In a sense he is in the hall of fame, The Musicians Most Respected by other Musicians. Here he shares the key characteristics for longevity in the biz: having passion, having done your homework with your instrument, being willing to take chances outside of your familiarity, always being a team player, always being humble. and knowing your blessings.
Tommy is an outstanding drummer. One hell of a career. Dripping with talent. Deserves to be recognized as one of the Best Rock drummers of the 80s and 90s. Salute to Tommy. Thank you for all the fantastic music.
My favorite drummer of all time,I saw him quite a few times over the years.The last show was with Whitesnake in 2019. When he was introduced the entire and I stress ENTIRE crowd gave him a standing ovation.Very few drummers can claim that respect.
science should study this man...he is 68 today in 2018 and plays like he did at 25 which is very physically demanding. a true freak of nature...Tommy IS rock legend...this man has done it all...in a league all his own...rock guys are not supposed to age and last this long!!!
Right up there with Bohnam and Peart. Not just enjoyable to listen to, but watch also. Got to see him with Randy Rhoads and Whitesnake twice. I'm lucky.
As much as I love and admire Aldridge and his incredible uniqueness behind the kit, especially for his time in Ozzy, you can't even mention Peart in the same breath, I'll give ya Bonham but definitely not Peart, Peart was a true gift beyond measure for all drummers. Full stop He is up there no question but Peart is so far beyond everyone at the top he is unreachable as far as I am concerned. Just in his compositional strengths alone he is unreachable !
I meet Tommy at a drum clinic on the westside of Jacksonville Florida in the late 1980s He is an incredible drummer and incredible person we love You Tommy God Bless you, Thanks for your Music, Bear
Feb. '78, The Pat Travers Band, Paramount Theatre, Ptld., OR., GA was 92 cents!(KGON, 92.3 'Catch a Rising Star Concerts) Tommy Aldridge, Mars Cowling, and PT!! What a Lineup and Show!!🤘🎸
Is Tommy Christian ? I hope so. I saw him 4 years ago with Whitesnake on The Purple tour. They were ON in Biloxi. He, Coverdale, and the whole band were Incredible. I was hoping they would come back through. Most bands always come back to Biloxi once they play there. I LOVED that show.
I'm so proud to say that he was born and raised about 15 minutes from me! He is certainly a legend. He belongs to the ranks of the likes of Elvis and too many to mention blues legends.
Fascinating interview...my take away from interviews like this is that I'm glad that I never tried to pursue a career in music..what a sleazy business!!! I've been a fan of Tommy since seeing Black Oak Arkansas in 1974! I've had the pleasure of seeing him four times, twice with BOA, once with Pat Travers and once with Ted Nugent. At the Nugent show, one of his drum sticks came flying out into the audience and bounced off of my out stretched hand only to disappear into the crowd never to be seen by me again.
OUTSTANDING INTERVIEW!!! A friend bought his Tommy's first instructional video. We went back to the house got some party supplies and proceeded to watch it 3x in a row. LOL Totally blown away by the stuff he was doing. Absolutely mind blowing!!! MONSTER DRUMMER!!!
This guy is a pioneer on the drums. Love him. So heavy! Plays the double bass the way I like it, fast but not so fast it becomes a blur. Love him on Speak of the Devil, Ozzy!
Tommy's work speaks for itself. He definitely got my attention when I was 14 and BOA Raunch n Roll was one of the first two cassettes I ever bought. His drumming on that album was amazing, and I'm glad to see he's still going strong. What a career! God Bless You, Tommy!
Tommy is a deeply religious man, a paradox in the rock n Roll world. Brilliant player and an unreal feel. 69 years old and hits like a 20 year old. Not at all easy to do
Two completely different players. Tommy can shred like a madman, but so can Alex, and Alex has a feel/swing that perhaps no other hard rock drummer will ever have.
Man! The true definition of DRUM GOD! The man is incredible and is one of my biggest inspirations as a drummer. I've followed his career since Pat Travers days in the late 70's. He's still amazing even at his age which is testament to his dedication, passion, and level of talent. Rock on brother!
Tommy is a down to earth man, you became one of my favorite drummers after I seen you at 83' us festival, being 53 I have to say that older school rockers are the best, rock on brother🙋
Who would put a thumbs down on Tommy Aldridge? A pioneer of rock and roll. A true Legend, Survivor and Veteran rock and roll history. A Major League professional musician who has put his mark and style on every band he has recorded and toured with.
Excellent human being. What an honor it would be to have him in your band. Seems so true to himself and honest. Saw him w/ BOA in the 70's and have always thought he was one of the top drummers the world has ever had. Still a ton of energy and some good years left in him still.
