Most of it was nuts, but I was determined to be a drummer as soon as I left school.
John BonhamRead
I've always been obsessed with drums. They fascinate me. Any other instrument - nothing. I play acoustic guitar a bit. But it's always been drums first and foremost. I don't reckon on this Jack-of-all-trades thing. I thing that felling is a lot more important than technique. It's all very well doing a triple paradiddle - but who's going to know you've done it? If you play technically you sound like everybody else. It's being original that counts.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of passion and originality in music over mere technical skill.
In this quote, John Bonham expresses his deep obsession and fascination with drums, stating that no other instrument compares to his love for them. He believes that while technical proficiency is valuable, it is the emotional connection and originality in music that truly matters; being able to express oneself uniquely is more significant than simply mastering complex techniques that may lead to sounding like everyone else.
Themes
DrumsOriginalityPassionMusicTechnique
In practice
Example use cases
At a music workshop, inspiring young musicians to pursue their passion without worrying about technical perfection.
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Obviously you have to have rhythm. If you have rhythm, then you can play anything you need. If you have rhythm and you love music, then play and play and play until you get to where you want to get. If you can pay the rent, great. If you can't, then you'd better be having fun.
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I'm not everybody's cup of tea. But sometimes criticism can be hurtful. Be respectful I'm a good piano player, I can sing well, I write good songs. If you don't like it, fair enough. But give me a break.
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If you've got a problem, take it out on a drum.
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We all have idols. Play like anyone you care about but try to be yourself while you're doing so.
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My aim as a frontman is always to try and shrink the venue, if you can, to turn that football stadium into the world's smallest club. At least you have to try.
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