Michael Bland Interview
City's Tone Volume 1, Issue 9, September 2001 edition
by David Keiski
citystone@qwest.net
www.citys-tone.com
(612) 998-5253

In this lengthy, well-written interview drummer Michael Bland talks about his roots, his history, working with Prince, Dr. Mambo's Combo and more. Here are a few snips:

On getting his start as a drummer: "I was banging on some garbage lids in the back alley and annoying the neighbors..."

On studying with Eric Gravatt: "So I was this bright eyed 15 or 16 year old and had to corner him at the Fine Line to ask him to teach me lessons..."

On the recent City Pages article about Prince: "I took the impression from the article that he (City pages writer David Schimke), felt like Prince owed him something...I think the guy went out of his way to criticize Prince, artistically and spiritually. Though I take offense at the artistic criticism, how can you criticize anyone for their faith?"

On working with Prince: "After working with Prince I fear no working situation. Everything is attainable. That was a very valuable lesson."