Billy "illy B" Martin Interview - Page 2

My congas playing with the Lounge Lizards was a turning point for me. Before LL, I used my hands and didn't have a good technique on congas. I am really a stick drummer. So, John Lurie insisted that I play the congas even if I had to use sticks. So, I remembered seeing the drummers of Burundi at a festival in Amsterdam in the late 80s' and that had a big influence. There sticks are very thick and have much more tone and I have been developing my techinique for the congas with that influence. You can hear a great example of that on the "percussion duets" CD with Calvin Weston and myself available at amuletrecords.com.

Hey Billy, A little more specifically, I'd love to hear who you would name as having the biggest influence on your playing. If not a drummer/percussionist, would you also name the drummer/percussionist that you feel has had the greatest influence on your playing? Feel free to list more than one.

I think Max Roach, John Bonham, Nana Vasconcelos & Zigaboo Modeliste
are the best combination.

As far as taping goes, do you feel that being recorded every single time you guys take the stage has any impact whatsoever on the overall live show? Chris has commented previously on the issue of recording a live performance vs. being there and experiencing the moment for what it is. What are your feelings on the subject?

I choose to pay very little attention to that shit unless someone is right up front of the stage taping & acting like HE is the most important part of the show. I think it's great if someone get's a great performance on tape. But, that doesn't effect our performance unless someone makes a fuss. There are times when I feel like people should turn off the recorder because it's too sacred a moment. But the spirits usually take care of that!

Do any chemicals or organic substances play a role in the creative process of MMW, or yourself individually? If yes, which ones?
Rob

Every cell in my body has an effect on what I play how I interact and perceive things. I don't believe you have to artificially alter your state in order to create something beautiful. That is an old myth. I don't think herbs are bad and pot smoking isn't as bad as alcohol.

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