I got to play the first set while Dad was at a teachers meeting. Very fun.

WHEN DID YOU START WORKING WITH JAMES?
I think it was in Dec. of 1999. It was a last minute orchestra gig. James was called to fill in for Pavarotti (who cancelled because illness) for an orchestral show in San Francisco. The call came to me from Jimmy Johnson the night before and I stayed up most of the night before learning the tunes. It was a bit of a scramble but it ended up being really fun.

WHEN WAS YOUR FIRST TOUR?
Frank Zappa ‘You Are What You Is’ tour. 1981/1982. That was life changing.

WHAT ONE SPECIAL ITEM DO YOU ALWAYS TAKE ON TOUR?
2 things really. Drumsticks and an iPad keep me busy.

WHAT’S YOUR PRE-SHOW ROUTINE?
After dinner I usually warm up a little, playing rudiments on a practice pad. I try to get loose before a show.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY TOURING WITH JAMES?
James and his band are all incredible people and incredible musicians. I really feel honored to play with James and the band.