Todd's promark chat
Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2006 12:47 pmWelcome to Pro-Mark Stix In Session!
Our guest today is Styx Drummer, Todd Sucherman
Todd Sucherman grew up in a musical family. His father, Arnold J. Sucherman was a doctor by day, and a big band drummer by night. He was the house drummer at the famed Chez Parre' in Chicago through the 1940s and 50's. During that time he worked with Lena Horne, Sammy Davis Jr., Sophie Tucker, Joe E. Lewis, Jack Benny and countless others.
Already a veteran of many studio sessions with such artists as John Wetton, Steve Cole, Peter Cetera, and legendary Beach Boy Brian Wilson, Todd Sucherman decided to sink his teeth deep into one of America's most flamboyant Rock Art acts and fill the drum chair for Styx in 1996. When original Styx drummer John Panozzo sadly passed away in the summer of that year, Todd was immediately solidified as their full time drummer. With an impeccable fluent technique and machine-gun like speed and power, Todd has quickly paved his way as one of rock's premier drummers.
We welcome Todd Sucherman!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GCS_Angel: Todd, would you please begin by briefly telling us a bit about your style of drumming?
Todd Sucherman: I try to provide whatever the music needs. With Styx it's essentially a juggernaut of energy. I enjoy playing more groove style playing which is something I don't often get to display with a certain style Styx has.
Mamma Llama: Who or what inspired you to begin playing specifically the drums?
Todd Sucherman: My father was a drummer so I fell in love with drums as an infant. Just growing up in a musical family provided the inspiration and all different kinds of music was playing through the house all the time.
Cindi: Hi Todd...I know you have played with many great artists. Is there anyone you would like to play with?
Todd Sucherman: I'd love to work with Peter Gabriel or Sting, but basically, I just enjoy making music with great musicians.
daubeis: First off, thank you so much for your contributions to drumming. Your skills and approach to the instrument has taught me valuable lessons which in turn has added to my skills as drummer.
My question to you is: What was your reasoning for the custom sized double 8" toms on your current Pearl kit. Was it for a particular sound your we're looking for or was it for the placement of your hi-hat (essentially giving it a couple of inches of extra space to have it closer in proximity to you)?
Todd Sucherman: Thanks for the kinds words. I had originally wanted 6" toms, but Pearl couldn't make a 6" tom in the Masterwork line. So, I went with an 8 by 7 and an 8 by 8, and I have been extremely happy.
markinla: When is the Todd Sucherman stick gonna be available at my local store?
Todd Sucherman: Well, that's a question for Pro-Mark, isn't it? I hope one day soon. I am really in love with the stick that we designed together. It's the perfect extension of my hands, and it's the feel that I have been looking for my entire life.
musiclyric: Happy New Year! Have you ever during a practice session or performance started off doing something spontaneous and ended up doing something "off the wall?"
Todd Sucherman: I'm not sure what you mean, but any musician that dares to explore or improvise would end up doing just as you describe.
styx2006: Todd, how did Styx find you, or you find them? You are a great asset to the band!
Todd Sucherman: I was recommended by the guy who took care of my cartage while doing sessions in Chicago. John, their original drummer, was in ill health and basically, Keith (my cartage guy and Styx's production manager) recommended me.
styxrockers: What jobs did you have before you were a musician?
Todd Sucherman: I've never had any real jobs. I've been playing drums professionally since the age of six. I spent 8 years in the junior high school band!
kcgred: Todd, I'm sure you have been asked this many a time but being the young one of the group, I understand you were only 12 when you first went to see Styx during the Paradise Theatre tour. Going back to when you were first asked to join the band was that intimidating to you? To this day I'm sure you are still being compared to John Panozzo. Is that hard or does it bother you?
Todd Sucherman: Actually, I was 11 when I first saw Styx. Comparisons don't bother me because basically I don't make them, so I don't have to justify them. I am who I am behind the drums, and John was who John was behind the drums. I was not intimidated musically but more personally as one of their members who had a strong personality was no longer in the group, so we had to learn each other as human beings.
mystified: What style of music do you find most challenging to play?
Todd Sucherman: Jazz. Playing breakneck tempos for long periods of time, improvising, and reacting to the other musicians is much more challenging than just playing a "part."
jrock: How do you prefer to monitor yourself recording, with headphones, in-ears? What is your level usually like...loud or soft? Thanks for doing this - you are by far the most influential drummer to me! Keep it up!
Todd Sucherman: Thanks for the kinds words, jrock. I prefer headphones in the recording studio and in-ears live. My volume level is somewhat loud, but much softer if I had big monitors.
