Jojo Mayer: Redefining Drumming with Generative Technology

He is one of the most influential drummers of recent decades, known both as a skilled technician and a visionary. Jojo Mayer talks to us about technology, tradition – and the future of music.

Chapters:
0:00 – Intro
0:43 – Research and development in Zurich
2:18 – How does his generative machine work?
10:42 – Talk in Ascona about New York and Switzerland
17:49 – How can AI shape the future of music?
22:06 – Outro.

“Why are we still doing this?” Throughout his career, Jojo Mayer has repeatedly explored the boundaries of what is physically possible to play and has established himself as one of the most innovative drummers of his generation. His latest project sees him interact with digital technology on stage – the result is a live symbiotic loop with man and machine which blurs the boundaries between cause and effect.

Reportage by: Giannis Mavris and Carlo Pisani
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[LDdrums]

Man the second part of the video was very interesting and insightful

[dharmageddonnow]

I met JoJo in 2011 at a show in NYC. I had nothing to say or ask really. His brain was beyond what I could imagine. But I'm trying. Truly a brilliant mind amongst artists.

[germandrummer]

i think we all are very fortunate to live in an era where there is a Jojo Mayer. Always looking for and pushing new ideas. i think the most profound statement in this interview is at the 7:10--->7:32 mark. Not without danger! he is one the most thoughtful guys out there. And in Jojo's words 'lets make music in a good way.

[Klausitodrums]

Jojo Mayer is a giant. A driver and innovator. More creative in the purest sense. I love his restlessness and curiosity.
He has no fear of contact and sees art as a venture and risk, but also as a playground and the resulting opportunity to discover new things. He stands on the shoulders of giants and knows the meaning and responsibilty of it.
But what impresses me, in addition to his incredible virtuosity, musicality and creativity, is his vision and ability to place his artistic possibilities in a highly interesting philosophical discourse.
Jojo Mayer. Creative Musician. Innovator. Philosopher.

[HolyGhostDrummer]

I would love for JOJO to release this close loop thing. I would love to just play to myself like this!

[sonicart]

JoJo is smart, he realises this technology is going to be prevalent in the times to come and he's working on ways of using it and opening up new possibilities...great musician and mind.

[Bsloga]

So refreshing and hopeful. He is a modern musical giant and innovator. Fantastic and inspiring.

[yurysverdlov]

Jojo is extremely insightful. Thank you for filming this!

[bananaemon]

Jojo's Bizarre Drumming Adventure !! 😎 Exploring and pushing the limits ! 💪💪 Thank you man 🙏

[juanmanuelpache]

Incredible JoJo! Thanks for giving this! Greeting from
Argentina 🇦🇷🥁

[fess]

keep exploring Jojo. fantastic. drumming is a language and this has new implications for language and action.

[SantiagoCasas]

The comment on creativity, critical mass and signal to noise ratio is just amazing! 17:11

[antonionadalin]

The most unteresting interview that I saw and listened this last decade. JoJo is the Drummer and also the Drum Machine in a same time. Jimi could say of you .. Man you are so experienced ✨☀️🎶🙏

[Ricemachine]

I love how jojo is always trying to push the boundaries of drumming technology

[universalmadness]

I’ve respected JOJO since the 80s and this video explains why! ❤

[jasonhobaugh]

Please get this amazing concept to market! ❤

[rudedoc]

I appreciate Jojo's thoughts and ideas on creativity much more than I do his current musical output. It feels like the music and performance is now only a guide or a tool that allows him to examine his theories and philosophies on creativity and original thought and I kind of like this.

[fredrikh]

Such a fantastic drummer, Mr Mayer. A pleasure to hear and behold.

[BmakinFilm]

Thanks for a well shot and lengthy interview with a thoughtful and dedicated drummer who raised the bar for all drummers with his dedication to the craft: never stop Jo Jo!

[inktime]

Jo Jo is such an intellectual. He sees a new direction and purpose for music that is just now being explored.