When i was looking for my new setup about 10 years ago i somehow find out tommys mail and decided to ask him for few advices and didnt expect any answers....but he actually replied and i got some great informations for my setup. Still cant beleive how kind and down to earth he is,great man great drummer thanks alot man cheers.
major inspiration for me with the double bass. He's incredible! Best overall rock drummer in history. But, Tommy, your best work honestly was with Black Oak Arkansas even though I know you had a riff with them. You were so incredible with them!!!!
Listened to every second, clearly Tommy was in a sharing mood this day. Those first 2 Ozzy albums were everything to me back in the day, lived in Florida, was going to the show when that terrible day - plane crash happened... absolutely crushed the 15 year old me. Sometime in the early 90s, I was in vegas playing blackjack, think at the new MGM, and sure enough, Tommy sita at my table. His energy, and vibe just glowed and flowed. I was the only one around to recognize him, he was so friendly and smiling and enjoying the moment. It's so important to be present in each moment throughout life, that's what I see in this man. 👍Man, I'm gonna spin Blizzard and Diary all the way through on this Fall sunday in LA.
You're right, but live, Tommy was awesome! I saw Ozzy so many times I've lost count. Tommy and Randy Castillo (R. I. P.) were the only ones that I really noticed. Well, Bill Ward, I saw Sabbath's "Never Say Die" tour as well..
This man is such an inspiration to me and to so many others! A true gentleman and a class act. 1st time I saw him was in the Pat Travers band, then Ozzy.
At a drum seminar in Evansville, IN we asked him with such a great career, what was the high point. He thought for a moment then said without a doubt playing with Randy & Rudy. He and Rudy are buddies from way back. Randy was one of the nicest people he'd ever met. He said playing with Randy was so good in fact it enabled him to stomach Ozzy's bullshit for 6 years! Haha. His cymbal spread is the sickest this side of the Atlantic, Nicko's being the best that side. Much respect and admiration for this man as a player and a person.
An absolute Legend and one of the greatest drummers of our time. He has played on some of the most iconic and historical metal albums that there are today and he continues to be force to be reckoned with in drumming. He has been one of the musicians I've looked to for inspiration in my career since I first discovered Black Oak when I was a kid. He is an amazing drummer and just as amazing and humble as a person. Why he is not in the Hall of Fame is beyond me. Keep drumming Tommy!!! 🤘
What a genuine guy! I was lucky enough to meet him @ a clinic. I was the first person there and he asked me to sound check his drums, so he could hear them out front. Priceless!
Jesus ... Halfway through this i remembered that in 1980 i saw Blizzard of Ozz here in Seattle's Paramount Theater with Tommy, Rudy, Randy and Ozzy - with Motorhead (with Fast Eddie Clark and Philthy Aminal Taylor) opening the show. Unbelievable that was. Randy's presence alone seemed to fill that whole theater. His plaything was ado huge and gothic. Just massive really.
My birthday buddy! It meant s lot to me as a kid for some reason, that I shared that day with him. As a young drummer his playing was (and still is) so exciting, and inspirational. 8/15 Baby!
Tommy is a legend and seems like a nice guy. I can see the reflection in his eyes when he speaks of his mom. And he is also right when ure young a year is like forever but when older as tommy said a year is like 30 seconds. This life on this earth is quiet short. Even if ure looky enough to live till 70 or whatever.
I’m a Rock Drummer and I knew I was looking at a Beginning Life king superstR when I saw Tommy @ the Celebration of Lufe PoP Festival in Louisiana. He was playing with a very Unique Band who first introduced Dually Guitars. Maybe you’ve heard of them: Black Oak Arkansas... all thru the next 40 yrs I’ve seen him with All if the Top Bands; Gary Moore, Ozzy, Dio, Travers , Rhodes Whitesnake..... Monster Drummer Totally Dedicated!!!
One of the great rock and roll drummers ever...remember seeing him with Lack oak Arkansas back in the late 70s and pat traverse band in the early eighties which was really a great band by the way...but tommy Aldridge is one of the great ones ...really underrated kind of like golden earrings drummer.. P.
His longevity is not such a mystery. He's obviously not into destroying himself with drugs and booze, gets plenty of exercise with his drumming. Perfect complement to the great Randy Rhoads. Not too egotistical, loves his mom, and loves to learn. And oh yeah, loves to play the drums.
Tommy is a Christian first and I think his faith is what led him away form Black Oak so long ago. He has stated in other interviews about him not being into the drugs, alcohol and general debauchery that went on. I have seen him with Travers, Whitesnake and Ozzy one of if not the best Hard Rock/Metal drummer in the world !!
