Radio Richard | Richard Niles Podcast

This short interview is a masterclass in drum technique and improvisation from a unique drummer. In 1998 I wrote and hosted a music series INSIDE IMPROVISATION for BBC Radio 2. I interviewed Grammy winning drummer Danny Gottlieb (the original Pat Metheny Group, Gary Burton, Mahavishnu/John McLaughlin, Blues Brothers, Randy Brecker, Stan Getz, Eliane Elias, Gary Sinese). This short interview is followed by a track from my 1988 album, Santa Rita. “The Seduction of Art” ©1998 Niles Smiles Music (BMI) features Danny on drums with the great  Mark Egan on Bass, (Danny’s partner in their group Elements), Chris Hunter (alto sax), Steve Hamilton (keys) and Richard Niles (guitar).

In 2005, I wrote and hosted a series for BBC Radio 2, “Inside Improvisation”. The purpose was to explain the many facets of improvisation. I interviewed one of my biggest musical heroes, multi Grammy winning composer and trumpet virtuoso, Randy Brecker. This is one of the best possible demonstrations of how a jazz musician develops their skills, a unique masterclass by a masterful artist. In 2016, Brecker sang and played on “You Can’t Get There from Here” from my Bandzilla Rises!!! album (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lDYluRQNoY )

Trevor Horn is arguably the greatest record producer in the history of pop. I interviewed him when I was teaching at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford in 2009. This is an invaluable masterclass in record production, artist development and creativity. Trevor talks about making many of his hit records such as Video Killed The Radio Star, Slave to the Rhythm, Seal, The Pet Shop Boys, Frankie Goes To Hollywood/Relax, Faith Hill and many more.

In May of 2003 I was asked to become Musical Director, Conductor, Arranger & Guitarist for Michael’s concert, broadcast by Radio 2 June 16, 2003. I was writing some songs with Hamish at the time and asked if he would like to come along. I will post more of the concert later.

 

This was probably my favorite interview, only because I was sitting on a piano stool next to Michael while he was singing in my ear, possibly the most beautiful sound on earth.

 

 

This interview was done when Chick was on his way to a gig with his new group ORIGIN.