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Kofi Baker
An acclaimed drummer that has worked with Tom Jones, Steve Marriott, Uli Jon Roth and Jack Bruce, Kofi Baker is the rare drummer that excels at both rock and jazz. The son of Cream drummer Ginger Baker, it is not very surprising that Kofi is such a stand-out percussionist. Kofi’s first live performance was actually with father Ginger on the U.K. television show The Old Grey Whistle Test at just six years of age. The early 1980s found the two drummer Bakers playing duets — often with complex African polyrhythms — on tour throughout Europe. Kofi went on to sign a record deal of his own with the Scotti Brothers label in the 1990s.
Kofi is currently touring as leader of Kofi Baker’s Cream Experience, which comes to The Iridium on Aug. 22. In support of that gig and his Aug. 23 drum clinic at Sam Ash’s Edison location, Kofi caught up with Downtown for some Q&A. He can be followed directly at www.kofibaker.com beyond keeping up Twitter and Facebook pages.
Kofi Baker
Although you’re a world-renowned drummer, a lot of people first learned about you from Beware Of Mr. Baker. Did you enjoy any part of that documentary?
Kofi Baker: Yes, I have mostly played jazz and fusion, so I don’t expect the mainstream to of heard of me that much. I enjoyed the whole thing, a lot of what I learn about my dad is from documentaries and this one was the best one I have seen.
Is there anything you want to clear up about the documentary?
KB: Yes — I had no shirt on because they got me out of bed to interview me.
For someone who hasn’t seen you live before, what should be expected from you at The Iridium?
KB: Well, it is always better to see someone live because you get a better feeling from seeing it up close and personal. Also I practice a lot, so hopefully I am better than the last thing you saw.
What do you remember about the first gig you ever played in New York?
KB: I was 22 and it was at a big record shop in New York City. The band was called Lost City and it was fun.
Is there anything you’re hoping to do while in New York besides playing at The Iridium?
KB: I will be doing some drum clinics at Sam Ash for a couple of days after the show, so I will just hang out and soak up the vibe .
Who is playing in your band these days?
KB: It changes, but it looks like it will be Chris Shutters on guitar. Not sure who will be on bass yet.
Kofi Baker
Who or what was it that made you first want to play drums?
KB: I have always played as long as I can remember — my dad gave me lessons as soon as I could hold a stick.
As an experienced drummer, how do you usually warm up before a show?
KB: I don’t anymore, because normally I’m talking to people before a show, but I used to warm up with the train exercise. My dad taught me that as it is what he warmed up with.
After this tour wraps, what’s coming up for you?
KB: More shows — KofiBaker.com has all my info on it. I use that myself to find out what is next.
When not busy with music, how do you like to spend your free time?
KB: In the gym. And eating.
Have you ever met another famous person named Kofi? Kofi Kingston? Kofi Annan?
KB: No, but I would like to.
Finally, Kofi, any last words for the kids?
KB: Play music because you enjoy it, not for fame or money. That way when you are a broke musician you will still be happy!