James Gadson Talks "Funky" Drumming with Zigaboo Modeliste, Jim Keltner, and Jonathan Moffett

Join us as we honor and celebrate the life of the late James Gadson, one of the greatest drummers of all time, and a true giant in R&B, soul, and funk drumming, who passed away last week. In this clip, Gadson, joined by other legendary drummers Zigaboo Modeliste, Jim Keltner, and Jonathan Moffett, discuss "What Is Funky?", and talk about their funky feel, which has nothing to do with 'what' you play. --- Born in Kansas City, James built a career that stretched across decades and helped define the sound of modern music. From his early work with Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band to his legendary playing on Bill Withers’ Still Bill, his groove became part of the foundation of songs so many of us grew up on. His feel can be heard on classics by Bill Withers, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, the Jackson 5, Gloria Gaynor, and so many more, and his influence carried all the way into later work with artists across generations. --- MASTERCLASS: James Gadson, Tony Braunagel - The Story of the Shuffle Learn a variety of shuffle grooves with James Gadson and Tony Braunagel. James shares a few of the shuffles he recorded with Bill Withers and The Supremes, while Tony discusses his work with BB King, Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt, Robert Cray, Rickie Lee Jones and more. This Masterclass is a must-watch for anyone who wants to improve their pocket playing and gain a greater understanding of this essential beat. ➡️ https://www.drumchannel.com/masterclasspost/the-story-of-the-shuffle/ ENTERTAINMENT: Lombardi Live! Spotlights: What is Funky? This "Spotlight" edition of Lombardi Live! features a great story from our roundtable interview "Honoring Zigaboo Modeliste" with Zig, James Gadson, Jim Keltner and Jonathan Moffett. I asked the question what is funky, and after James and Zig gave their answers, Jim and Jonathan said they said it all. Then Tony Braunagel joins Gadson as we look at part of their Masterclass, "The Story of the Shuffle." Also, Chad Smith blows your mind as he kicks a big band from "The Buddy Rich Memorial Concert." It's fun and educational; enjoy. ➡️ https://www.drumchannel.com/episodes/lombardi-live-spotlights-whats-is-funky/ --- Stay in touch with Drum Channel! 📕 Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/DrumChannel/ 📸 Instagram – http://www.instagram.com/DrumChannel/ 🐦 Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/DrumChannel/ Get better faster with our Practice Assist Metronome™! http://www.drumchannel.com/practice-assistant/ Visit the Drum Channel Store! https://shop.drumchannel.com/ James Gadson Talks "Funky" Drumming with Zigaboo Modeliste, Jim Keltner, and Jonathan Moffett

Added 19 Aug 2026