Paul Shaffer |

Today, legendary musician, actor, author, composer, bandleader, and Grammy Award winner, Paul Shaffer, joins Kenny for an engaging conversation. Together, they delve into Paul's fascinating journey from his early days in Thunder Bay, Ontario, to his iconic role as David Letterman's bandleader and his diverse musical ventures.

Throughout the discussion, Paul shares anecdotes about his music introduction, influences like Ray Charles and Billy Preston, and his love for jazz. He also sheds light on the behind-the-scenes responsibilities of a musical director, connecting artists, band members, and the audience. The conversation touches upon the crucial role of drummers like Kenny Aronoff in enhancing performances, emphasizing the balance between sheet music and delivering an organic, high-energy show. It explores how technology has transformed music recording, from live studio sessions to digital age remote recordings, and discusses the impact of reduced budgets on music production. As they delve into the iconic Late Night Show, its theme song's creation, and Paul's versatile musical career, listeners get a glimpse into the heart of music-making and the enduring magic of artists like Paul Shaffer and Kenny Aronoff.

0:00 Start

0:30 Introduction

2:51 Some of Paul Shaffer and Kenny Aronoff’s memorable moments on Late Night with Letterman

6:15 Paul Shaffer’s spontaneity as Letterman’s Musical Director

10:45 Kenny Aronoff on writing and playing with charts for performances

16:32 Paul Shaffer and Kenny Aronoff on the true bandleaders

18:11 The impact of reduced budgets on the way music is recorded

21:19 Paul Shaffer’s childhood

23:03 Paul Shaffer’s introduction to music, the piano, and the organ

28:11 Paul Shaffer and Kenny Aronoff on the genius of Billy Preston

31:13 Paul Shaffer’s and Kenny Aronoff’s early bands

34:28 Paul Shaffer’s and Kenny Aronoff’s experiences with members of The Beatles

39:28 Paul Shaffer’s drumming ability

41:37 Why Paul Shaffer moved to New York

42:43 Paul Shaffer’s acting on SNL and in This is Spinal Tap

47:57 Paul Shaffer’s work on Late Night with David Letterman

51:08 Paul Shaffer on writing the Late Night with David Letterman theme

54:00 Paul Shaffer’s hosting experience on Late Night with David Letterman

55:59 Paul Shaffer’s appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show

57:17 What a working day was like for Paul Shaffer on Late Night with Letterman

59:38 The time Paul Shaffer “made broadcast history”

1:02:58 Paul Shaffer’s work with others including Tisziji Muñoz and Peter Criss

1:05:21 Paul Shaffer’s symphony show

1:06:14 Paul Shaffer on finding his life’s purpose

1:08:04 When Kenny Aronoff’s twin brother met Paul Shaffer

Quotes:
"The drummer is the true leader of the band. No matter if you're under the musical director or not, you've got incredible power."
"If you think about it, if you're spending 25% of your brain focusing on reading, that's 75% left to be in flow and natural."
"I realized that what you're learning in your piano lesson and in the theory, it's applicable to Rock & Roll. And it's all about tension and release."
"My dad turned me on to Ray Charles."
"Playing the piano and the organ is my favorite. I'm practicing again...I'm getting better."

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