@Richie B, he’s an avid cyclist…always traveled with a bicycle while on tour and at every city they would be playing in, he’d go out for a ride around the area of the hotel where they were staying at or the venue they were playing in.
This is the first lengthy interview I've ever seen with Aldridge. What a cool dude. Black Oak Arkansas vids here on UA-cam are craaaazy. He's been an amazing drummer for decades. Check out his work on Pat Travers' Heat in The Street.
that guy is awesome.....when i first heard him play and he was playing with Pat Travers...""ain't what it seems"" on this record.... i said .... this guy is ...and will always be .....the best
What's always struck me as the best thing about Tommy is that he isn't afraid to speak about his deep faith. There is a maturity about a person when the day comes that they realize that they're not just simply "lucky"...but that they have been "blessed" by a power much higher than themselves. Not an easy thing I would imagine, as at his level everybody tries to kiss your azz and wants something from you. On a completely different note.....I'll bet this man only needs about 2-3 hours of good sleep nightly. In the late 80's or early 90's or thereabouts I sat not 20 feet in front of him as he played with Traverse. His playing absolutely scalped me.
Talking about how blessed he is? Yes, tell the six million who were murdered in the Holocaust, or children with Leukemia, or the thousands and thousands of people killed in natural disasters, how much God 'blessed' them. Religious people make my head spin.
I have seen Tommy once with Whitesnake, in Greece . He is the Animal from Muppet Show but in reality. I am following his work since 1987. What can I say? Lots of Respect for this legendary drummer and thanks for this great interview.
Tommy Aldridge has been rocking the drum kit for decades as long as I can remember... He has played with everyone and YOU HAVE heard him, as he recorded some of the biggest rock songs in the last 35 years...
Tommy is the guy who influenced me at 15 years old to learn and play the double bass. Such an incredible drummer! I have to say Tommy, some of your best playing and solos was with Black Oak Arkansas! In my opinion! You were so phenomenal especially on Raunch and Roll and your solo on "UP"! Absolute perfection and to this day is my favorite drum solo ever. I know you had issues with Black Oak but you were so incredible! Still are incredible obviously but you have to be proud of those Black Oak songs you played. I play them with the phones on to this day! Thank you for your influence and inspiration! You're amazing dude!
FOLLOWED TOMMY'S CAREER FOR 45 YEARS. HE STILL INSPIRES ME. I HAVE A LOT OF RESPECT FOR TOMMY AND RUDY SARZO. THEY ARE VERY LOYAL, COMMITTED AND HUMBLE AT THAT. 💜 💜 💜
I got to see Tommy with BOA and Ozzy love it when he play the drums bare-handed and just go nuts some may not like it but I have to put Tommy up in the top 5 as rocks best drummers 👍
Tommy has the greatest history, love everything he has done. Tommy Aldridge makes the career of "drummer" relevant. My greatest influence as a drummer and millions of drummers throughout the entire planet. If the young drummers of the world do not know who he is, please introduce them to Tommy Aldridge. Class act. His discography seems impossible, but it is real. He says that he is blessed, but the truth is that because of him, the entire world is blessed to have the chance to hear his work and enjoy his perfect example of what it means to be a drummer. LONG LIVE TOMMY ALDRIDGE!!!!!!
Happened to be having lunch with my Dad in the early seventies at a Motel and Black Oak Arkansas were having a Pool party at the Motel which they were staying at for a show that night at the Auditorium. A good time was had by all.
Man I grew up listening to you guys man I'm glad you're still rocking on the drums I am also a drummer grew up playing in a band called fairly dangerous we rock
One of the best ever - I first got into him with Pat Travers - Heat in the Street, which was fucking wicked. I saw them and it was unbelievable - Travers, Aldridge, Thrall, Mars and a lot of blow. Some of the best stuff of that time period... This clip is great - Thankyou Tommy. I have always considered you as one of the best ever - a sincere, honest and amazing drummer.
Thank you Tommy, you are a true inspiration to me and my drumming. I have followed your career for many years and I have a sound track in my mind of your playing style and heaviness that has been such a motivation in my career that I can't thank you enough. From one musician to another/ brother to brother from another mother, I love you man. God Bless
I’d have to say, Tommy is one of my top influences and I’m just realizing it now. He’s the consistent drummer you can always depend on. If you need a great rock drummer, he’s your guy.
It Makes No Difference.....Pat Travers Live......the first time I heard that song all I could think was who the hell is this drummer?!! Been hooked ever since. Thank you Tommy Aldridge! Your fills, technique, and flare are unique and unmatched to this day. YOU ROCK DUDE!!!
