As one of the most influential groups of the 20th century, there is a seemingly endless amount of discourse surrounding The Velvet Underground. Although much of the discussion centres around the partnership of Lou Reed and John Cale, the other band members that made up the Underground should certainly not be forgotten.
Maureen ‘Moe’ Tucker, for instance, was an essential element of The Velvet Underground and their signature sound. Drafted into the group in 1965, following the departure of Angus Maclise, Tucker became known both for her androgynous image and her unconventional playing style. Rather than playing with a traditional drum kit, Moe would play standing up with a simplified version of a kit. This allowed her drumming to take on a more experimental and impactful style, thanks in part to easier bass-drum access.
Independent artist Cam Forrester explores the career of legendary drummer Maureen ‘Moe’ Tucker; focusing on the origins of her unique style of playing, it’s development over the course of her time with The Velvet Underground, and the influence her sound has had on music over the years since the groundbreaking band were in their prime. Included are several demonstration scenes performed on Forrester’s own vintage drum kit, which is set up in the same fashion as Moe’s kits were back in the 60’s, plus rare footage, and photos of her and the band through the years.
Quotes/Introduction – 0:00 Background & musical beginnings – 3:50 “Tucker’s sister plays drums?” – 6:14 Andy Warhol, ‘The Factory’, and Nico – 9:07 The ‘Exploding Plastic Inevitable’ Shows – 12:46 A female drummer? – 15:09 ‘The Velvet Underground & Nico’ Sessions – 17:38 DRUM DEMONSTRATIONS – 21:22 Goodbye to Nico & Andy…hello to VOLUME! – 25:02 ‘White Light/White Heat’ & DRUMMING DEMONSTRATIONS – 28:18 John Cale leaves, and Doug Yule joins – 34:35 The third album & DRUMMING DEMONSTRATIONS – 37:07 ‘Loaded’, band breakup, and solo career – 43:09 Moe’s heroic return to the drums – 45:58 Retirement from the music business – 53:48 Influence & legacy – 54:28 “A natural drummer…” – 57:03 Researched, written, compiled & edited by Cam Forrester.
The Fat Angel Sings 