Rachinda: I read that growing up you wanted to be a studio drummer. Do you still prefer studio drumming over touring?
Todd Sucherman: Well, the grass is always greener. Whenever I am on the road for a long time, I long to be in the recording studio. When I am in the studio too much, I long to play live again. So, it's nice to try to find a balance.
musiclyric: I know you're a great drummer but when you first joined Styx, what was the most challenging song to play?
Todd Sucherman: In my mind, there is no one song that stood out, but for me, it was playing a 2 and 1/2 hour show every night. I just had to make sure that I listened to my body, took care of myself, and got enough sleep when I felt that I needed it. I guess "Renegade" was always tough because it was usually the last song of the night, and I still had to have my energy level on 10.
Camsmom90: How long did it take to put the Styx medley together? It is awesome!
Todd Sucherman: Thanks, Camsmom90! I basically did it on one lazy Sunday afternoon. It was refined a few days later, but I'd say 90% of it was done in one day.
danny r: Any plans for another studio release from Styx?
Todd Sucherman: Yes, that's the plan. I can't say when, but we are on break right now, so everyone is enjoying a little bit of free time and getting back to normal life at this point. But I know that, at some point, we'll all get together in one room and start bringing out ideas.
Rich A: Todd, For years I've had this crazy idea that the new incarnation of Styx should re-record the album The Serpent Is Rising. I always liked the songs on that recording, but wished the production quality was better. What do you think of Serpent '06?
Todd Sucherman: That's funny, Rich, honestly, I've never even heard that record. The first Styx record I heard was "Equinox" and I'm not really familiar with any of the Wooden Nickel releases. Todd Sucherman: I'll have to get a copy of "Serpent" and check it out.
Dove: Love your playing...yet a silly question, but how do you make your arms fly as fast as you do? I know a lot of drummers and they don't have the speed and efficiency or talent that you do. How do you do it?
Todd Sucherman: I just do what I do! I don't know how an architect designs a building. I just do what I've done my whole life. Sorry I don't have more of an eloquent answer.
softail: What kind of kick drum mics you use for live?
Todd Sucherman: Good question! (because I am drawing a blank) I've been doing a lot of research on microphones lately, so they are all sort of scrambled up in my brain like microphone soup. I'll say this: they sound good whatever they are!
klthompson: Has your performance on "One With Everything" been given some kind of artistic award? if not it should be. I think it is an astounding piece of drum work, so many licks, fills and grooves in one track without being over the top - superb. Dig your home studio too!
Todd Sucherman: Thank you very much, klthompson. The award is getting compliments such as yours though no formal award has been given. We were all really proud of that song, and we still enjoy playing that one in our live set. Thanks again!
karen Graham: What's the best gig you've ever played?
Todd Sucherman: That's a hard one. I've been fortunate to do so many wonderful gigs in many beautiful settings. There is not one in particular that stands out, but whether it's Radio City Music Hall or an empty field, I just feel privileged to make my living playing music. Thanks for your question, karen Graham.
mystified: My friend Angela would like to know how many drum sticks you usually go through in a night, not including the ones you give to fans.
Todd Sucherman: Being that wood is a natural product, I can have one pair of sticks last the whole night or I could break 3, 4, or 5 in any given show. Normally, the ones I hand out to fans at the end of the show are either broken or just at the breaking point. I keep the fresh ones for myself.
princesskrae13: Is the rock world scary? Just being in that type of a position, if you know what I mean.
Todd Sucherman: The corporate world scares me a heck of a lot more, so no!
jimtampadrummer: My 12 yr old son and I have seen you play at least a dozen times and he was wondering what kind of advice can you give to a new drummer.
Todd Sucherman: My advice would be for him to find a teacher and take lessons. Learn how to read music. Go see live music whenever you can. Expose him to all different kinds of music, not just particular bands that he likes. There are a lot of jazz clubs that allow kids because they want them to be exposed to that great style of music. Good luck to you and your son, jimtampadrummer.
JY SuperStar: What do you do in your free time?
Todd Sucherman: What free time??? My wife and I just moved into a new house, so we've been happily getting our new home together and enjoying our time together after this last year of hectic touring schedules that we both had. We're just chillin'!
jptrussman: Todd: I've always admired and enjoyed the music of Styx, ever since they became popular. After John's unfortunate passing, did you (and do you currently) feel some pressure to duplicate his parts as recorded, or did (do) you feel that you can add a "new" dimension and feel to their music simply by playing your own style? I watched you on one of the tv shows (I don't remember which one) and I must say, you brought a very fresh and crisp sound to the music. I was thinking, "damn, this guy is good and he's a great fit for what's trying to be accomplished". Kudos, buddy, and best wishes for the future.
