086 – Jan Faircloth: Being Part of a Tradition, Blues Innovators vs. Purists, An Audio Tour of Blues and Drumming in K.C.

Jan Faircloth grew up in western Kansas and moved to Kansas City in his early 20s. There, he found ample opportunities to pursue his love of Blues and Country music and has since been the heartbeat of some of the most successful blues acts to come out of KC, including Trampled Underfoot, Levee Town, and the Danielle Nicole Band. He is a fixture on the local scene and tours nationally and internationally on the circuit of the world’s best blues clubs, festivals and cruises.

In this podcast, Jan talks about:

His approach on the drums as an original member of a band vs. joining an existing band

Why North Texas wasn’t for him

His relationship with the late great jazz pianist, composer and educator Frank Mantooth

The hallmarks of KC blues, and how it was informed by KC jazz

How musicians are more open to change than listeners

KC’s blues hub, Knuckleheads, and its drumming hub, Explorer’s Percussion

His number one objective, whether playing or teaching: FUN!

Jan Faircloth endorses Meinl Cymbals.

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums.