MATTHEW BURGESS

Ding, Crash, Boom: Matthew Burgess on the Secrets of a Successful Percussionator

by Tallulah Baird

From your standard rock drum kit to African talking drums, Matthew Burgess’ bag of musical tricks is forever growing. Nashville’s self-styled “percussionator” is a jack of all genres and rhythms, and he is known for his ability to pick the perfect sound for each project. His list of weapons of choice stretches for miles, ranging from the familiar (Djembe and Congas) to names you’d think were part of a knock-knock joke. (Banana Bells or Tongue Drum, anyone??)

Matthew has successfully carved a niche in a town where drummers are a dime a dozen. A few career highlights include playing with or recording for 3 Doors Down, Brandi Carlile, Chris Barron of the Spin Doctors, Big and Rich, Gretchen Wilson, Jewel, Ann Wilson of Heart, and more.

Burgess has achieved success in part by uniquely adapting himself to the needs of the songwriter scene. “Lately I've created a signature sound playing with various singer/songwriters. The set up includes: Djembe, Hi-hat, Custom Hand Snare, Cymbals, Tambourine, and an optional 16" kick drum. The whole ‘kit’ is played with the hands but is a drum kit/percussion hybrid. I set up my kit differently so it forces me to play differently. I like to give the song just enough of the traditional kit elements while still being a percussionist.”

He is known for his ability to pick up on a song he’s never heard with apparent ease, but the Seattlite-turned-Nashvillian says that his approach can be boiled down to the second verse theory. “I listen to the first verse and chorus for any changes in feel. The statement has been made, now let's do it again this time with drums. Pretty much every big gig I've ever gotten has come from this approach. I was sitting in the back of a truck in a parking lot behind a studio at 4am with the lead singer of 3 Doors Down and a guitarist. Next thing I knew I was in the studio with them.”

Matthew is also hyperaware of his role as a sideman: “The songwriter is the key. No one is there to hear me, so my job is to make them better. Listen to an old Artie Shaw record and realize that the recording is being done live on one microphone. Those cats are listening with the big ears to each other.”

The Percussionator’s advice to a sideman who just moved to town, and is looking to get a leg up? “Make yourself go out every night, even if you aren’t playing. Meet people. Call them. Don't wait for them to call you. Be willing to work for free to get started. Play like you have elephant ears and chipmunk hands. You're not the star of the show. Drink lots of liquids. Look both ways before crossing the street. Always use protection.”

Matthew plays the “Blue Monday” songwriters’ showcase every Monday in May at the Blue Bar, starting at 9pm. Other local and tour dates for this month and beyond are at www.percussionator.com.