On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I'm catching up with Drew Simpson, one of my favorite drummers on the planet. We're diving into our musical journey together, reminiscing how Drew first got into percussion playing in his dad's band and his early lessons. We then reflect on our time playing together in Mount Pisgah and the profound impact of our drummer-bass player dynamic.
Drew shares some incredible stories from his touring days with Blast and Aida, giving us a peek into the theatrical magic of those performances. We also delve into his adventures touring in China, discussing the unique challenges and unforgettable moments on stage there.
Later, Drew opens up about his experiences playing in Broadway musicals like Blast and navigating the intricacies of being a sub in such demanding productions. He also touches on his fulfilling time teaching elementary school music, emphasizing the role of singing and percussion instruments in shaping young musicians' foundations. It's a conversation packed with insights and fond musical memories that I'm excited to share.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please get in touch with me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com. Please tell your friends about the show.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
What is The Bandwich Tapes?
The Bandwich Tapes is a podcast where host Brad Williams sits down with musicians for thoughtful conversations about the craft of making music.
Each episode explores the experiences, influences, and creative decisions that shape an artist’s work. From improvisation and songwriting to collaboration, recording, and life on the road, the conversations go beyond biography to focus on how music actually gets made.
Guests include instrumentalists, composers, songwriters, and producers from across the musical landscape. The tone is relaxed, curious, and musician-to-musician—an opportunity to hear artists reflect on their process, their collaborators, and the musical moments that have stayed with them.
Whether you're a seasoned musician, a die-hard music fan, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Bandwich Tapes has something for everyone. So, come along for the ride as we explore the magic of music and the incredible journeys of the people who bring it to life.