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Appreciation backward. Sometimes there are moments, experiences, and places in our lives that were pivotal in shaping who we become many years later. For me, one of those places was the University of Miami, and the lessons learned ...priceless.
For this episode of Intentionally Overheard, I decided to go back to school and talk with Steve Rucker- my former college music professor at the University of Miami (34 years ago). We had a wonderful conversation about our respective journeys, life lessons, music, and living a fearless life with purpose.
Here's a bit of background on Steve:
Steve Rucker has had extensive performing and teaching experience over the last forty years. Originally from North Carolina, Mr. Rucker attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and holds an Undergraduate Degree in Studio Music and Jazz and a Masters Degree in Jazz Performance from the University of Miami Frost School of Music. He has twice been voted “Best Jazz Performer” and “Most Versatile Artist” in South Florida polls.
Since 1979, Mr. Rucker has been the Director of the Drumset Program at the University of Miami, where he has created many unique and creative programs. His Drumset Improvisation class is one of the most unique programs in the country. He directs the Funk/Fusion Ensemble, which has Downbeat Student Awards almost every year since 2001. In previous years has created Tower of Power Ensemble and Weather Report Ensembles.
Mr. Rucker was a member of the Bee Gees band for over twelve years, and appeared with them on the Tonight Show, Oprah Winfrey, The Today Show, VH 1 Specials, David Letterman, Rosie O'Donnell, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, and at a Command Performance for the Queen of England. In 1997, he appeared at a Bee Gees concert at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas which was shown on pay-per-view television, HBO, and was mastered as a live album.
His latest book, Exercises in African-American Funk, a collaboration with former student Jonathan Joseph, has created quite a buzz in the drum world.
