Fusion 45

It’s hard to find an acoustic rock record made in the 1970’s (especially those from Elektra and Asylum) that didn’t include Russ Kunkel. From his inauspicious launch in 1969 on the much-touted Barbara Keith debut album to his 2008 appearance on James Taylor’s X2 record, Kunkel could possibly be the most recorded session drummer of all time.

Here are a dozen that feature Kunkel laying down the groove.

Jackson Browne - Nothing But Time (Running On Empty, Elektra, 1977)

I always liked the fact this tune was recorded on a cross-country tour bus. Our tour bus never had that much stability. Actually, neither did our band.

Harry Chapin - Burning Herself (Sniper and Other Love Songs, Elektra, 1972)

Crosby, Stills and Nash - Shadow Captain (Crosby, Stills and Nash, Atlantic, 1977)

Dan Fogelberg - Nexus (The Innocent Age, Epic, 1981)

This is a pretty standard groove but it has that Kunkellian flavor that’s unmistakable.

Andrew Gold - Lonely Boy (What’s Wrong With This Picture, Elektra, 1976)

I’m not a big fan of Andrew Gold but this song does bring back some memories. A tough beat to make work but Russ knocks it out here.

Carole King - Where You Lead (Tapestry, Ode, 1971)

Nobody did laid-back California better than Kunkel did on this one (for my money, a better tune than the ones you always hear on the radio).

Joni Mitchell - Casey (Blue, Reprise, 1971)

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band - Prodigal’s Return (Uncle Charlie and His Dog Teddy, Liberty, 1970)

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Dudes rockin’ out!

Linda Ronstadt - Sail Away (Don’t Cry Now, Elektra, 1973)

Nothing too exciting drum-wise but a beautiful interpretation of Randy Newman. Reminds me why I resent her for bailing out on rock and roll.

John Stewart - Big Joe (Willard, Capital, 1970)

Kunkel is credited with playing “knees” on this tune

Stephen Stills - Shuffle Just As Bad (Stills, Columbia, 1975)

Warren Zevon - Excitable Boy (Excitable Boy, Elektra, 1978)

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