In a conversation with Cindy Blackman Santana on Questlove Supreme, Questlove shared how a 2001 drumming gig with her profoundly impacted his health and musical journey. The gig took place post-9/11 during a fashion event where they performed together, leaving Questlove struggling to keep pace with Cindy’s intense, high-energy drumming style.
This experience served as a wake-up call for Questlove about his health, ultimately leading him to lose 200 pounds. Cindy fondly recalled playing with him and praised his groove. She also shared a memory of watching Tony Williams perform at the Village Vanguard, where she was unexpectedly joined by Art Blakey, a legendary jazz drummer who guided her experience by tapping to the beat on her shoulder.