That is very chronologically put !! I am impressed and finally someone from that period mentioning George Lynch WAS a runner up and Jake E Lee got the spot.... little details like that by key people in key periods really mean a lot.... it's history .... Rock and Roll history of the glorious 80's and all the gods of the era...
Great insightful interview!! First time ever saw Tommy Aldridge was with Black Oak Arkansas in '77. following year with Pat Travers at Winterland in San Francisco (billed with Les Dudek DFK Band and Dickey Betts) back in '78. Great memories.
Videos rarely hold my attention for more than a few minutes. But Tommy Aldridge has been my favorite drummer ( Still living ) since the early 80's when I was a young teen.
This guy should be on rock n roll hall of fame by himself , he’s a true legend.
In a sense he is in the hall of fame, The Musicians Most Respected by other Musicians. Here he shares the key characteristics for longevity in the biz: having passion, having done your homework with your instrument, being willing to take chances outside of your familiarity, always being a team player, always being humble. and knowing your blessings.
I 100000000000000000000% agree
No truer statement has ever been uttered!!
Hell Yes!!!!!!!!
Could be but I think people need to know who he is first. Name or face isn't familiar at all.
Tommy is an outstanding drummer. One hell of a career. Dripping with talent. Deserves to be recognized as one of the Best Rock drummers of the 80s and 90s. Salute to Tommy. Thank you for all the fantastic music.
My favorite drummer of all time,I saw him quite a few times over the years.The last show was with Whitesnake in 2019. When he was introduced the entire and I stress ENTIRE crowd gave him a standing ovation.Very few drummers can claim that respect.
I saw him twice with Whitesnake@ Forevermore and Flesh & Blood
Indeed. He is a one of a kind and a very rare breed. Talented and Humble.
science should study this man...he is 68 today in 2018 and plays like he did at 25 which is very physically demanding. a true freak of nature...Tommy IS rock legend...this man has done it all...in a league all his own...rock guys are not supposed to age and last this long!!!
my guess would be no drugs and alcohol.
i agree 100% total freak of nature !!
Tommy never liked the drug scene which is one reason he hated Black Oak Arkansas , and he hated alcohol cause his father was a heavy drinker.
Yes, just like buddy rich
...and i agree
A great drummer and a really nice guy. Tommy, we salute you!
Right up there with Bohnam and Peart. Not just enjoyable to listen to, but watch also. Got to see him with Randy Rhoads and Whitesnake twice. I'm lucky.
As much as I love and admire Aldridge and his incredible uniqueness behind the kit, especially for his time in Ozzy, you can't even mention Peart in the same breath, I'll give ya Bonham but definitely not Peart, Peart was a true gift beyond measure for all drummers.
Full stop
He is up there no question but Peart is so far beyond everyone at the top he is unreachable as far as I am concerned.
Just in his compositional strengths alone he is unreachable !
This guy has really "been there and done that" in the music industry. one of the best drummers that I have ever heard.
I meet Tommy at a drum clinic on the westside of Jacksonville Florida in the late 1980s He is an incredible drummer and incredible person we love You Tommy God Bless you, Thanks for your Music, Bear
Black Oak Arkansas, Ozzy, Uncle Ted, Whitesnake this guy's chops are legendary, he is truly a marvel.
And my favorite work the Pat Travers Band.
Feb. '78, The Pat Travers Band, Paramount Theatre, Ptld., OR., GA was 92 cents!(KGON, 92.3 'Catch a Rising Star Concerts) Tommy Aldridge, Mars Cowling, and PT!! What a Lineup and Show!!🤘🎸
Thanks man for sharing! Tommy is a rock Legend he is blessed because he loves the Lord and makes good decisions in life
Is Tommy Christian ? I hope so. I saw him 4 years ago with Whitesnake on The Purple tour. They were ON in Biloxi. He, Coverdale, and the whole band were Incredible. I was hoping they would come back through. Most bands always come back to Biloxi once they play there. I LOVED that show.
Hail satan
Met Tommy at a drum clinic here in Dallas in '89....it was a lot like this interview. He is a very nice man, & a brilliant drummer.
I'm so proud to say that he was born and raised about 15 minutes from me! He is certainly a legend. He belongs to the ranks of the likes of Elvis and too many to mention blues legends.
What a wealth of rock history!!! I could listen to Tommy Aldridge talk for hours.
He needs to write a book!
Fascinating interview...my take away from interviews like this is that I'm glad that I never tried to pursue a career in music..what a sleazy business!!! I've been a fan of Tommy since seeing Black Oak Arkansas in 1974!
