We had the good fortune of connecting with Marcus Finnie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marcus, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk taking is a big part of self employment. It places a great deal of drive and determination to succeed in your respected lane. It crosses over into my playing at times of improvisational music taking musical risks to find new ideas so that I don’t become static.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been great and tough. The places I’ve been, the people I have met and performed with, and the music I’ve been able to perform have all led to this very moment. The challenges I have run into only helped to make me play harder, practice more and being devoted to the music beyond the drum set itself. Also, fostering new relationships with newer colleagues has been paramount in establishing a stronger confidence in my identity as a musician.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I always recommend Rudy’s to those who want to hear music without parameters. Food wise, well that’s a long topic for me LOL. I cook 90% of the time so when my wife and I go out, we look for new spots. The newer spot for me that I like is a place called Dozen Bakery. I am not even big on breads but their baguettes are serious there. I will say to check out Il Forno Italian. Very awesome people and food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mother is my ground zero. I grew up playing under her at church while she played B3, conducting the choir and lead singing. After her, Kirk Whalum heard me while in the 6th grade and incentivized me to learn to read music and keep practicing. I have now been with him 17 years. Keb’ Mo’ and Larry Carlton helped me hone in on nuances, timing, and being able to identify what makes songs feel the way they do.

Website: https://Marcusfinnie.com

Instagram: Stixfinnie and MFThyme

Youtube: Marcus Finnie

Other: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/marcus-finnie-the-session-musicians/pl.220fa389f4f44875bce633d240eb8482 https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/marcus-finnie-the-session-musicians/pl.220fa389f4f44875bce633d240eb8482

Image Credits
Chad Crawford for the 4 photos. The under cymbal photo courtesy of Zildjian/ VicFirth Florian Alexandru Zorn.

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