Mel Gaynor, renowned for his extensive career in music, has drummed in numerous concerts, most notably with Simple Minds, where he played for over 35 years and helped sell 60 million records. He also played with metal legends Samson, alongside future Iron Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson.
Gaynor joined Jim Kerr and Simple Minds in 1982 to play on the New Gold Dream album, followed by a groundbreaking tour. His journey began with his first drum kit at age 11 and his first professional gig at just 14.
As a seasoned session drummer, Gaynor has made many friends and appeared on numerous recordings, including those of Brian May, Gary Moore, Elton John, Lou Reed, Tina Turner, Meat Loaf, Jackson Browne, Joan Armatrading, Incognito, Light Of The World, The Pretenders, and Imagination.
Gaynor’s charity work is significant, including the NHS Drumathon and various talks, clinics, fundraisers, and debates surrounding mental health awareness and its associated charities and campaigns. Excitingly, Gaynor has just released his debut solo album, Come With Me (Marquee Records), featuring ten brand new tracks with Gaynor on vocals and percussion.
This year, his band has been performing select gigs ahead of the album release, and two singles have already been released: “Run” and the mid-tempo “Little White Lies,” which boasts a catchy hook and impressive guitar work. This week, the new single “Addicted To Love,” featuring samples of the original by Robert Palmer, has been released. This cover is even more infectious, with heavy percussive overtones providing a foundation for Gaynor’s best vocals yet.