I've had the pleasure of seeing him four times, twice with BOA, once with Pat Travers and once with Ted Nugent. At the Nugent show, one of his drum sticks came flying out into the audience and bounced off of my out stretched hand only to disappear into the crowd never to be seen by me again.
Tommy Aldridge is one of the greatest drummers that ever walk this Earth
OUTSTANDING INTERVIEW!!! A friend bought his Tommy's first instructional video. We went back to the house got some party supplies and proceeded to watch it 3x in a row. LOL
Totally blown away by the stuff he was doing. Absolutely mind blowing!!! MONSTER DRUMMER!!!
Tommy is a Beast!
I was lucky enough to see him 4 times w/ BOA, once with Travers, and twice with Ozzy! He Always kicked ass!
Tommy has had a long great career because he has morals and ethics, along with crazy God given talent
I've been a fan of Tommy since. The Black Oak days
Same here. Then I got to see him play up close here in Chicago with d'Thumbs.
I have one of his drum sticks from 1974-I was practically right on the stage.
This guy is a pioneer on the drums. Love him. So heavy! Plays the double bass the way I like it, fast but not so fast it becomes a blur. Love him on Speak of the Devil, Ozzy!
Totally agree!!!! Thats how I know him!!! double bass master! groove!
Tommy's work speaks for itself. He definitely got my attention when I was 14 and BOA Raunch n Roll was one of the first two cassettes I ever bought. His drumming on that album was amazing, and I'm glad to see he's still going strong. What a career! God Bless You, Tommy!
What a wonderful guy......... what sweet guy..... down to earth guy......
I remember him from the Whitesnake days and watched him several times live with Whitesnake! So much Energy, One of the best Drummers Ever!
I saw Tommy with Ozzy and Randy also in the band. Wow, awesome drumming and even a great solo partly with his hands. One of the best rock drummers.
What a catalogue of music . One the best Rock drummers , puts on a great show , he is not a young man anymore still plays like one .. Rock on Tommy !
Young player does not play like him i should say, The show, when he throw The sticks and plays with his hands is a classic.
Tommy is a deeply religious man, a paradox in the rock n Roll world. Brilliant player and an unreal feel. 69 years old and hits like a 20 year old. Not at all easy to do
Love watching Tommy play, you know its just like a natural thing for him, as he ages he just gets better.
I'm a 47 year old guitar player and Tommy and Alex VH are the two drummers that I've always dreamed to jam with. Keep on rockin' Tommy.
flashy5150 same with me
Interesting, but TA and Alex are worlds apart. Tommy is really on another level.
Dave Tommy is a great drummer but Alex is also a monster player
@@Dave-lr2wo Alex is a total badass too
Two completely different players. Tommy can shred like a madman, but so can Alex, and Alex has a feel/swing that perhaps no other hard rock drummer will ever have.
Man! The true definition of DRUM GOD! The man is incredible and is one of my biggest inspirations as a drummer. I've followed his career since Pat Travers days in the late 70's. He's still amazing even at his age which is testament to his dedication, passion, and level of talent. Rock on brother!
Tommy is a down to earth man, you became one of my favorite drummers after I seen you at 83' us festival, being 53 I have to say that older school rockers are the best, rock on brother🙋
Who would put a thumbs down on Tommy Aldridge? A pioneer of rock and roll. A true Legend, Survivor and Veteran rock and roll history. A Major League professional musician who has put his mark and style on every band he has recorded and toured with.
love this guy. So humble and so freaking talented
The greatest drummer ever!!! he could adapt to any sound but would never give up his powerful drumming. This to me made him a legend.
Excellent human being. What an honor it would be to have him in your band. Seems so true to himself and honest.
Saw him w/ BOA in the 70's and have always thought he was one of the top drummers the world has ever had.
Still a ton of energy and some good years left in him still.
When i was looking for my new setup about 10 years ago i somehow find out tommys mail and decided to ask him for few advices and didnt expect any answers....but he actually replied and i got some great informations for my setup. Still cant beleive how kind and down to earth he is,great man great drummer thanks alot man cheers.
Wait how?
@@sammyallen6331 that was about maybie 20 years ago, but man still cant beleive it myselfe.
One of the greatest rock drummers of ALL time.
major inspiration for me with the double bass. He's incredible! Best overall rock drummer in history. But, Tommy, your best work honestly was with Black Oak Arkansas even though I know you had a riff with them. You were so incredible with them!!!!
Listened to every second, clearly Tommy was in a sharing mood this day. Those first 2 Ozzy albums were everything to me back in the day, lived in Florida, was going to the show when that terrible day - plane crash happened... absolutely crushed the 15 year old me.