Todd Sucherman: Thanks for the kind words, jptrussman. I try to tip my hat to the original flavor of the drum parts while bringing my own approach to the music. The songs that were made famous before I ever had anything to do with them have to have the original vibe, but because I am a different human being, it's going to feel differently and hopefully enjoyable to the listener while I bring my style to the table. John was a very active drummer and his parts are fun templates for me to update and "hippen" up a bit.
Kim: Who do you like to listen to?
Todd Sucherman: Kim, I'm just going to give you a list of things I've been listening to lately: Stereophonics, Keane, Coldplay, The Blue Nile, Ben Folds, and a million other things. My mind is drawing a blank.
jrock: Any clinics happening soon? We got to get you at the Memphis Drum Shop.
Todd Sucherman: I would love to go down to the Memphis Drum Shop! Actually, Pearl drums and I are talking about doing a few drum clinics in the midwest in the middle of March. Hopefully, we can put this together. Let the folks at the Memphis Drum Shop know that you'd like to see me there. I'll come down anytime.
GCS_Angel: What's coming up on the horizon for you, Todd?
Todd Sucherman: I'm working on a record for my wife, Taylor Mills, who sings with Brian Wilson. We're working at a snail's pace but hopefully it'll get done this year. As well, I know that we'll be hitting the road again with Styx, so keep your eye out for us.
GCS_Angel: Unfortunately we are almost out of time. Do you have any final comments, upcoming events or insights for our audience before we wrap up?
Todd Sucherman: Thanks to everybody who showed up and thanks for your questions. Thanks to Pro-Mark, not only are the sticks amazing, but the people at the company are among the nicest people I've met in the entire industry. I wish everyone a happy and healthy new year! See you on the road in '06!
GCS_Angel: Thank you Todd Sucherman! I am so glad you could join us today here at WWB and Pro-Mark's InSession!
Todd Sucherman: Goodnight, sleep tight, and heartfelt thanks again to you all.
To find out more about Todd Sucherman please visit: http://www.toddsucherman.com
To find out more about Pro-Mark Stix, go to: http://www.promarkdrumsticks.com
Our guest today is Styx Drummer, Todd Sucherman
Todd Sucherman grew up in a musical family. His father, Arnold J. Sucherman was a doctor by day, and a big band drummer by night. He was the house drummer at the famed Chez Parre' in Chicago through the 1940s and 50's. During that time he worked with Lena Horne, Sammy Davis Jr., Sophie Tucker, Joe E. Lewis, Jack Benny and countless others.
Already a veteran of many studio sessions with such artists as John Wetton, Steve Cole, Peter Cetera, and legendary Beach Boy Brian Wilson, Todd Sucherman decided to sink his teeth deep into one of America's most flamboyant Rock Art acts and fill the drum chair for Styx in 1996. When original Styx drummer John Panozzo sadly passed away in the summer of that year, Todd was immediately solidified as their full time drummer. With an impeccable fluent technique and machine-gun like speed and power, Todd has quickly paved his way as one of rock's premier drummers.
We welcome Todd Sucherman!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GCS_Angel: Todd, would you please begin by briefly telling us a bit about your style of drumming?
Todd Sucherman: I try to provide whatever the music needs. With Styx it's essentially a juggernaut of energy. I enjoy playing more groove style playing which is something I don't often get to display with a certain style Styx has.
Mamma Llama: Who or what inspired you to begin playing specifically the drums?
Todd Sucherman: My father was a drummer so I fell in love with drums as an infant. Just growing up in a musical family provided the inspiration and all different kinds of music was playing through the house all the time.
Cindi: Hi Todd...I know you have played with many great artists. Is there anyone you would like to play with?
Todd Sucherman: I'd love to work with Peter Gabriel or Sting, but basically, I just enjoy making music with great musicians.
daubeis: First off, thank you so much for your contributions to drumming. Your skills and approach to the instrument has taught me valuable lessons which in turn has added to my skills as drummer.
My question to you is: What was your reasoning for the custom sized double 8" toms on your current Pearl kit. Was it for a particular sound your we're looking for or was it for the placement of your hi-hat (essentially giving it a couple of inches of extra space to have it closer in proximity to you)?
Todd Sucherman: Thanks for the kinds words. I had originally wanted 6" toms, but Pearl couldn't make a 6" tom in the Masterwork line. So, I went with an 8 by 7 and an 8 by 8, and I have been extremely happy.
markinla: When is the Todd Sucherman stick gonna be available at my local store?
