Sterling Campbell
Occupation:
Drummer
Background:
Sterling Campbell began playing drums at the age of 11, eventually graduating from the prestigious High School of Music and Art in Manhattan. His early years included a number of stints in local NYC bands, playing such legendary ‘80s venues as CBGB’s, The Ritz and The Peppermint Lounge. In 1986, Campbell scored a gig with Cyndi Lauper and played drums on her True Colors tour. Since then, Campbell has built an impressive resume of stage and studio work, and he is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after drummers working today.
Sterling Campbell
Worked with: David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Duran Duran, Soul Asylum, Rufus Wainwright, B-52’s, David Byrne, Chic, Cameo, Percy Jones and Eric Clapton
Sterling Campbell on M-Audio hardware: “I walk around with ideas all the time, and it’s great to have tools like M-Audio products that you can pull out at anytime and get a song idea together over a cup of coffee. You can multitrack ideas by yourself or with others anytime, anywhere. There have many times where I’ve been able to save a song idea that would have otherwise been lost by using M-Audio gear.”
What defines his sound: “I keep every option open to me as a starting point to my songwriting. It could be a series of chords or it could be a sound generated from a synthesizer or guitar. But my philosophy with technology is knowing when to show restraint because there are sometime too many options available to you.”
His proudest moment: “I think my proudest accomplishment is my involvement with David Bowie. I have worked with him for almost 14 years, and it’s been a blessing both musically and as a friend. He is a genius.”
Why M-Audio?: “M-Audio products have given a whole new generation of musicians and producers artistic freedom that was not available in the past. Artists are able to realize their vision without the financial costs of the past. I can’t imagine not having these creative tools available.”
