 Peter Michael Escovedo: Bloodline with a Beat
By Laura B. Whitmore
Peter Michael Escovedo III’s accomplishments as a percussionist are many, but there are numerous other facets to this multi-talented musician. An Emmy-nominated musical director and producer of the Wayne Brady Show, Peter has earned recognition as a producer, singer, songwriter, and television personality. He’s contributed to countless world tours, recordings and television shows, has written music for film, theme songs for television, and composed, arranged, and produced music for various artists. Peter even produced, wrote, engineered, and mixed his debut solo album, Moments. But Peter is far greater than the sum of these many roles. He’s a true artist and an amazing musician who imparts energy and his love of performance into every project.
Peter doesn’t have to look far to identify the origin of his percussive leanings. His father, Pete Escovedo, is a percussionist and an original member of Santana. And his sister, well, you might have heard of solo artist and percussionist Sheila E. Peter has certainly used this genetic disposition to his advantage.
Peter took some time out of his busy schedule to catch up with KORG and talk about his influences, what he’s up to, and his newest piece of KORG gear…the WAVEDRUM.
Korg: You must have had a very musical childhood. Can you give us a glimpse of what that was like?
Peter: I grew up listening to soul and pop music while my father, Pete Escovedo, would rehearse his Latin jazz-fusion band Azteca in our living room. It provided me with the versatility I needed to tour with Marvin Gaye, be the musical direct for Stevie Nicks, record with Barbra Streisand, and produce the TV show, High School Musical: Get in the Picture!
Korg: As a percussionist, who would you cite as your percussionist heroes?
Peter: Paulinho Da Costa was pretty much on every record I listened to growing up. I love his ability to play traditional Brazilian music and turn around and record with Michael Jackson. He’s got more than enough chops but knows when not to use them!
Korg: Over the years you’ve toured the world, played on numerous recording sessions and served as musical director on TV shows, which one of these roles is your favorite?
Peter: I love TV. It allows me to reach millions and still go home at night and sleep in my own bed.
Korg: What are you up to musically these days?
Peter: I have a production company called Pajama Cafe Productions with my wife and one of my sons, and we create, develop, and pitch TV shows. Of course we also handle all of the music. I also just finished an album with my family called The E. Family, soon to be released. It features Joss Stone, Prince, Gloria Estefan, and Earth, Wind & Fire.
Korg: You were one of the first artists to get your hands on the new KORG WAVEDRUM; can you let us know a few of your favorite sounds and features on it?
Peter: First of all, I received the WAVEDRUM, pulled it out of the box, plugged it in, and started playing it. It was that simple. The rhythms and sounds that can be created are endless. There is nothing like the WAVEDRUM. You’re playing an actual instrument. I love that there are ridges on the side of the drum. I play with my wedding ring on, and when I move it across the ridges, I get some really cool sounds. Presets 50 and 59 are my favorite. I’m not even gonna tell you why. Go check one out for yourself. World percussionists go to 50. Funk and R&B percussionists check out 59. It’s dope!
Find out more about the WAVEDRUM here >>
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