Todd Sucherman: Well, that's a question for Pro-Mark, isn't it? I hope one day soon. I am really in love with the stick that we designed together. It's the perfect extension of my hands, and it's the feel that I have been looking for my entire life.
musiclyric: Happy New Year! Have you ever during a practice session or performance started off doing something spontaneous and ended up doing something "off the wall?"
Todd Sucherman: I'm not sure what you mean, but any musician that dares to explore or improvise would end up doing just as you describe.
styx2006: Todd, how did Styx find you, or you find them? You are a great asset to the band!
Todd Sucherman: I was recommended by the guy who took care of my cartage while doing sessions in Chicago. John, their original drummer, was in ill health and basically, Keith (my cartage guy and Styx's production manager) recommended me.
styxrockers: What jobs did you have before you were a musician?
Todd Sucherman: I've never had any real jobs. I've been playing drums professionally since the age of six. I spent 8 years in the junior high school band!
kcgred: Todd, I'm sure you have been asked this many a time but being the young one of the group, I understand you were only 12 when you first went to see Styx during the Paradise Theatre tour. Going back to when you were first asked to join the band was that intimidating to you? To this day I'm sure you are still being compared to John Panozzo. Is that hard or does it bother you?
Todd Sucherman: Actually, I was 11 when I first saw Styx. Comparisons don't bother me because basically I don't make them, so I don't have to justify them. I am who I am behind the drums, and John was who John was behind the drums. I was not intimidated musically but more personally as one of their members who had a strong personality was no longer in the group, so we had to learn each other as human beings.
mystified: What style of music do you find most challenging to play?
Todd Sucherman: Jazz. Playing breakneck tempos for long periods of time, improvising, and reacting to the other musicians is much more challenging than just playing a "part."
jrock: How do you prefer to monitor yourself recording, with headphones, in-ears? What is your level usually like...loud or soft? Thanks for doing this - you are by far the most influential drummer to me! Keep it up!
Todd Sucherman: Thanks for the kinds words, jrock. I prefer headphones in the recording studio and in-ears live. My volume level is somewhat loud, but much softer if I had big monitors.
Rachinda: I read that growing up you wanted to be a studio drummer. Do you still prefer studio drumming over touring?
Todd Sucherman: Well, the grass is always greener. Whenever I am on the road for a long time, I long to be in the recording studio. When I am in the studio too much, I long to play live again. So, it's nice to try to find a balance.
musiclyric: I know you're a great drummer but when you first joined Styx, what was the most challenging song to play?
Todd Sucherman: In my mind, there is no one song that stood out, but for me, it was playing a 2 and 1/2 hour show every night. I just had to make sure that I listened to my body, took care of myself, and got enough sleep when I felt that I needed it. I guess "Renegade" was always tough because it was usually the last song of the night, and I still had to have my energy level on 10.
Camsmom90: How long did it take to put the Styx medley together? It is awesome!
Todd Sucherman: Thanks, Camsmom90! I basically did it on one lazy Sunday afternoon. It was refined a few days later, but I'd say 90% of it was done in one day.
danny r: Any plans for another studio release from Styx?
Todd Sucherman: Yes, that's the plan. I can't say when, but we are on break right now, so everyone is enjoying a little bit of free time and getting back to normal life at this point. But I know that, at some point, we'll all get together in one room and start bringing out ideas.
Rich A: Todd, For years I've had this crazy idea that the new incarnation of Styx should re-record the album The Serpent Is Rising. I always liked the songs on that recording, but wished the production quality was better. What do you think of Serpent '06?
Todd Sucherman: That's funny, Rich, honestly, I've never even heard that record. The first Styx record I heard was "Equinox" and I'm not really familiar with any of the Wooden Nickel releases. Todd Sucherman: I'll have to get a copy of "Serpent" and check it out.
Dove: Love your playing...yet a silly question, but how do you make your arms fly as fast as you do? I know a lot of drummers and they don't have the speed and efficiency or talent that you do. How do you do it?
Todd Sucherman: I just do what I do! I don't know how an architect designs a building. I just do what I've done my whole life. Sorry I don't have more of an eloquent answer.
softail: What kind of kick drum mics you use for live?
Todd Sucherman: Good question! (because I am drawing a blank) I've been doing a lot of research on microphones lately, so they are all sort of scrambled up in my brain like microphone soup. I'll say this: they sound good whatever they are!
klthompson: Has your performance on "One With Everything" been given some kind of artistic award? if not it should be. I think it is an astounding piece of drum work, so many licks, fills and grooves in one track without being over the top - superb. Dig your home studio too!
