Larry Goldings – Piano

WHEN DID YOU START WORKING WITH JAMES?
My first playing experience with James, and when I first met him, was during the October Road recording sessions. Producer Russ Titelman brought me in to play piano on James’ song “Mean Old Man.” I started doing some sporadic orchestral gigs, for instance, James with the Boston Pops, and other similar orchestral settings. This was around 2001 or early 2002.

WHEN WAS YOUR FIRST TOUR?
2002.

WHAT ONE SPECIAL ITEM DO YOU ALWAYS TAKE ON TOUR?
A portable recording setup, such as a small keyboard, mic, small hard drive, so that I can write music in the hotel room or tour bus.

WHAT’S YOUR PRE-SHOW ROUTINE?
I make sure I can get a power nap in. I like to do some stretches, and lately some arm and hand exercises which seem to keep some low-grade tendonitis at bay.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY TOURING WITH JAMES?
JT is one of my musical heroes, and his music touched deeply me as a kid, and continues to do so. To perform with him nightly feels as though I, perhaps vicariously, am helping to carry on a legacy that is uniquely American, one that touches millions of people. I am also inspired by James’ genuine gratitude that he has for his fans, and for the powerful gifts he has been given, as a musician and communicator. He is a solid human being, highly evolved, highly intelligent, and very generous. It’s good to be around someone like that.

_{Photos: Eric Korenman, Michael Lutch}