Sometime in the early 90s, I was in vegas playing blackjack, think at the new MGM, and sure enough, Tommy sita at my table. His energy, and vibe just glowed and flowed. I was the only one around to recognize him, he was so friendly and smiling and enjoying the moment. It's so important to be present in each moment throughout life, that's what I see in this man.
👍Man, I'm gonna spin Blizzard and Diary all the way through on this Fall sunday in LA.
You've inspired me. I'm gonna have those two Oz albums on repeat today when I'm plastering 👍
Lee Kerslake played drums on those albums.
You're right, but live, Tommy was awesome! I saw Ozzy so many times I've lost count. Tommy and Randy Castillo (R. I. P.) were the only ones that I really noticed. Well, Bill Ward, I saw Sabbath's "Never Say Die" tour as well..
Awesome story! Hope to meet him someday soon!!!!!
chipper246 Exactamundo! Bob Daisley & Lee Kerslake played on those first 2 Ozzy records. xoxo The Clarences
Listen to the groove he lays down on Pat Travers' Crash and Burn title track. Great stuff.
Yeah maybe some other time
The live album is great. That was back when rock bands were inherently kind of funky which was down guys like this.
...that album was my introduction to Tommy .. great stuff
That song rules.
@reignman2112 Definitely!
This man is such an inspiration to me and to so many others! A true gentleman and a class act. 1st time I saw him was in the Pat Travers band, then Ozzy.
Met Tommy when he was drumming for Whitesnake. I told him, "hi, I'm Francisco Adlridge", he looked at me like, am I your dad, classic!
I was fortunate enough to see him in a Whitesnake concert. It was awesome!
Tommy should write a book.
...I think he just condensed a book in 17 minutes flat..!
I would like to hear some of the stories of when he was in Black oak Arkansas.
umm....sounds like he should write several books
@@highcurrent1125 You are absolutely right!!!
Black Oak Arkansas and Pat Travers! That's what I listened to him play.
Thank you God for Tommy, such a humble person with a big heart. So proud to be a Leo like him. His birthday August 15, mine August 17.😉🦁
Of all The Incredible Guitar Players Tommy Played with he has Said .....'Randy Rhoads was the Greatest"
and he played with the greats, Sykes, aldridge etc!
At a drum seminar in Evansville, IN we asked him with such a great career, what was the high point. He thought for a moment then said without a doubt playing with Randy & Rudy. He and Rudy are buddies from way back. Randy was one of the nicest people he'd ever met. He said playing with Randy was so good in fact it enabled him to stomach Ozzy's bullshit for 6 years! Haha. His cymbal spread is the sickest this side of the Atlantic, Nicko's being the best that side. Much respect and admiration for this man as a player and a person.
Tommy is the unmistakable king. I hope i can go as long as him and im 61. Have been studying him since 1974
An absolute Legend and one of the greatest drummers of our time.
He has played on some of the most iconic and historical metal albums that there are today and he continues to be force to be reckoned with in drumming.
He has been one of the musicians I've looked to for inspiration in my career since I first discovered Black Oak when I was a kid.
He is an amazing drummer and just as amazing and humble as a person.
Why he is not in the Hall of Fame is beyond me.
Keep drumming Tommy!!! 🤘
Loved his drumming on Pat Travers' Snortin' Whiskey! Great player.
What a genuine guy! I was lucky enough to meet him @ a clinic. I was the first person there and he asked me to sound check his drums, so he could hear them out front. Priceless!
Great drummer!!! He's always had an interesting face, but his eyes are so clean and young. I imagine he doesn't drink.
He really does and I noticed his eyes too.
Jesus ... Halfway through this i remembered that in 1980 i saw Blizzard of Ozz here in Seattle's Paramount Theater with Tommy, Rudy, Randy and Ozzy - with Motorhead (with Fast Eddie Clark and Philthy Aminal Taylor) opening the show. Unbelievable that was. Randy's presence alone seemed to fill that whole theater. His plaything was ado huge and gothic. Just massive really.
Truly a legend and worthy of being included in the list of the greatest Rock&Roll drummers of all time.
My birthday buddy!
It meant s lot to me as a kid for some reason, that I shared that day with him. As a young drummer his playing was (and still is) so exciting, and inspirational.
8/15 Baby!
The Best Interview EVER!! "JUST THE GUEST TALKED"
Great Drummer, Defiantly a busy Man...
Peace*
Tommy is a legend and seems like a nice guy. I can see the reflection in his eyes when he speaks of his mom. And he is also right when ure young a year is like forever but when older as tommy said a year is like 30 seconds. This life on this earth is quiet short. Even if ure looky enough to live till 70 or whatever.
