Episode 8

The story of Gerry’s guest this episode, drummer Ivan Hampden Jr, is one of learning and teaching. As Ivan and Gerry discuss, Ivan credits great teachers (formal and informal) for the skills that earned him gigs with Dance Theatre of Harlem, Eartha Kitt, Kurtis Blow, Ashford & Simpson, Roberta Flack, Chaka Khan, Jennifer Lopez, Bonnie Raitt, India Arie, Stevie Wonder, Dionne Warwick, Little Richard, Gladys Knight, Vanessa Williams, and, of course, Luther Vandross, whom he collaborated with for 17 years. Now Ivan is committed to passing on what he learned through his school, Hamptown Music Institute, and personal interactions with up-and-coming musicians.  The elder groove is in full-effect!