Peterson's Drum Blog

Vinny is a major rock icon who we are very proud to have come to the site and be interviewed. Please enjoy.

Petersons Drun Blog:
What was your first drum set?
Vinny Appice:
My first set was a Carmine hand me down. Gretsch red sparkle.

PDB:
When you were 9, you took drum lessons from the same teacher Carmine had. Did he teach you anything before or after that time.VA:
Carmine was always on the road but when he did come by he showed me a few licks here and there.

PDB:
Who was your teacher and what did you admire most about his teaching?VA:
His name is Dick Benett. He was a great teacher, he had patience and he knew when you didn't practice the leassons.
He was also a great jazz drummer so when he played it was inspiring and made me want to practice.

PDB:
In 1980 you joined Black Sabbath on their Heaven and Hell tour, what was the tour like, being your first that big?VA:
Before that I played with Derringer and we were the opening band for Aerosmith and Boston so I was experienced in playing big halls.
With Sabbath I was now the headliner so it was a lot cooler!

PDB:
In 81' you appeared on the Sabbath album Mob Rules and then played on Live Evil in 82'. What kit did you use on those recordings and any reason why you choose those?VA:
I was endorsed by Ludwig, at that time they were the best and that's what I used on those albums and tours. I loved the sound.

PDB:
In 1992 you rejoined Black Sabbath, with Ronnie James Dio, for the Dehumanizer tour. What was it like for you to get back on stage with those guys after so many years.VA:
Well it's always amazing to play with these guys. They practically invented heavy music. It's playing with the best of the best! Total pros!

PDB:
How many instructional drumming videos have you released?
VA:
1

PDB:
Why do you choose to play single bass insted of double?VA:
Always did. I have a pretty fast, loud right foot and I intend to keep it that way by not becoming reliant on another bassdrum or pedal to fill up.

PDB:
You play a lot of clinics, what has been your favorite so far?VA:
I love doing clinics, there are no favs. They are all fun to do. I like meeting and talking to the people afterwards. After all if if weren't for them I would be here playing all these years.

PDB:
Have you or are you ever going to release a self titled solo album?VA:
No. I am a team playing a band member. I don't need a cd call VA etc to get off.
I just like to play in a kick ass band together and give it 110%!!

Link:

To find out more about Vinny, go to
http://www.vinnyappice.com/
or add him on Myspace,
http://www.myspace.com/vinnieappice

Or go to Vinny's Inside Drummer page: Click Here

Labels: interview, Vinny Appice interview