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Jim McDermott: Behind the Drums with Del Amitri - Sharing His Journey on The Hang!
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Join us on this captivating episode of The Hang as we dive into the fascinating life and career of Jim McDermott, the powerhouse drummer of Glasgow's beloved band, Del Amitri. In this candid conversation, Jim takes us through his remarkable journey—from his humble beginnings to performing with one of the most iconic alternative rock bands of all time.
Early Days and Inspirations
Jim shares how his early disdain for school led him to discover a passion for music. Inspired by the sounds of R.E.M., jazz fusion, and classic rock, Jim picked up the drums and never looked back. His first big break came at just 16 years old when he recorded for a BBC drama, igniting a lifelong career in the music industry.
Life in Del Amitri
Jim joined Del Amitri during their ascent to fame, contributing to timeless tracks like "Nothing Ever Happens" and "Roll to Me." He reflects on the band’s unique sound, their enduring legacy, and how they’ve managed to stay relevant across decades.
“It's like trying to hold sand in your hand, but that's the beauty of music—it’s timeless,” Jim explains.
Adapting Through Challenges
When the pandemic halted live music, Jim faced a life-altering decision. He took on work in a care home, an experience he found spiritually rewarding. Despite the challenges, the break gave him a renewed perspective on life and music, which he brought back to the stage with Del Amitri’s resurgence.
On the Road Again
As the band gears up for their next tour, Jim is thrilled to explore new material and reconnect with fans. He emphasizes the irreplaceable magic of live performances:
“Live shows create unique experiences that you just can’t replicate.”
Loss and Legacy
Jim also opens up about the profound impact of losing a long-time band member, sharing how the band honors their friend through laughter and music.
“We can actually think of Buddy and laugh—that’s how we keep his memory alive.”
Evolving with Music Technology
Jim delves into the evolving music landscape, discussing the pros and cons of technological advancements in the industry. While embracing new tools, he remains rooted in the fundamentals of drumming:
“It’s all about the learning process. You need other people to play with.”
Advice for Young Drummers
For aspiring musicians, Jim advises exploring diverse musical styles and building trust within the music community. He also shares his admiration for Justin Currie’s ballads, describing them as emotionally rich and deeply moving.
“I love Justin’s ballads—they have such emotional depth.”
What’s Next for Del Amitri?
The band is working on fresh material and is eager to create memorable experiences for their audience. Jim encourages fans to support the music community by sharing songs, attending shows, and buying merch.
“Buy the Del Amitri merch, buy the music—it’s all about sharing and supporting.”
Tune in to hear Jim’s heartfelt reflections, industry insights, and exciting updates. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring interviews on The Hang!
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