Frank Zummo
by Mister Mime
23rd July 2021
Frank Zummo’s ‘Ways To Go’ featuring Keith Wallen on vocals is one among a series of brand new songs that the prolific LA-based musician & songwriter has put out under his self-titled solo project. The track and many other sizzling singles are out now on EDM & Bass Music giant Jauz’s genre-bending record label ‘Bite This’.
Best known as the drummer for the uber-popular rock band Sum41, as well as the backbone of well-known acts like Street Drum Corps, Dead By Sunrise and Thenewno2, Frank combines his undying love for Rock and Electro with his extensive experience as an entertainer to embark on a journey that includes some equally iconic collaborators like Dan Estrin from Hoobastank and KJ Wallen from Breaking Benjamin. The spot-on songwriting, uplifting vocals and fresh production, driven by Frank’s electric drumming, all synergize beautifully to give us the rock music of the now and future.
MM: Where did the inspiration for the song ‘Ways To Go' come from? Can you talk a bit about the message of the song?
FZ: Dan Estrin from Hoobastank, Keith Wallen and I wrote this track together. We had a conversation about my solo project and what the vibe was. That conversation inspired the song and lyrics. We wanted something uplifting and positive. The song started with the intro piano and it grew from there. Dan & I had the song fully finished instrumentally and then we sent it to Keith to record his vocals. We then added in Niko to co/produce and add all the insane production. We spent all of last summer going back & forth on this one. Dan also had the idea for the outro drum moment, which was really fun to record!
Image Courtesy : Erica Vincent Photos
MM: How did this collaboration come to be? What was your collaborative process like with KJ Wallen to write this song?
FZ: Dan had the idea of bringing Keith in on this track. I listened to Keith’s solo tracks and absolutely loved his voice, melodies and lyrics. We sent him the track and he crushed it on the first take! He really took this song to the next level!
MM: How did music first come into your life? How did your first tryst with the drums happen?
FZ: My parents were in a band together and I discovered my Dads kit at 2 years old and haven't stopped. Then seeing Motley Crue & Ozzy for my first concert at 5 years old, really inspired me & I knew this is what I wanted to do!
MM: How have your experiences with all the bands you’ve been in (Sum41, Street Drum Corps, Dead By Sunrise, Thenewno2) translated into your current self-titled project?
FZ: This project combines my love for rock & electro, as I've performed with so many amazing rock and electro acts. This was just a really natural move to make solo music that reflects those.
MM: Who are your biggest musical influences? Who are your favourite drummers?
FZ: Drummer wise: I grew up on Tommy Lee, Buddy Rich, John Bonham and the James Brown drummers.
Musical influences: Motley Crue, Metallica & lots of metal, Classical music, Dance music, big band & Sinatra.
MM: Who/what are some artists & people from other disciplines and walks of life, places & things that inspire you?
FZ: Lots of amazing athletes & coaches, street artists/painters, shows/concerts & fashion designers.
MM: What/who are some records/artists that you listen to currently?
FZ: My current playlist has been: Tokio Myers, Illenium, While She Sleeps, Architects, London Grammar & 21 Pilots,
Image Courtesy : Danielle Spires
MM: What do you enjoy doing apart from making music?
FZ: Working out/Training, family time, workshops for kids, reading/podcasts and cooking. Lots of self journeys to learn new ways to improve my life and health.
MM: Can you share some memorable moments from your musical career?
FZ: The most full-circle moment was getting to fill in for Tommy Lee in Motley Crue!
You Can Follow Frank Zummo on:
https://soundcloud.com/heybitethis/waystogo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFWjeV0bN98&ab_channel=BiteThis
https://www.facebook.com/frankzummomusic/
All Images Courtesy of Frank Zummo & the Respective Photographers
