Drum Dog Podcast
The Drum Dog Podcast goes deep on the instrument we love. In our interviews, we sit down with world-class drummers, from session players to festival headliners, for honest, unhurried conversations about their playing, their careers and the craft behind the kit. Guests include Bill Bruford, Gavin Harrison Antonio Sánchez, and Mel Gaynor.
On 'The Back Beat', our weekly format, Dan talks spotlights drummers worth your attention, goes through albums that are must-listens, worthwhile gear, and think-pieces to ruminate on.
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Drum Dog Podcast
Mel Gaynor (Simple Minds, Elton John) Interview: Broken Gear & 'Don't You (Forget About Me)'
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We sat down with the iconic Mel Gaynor at the UK Drum Show 2025 to reflect on his storied 38-year tenure with Simple Minds. Mel dives into the unique challenge of drumming and singing simultaneously - a skill he embraced later in his career - and shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes from recording with Elton John, the effect 'Don't You (Forget About Me)' had on him and the rest of the band. He also gives us a glimpse into life on the road, including just how many cymbals, sticks, and drumheads he’d blast through during a high-energy tour.
00:05 - Early chat & grandson’s drumming
01:05 - Introduction & joining Simple Minds
03:30 - Early days with the band
06:10 - Breakthrough & “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”
10:20 - Recording process & studio stories
14:45 - Live performances & touring life
19:30 - Working with other artists (incl. Elton John)
23:40 - Gear talk & drum setup
27:50 - Challenges, mistakes & lessons learned
32:10 - Advice for young drummers & closing thoughts
#melgaynor #simpleminds #ukdrumshow
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