See My personal website! Real simple and easy to navigate! Not flashy, but encouraging and relevant WWW.JOHNSUSSEWELL.COM.
Influences
On Drums(?): Billy Cobham, Elvin Jones, Max Roach, Roy Haynes, Tony Williams, Steve Gadd, Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Jim Chapin, Gregg Enricco, et. al.
In Life & Relationships(?): The Living God, His vessels and those who aspire to what is clearly overlooked (if not ignored) today among us with skin!
Special mention should also be made of the many true and time tested relationships I have with certain on Billy Cobham's website. They are too many to mention, but I must name just a few: Pete Corona, Don (D.Slam) Thomas, Robert Woodbury, Ted E. Bear, Dave Latimer, Keith Bell and of course Mr. Billy Cobham himself. Quite a virtual community over there among drummers and audiophiles alike:
My greatest influence in Life is coming to know and surrender to My Saviour Christ Jesus. Now I know that there are some who might look at history but not see His Story! That is not the fault of God or His Son, but the fault of humans who were either overzealous in their faith or simply ignorant of any Faith beyond themselves. And when in the 21st century I muse on the millenia before us still walking this planet, and see the wars, famines, pestilence and intolerance among us who should be neighbors, I'm frankly bankrupt to say anything more than what has already been Said. There was nothing I could do to earn my standing with a Living God. And even in this tremendous community on Our Spaces, I'm more emboldened to share what I know. It's free - you cannot earn it. Relationship is a privilege, not a guarantee. Some feel they may be here by accident while others feel they have a purpose. If I may, I remind both You and me, that none of us are accidents. We're merely clay and instruments in the Hand of the Potter.
So whether it's a soapbox, or actual loss of life through negligence, consider what I offer as a solution. In the final analysis, it (He) is the only One. He said "It is finished" before Chrisitianity, Islam or any other faith adhered to by Modern Man was even in existence. Therein and thereupon is my inspiration when I play music. To whom else would I attribute it to? Therein I advance as a foot soldier against an enemy whose only success is that he's convinced the world (or the "worldly") he doesn't exist. Christ does exist, and certainly does Christ's Father. I'm not after Extended Network Friends on OurSpace ... I'm advancing with those who have a heart to hear what the Spirit is saying, rather than what the politicians and popular music/media is saying. I forgive you Candi Staton-Sussewell for walking out of my life back in July, 1998. I'm over it, but will never turn my back upon the Living God who gave me whatever gifts I have and are appreciated by others, while I'm mindful to appreciate theirs' ...
A painting speaks a thousand words, they say: maybe some music can even be more on point! (MP3)
I'd like to think of myself as being MySelf WITH MUSIC or anyone in mind. Yet I'd be deceiving myself into thinking that there is something new under the Sun, apart from the fact that each of us are both unique while depending upon each other's productive contributions!
Given the rapid changes in our global society today, an attitude of "entitlement" would be a mistake for me to make! Rather, I'm influenced by any craftsman on any instrument that promotes (other than hinders) a canvass painted from a full palette of colors! More to come though - from everyone, regardless of what brushes and colors are in our reality!
I'm especially refreshed working with folks who have this same attitude and who exercise their freedom of expression, without stepping on others in their effort to achieve.
Of course strive to be successful - and that with excellence. Yet I'm Reminded that given the secular mindset today, success in, and of, itself (for any sentient AND intelligent human being) is neither tangible nor REAL. This revelation begins on the inside of a person, rather than what is so often passed off upon us with outer garments and stuff that weighs us down, holds us back and chokes the Life out of us.
But I'll take the stuff too - in a tangible sense! LOL! Just so long as if, and when its stored, I'm not stuffed with it! LOL! [why am I laughing?! This is not no funny at all!]
May The Living God Bless You while you Enjoy your journey!
"Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but {only} one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win." {1Corinthians 9:24; New American Standard}
I'm blessed to have met some tremendous folk over the years and really do appreciate the opportunities to network and enjoy even today. My start as a performing and recording drummer began in New York City (my home town) with the late DONNY HATHAWAY, and with whom I toured for nearly two years. The rest is history unfolding... thank you Donny. You are sorely missed.
By the Grace of The Only Living God (and not a "dead" one), I've worked with Alvin Lee (of Ten Years After), Ashford & Simpson, Average White Band, Aziz Ibrahim, Ben Tankard, Bette Midler, Bonnie Raitt, Bob Dylan (with Eric Clapton), Bill Withers, Candi Staton, David Scott, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Diana Ross, Daryl Hall & John Oates (Hall & Oats), Don Klayman, Donny Hathaway, Dori Previn (Andre Previn's wife), Esther Phillips, Eumir Deodato, Freda Payne, Freddie Hubbard, Garrett Morris (NBC’s Saturday Night Live!), Geoff McBride, Greg Mullens, THE Guild of Sound, Herbie Mann, Irene Cara (Broadway’s Fame!), Jack Turner, Joe Cocker, James Taylor (@ Milton Academy), Lloyd Price, Kokomo, Manu DiBangu, Mark Copeland, Margie Josephs, Nat Adderley, Jr. (Cannonball’s nephew), Nell Carter, Phyliss Hyman, Randy Harper, Richie Havens, Roy Ayers, Rudy Vaughn Brannon, Jerry Harrison, Sherry Winston, Steve Whitworth, Steve Freeman, Steve Winwood, Stevie Wonder, Terrence Boylan, The Promise Keepers Band, etc., etc.
An open invite is extended to see my recent blog(s) and for you to visit my website at www.JohnSussewell.Com. Lots of music up there in the Suss's SoundScape section, as well as pics and additional information important to me in MySpace. God Bless You All & Thanks for visiting.
John Sussewell [a/k/a Suss!]'s Friend Space (Top 40)
I'm still 'stickin,' as drummers say. Yet over the decades there is not a more dear project (and friends) as were when I was with Kokomo out of London, England. I learned a lot with this band, and enjoy the opportunities I've had since then to stay in touch with the Guys & Doll! I miss Alan Spenner, who passed away quite some time ago. However, everyone's music, with my contribution on percussion, etc., is eternal. Paddie McHugh's unique vocals on "Happy Birthday" [Rise & Shine] is especially significant to me this day on my birthday. All The Best from myself as my bandmates then called me: "Suss!"
You have EVERY idea of how I am so proud of you since first meeting and working with you on stage as far back as 2004 with Atlants's Guild of Sound. You are a multifaceted individual [a true Gift to those who have yet to witness you], and your future in the Arts is only balanced by how well you embrace the eventful (both positive & negative) occurences that will yet happen for you and your crew beyond Hyde Park, London. Stay focused and handle the Business properly. We spoke about this on the phone a few days ago. I know you'll do it!
To say "congratulations" seems inadequate to me. To see "keep your eyes on the horizon" also seems inadequate to me with you in mind. Rather, think in terms of the most efficient and effectual route to take to get there with others in mind. You are destined for this, my real-time friend!
Suss!
P.S. For the benefit of our MySpace Community, Rudy is playing sax on this tune entitled "Conception" written by Steve Freeman, a Guild member. I've long had permission from Steve to upload this and, in fact, just spoke with Steve earlier this week. The Guild was perhaps one of the most inspiring groups I've ever had the privilege to work with. Yet there are priorities in Life that cause us to navigate a different route toward the horizon of our Dreams. You Rudy are at the Conception of your career that will bless many people worldwide with both the complexity and simplicity of virtuosity. Be virtuous, since the Victory has already come! (whew!)
thanks so much for all these most thoughtfull comments. I look forward to working and playing together to take it to the next level. Aint no stopping us now.
From Suss/myself bridging the truncation of Space by humans: You dug deep Ratsack. I’m so proud of you David. You are destined for success. Just keep your focus. Work with those around you.
As an electrical engineering/pre-med minor student in college (back in the daze and before my music career started), I learned that “work” is defined as a force applied to an object in a certain direction (vector). Over the course of an indeterminate “time” on that “vector,” work IS DONE.
You did it tonight Sir! Again: work is defined being a force applied to an object in a certain direction over the course of time. Whatever work we do, may it be efficiently done.
You know me Sir: personally as a friend and fellow creator in the shadow of artisans who came before us; let alone, our Creator.
Better yet, you know me as a fellow creator among those with skin to DO all we can for those still out there without an ear to hear or a heart to receive. Every one of your pieces/skits speaks to this reality – not fallacy!
I personally enjoyed my evening at the Apache Café in Atlanta, Georgia on May 8, 2009.
Nuff said on my part - the rest of “them” have to catch up with their roles (and responsibilities) in this miasma of reflections! Success is based upon excellence!
You were excellent tonight at the Apache Café in HotLanta!
It was so cool and refreshing to see you face to face again
Be well Ratsack (David Mitsak)… we’ll work together again.
Suss! aka John Sussewell (just Google while we seriously giggle) Herein is the riddle as I attempt to answer with my percussive mentor’s composition way back in 2003: “Conundrum:” by Billy Cobham (drummer/composer/producer – an mp3 file with me playing the music behind MY drum kit): http://www.johnsussewell.com/ConundrumWithBillyCobham&Suss!-2003.mp3
Ratsack…you ask even more profound questions seeking answers without anyone overlooking the Unanswered question yet posed before anyone. You do this in your
Ratsack, aka Rat to the Siz Ak! Aka David Mitsak! At The Apache Cafe Atlanta, Georgia: The evening of May 8, 2009
I share my experience in my own words without my music; for now anyway.
The Man (Ratsack) Is The House! David’s rhythm and pace puts us All in the place. He makes his soliloquy Our Irony: He shows “us against them” as One: …a mirror seeing Each other.
“Loving Lies” is a five step journey toward searching ourselves. Tightly woven are the metaphoric commiserates: Tightly woven are the fibers of frustrations.
Tightly woven is Truth hidden by lies. Tightly woven is the carpet we tread. Tightly woven is the Carpet we dread.
Ratsack (David Mitsak)! You are a genius. I sat there mesmerized with your performance.
“Daddy Lied” is prophetic. There is no “fat” man!
“Gladiators” is off the hook. Your change of costume was pushing the edge! That’s all I say right now…. NAW: it was pushing the envelope butt within bounds for the evening and venue! LOL!
“Butt Naked Man” gave me a vision on how “he” could have very easily put his clothes back on, rather than live in a glass house.
Then there are other interwoven threads gained from your life experiences that anyone taking the time to listen will understand. You make us both think and laugh at ourselves.
I saw more than a performance.
I saw your passion toward those among the living. I saw (and again reconciled to) the pain that we all go through. I saw the answer to our struggles with resolution and hope; rather than hopelessness or nakedness.
I find it curious that how from among anyone’s pain will come that person’s Purpose.
Yes: you entertained me with both musing (thinking); and with amusement - in the sense of what “amusement” ought to be; rather than the Greek meaning “without thinking.” [viz: “a” (without) “muse” (thinking)]
Ratsack energized in me what I know myself to be: a thinker and doer. I want to do more with excellence. I’m not satisfied y
This horrendous mission is now pressing forward under the banners of Agenda 21 and its partners around the world. Only a solid, unshakable commitment to truth will enable us to stand our ground. Only a clear understanding of the evil forces driving this agenda will enable us to resist the mental manipulation used to induce compliance.
If we didn't know that our God has the future well under His control, we would have every reason to fear. Many live in denial, refusing to face the painful facts that expose this covert revolution and the gradual loss of our freedoms - including the freedom to express our faith and share the gospel.
Please do not think by anyone’s acumen that (anyone is) is better than anyone else. I do not think myself more highly than I ought. It’s just that when so many contribute into my life, I MUST reciprocate with Fruit, rather than futility. I desire so many more to reflect, when in your sphere, so many more have taken so much away.
Hence, I wax gross and large!
When Suss is totally immersed, he’s in a zone. When I’m out of the zone, I’m gregarious.
When I’m engrossed, then I’m focused When finding a solution, I’m again focused. I’m the person, not merely a 2nd or 3rd person.
Not for accolades, but toward appreciating each and everyone, Toward a view among diverse cultures when there are still deaf ears; … and many empty hearts without Hope.
For the gifts into my life that I will pay forward, (With joy and not sorrow), I am guarding my heart. My heart, as quickened, determines the issues of my life. Along with those close in relationship and encouragement.
As for the gifts others have yet to discover, I pray your discovery of self first…Then to another bestow them. Remember what this year’s SAGE Conference imparted to you and me.
[Support Advisory Group for Empowerment: viz – “SAGE”]
Stay Focused, firm and with conviction upon proven principles that we cannot even imagine. None of us can ever imagine how the “little” things we contribute to another will result in a harvest for so many others down the road. Take heed, please: continue sowing.
I personally thank each, and everyone, of you for your openness (or silence) during our session; now two weeks ago.
We ARE The SAGE within FEMA! Our corporate personalities are what will be the “sage” and “wisdom” to usher in a new generation without “surprise” or “chagrin” of anyone. The Writing is on the Wall.
Please keep your Hope alive (and listen before you speak); with an Excellence toward your Success - as is the Desire of your heart.
Thanks so much Suss for listening and commenting and I'm glad you liked it! That's a dear project of mine consisting of 13 people...it's hard to gather them very often though! The music is well balanced between written out parts and free impro parts. Interesting to communicate within the parameters. Although the email to Neil wasn't supposed to get to me I still loved the track which was included in the email....!! I trust you are well! Peace Niki
Just got over my concussion and now I'm fueled for a discussion and confession of confusion and delusionalish expression, infused into the success of a sussessful-well earned mission.
My daughter most masterfully made a fool of me the night before last and we all got the last laugh.
The night before last was the last night before my job interview yesterday to be an after school tutor at a private local after-school tutoring company. In the privacy or our home, while helping her with her homework, she successfully got me to ironically lose my patience, lose my cool, lose my temper and my so called even temperament and bang my fists on the table while screaming like a lunatic. This brought me all kinds of well deserved negative attention including mockery from her mother, grandmother both her brothers and a couple of their neighborhood friends, "so you want to be a tutor? ha ha ha etc"
Then I surprised myself and used the story to break the ice with the interviewer and nailed the interview.
I'm convinced. Laughter is one of the best "medicines. "
Yo Hann Jo Bot... Miss you man, you are drum'in for sure. I just not sure how you put up with a Warped Jethro HillBilly LIke me.. Hope to see you soon.. and don't forget Record at AudioHipster if the music don't get you The Buzz will... Drink Abby Ale.
...everytime I come back to your site I am amazed by the energy and soul in the music.....thanks for all your support. I hope one day we will meet in real life! Keep grooving and going strong! Your friend in Austria Niki
http://www. johnsussewell. com/AllTrk3. mp3 Copyright 2008 Steve Whitworth; “To Whom, Etc.” ALL… my most recent musical project released on a custom label that I have no input on nor having been “paid” commitant with my skill set. Yet, I have already been paid by the camaraderie of folks that I want to name here, but won’t out of respect while respecting them and their copyright. They are simply taking too long to say what is so simple in the mere expression. Hence I’ll state it with Steve Whitworth/Atlanta. I told him that my name is on his release… so be on the move and market it. Hmmm.
So many more desires to others are within boxes without recognizing that so many more are within their own fences. Friendships are more easily found than lost. What matters is our own behaviors in the process. Forget the human element – may no one rely upon them as excuses. Truth is not relative at a moment’s notice or the whims of the capricious, but chiseled in Stone for eternity. Therein is the principle. With that attitude, many more friends will be found than lost. Therein many more relationships will be reconciled than tossed to the dumpster.
In other words, be consistent at all costs and leave no one behind within your best abilities.
We are not about making “friends” as being “friends.” It is about being congenial. Our human existence is about being productive and continually producing on the level irrespective on planet Earth where we hail from. I venture to say that if such were grasped by political leaders (being hedged themselves), then there would be no terrorism today, both domestically and internationally, by the very markets that somehow persist in having established a ‘black market. ’ That moniker of a “black market” is an insult to me personally, since I am
http://www. johnsussewell,com/AllTrk3.mp3 Copyright 2008 Steve Whitworth; “To Whom, Etc.” ALL… my most recent musical project released on a custom label that I have no input on nor having been “paid” commitant with my skill set. Yet, I have already been paid by the camaraderie of folks that I want to name here, but won’t out of respect while respecting them and their copyright. They are simply taking too long to say what is so simple in the mere expression. Hence I’ll state it with Steve Whitworth/Atlanta. I told him that my name is on his release… so be on the move and market it. Hmmm.
So many more desires to others are within boxes without recognizing that so many more are within their own fences. Friendships are more easily found than lost. What matters is our own behaviors in the process. Forget the human element – may no one rely upon them as excuses. Truth is not relative at a moment’s notice or the whims of the capricious, but chiseled in Stone for eternity. Therein is the principle. With that attitude, many more friends will be found than lost. Therein many more relationships will be reconciled than tossed to the dumpster.
In other words, be consistent at all costs and leave no one behind within your best abilities.
We are not about making “friends” as being “friends.” It is about being congenial. Our human existence is about being productive and continually producing on the level irrespective on planet Earth where we hail from. I venture to say that if such were grasped by political leaders (being hedged themselves), then there would be no terrorism today, both domestically and internationally, by th
