Chester Thompson, a percussionist with a storied career spanning decades, reflects on his journey from his early days in Baltimore to his collaborations with legendary artists like Frank Zappa, Weather Report, and Genesis. Thompson's story is one of dedication, adaptability, and a deep passion for music. He shares insights into his influences, the challenges of working with diverse artists, and the importance of continuous learning and practice.
Born in the 60s, Thompson's musical journey began at a young age, playing along to jazz records and later studying flute, percussion, and composition. His first gig at 13, playing with a local soul band, set the stage for a career in music. Thompson's early influences included jazz drummers like Max Roach and Art Blakey, who inspired him to start playing drums at a young age.
His big break came when he joined Frank Zappa's band in 1973, where he honed his skills under Zappa's mentorship. Thompson describes Zappa as a great teacher who knew how to push his band members to the next level. This experience introduced him to 40-hour-a-week rehearsals, a demanding but rewarding aspect of working with Zappa.
After leaving Zappa, Thompson joined Weather Report, a band known for its innovative fusion sound. He describes Weather Report as having a more organic feel than many other 70s fusion bands, with composers Joe Zawinul and Wayne Shorter pushing the boundaries of traditional jazz. Thompson's time with Weather Report influenced his approach to drumming, as he learned to incorporate a more visual and film-like perspective into his playing.
Thompson's most significant collaboration was with Genesis, where he played drums for over three decades. He reflects on the cultural differences between the US and the UK, noting that English bands often focused on cover songs and learning to play them exactly as written, whereas US bands, including Genesis, emphasized original material and creativity. Thompson's playing style, influenced by his background in jazz, was a significant adjustment for Genesis, as he had to adapt to the band's more metronomic and straight-ahead rock style.
One of Thompson's most memorable moments was his collaboration with Genesis' Phil Collins, where they developed live drum duets through jamming and experimentation. Thompson describes a strong working relationship with Collins, who gave him free rein in the songs and encouraged him to develop his own style. Thompson also shares a humorous anecdote about Collins' unique sense of rhythm, which he describes as 'walking,' a stark contrast to the more relaxed walking style of Thompson's hometown.
Despite his success with Genesis, Thompson never saw himself as a full-time member of the band. He describes himself as an employee, dedicated to doing his best work. When Phil Collins left Genesis, Thompson considered joining the band as a full-time member, but Mike Rutherford rejected the idea. Thompson also reflects on his falling out with Collins during the Motown tour in 2010, which led to a permanent rift in their relationship.
In recent years, Thompson has continued to collaborate with various artists, including The Fusion Syndicate, a project that brings together several drummers for a fusion all-stars experience. He has also released solo albums, including 'Wake-Up Call,' which features his son Akil on guitar. Thompson's dedication to continuous learning and practice is evident in his approach to music, as he believes that there is always something new to learn and that the moment of mastery is never achieved.
Chester Thompson's career is a testament to his passion for music and his ability to adapt to different styles and collaborations. His journey from a young drummer in Baltimore to a seasoned percussionist working with some of the industry's greatest artists is a story of dedication, creativity, and a deep love for music.
