EP 87: The Vocabulary of a Drummer with Gorden Campbell

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with the legendary Gorden Campbell, a drummer whose resume reads like a Hall of Fame roster. From growing up in a small suburb in New York and learning music in church, to playing alongside icons like Beyoncé, Earth, Wind & Fire, George Duke, and Whitney Houston, Gorden’s journey is a masterclass in dedication, adaptability, and passion for the craft.

Gorden talks about his early exposure to music as the son of a pastor, his time as a jazz major at Howard University, and the ways he prepared for different gigs—like buying a Rascal Flatts album to fully understand country rhythms before playing for Jessica Simpson. He explains how every genre has its own vocabulary and why it’s critical for musicians to not just play, but truly listen to the music they want to master.

We discuss the differences between funk, gospel, country, and jazz, and how drummers need to be fluent in each musical language. Gorden shares stories from the road, including how most of his major opportunities came while he was still in college. He also opens up about his love for teaching, how he stays inspired by younger drummers, and why evolving with the times is essential for longevity in the music world.

He reflects on his experience forming The Rhythm Alliance and speaks candidly about competition in the industry—not just between drummers, but in the broader space of earning respect from artists. Gorden’s insights into discipline, study, and staying connected to the music make this conversation essential listening for anyone who’s ever dreamed of a career in the arts.

Whether you're a musician, an aspiring creative, or simply someone who appreciates the work behind great music, this episode offers a powerful look into the rhythm of a life built on sound, soul, and skill.

Connect with Gorden: https://gordencampbell.com/