NomaDic sounD resEArch Co.

1. Rick Rubin: My time working with Rick has profoundly influenced my approach to record production, business establishment, and studio setup. His mentorship has not only shaped my methods in the music and recording realm but has also transformed my perspective on art. The invaluable lessons I gained by observing Rick are unparalleled in the industry. Working for him provided me with a lifetime's worth of education.

2. Johnny Vidacovich: I studied drums under Johnny V's guidance for three transformative years in New Orleans. Beyond honing my drumming skills, he profoundly influenced my perspective on life—a debt of gratitude I'll always carry. Additionally, Johnny introduced me to drummers Stanton Moore and Jason Marsalis, with whom I engaged in extensive late-night discussions. The insights shared by these three gentlemen deepened my understanding of the intricacies within a groove, unmatched by any other teacher I've encountered since.

3. Ringo Starr: I had the privilege of conversing with Richard Starkey, renowned as "The Beatles" drummer Ringo Starr. Through our discussions, Richard imparted invaluable lessons about love, compassion, and, most importantly, the significance of self-forgiveness as the key to personal freedom in music. Additionally, he emphasized that the match grip reigns supreme.

4. Chris Martin: While working on a project for Rick Rubin, I had the opportunity to set up microphones, engage in conversations, and observe the work of Chris Martin from "Coldplay." In that moment, I found an answer to a question that had eluded me for decades: the essence of true talent. Chris demonstrated unparalleled humility, making him the most down-to-earth musician I've ever encountered in a studio. His musical prowess seemed to emanate effortlessly. My perception of musical talent today was profoundly influenced by that experience.

5. Charlie Haden: During my pursuit of a Masters Degree at CalArts, I had the privilege of studying and playing with Charlie Haden, the bass player for "Ornette Coleman," for two years. From Charlie, I gained a profound insight that every musician is not perfect, and greatness is defined by what you do with your imperfections. He emphasized, "You have to be a great person first before you can be a great musician."

6. The Grammys: I built and operated a recording studio affiliated with the Grammy’s Music Cares Program. This experience taught me the importance of keeping the microphones on and ready to capture a great moment. You never know which artists will walk through the door.

7. Joey Waronker: I took drum lessons and had the opportunity to observe Joey Waronker, the drummer for "Beck," at work. In the short time spent with him, I gained a wealth of knowledge on studio performance. Joey imparted valuable lessons on professionalism—being punctual, staying until the client is satisfied, doing your job diligently, bringing all your gear regardless of the budget, and maintaining a humble demeanor, even if the compensation is minimal.

8. First Audio Job: At 16, I served as a Boom Operator/Grip for a weekly Latin MTV-style show called "Ritmo Latino," syndicated on Telemundo. My responsibilities included traveling to major cities in Mexico to film the show's VJs. This experience marked the beginning of my journey into the field of Ethnomusicology, and during this time, we traveled with the North Mexican group Los Tigres Del Norte.

9. DH Peligro: I engaged in numerous late-night conversations with DH Peligro, the drummer for the "Dead Kennedys." Through these talks, he imparted valuable insights into the recording and performing processes during the heart of the punk era. Above all, he instilled in me the essence of being human and the importance of embracing forgiveness in life.
 
10. Eddie Roeser: I recorded and performed alongside Eddie Roeser from "Urge Overkill." Eddie taught me the art of songwriting and emphasized the significance of passion in the recording process. He underscored that a song must hold personal meaning for the artist.

11. Dean DeLeo: I engaged in numerous late-night discussions with Dean DeLeo, the guitarist of "Stone Temple Pilots." One of the invaluable tips he imparted, still guiding my recordings today, is that "the microphone has no idea how small or big an amp is in front of it." Dean also served as my initial glimpse into the responsibilities of being a father in the music business.

12. Dallas Taylor: Dallas, the original drummer for "Crosby, Stills & Nash," served as my mentor for many years. Spending countless hours with him, I gleaned valuable lessons. Being Texas natives, we shared a connection. Dallas emphasized the importance of staying prepared for the unexpected and always having your drums set up. The most significant piece of wisdom he passed on was the importance of kindness and welcoming everyone you encounter—you never know what people are going through.

13. Sandy West: I played drums with Sandy West of "The Runaways" in a compact 6 by 6 octagon sound booth on several occasions. I gained profound insights into her performing style. Sandy, one of the pioneering female punk drummers, exuded incredible power. I carry that energy with me before every show I play. The lesson she imparted was to approach the drums with intensity, as if you're in a war, giving your all as if it's the last time you'll ever play.

14. John Travis: I collaborated with music producer John Travis during my time with the band "Saint Motel." I garnered numerous insights into extracting stellar performances from artists and embracing input from anyone involved in the recording process, even the cleanup crew. The experience taught me the importance of letting go of control, remaining open-minded, and resisting the urge to say "No" when faced with creative possibilities.

15. Denny Laine: I had conversations with "Paul McCartney's" drummer Denny Laine. Denny shared the insight that having a distinctive sound is more crucial than being a versatile drummer and that the unique sound you cultivate becomes your trademark.

16. Duke Bardwell: I performed on drums with Elvis Presley's bass player, Duke Bardwell, at a dive bar in North Florida just outside of Pensacola. Beyond discussions about Elvis's history, I gained a profound understanding of what "swingin'" truly feels like. Elvis's swing and Duke's guidance provided me with valuable insights into the groove of early Rock 'n' Roll.

17. First Major Gig: In 1992, at the age of 17, I played drums for an audience of around 500 people, opening for the local Houston band Sprawl at the Fitzgerald's music venue. This experience ignited my passion for performing and exploring drumming as a way of life.

18. Damian Abraham: I recorded Father Damian Abraham, the vocalist of the Canadian punk band “Fucked Up”. During the hour-long recording session, I discovered that being a nice person transcends a musician's skill. Surprisingly, at the end of the session, Damian declined any payment.

19. Michael Beinhorn: I briefly worked with music producer Michael Beinhorn during the recording of Korn's Untouchables album. This experience taught me the importance of sometimes keeping my opinion to myself, a key lesson in maintaining a job in the industry. Two decades later, working with Michael for three more years, I found the same lesson to be as relevant as ever.

20. Bob Egan: I have worked, recorded, and performed with "Blue Rodeo's" pedal steel guitarist Bob Egan. Weekly, I continue to learn from Bob, and above all, he emphasizes that my time is the greatest currency I have.