Introduction
The Traveling Wilburys were a British-American supergroup formed in 1988 by five iconic musicians: George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, and Bob Dylan. Together, they released two studio albums and several hit singles, including “Handle With Care” and “End of the Line.” But one key member of the group often goes overlooked—the drummer. This article will take an in-depth look at the life and career of the drummer with the Traveling Wilburys.
Biography of the Drummer with the Traveling Wilburys
The drummer with the Traveling Wilburys was Jim Keltner. Born in 1942 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Keltner began playing drums at the age of 10. He was inspired by jazz greats such as Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich, as well as by classic rockers like Ringo Starr and Charlie Watts. After high school, he moved to Los Angeles, where he soon found himself playing in various session bands for artists like Leon Russell and John Lennon.
Keltner first met George Harrison in 1969 and the two quickly formed a bond. Over the next few decades, Keltner would go on to record with Harrison on several of his solo albums, including All Things Must Pass, Living in the Material World, and Cloud Nine. He also toured with him in 1974 and 1991.
In 1988, Harrison called upon Keltner to join the newly formed Traveling Wilburys. Keltner had played with all of the other members before, so it seemed like a natural fit. He was brought in to provide the backbeat for the group’s debut album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1, which was released later that year.
Interview with the Drummer from the Traveling Wilburys
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Keltner reflected on his time with the Traveling Wilburys. He said, “It was a great honor to be asked to play with them. I had known each of them individually for many years, but to be part of this project was a dream come true.”
When asked about what he learned from the other members, he replied, “I learned a lot about songwriting. You know, those guys wrote some great songs. I also learned a lot about recording. Jeff [Lynne] had a way of getting sounds that no one else could get.”
Keltner also discussed his contributions to the group’s sound. He said, “I think I brought a certain groove and feel to the music. I tried to keep it simple and just focus on laying down a solid foundation for the other instruments and vocals.”
Behind the Scenes Look at the Drumming on the Traveling Wilburys’ Albums
In the studio, Keltner was known for his meticulous approach to drumming. He used a variety of techniques to create a unique drum sound on the Traveling Wilburys’ albums. He used different types of cymbals, varying stick sizes and weights, and various miking techniques to capture his desired sound.
He also experimented with different tempos and time signatures to create interesting grooves and fills. He would often record multiple takes of a single part to get the best performance possible. As former Wilburys’ producer Jeff Lynne once said, “Jim was always very precise and knew exactly what he wanted to do. He was the perfect drummer for us.”
How the Drummer Contributed to the Traveling Wilburys’ Sound
Keltner’s drumming was integral to the Traveling Wilburys’ sound. He provided a steady yet creative groove that allowed the other band members to shine. His style was rooted in traditional rock and roll, but he also incorporated elements of jazz, blues, and country into his playing.
His drum parts were full of energy and dynamics. He was able to lock in with the other band members and create a tight, cohesive sound. He also added subtle nuances to the arrangements, creating an organic, live feel that was often missing in the studio recordings of the era.
A Look at the Drummer’s Other Musical Projects
In addition to his work with the Traveling Wilburys, Keltner has worked with numerous other artists over the years. He has released several solo albums, collaborated with the likes of Eric Clapton and Neil Young, and played in several bands, including Little Village and the Blues Brothers.
Keltner’s influence can be heard on countless records, ranging from classic rock to modern pop. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential drummers of the past 50 years, and his work with the Traveling Wilburys only further cemented his legacy.
A Comparison of the Drummer’s Playing Style with the Other Band Members
When compared to the other members of the Traveling Wilburys, Keltner’s playing stands out for its subtlety and nuance. He was able to hold down the groove while still adding interesting flourishes and accents to the mix. His playing was never too busy or flashy, but it was always tasteful and in the pocket.
At the same time, Keltner was able to blend in with the rest of the band. He had a knack for finding the right balance between playing with the other musicians and allowing them to shine. His style was the glue that held the group together, and it helped create the signature sound of the Traveling Wilburys.
Conclusion
Jim Keltner was an essential part of the Traveling Wilburys. He provided the perfect backbeat for their songs, and his subtle yet powerful playing style helped create the band’s unique sound. His influence can still be heard in today’s music, and he is remembered as one of the greatest drummers of all time.
The Traveling Wilburys may have been a supergroup, but without Keltner’s contributions, they would not have achieved the level of success that they did. His work with the band is a testament to his talent and skill as a drummer, and his legacy will live on for generations to come.
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