Yussef Dayes is a tour-de-force behind the drums. The South London-raised producer, composer and drummer performs with an exhilarating combo of technical prowess, depth and emotion.
Rising up with three brothers in a house the place musical experimentation was absolutely embraced. He started banging on pots and pans at age 4, was tutored at age 10 by Miles Davis’ drummer, Billy Cobham, and rapidly developed an ear for a variety of musical kinds — from the affect of East/West African rhythms and its journey by way of the Caribbean and South America, to the sound system-heavy influence of grime and jungle.
Forward of his present Tuesday night time at El Membership, he spoke with WDET to debate his musical inspirations — together with African drumming and drums as a melodic instrument — his debut solo LP “Black Classical Music,” and dealing with Masego.
Pay attention: Yussef Dayes talks with WDET about his musical inspirations and his new album
Although the drums aren’t his solely creating outlet, Dayes mentioned taking part in the drums is most positively his calling.
“It was at all times ordained for me, I don’t keep in mind my time earlier than taking part in the drums,” he mentioned. “Even I feel earlier than my dad obtained me a drum equipment, once I was 4 I used to be banging on pots and pans, making an attempt to jam with my brothers… so I feel it was simply one in all them issues the place yeah, that is what you’re meant to be doing you recognize.”
Drums are sometimes seen as a mandatory a part of a musical group, and fewer usually showcased because the lead instrument — a notion that Dayes rejects together with his commanding fashion and African-inspired sound.
“In African traditions, drum is the unique speaking, you recognize, speaking drum tama, that was how tribes [communicate],” he mentioned. “Whether or not there was a risk taking place or a ceremony taking place, that was how they let you recognize what’s happening.”
His musical inspirations span a lot farther than the African continent, nonetheless, shouting out Detroit’s personal J Dilla, in addition to drumming legends Max Roach, Shiela E., Cindy Blackman, Tony Allen and extra.
Hearken to your complete interview utilizing the media participant above.
Yussef Dayes will carry out at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21, at El Membership in Detroit.
Assist the exhibits you like.
WDET’s distinctive music applications are devoted to exploring the music and tradition of our area and the world.
Hold the music going. Please make a present at this time.
Give now »
