The Life and Success of Jim Keltner: A Legendary Drummer
Introduction
Jim Keltner is an iconic drummer who has played with some of the greatest musicians of all time. He is known for his unique style, versatility, and spontaneous creativity when playing the drums. Keltner has been in the music industry for over five decades and has worked with the likes of Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Eric Clapton and John Lennon, to name a few. In this article, we will explore Jim Keltner’s life, career, achievements, and more.
Jim Keltner’s Bio
Jim Keltner was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on April 27, 1942. His passion for music started at an early age, and he began playing the drums when he was just a teenager. Keltner’s early influences were jazz drummers such as Max Roach and Elvin Jones. He later became interested in rock music and started listening to the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan.
Age, Relationships, Children, and Height
Jim Keltner is currently 79 years old. He has been married three times and has two children from his first marriage. Keltner’s height is 5 feet 11 inches or 180 cm.
Career
Jim Keltner’s music career started in the 1960s when he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his passion for music. He started playing in nightclubs and small venues around the city. In 1965, he became part of the house band at the Whiskey a Go Go, a popular nightclub in Los Angeles. Keltner’s big break came when he met George Harrison, and they started working together on Harrison’s solo albums. Keltner’s drumming can be heard on Harrison’s hit songs such as “My Sweet Lord,” “Isn’t It A Pity,” and “What Is Life.”
Keltner’s career continued to soar in the 1970s when he played with Bob Dylan on his hit album “Blood on the Tracks.” He also played with John Lennon on his solo albums “Imagine” and “Mind Games.” Keltner’s unique drumming style and creativity earned him the nickname “the drummer’s drummer.”
In the 1980s, Keltner worked with many other famous musicians such as Peter Frampton, Ry Cooder, and Eric Clapton. He also played on Ry Cooder’s film soundtrack for “Paris, Texas.” In the 1990s, Keltner played with the Traveling Wilburys on their hit albums “Volume One” and “Volume Three.” He continued to work on many other projects in the 2000s, including playing with Neil Young and Buddy Miller.
Top Songs
Jim Keltner has played on numerous hit songs throughout his career. Some of his most popular songs include:
– “My Sweet Lord” by George Harrison
– “Tangled Up in Blue” by Bob Dylan
– “Imagine” by John Lennon
– “Sweet Child of Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
– “She’s Not There” by Santana
Net Worth
Jim Keltner’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million. His earnings come from his successful career as a drummer and from royalties earned from the numerous hit songs he has played on.
FAQs
1. What is Jim Keltner’s drumming style?
Jim Keltner’s drumming style is characterized by his use of space, dynamics, and minimalism. He is known for his ability to create subtle and understated drum parts that perfectly complement the music he is playing. Keltner’s drumming is also improvisational, and he often creates his parts on the spot.
2. Has Jim Keltner won any awards?
Jim Keltner has not won any major awards, but he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. He was inducted in 1988 as a member of the Traveling Wilburys and again in 2000 as a session musician.
3. Who are some of the musicians Jim Keltner has played with?
Jim Keltner has played with some of the greatest musicians of all time, including George Harrison, Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Eric Clapton, and Neil Young. He has also worked with many other famous musicians such as Steely Dan, Sheryl Crow, and Elvis Costello.
4. What is Jim Keltner’s most famous drumming performance?
Jim Keltner’s most famous drumming performance is probably on George Harrison’s hit song “My Sweet Lord.” Keltner’s drumming perfectly complements the song’s spiritual and uplifting message, and his unique style and sound have made the song an enduring classic.
5. Has Jim Keltner released any solo albums?
Jim Keltner has not released any solo albums, but he has played on numerous albums as a session musician. He has also worked on film soundtracks, including the soundtrack for the movie “The Big Lebowski.”
6. What is Jim Keltner’s favorite drum kit?
Jim Keltner is known for his preference for vintage drum kits. He has a collection of vintage Ludwig, Gretsch, and Rogers drum kits that he uses for recording and live performances.
7. Does Jim Keltner still play music?
Yes, Jim Keltner is still active in the music industry and continues to play drums on various albums and live performances.
8. What advice does Jim Keltner have for young musicians?
Jim Keltner advises young musicians to be curious about different styles of music and to keep practicing. He also stresses the importance of being open-minded and collaborative when working with other musicians.
9. What is Jim Keltner’s most challenging drumming performance?
Jim Keltner has said that playing on John Lennon’s song “God” was one of his most challenging drumming performances. The song features a complex and ever-changing drum pattern that required Keltner to stay completely focused and on top of his game.
10. What is Jim Keltner’s favorite drumming moment?
Jim Keltner has said that one of his favorite drumming moments was playing on George Harrison’s song “What Is Life.” He says that the drum part he created for the song just came to him spontaneously, and the end result perfectly captures the joyful spirit of the song.
11. What is Jim Keltner’s favorite Bob Dylan song?
Jim Keltner’s favorite Bob Dylan song is “Tangled Up in Blue.” He says that the song’s lyrics and melody perfectly capture Dylan’s ability to tell a story, and he enjoys the challenge of playing the song’s intricate drum parts.
12. What is Jim Keltner’s favorite travel destination?
Jim Keltner enjoys traveling to Europe and has a particular fondness for Italy. He enjoys the food, the wine, and the culture of the country.
13. Does Jim Keltner teach drumming?
Jim Keltner does not teach drumming, but he is always happy to share his knowledge and experience with other musicians. He has also given numerous drumming clinics and workshops over the years.
14. What is Jim Keltner’s favorite movie?
Jim Keltner’s favorite movie is “The Big Lebowski.” He enjoys the film’s humor and offbeat characters, as well as its great soundtrack.
15. Does Jim Keltner have any hobbies?
Jim Keltner enjoys painting and drawing in his spare time. He also enjoys reading and is a fan of science fiction and fantasy novels.
