Louis Cole - a Fresh New Voice in Music - Excellent Drummer!

Being a freelancer myself I understand how hard it is to start out and to try to make a niche for yourself. The music industry is a tough place to get your 5 minutes of fame. Over the next few weeks I am going to try to introduce several "new" or "beginning" musical talents to you.

I would like to begin this series with a wonderful young man, whose passion for music - drums is easily seen. He has a solid understanding of what it takes to go from "mediocre" to "great". Please put your hands together for Mr. Louis Cole.

(1.) When did you first realize that you had a passion for drumming? What made you chose this particular instrument?

I became interested in the drums at a very young age (maybe 4 or 5 years old) because of all the cool moving parts found on a drum set. I also used to slam my head against the pillow every night while humming songs when I was very little. This was part of my sleeping routine, and I had trouble sleeping if I was unable to do it. I didn't actually playing the drums until age 8 though.

(2.) Do you have musical training (College / Music School) or are you self-taught?

I went to usc for 4 years for a jazz degree. But I would say by far my biggest education was my dad, who plays piano, organ, and brass. We would play together. He also constantly exposed me to a lot of incredible music.

(3.) Do you play any other instruments?

I play some keyboards and guitar. I also compose on these instruments.

(4.) Are you what would be considered a Studio Musician or are you part of a Band?

I wouldn't consider myself a studio musician, but I am in several groups based in Los Angeles. I am currently trying to figure out how to play my own music live.

(5.) How long have you been a Drummer now?

I have been playing for 15 years now.

(6.) Are you currently performing anywhere and if yes where can our Readers catch your next performance?

My girlfriend Genevieve and I have a band called "Louis Cole and Genevieve Artadi" and we are playing a small performance at Peace Yoga in downtown L.A. on dec. 10th. I am also playing in a band called "Rick" at the Blue Whale in little Tokyo on dec. 11th.

(7.) What style of music do you most enjoy?

I really like all styles of music.

(8.) Who is or was your inspiration?

So many inspirations for me. I will try to list a few of them: Steve Cole, Clint Bazz, Ed Marz, Aydin Esen, Brian Wilson, Beatles, Tony Williams, Miles Davis, Boards of Canada, Chopin, Bach, Ligeti, Debussy, Jack Conte, Deerhoof, Herbie Hancock, James Brown, Genevieve Artadi, James Chance, Jim Black, John Zorn, Michael Jackson, Nate Wood, Nobukazu Takemura, Stravinsky, Brad Mehldau, Larry Goldings, and so many others.

(9.)What are your Goals in terms of your musical career?

I want to try to sell music that I make, and the music that I make with other people.

(10.) If you could meet any well known Musician, who would it be?

Any of the people from my list of inspirations that I have not met.

(11.) If you could ask them 3 Questions what would it be?

I would be happy talking about anything

(12.) Assuming that you have been performing in public venues before, how do you

handle "stage fright" or do you even get those jittery feelings?

I just pretend that I am playing in the comfort of my own house. It's hard to do, but it helps me relax.

(14.) Where do you see yourself realistically 2 years from now and what are you currently doing to get yourself there?

I would like to be successful doing what I am passionate about. I currently am trying to generate a fan base on youtube by creating videosongs and music videos for my own music as well as music I make with Genevieve.

(15.) Are you working any other jobs right now, or are you concentrating fully on your music career?

Right now I am fortunate enough to be able to focus just on my music career.

(16.) If someone would wish to hire you for a performance, how would they go about

contacting you?

You can contact me through my youtube channel: www.youtube.com/louiscolemusic.

(17.) Do you have any CD's or Soundtracks for sale - think jam trax for other musicians perhaps?

I have my solo cd and a cd with Genevieve. Both are available on itunes.

(18.) How many hours a day do you practice?

I try to get in 2 hours a day every day. With week or month long breaks here and there.

(19.) What was the hardest thing for you to learn as a Drummer?

Solid time and good time feel has been the hardest thing I've ever tried to obtain

(20.) If you could give any young person wanting to start drumming, what advice would you give them?

Focus on what you like playing

(21.) Which Equipment do you currently use (brand)?

I use a mix of old Gretsch and Rogers Drums, and a bunch of different keyboards, organs, and synthesizers ranging from Radio Shack Casios to a Grand Piano. I also have a teisco electric guitar and a cello and violin that I've ben starting to play.

(22.) If you could afford any Equipment you would like, which one makes your heart flutter?

I would be interested in some more analog synthesizers. They all sound so great. I also like vintage casio keyboards with drum machines.

(23.) Are you single, married or in a relationship?

Genevieve Artadi is my girlfriend

(24.) How old are you?

23

(25.) How does your family feel about your career choice? Are they supportive?

I am so lucky that my parents are supportive of my career choice. I can't express how lucky I feel to have family support.

(26.) Do you have an Agent? If no, are you planning on finding one?

I do not have an agent. I am going to see how far I can get by doing everything myself for the time being. Wish me luck!

(27.) Is there anything else you feel would be interesting for my Readers to know about you?

If you are interested you can check out my youtube videos (solo and with Genevieve):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaZdQYJSu8o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2wtxFMhcrY&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e63hGRwufvo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6JJiO8WbXE&feature=channel

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixIhiFgbVfo&feature=channel

(there are several more)

I hope you enjoyed this interview as much as I did. Please remember to take a look at his youtube clips.