189. Arthur Thompson Discusses Cameo, Cameosis

On this episode, drummer Arthur Thompson (Mindi Abair, The Boneshakers, Wayman Tisdale, Dave Koz, solo) introduces Al to Cameo’s 1980 album Cameosis. Arthur talks about how he first wound up hearing Cameosis and why that event played an important role in kick-starting his musical career. He also discusses the importance of listening to the various instruments in a band, and how Cameo integrates all of their musical elements so effectively. Arthur talks about his recent singles, his trio of upcoming Arthurized albums and his long-standing nonprofit work that he continues to be engaged with.

Here’s where you can find Arthur and his music online!

@arthurleethompson3 on Instagram

@arthurthompsondrums on Facebook

@arthurized64 on YouTube

https://arthurthompsondrums.com/

Arthur also mentioned his nonprofit organization, Build a Life, Save a Life. You can learn more at buildalifesavealife.org.

Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior. This show has an account on Instagram at @youmealbum. You can support the show on Buzzsprout at https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542814/episodes or at the link at the bottom of these show notes.

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1:27 Arthur joins the show

2:28 Arthur recalls how he got introduced to Cameo

4:48 Arthur learned a lot of what he knows about drumming and percussion from paying attention to Larry Blackmon

10:24 Learning “Cameosis” was key to Arthur getting his first band gig

12:26 Arthur stresses the importance of listening when playing music

13:44 Listening to lyrics is important to Arthur when he’s playing

15:34 Arthur talks about how Cameo blends the rhythms of the drums, percussion and horns

18:38 Cameosis reminds Arthur of a time when he first learned to appreciate music in a more profound way

25:41 Arthur likes both the funky and slower tracks on Cameosis

30:19 Arthur sees similarities between his lyric writing and the style exemplified in “We’re Goin’ Out Tonight”

32:16 Arthur singles out some other records that are important to him

38:22 Arthur talks about the experience of playing music that is emotionally moving

43:02 Arthur thinks everyone—especially musicians—should listen to Cameosis

44:52 Arthur talks about “We Can Beat Cancer” and his other recent solo work and causes

53:36 Arthur lets us know about his upcoming Arthurized album trilogy

56:40 Arthur discusses his nonprofit work

Outro music is from “Where Are You Now” by Arthur Thompson.