I’m a Rock Drummer and I knew I was looking at a Beginning Life king superstR when I saw Tommy @ the Celebration of Lufe PoP Festival in Louisiana. He was playing with a very Unique Band who first introduced Dually Guitars. Maybe you’ve heard of them:
Black Oak Arkansas... all thru the next 40 yrs I’ve seen him with All if the Top Bands; Gary Moore, Ozzy, Dio, Travers , Rhodes Whitesnake.....
Monster Drummer
Totally Dedicated!!!
@@6WILDBLUE6ANGELS6 played on a motorhead album aswell don't think he played for dio but I may be wrong.
Just a dude... awesome. LEGEND.
One of the great rock and roll drummers ever...remember seeing him with Lack oak Arkansas back in the late 70s and pat traverse band in the early eighties which was really a great band by the way...but tommy Aldridge is one of the great ones ...really underrated kind of like golden earrings drummer.. P.
Great interview, one of my main hero's on the drums, seen him with Pat Travers, and then with Randy Rhoads!
I love to listen this man.And Ian Paice too!!!
Paicey is a beast.
His longevity is not such a mystery. He's obviously not into destroying himself with drugs and booze, gets plenty of exercise with his drumming. Perfect complement to the great Randy Rhoads. Not too egotistical, loves his mom, and loves to learn. And oh yeah, loves to play the drums.
You forgot one, he has great hair! Lol.
Tommy is a Christian first and I think his faith is what led him away form Black Oak so long ago. He has stated in other interviews about him not being into the drugs, alcohol and general debauchery that went on. I have seen him with Travers, Whitesnake and Ozzy one of if not the best Hard Rock/Metal drummer in the world !!
Thats insane because this entire time from the mr crowley video i figured he was a crackhead
@Richie B, he’s an avid cyclist…always traveled with a bicycle while on tour and at every city they would be playing in, he’d go out for a ride around the area of the hotel where they were staying at or the venue they were playing in.
@@RandyRhoadsFL you figured he was …a crackhead…from the Mr. Crowley video? That’s honestly hilarious and strange at the same time
This is the first lengthy interview I've ever seen with Aldridge. What a cool dude.
Black Oak Arkansas vids here on UA-cam are craaaazy. He's been an amazing drummer for decades. Check out his work on Pat Travers' Heat in The Street.
I had the pleasure to play with Tommy and Rudy really nice guys Rudy recorded what we did live off the board what an awesome rhythm section.
that guy is awesome.....when i first heard him play and he was playing with Pat Travers...""ain't what it seems"" on this record.... i said .... this guy is ...and will always be .....the best
What's always struck me as the best thing about Tommy is that he isn't afraid to speak about his deep faith. There is a maturity about a person when the day comes that they realize that they're not just simply "lucky"...but that they have been "blessed" by a power much higher than themselves. Not an easy thing I would imagine, as at his level everybody tries to kiss your azz and wants something from you. On a completely different note.....I'll bet this man only needs about 2-3 hours of good sleep nightly. In the late 80's or early 90's or thereabouts I sat not 20 feet in front of him as he played with Traverse. His playing absolutely scalped me.
Talking about how blessed he is? Yes, tell the six million who were murdered in the Holocaust, or children with Leukemia, or the thousands and thousands of people killed in natural disasters, how much God 'blessed' them. Religious people make my head spin.
Great interview with an amazingly successful drummer and he strikes me as a solid person as well. Quite a history and back story. Thanks
A fantastic drummer, all through his career, love his work with John Sykes
What did he do with Sykes?
Bad Boys Live!!
Absolutely @Mike Beaston, great intensity, and I saw them both when they were part of the Lizzy thing back in the late nineties
@@azff -- Are you an IDIOT??
Not everyone know. No big deal.
He also played on two instrumental albums by guitarist Patrick Rondat.
Hes a real professional; I can see why he's done so well in this business!
I have seen Tommy once with Whitesnake, in Greece . He is the Animal from Muppet Show but in reality. I am following his work since 1987. What can I say? Lots of Respect for this legendary drummer and thanks for this great interview.
Rock Drummer=Tommy Aldridge!!! A living legend that keeps handing out goose bumps. Rock on Tommy, no one does it like you!!!!
Tommy “The Animal” Aldridge is the most influential drummer of all time. Very professional and he tells it like it is. A total Rock Pig On 🍕
Tommy Aldridge has been rocking the drum kit for decades as long as I can remember... He has played with everyone and YOU HAVE heard him, as he recorded some of the biggest rock songs in the last 35 years...
Pat travers is playing near my home this month.love to see these guys still moving forward.
