"Believe in what you're doing, never give up and play with ultimate passion, and your voice will be heard. It's an energy exchange" - Marco Minnemann 

Marco Minneman is back to India and this time around, accompanied by two Indian Artists. Marco Minnemann is the drummer for Joe Satriani / The Aristocrats (ex Steven Wilson / Paul Gilbert ), is all set to tour in India as a part of BlueTree's COLLAB series this September. He is known for developing a very advanced drum technique called interdependence allowing him to play various patterns with each of his feet or hands and has published several instructional books describing this concept. Marco plays the guitar and has recorded them for his EPs as well.

Knowing BlueTree by Uddipan Sarmah & Karan Mehta!

BlueTree is music group, leading multiple artist management projects as well as is managing multiple live entertainment properties. Uddipan Sarmah, self-managed artist, frontman of the band "As We Keep Searching", is one of the key founders of BlueTree. Karan Mehta is the front man for BlueTree's operations and a partner in the firm. Mehta is a musician himself plays guitars for a Delhi based band named "Colossal Figures". From managing the best upcoming indie talent to bringing down the best International artist, they are only gearing up to unleash the creativity and the vibrant expression of the masses. So far, BlueTree has hosted over 100 shows in a span of 2 years since its inception. Introduced IPs such as Outrage Festival India, BlueTree Tours, 2Stroke Tour, Double Bill and now Collab! They've covered a wide range of genres. To name a few, metal, blues, electronica and associated with more them 200 artists all over the country!

What is "The Collab Series" by BlueTree?

The Collab series aims for Indian musicians collaborating with some of the pioneers in the international music industry such as Marco, for the first edition. The series promotes cultural exchanges, collaborations via its multiple platforms including organizing collaborative tours, to creating songs together, clinic series by international stars and much more. This September, Marco will be touring the country with Indian virtuoso’s Mohini Dey (AR Rehman) on the bass and Rhythm Shaw(ARR/ Zakkir Hussain/ Amit Trivedi) on the guitars. The trio will be playing tracks from their own catalogs along with Marco’s upcoming album BORREGO.      

Marco Is Set For Delivering Series of Workshops too Across India

In Conversation With Marco Minnemann

Loudest.in got a chance to exclusively interview Marco Minnemann, scroll down and experience a delightful treat for your eyes! Loudest: This is your second time in India, would you take us through your experience last year?  Marco Minnemann: Yes, it's the second time and I'm very much looking forward to this experience once again. Last year's experience was wonderful. It was the first time ever for me in India and people were just so friendly and enthusiastic, which reflected in the concerts I believe. What a good time and it's such a pleasure and honor playing in front of audiences who show such deep appreciation for music.

Loudest: What do you think of BlueTree's collab project? What convinced you to come on board with this?

Marco Minnemann: I just feel very well taken care of. As an artist that is the most important part, that everything works and that you feel respected. Also, you want to work with people who are kind and understand how to put on a great show at the same time. Basically having a good time, combined with artistry. Now, that for the organization. As far as working with Mohini and Rhythm, that whole thing decides itself, how can you refuse to work with such amazing and talented player! I immediately said yes to that idea of course.

Loudest: Collaborations are a way of exchanging markets, and when it becomes global it's even better! What's your take on collaborative music projects? Would you please share some of your favorite collaborations in your music journey?

Marco Minnemann: Well, actually collaborations are quite exciting since you never know what comes out in the end, you can only take a wild guess. Hahahahaha. But I've done quite a few collaborations, and usually, it works out great. That song 'On That Note' from my new album Borrego, was a great example of a perfect collaboration between Alex Lifeson and myself. I had written a song, and Alex delivered some guitar parts which inspired me to make another new out of them. Then Alex heard that and then started to play different guitars on that one. Then I wrote lyrics and few new parts.... I mean, that totally fell from the sky. Liebe that stuff.

Loudest: It's exciting to see you collaborate with some of the really talented Indian Musicians and tour with them across India. You're also collaborating with Thaikudam Bridge on their new track! Have been following any Indian musicians, if yes, who do you think is 

Marco Minnemann: Oh there are many great musicians in India, that's never been a big secret. Some of the greatest players and composers come from India. Just now I shared a story with my dear friend Simon Phillips about his collaboration on Shankar'a Touch Me There album, which was produced by Frank Zappa btw. But yeah, Thaikkudam Bridge was so cool, just a smooth and very musical adventure with a lot of respect and joyfulness.

Marco has also recorded a track with Indian Band "Thaikudam Bridge", as a part of their Namah Album. Read An Exclusive Interview with Thaikudam Bridge Here! This project too was initiated by BlueTree and Collab!

Loudest: Do you think the collab project has the potential to be taken to International Market?

Marco Minnemann: Oh absolutely! I think if a Blu-Ray comes out of this tour, it easily could open up many more markets.

Loudest: Whats your advice for the to the Indian Independent Artists in a country which lacks a music Industry independent of Films?

Marco Minnemann: Believe in what you're doing, never give up and play with ultimate passion, and your voice will be heard. It's an energy exchange.

Loudest: Whats your take on the future of Indian Music Industry?

Marco Minnemann: The music industry was already difficult for years as downloads interrupt music sales. But again, if you're doing something artistic that speaks to the heart of others, then you'll survive

Loudest: What else is in your plan during your visit to India?

Marco Minnemann: This time around I'll have a few days where I finally can visit the Taj Mahal. So, that is going to be on the list.

Loudest: Thank you for coming in, and answering these for us!

Marco Minnemann: Oh you're more than welcome. Thank you for the opportunity.  

Can't wait to watch Marco, Mohini and Rhythm set the stage on fire during their Collab Tour!

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