189. Arthur Thompson Discusses Cameo, Cameosis

Send us Fan MailOn this episode, drummer Arthur Thompson (Mindi Abair, The Boneshakers, Wayman Tisdale, Dave Koz, solo) introduces Al to Cameo’s 1980 album Cameosis. Arthur talks about how he first wound up hearing Cameosis and why that event played an important role in kick-starting his musical career. He also discusses the importance of listening to the various instruments in a band, and how Cameo integrates all of their musical elements so effectively. Arthur talks about his recent singles, his trio of upcoming Arthurized albums and his long-standing nonprofit work that he continues to be engaged with.Here’s where you can find Arthur and his music online!@arthurleethompson3 on Instagram@arthurthompsondrums on Facebook@arthurized64 on YouTubehttps://arthurthompsondrums.com/Arthur also mentioned his nonprofit organization, Build a Life, Save a Life. You can learn more at buildalifesavealife.org.Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior. This show has an account on Instagram at @youmealbum. You can support the show on Buzzsprout at https://www.buzzsprout.com/1542814/episodes or at the link at the bottom of these show notes.IMPORTANT UPDATE! You, Me and An Album will soon have additional offerings on Patreon. More information will be coming soon. To sign up, go to patreon.com/youmealbum.1:27 Arthur joins the show2:28 Arthur recalls how he got introduced to Cameo4:48 Arthur learned a lot of what he knows about drumming and percussion from paying attention to Larry Blackmon10:24 Learning “Cameosis” was key to Arthur getting his first band gig12:26 Arthur stresses the importance of listening when playing music13:44 Listening to lyrics is important to Arthur when he’s playing15:34 Arthur talks about how Cameo blends the rhythms of the drums, percussion and horns18:38 Cameosis reminds Arthur of a time when he first learned to appreciate music in a more profound way25:41 Arthur likes both the funky and slower tracks on Cameosis30:19 Arthur sees similarities between his lyric writing and the style exemplified in “We’re Goin’ Out Tonight”32:16 Arthur singles out some other records that are important to him38:22 Arthur talks about the experience of playing music that is emotionally moving43:02 Arthur thinks everyone—especially musicians—should listen to Cameosis44:52 Arthur talks about “We Can Beat Cancer” and his other recent solo work and causes53:36 Arthur lets us know about his upcoming Arthurized album trilogy56:40 Arthur discusses his nonprofit workOutro music is from “Where Are You Now” by Arthur Thompson.Support the show