Tommy is the guy who influenced me at 15 years old to learn and play the double bass. Such an incredible drummer! I have to say Tommy, some of your best playing and solos was with Black Oak Arkansas! In my opinion! You were so phenomenal especially on Raunch and Roll and your solo on "UP"! Absolute perfection and to this day is my favorite drum solo ever. I know you had issues with Black Oak but you were so incredible! Still are incredible obviously but you have to be proud of those Black Oak songs you played. I play them with the phones on to this day! Thank you for your influence and inspiration! You're amazing dude!
What a cool dude and great drummer
FOLLOWED TOMMY'S CAREER FOR 45 YEARS. HE STILL INSPIRES ME. I HAVE A LOT OF RESPECT FOR TOMMY AND RUDY SARZO. THEY ARE VERY LOYAL, COMMITTED AND HUMBLE AT THAT. 💜 💜 💜
He really is an icon. His resume is incredible. His start was like most of us musicians. Love it.
Thank you very much for posting this. Awesome to hear the master speak about his career.
Great drummer!!! Means every hit
nice, honest guy unbelievable talent
I got to see Tommy with BOA and Ozzy love it when he play the drums bare-handed and just go nuts some may not like it but I have to put Tommy up in the top 5 as rocks best drummers 👍
Always have loved Tommy and the bands he played in! Thanks for posting!!!
Unbelivebal! Fantastic! Love this man! My favorite rock drummer!
What a down to earth guy Tommy Aldridge is he’s like the best drummer ever and it’s always awesome to hear him talk
Tommy has the greatest history, love everything he has done. Tommy Aldridge makes the career of "drummer" relevant. My greatest influence as a drummer and millions of drummers throughout the entire planet. If the young drummers of the world do not know who he is, please introduce them to Tommy Aldridge. Class act. His discography seems impossible, but it is real. He says that he is blessed, but the truth is that because of him, the entire world is blessed to have the chance to hear his work and enjoy his perfect example of what it means to be a drummer. LONG LIVE TOMMY ALDRIDGE!!!!!!
Happened to be having lunch with my Dad in the early seventies at a Motel and Black Oak Arkansas were
having a Pool party at the Motel which they were staying at for a show that night at the Auditorium. A good time was had by all.
Man I grew up listening to you guys man I'm glad you're still rocking on the drums I am also a drummer grew up playing in a band called fairly dangerous we rock
One of the best ever - I first got into him with Pat Travers - Heat in the Street, which was fucking wicked. I saw them and it was unbelievable - Travers, Aldridge, Thrall, Mars and a lot of blow. Some of the best stuff of that time period... This clip is great - Thankyou Tommy. I have always considered you as one of the best ever - a sincere, honest and amazing drummer.
I was lucky enough to see Tommy at a drum clinic in Tampa in the 1980s. He made it look so effortless and easy. Really inspiring.
Thank you Tommy, you are a true inspiration to me and my drumming. I have followed your career for many years and I have a sound track in my mind of your playing style and heaviness that has been such a motivation in my career that I can't thank you enough. From one musician to another/ brother to brother from another mother, I love you man. God Bless
I’d have to say, Tommy is one of my top influences and I’m just realizing it now. He’s the consistent drummer you can always depend on. If you need a great rock drummer, he’s your guy.
💯👍
One of the most iconic legends of drummers in history indeed. Thank you Mr. Tommy Aldridge for sharing your God given talent.
Awesome interview. Tommy Aldridge rules!!
EXCELLENT INTERVIEW. FOLLOWED TOMMY SINCE TRAVERS
THANK YOU
It Makes No Difference.....Pat Travers Live......the first time I heard that song all I could think was who the hell is this drummer?!! Been hooked ever since. Thank you Tommy Aldridge! Your fills, technique, and flare are unique and unmatched to this day. YOU ROCK DUDE!!!
My first time watching Tommy being interviewed and it was fantastic despite rushing through his stories, thanks for posting this fellas.
I loved going to see bands at the warehouse , I miss those days. Saw some of the greatest bands there.
That is very chronologically put !! I am impressed and finally someone from that period mentioning George Lynch WAS a runner up and Jake E Lee got the spot.... little details like that by key people in key periods really mean a lot.... it's history .... Rock and Roll history of the glorious 80's and all the gods of the era...
Actually George had the gig and lost it to Jake.
Great insightful interview!! First time ever saw Tommy Aldridge was with Black Oak Arkansas in '77. following year with Pat Travers at Winterland in San Francisco (billed with Les Dudek DFK Band and Dickey Betts) back in '78. Great memories.
Videos rarely hold my attention for more than a few minutes.
But Tommy Aldridge has been my favorite drummer ( Still living ) since the early 80's when I was a young teen.