Meaning: The quote, “Still for fun, I play the drums, but I don't do much recording with them,” by Jan Hammer, offers a glimpse into the personal musical pursuits of the renowned musician. Jan Hammer is a Czech-American musician, composer, and record producer who has made significant contributions to the music industry, particularly in the realms of jazz, rock, and electronic music. His quote reflects his ongoing passion for playing the drums and the distinction between his recreational drumming activities and professional recording work.

Jan Hammer is widely recognized for his versatile musical abilities, having achieved success in various musical genres. He gained prominence in the 1970s as a member of the Mahavishnu Orchestra, a pioneering jazz-rock fusion band led by virtuoso guitarist John McLaughlin. Hammer’s innovative keyboard playing and compositional skills were integral to the band’s sound, and his contributions to the group’s albums solidified his reputation as a highly skilled and forward-thinking musician.

In addition to his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra, Jan Hammer is perhaps best known for his iconic composition “Crockett’s Theme,” which served as the instrumental theme for the popular 1980s television series “Miami Vice.” The evocative and atmospheric piece, driven by Hammer’s distinctive synthesizer melodies, became a chart-topping hit and remains a beloved musical emblem of the era.

While Hammer is primarily recognized for his keyboard prowess and electronic music innovations, his statement about playing the drums for fun reveals another dimension of his musical identity. Despite his groundbreaking work with synthesizers and electronic instruments, he maintains a genuine enjoyment of playing the drums as a leisure activity. This insight into his personal musical pursuits humanizes him as an artist and underscores the enduring appeal of making music for the sheer joy of it.

It is worth noting that Jan Hammer’s comment about not doing much recording with the drums indicates a distinction between his recreational drumming and his professional recording endeavors. This suggests that while he continues to engage in drumming for personal enjoyment, it may not be a focal point of his current recording projects. As an artist who has continually evolved and embraced new technologies throughout his career, Hammer’s emphasis on the drums for fun underscores the importance of maintaining a personal connection to music beyond the confines of professional obligations.

In summary, Jan Hammer’s quote provides a glimpse into his ongoing musical pursuits and the distinction between his recreational and professional musical activities. As a musician celebrated for his pioneering work in electronic music and keyboard performance, his statement about playing the drums for fun adds a personal touch to his illustrious career. It serves as a reminder of the enduring passion and enjoyment that underpin the artistic endeavors of a multifaceted musician like Jan Hammer.