On Stands Now- John Blackwell, October 2001 issue!
Saw this on the stands last week and bought it upon sight!

The innerview w/ John is is great, including the types of drums and equipment he uses, how he met Prince thru Larry G., his Cameo and Patti days, the albums that he feels best represent his playing, and the ones he listens to for inspiration. Plus a mini innerview with Prince and Larry Graham discussing John. Check out moderndrummer.com for moe!
Excerpt:

~Prince Talks Drums~

...most people don't realize that...Prince is also a fine drummer...

MD: When did you first start playing drums?

Prince: I was twelve yrs old when I first started playing drums. I learned on a big box 2 imitate the hi-hat and snare.

MD: What makes you decide whether to program drums or play them live?

Prince: My impatience usually dictates that decision. Whichever the engineer plugs in first.

MD: If you decide on live drums, what makes you decide to play them yourself or bring in another drummer?

Prince: Basically the same answer as the question before, although when John (Blackwell) is in town, he always gets the call.

MD: Do you think being a songwriter has helped you as a drummer?

Prince: Yes, absolutely.

MD: How about as far as being a multi-instrumentalist?

Prince: Yes, being a multi-instrumentalist, I tend not 2 b greedy on the drums, not wanting to overshadow the other colors on the track. One of the things I'm trying 2 teach John is 2 hear the finished production in his head while he's recording it. This tecnique allows him 2 play the right thing at the right time.

MD: Do you think being a drummer has helped you as a songwriter?

Prince: No. One of the misconceptions about modern music is that a funky beat alone constitutes a song.

MD: How do you like to record drum tracks?

Prince: That's a trade secret; I can't give up that information.

MD: What makes a drummer funky?

Prince: A complete understanding of James Brown.

MD: What was your first impression of John Blackwell the first time you saw him play?

Prince: That he was in desparate need of a tailor! Second impression: that people will remember his name til times indefinite.

MD: What makes John unique?

Prince: His ability 2 take direction without a demanding ego. His understanding of money. (He plays 4 the love of the art, so he'll end up the richest of all!) His respect 4 the drum's history. And he doesn't break the drum stools we but him!