Five Questions for… Featured Member of the Month: FRED HAYES, Drummer
with Jay Vosk
Fred is a ‘First Call’ drummer and a highly respected member of Tucson’s Jazz Community
Why did you decide to become a drummer?
I am not ashamed to say I wanted to start playing drums because of Ringo Starr. I just thought that was the coolest thing in the world. I was 12 years old!
Why did you decide to join the union?
I originally joined the union in the seventies when I was traveling with bands. Then later the Tucson local kind of faded away. I recently joined the new local because I think we need to try to get all the musicians we can from the different styles of music to come together as a community and work to make Tucson a better place for working musicians.
What was your most memorable gig?
That’s hard. There have been many. Doing reunion shows with the Jeff Daniel Group with Dianne Schuur the last few years has been really great. Touring Mexico with Jazzberry Jam years ago was very memorable. I think just the fact that I have been able to make a fairly descent living playing music is the most memorable thing.
What was your least memorable gig?
There have been may of those also. I have said a lot of times “of all the gigs I’ve ever played….this is one of them.” I have done quite a few out door jobs that aren’t much fun. Incredibly hot or so cold I can’t feel the sticks in my hands. But also we get to play in some beautiful weather here in Tucson.
What advice would you give to the aspiring drummer?
I think it is important to learn to play as many styles of music as you can. Listen to everything and don’t be close minded. Then when playing any gig focus on trying to make to band sound as good as you can. Be a team player!