Appreciating Dr. John

The late, great Mac Rebennack, aka Dr John, was THE ambassador for the sound of New Orleans music for an entire generation. “Breaking It Down" co-host Jeff Ganz was fortunate enough to have crossed paths with the Night Tripper himself. He shares his story, followed by a handful of our fellow musicians who have their own personal remembrances of the good doctor. We hope that these conversations pay some homage to this towering figure of American music. 

Among many other descriptions, the phrase "musician's musician" applies to legendary drummer Steve Gadd. He's played EVERYTHING: from military marches to pop hits to smokin' jazz and funk. Just ask collaborators like Paul Simon, Steely Dan, James Taylor, Eric Clapton, Kate Bush, Joe Cocker, Grover Washington Jr., Chick Corea, Lee Ritenour, and Al Di Meola.On this very special episode, Jeff and John are joined by five esteemed drumming colleagues to examine the evolution of Gadd’s artistry, from his roots in Rochester, New York to studios and concert stages around the globe.

For most of us, the music we loved as teenagers is the music that molded us. When we hear it, something just clicks in the deepest recesses of our being. But do our youthful favorites stand up to adult scrutiny? In this episode of “Breaking It Down,” Jeff and John muse on the topic of listening to “yesterday’s favorites with today’s ears” — and re-examine four of their own teen touchstones. Do those records hold up? Do yours? Dive in and consider the question...

To paraphrase the mighty Rodney Dangerfield, some bands get no respect. Despite decades of top-notch musical output, their work is often overlooked by the general public, and embraced instead by a select group dedicated of enthusiasts. In this episode, Jeff and John dig into their personal favorite artists and bands which they feel are unjustly under-appreciated. You may agree. You may not. In any case, let us know at [email protected].

Is it a riff? A hook? An arrangement? Whatever they are, those little earworms make a hit a hit. The songs just wouldn’t be the same without them. In this episode, Jeff and John grab their instruments to volley riffs back and forth — and muse on what makes them so special. It’s a geekish tour-de-force, covering rock, pop, funk, jazz, standards and even classical. All that’s currently missing is hearing about your own favorite riffs. Email us at [email protected]. Let’s make this a conversation!

James Jamerson changed the way hit records sound. His jazz-inflected, endlessly inventive bass playing added a whole new level of sophistication to pop records. Plus, he brought the serious funk. In this premiere episode of "Breaking It Down," pro musicians John Montagna and Jeff Ganz (both bass players, not incidentally) get deep inside the style, technique and approach of a man whose influence is as strong today as ever.