Cindy Blackman is the Chic Drumstress surreal. Known for her jazz mastery & versatile style, she has held the backbeat for artists such as Lenny Kravitz, Jackie McLean, Joe Henderson, Don Pullen, Hugh Masekela, Pharaoh Sanders, Sam Rivers, Cassandra Wilson, Angela Bofill, Bill Laswell & Buckethead.  Touted as one of the hottest drummers in the business as well as one of the Greatest drummers in the World.. Lady Blackman is the image of solid strength & dependability. I had the chance to visit with Cindy about her plans in 2010 & grab a bit of her rockin’ history.  Let’s just say the word “Badass” never felt more at home than in front of the name Cindy Blackman.  Read On!



Quick 5 Stats
1. Jukebox or The Dj?
The DJ
2. Plaid or Argyle?
PLAID
3. Road Dog or Jet Hog?
JET HOG
4. NYC or LA?
NYC !!
5. Best makeout song ever written?
Blue & Green by MILES DAVIS

Having began your musical career as a New York street performer, you are also classically trained by the legendary Alan Dawson. From those early days until now, did you ever imagine you would become one of the most sought out drummers in the world?
 I only thought about the playing /virtuosity level that I wanted to reach- nothing else.


As beautiful as you are talented, Have you found that being a “Drumstress” is generally a positive aspect? I
deal with music for music sake, others who don’t are not my concern

Rumor has it that your audition for Lenny Kravitz was over the telephone. That is quite a feat!! HOW does a drummer impress through the phone line? 
yes, it was over the phone initially. I played & then he immediately invited me ti LA to play for a day or 2 w/ his band. That turned into an audition with about 40 other drummers!

You have said that your heart & soul is in Jazz music. Who are your jazz idols? 
My main heros are Jo Jones, Art Blakey, Max Roach, Roy Haynes, Philly Joe Jones, Elvin Jones„Pete LaRoca & Tony Williams.

A brilliant innovator, you have stated your desire to be a “Musical Virtuoso”. What does that truly mean & are you closer to that goal?
To be a virtuoso means to have such a command over your instrument & it’s language that you can play anything at any time & anything that you hear at any time.

Known as a Fit Player who is always up for the physical demands of a touring percussionist…How do you stay in such amazing shape?
I enjoy yoga & other exercise, healthy lifestyles of eating & living & I love life.


What does 2010 have in store for Cindy Blackman? And where can we see you LIVE soon??
2010 looks great ! i have a new record out on Feb 23rd called Another Lifetime featuring: Patrice Rushen, Mike Stern, Benny Rietveld, Doug Carn, Carlton Holmes, Fionn O Lochlainn, Joe Lovano, David Santos & Vernon Reid.  I have a record release gig in Boston at Scullers on March 4th & IN Nyc at the Highline Ballroom on March 10th.

Thanks CINDY!
To learn more about Cindy Blackman:
http://www.cindyblackman.com