POLOKWANE – The first Limpopo Skouspel, hosted by Rock Hard Music School, took place on Saturday with a guest performance by Vinnie Henrico, well-known in the music industry for his drum skills.
Review took the opportunity to speak to Henrico about his life and his passion for drums.
Henrico, also known as The Pocket Rocket, started studying the art of drum playing in 1995, he has been a full time drummer since 1998. He also has his own drum recording studio called The Drumroom.
How did you get started in the music industry?
“My family are all musicians, I tried some instruments like guitar, but I never found my niche. Then as a Gr 8 learner during the initiation concert, I had to play the drums and I was hooked. I believe that you do not pick an instrument, an instrument picks you.”
Do you remember the moment you realised you want to be a drummer?
“I was busy studying engineering and joined a band for fun. The moment the lights came on and smoke filled the stage, I knew this is where I belong.”
What was your biggest moment as a drummer?
“I did a world tour with A.R Rahman. He is an Indian composer, singer-songwriter and music producer, known for his Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours and The Hundred-Foot journey soundtracks.”
The biggest audience you have ever performed in front of?
“It was 55 000 people.”
What was the first song you performed?
“Blouberg se Strand with Laurika Rauch.”
What is the biggest challenge you had until now?
“The politics in the industry. Not to get discourage when things are not going your way.”
What do you do in your free time, or is there a life without drums?
“Music is a cruel and jealous mistress, While I’m sitting here talking to you, I’m busy analysing the music being played in the background. My fiancé, Liesl du Plessis, are also in the music industry and my two children also love to play instruments. Therefore, we spend time together playing music.”
What makes drums different from other instruments?
“Drums are not an instrument you can play a melody on. You have to make music out of something you bang. It is an authoritive instrument, it keeps the band together as it keeps the beat. It is also a responsible instrument, a physical instrument.”
Do you have a ritual you do before a show?
“I stretch my fingers and make sure my hands and feet are warm. I do still get nervous before a show.”
Do you have a drummers joke?
No. Every joke is the truth.
Are there such a thing as too many drums?
You can never have too many drums.