Todd Sucherman: Thank you very much, klthompson. The award is getting compliments such as yours though no formal award has been given. We were all really proud of that song, and we still enjoy playing that one in our live set. Thanks again!
karen Graham: What's the best gig you've ever played?
Todd Sucherman: That's a hard one. I've been fortunate to do so many wonderful gigs in many beautiful settings. There is not one in particular that stands out, but whether it's Radio City Music Hall or an empty field, I just feel privileged to make my living playing music. Thanks for your question, karen Graham.
mystified: My friend Angela would like to know how many drum sticks you usually go through in a night, not including the ones you give to fans.
Todd Sucherman: Being that wood is a natural product, I can have one pair of sticks last the whole night or I could break 3, 4, or 5 in any given show. Normally, the ones I hand out to fans at the end of the show are either broken or just at the breaking point. I keep the fresh ones for myself.
princesskrae13: Is the rock world scary? Just being in that type of a position, if you know what I mean.
Todd Sucherman: The corporate world scares me a heck of a lot more, so no!
jimtampadrummer: My 12 yr old son and I have seen you play at least a dozen times and he was wondering what kind of advice can you give to a new drummer.
Todd Sucherman: My advice would be for him to find a teacher and take lessons. Learn how to read music. Go see live music whenever you can. Expose him to all different kinds of music, not just particular bands that he likes. There are a lot of jazz clubs that allow kids because they want them to be exposed to that great style of music. Good luck to you and your son, jimtampadrummer.
JY SuperStar: What do you do in your free time?
Todd Sucherman: What free time??? My wife and I just moved into a new house, so we've been happily getting our new home together and enjoying our time together after this last year of hectic touring schedules that we both had. We're just chillin'!
jptrussman: Todd: I've always admired and enjoyed the music of Styx, ever since they became popular. After John's unfortunate passing, did you (and do you currently) feel some pressure to duplicate his parts as recorded, or did (do) you feel that you can add a "new" dimension and feel to their music simply by playing your own style? I watched you on one of the tv shows (I don't remember which one) and I must say, you brought a very fresh and crisp sound to the music. I was thinking, "damn, this guy is good and he's a great fit for what's trying to be accomplished". Kudos, buddy, and best wishes for the future.
Todd Sucherman: Thanks for the kind words, jptrussman. I try to tip my hat to the original flavor of the drum parts while bringing my own approach to the music. The songs that were made famous before I ever had anything to do with them have to have the original vibe, but because I am a different human being, it's going to feel differently and hopefully enjoyable to the listener while I bring my style to the table. John was a very active drummer and his parts are fun templates for me to update and "hippen" up a bit.
Kim: Who do you like to listen to?
Todd Sucherman: Kim, I'm just going to give you a list of things I've been listening to lately: Stereophonics, Keane, Coldplay, The Blue Nile, Ben Folds, and a million other things. My mind is drawing a blank.
jrock: Any clinics happening soon? We got to get you at the Memphis Drum Shop.
Todd Sucherman: I would love to go down to the Memphis Drum Shop! Actually, Pearl drums and I are talking about doing a few drum clinics in the midwest in the middle of March. Hopefully, we can put this together. Let the folks at the Memphis Drum Shop know that you'd like to see me there. I'll come down anytime.
GCS_Angel: What's coming up on the horizon for you, Todd?
Todd Sucherman: I'm working on a record for my wife, Taylor Mills, who sings with Brian Wilson. We're working at a snail's pace but hopefully it'll get done this year. As well, I know that we'll be hitting the road again with Styx, so keep your eye out for us.
GCS_Angel: Unfortunately we are almost out of time. Do you have any final comments, upcoming events or insights for our audience before we wrap up?
Todd Sucherman: Thanks to everybody who showed up and thanks for your questions. Thanks to Pro-Mark, not only are the sticks amazing, but the people at the company are among the nicest people I've met in the entire industry. I wish everyone a happy and healthy new year! See you on the road in '06!
GCS_Angel: Thank you Todd Sucherman! I am so glad you could join us today here at WWB and Pro-Mark's InSession!
Todd Sucherman: Goodnight, sleep tight, and heartfelt thanks again to you all.
To find out more about Todd Sucherman please visit: http://www.toddsucherman.com
To find out more about Pro-Mark Stix, go to: http://www.promarkdrumsticks.com
Thanks for posting this Styxfan NH, it's great to have information on all the members of Styx!!