Local artist profile: Mikey Thompson

THIS week we complete the third and final part of our sojourn into the fascinating backgrounds of Bendigo’s most established percussive artists.

What initially motivated you to become a drummer?

My parents tell me that as a youngster I’d pull out all the pots and pans and play them with wooden spoons on the kitchen floor. Dad used to play Sandy Nelson’s Let There Be Drums on the record player, so I guess I was influenced very early by that.

When I got to primary school they began to offer music lessons. Initially I had dreams of being a rock star and took up guitar but just didn’t ‘get it’. Soon after they offered drum lessons and the rest is history.

How would you describe your drumming style?

It’s hard to place my playing style into one in particular. I enjoy listening to many different musical genres and have taken elements from all of them.

Where I’m most comfortable is rock/punk but also R&B and hip hop.

I was never great at sight reading sheet music hence my failure as a guitarist and I have always played by ear.

Which other drummers inspire you?

In my high school days it was Virgil Donati from Southern Sons, who still blows my mind to this day. He played a clinic here in Bendigo and I was lucky enough to meet him.

Travis Barker is another strong influence and favourite and I am amazed at his approach to writing his drum parts and his ability to cross over genres too. I am very lucky to have a signed stick of his which is amongst my most prized possessions.

Back in the day it was also legends like Dennis Chambers from Parliament and Funkadelic and ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett who played with Madonna, George Michael, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.

My mentor Dan Kerby is a big influence. He’s toured with punk legends Unwritten Law and currently tours live with Bliss n Eso.

Guys like Eric Moore from Sly and The Family Stone and who worked with Bobby Brown, and Tony Royster Jr. who plays with Jay-Z are mind blowing with their lightning-fast chops and blistering speed and smoothness. Taylor Hawkins of the Foo Fighters as well.

What are some highlights you have from your career?

I’ve played so many shows of all sizes in my years and there’s been so many great times on stage. There’s nothing quite like the feeling when I walk out on stage, sit behind the kit, pick up the sticks and give that first four count of the night, looking out and seeing people losing themselves in the music.

The biggest highlight is meeting and playing with some truly incredible and talented musicians – who also happen to be great people.

Right now, listening to my youngest son CJ teaching himself how to play songs from AC/DC to Machine Gun Kelly.

What would you say to young regional aspiring drummers and other musicians who are thinking of having a go at working as a professional muso?

You’ll never know if you never have a go. Music is such a powerful thing and a great outlet for your creativity. It can bring people together. There’s a real connection and special feeling between musicians when you just click and lock in when playing.

Do the work. Study your instrument, work hard, practice, take in as many different styles as you can to develop and find your style.

Above all else enjoy yourself, and have fun.