Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) Interview


Dream Theater keyboardist Jordan Rudess has just released the solo album Rhythm Of Time. He had a tiny window of opportunity to record the album between Dream Theater tours. So for 14 days, Rudess went into seclusion and recorded the album. He lined up some great guests to help on Rhythm Of Time, including Kip Winger, Joe Satriani, Steve Morse, Rod Morgenstern, Greg Howe and Vinnie Moore. The following interview with Jordan Rudess is a collaboration with the lovely and talented Gloomchen.

Why did you decide to record a solo album at this particular time?

Jordan Rudess: I saw a window of opportunity in my schedule and jumped on it! It was a small amount of time but it was right before DT was going to be leaving for our world tour. I knew that If I wanted to create a new album then it would have to be done at that point!

How did you decide on the guest musicians? Were they lined up beforehand, or did it all happen in that 2 week window?

The musicians were lined up all ahead of time. Everyone except for Kip. I called Kip two days before the mix started aftere I decided that I did not want to sing the songs on the CD myself. Luckliy he had time in his schedule and recorded the vocals at his home studio and sent them to us just in time!!

How did you find guitarist Daniel J?

Wow!! What a talent. A blazing young guitar player. He called me one day on the phone and introduced himself. His father had worked with Jerry Goodman and there was that connection since I had worked with Jerry in the Dregs. Daniel sent me some of his music. I was so impressed with his musicianship that I asked him to please come over and hang. One day he brought his guitar and I realized that here was a talent that I wanted to fully support along his career path. When it came time to create this album I realized that it was a perfect opportunity to work with him.

What inspired your lyrics on this album?

The lyrics are very personal. Instead of writing about particular events I decided to write about feelings and imagery. I had not written lyrics in a long time. I do enjoy writing them though and although getting started is always difficult it was a satisfying experience!

The copyright of the article Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) Interview in Heavy Metal is owned by Chad Bowar. Permission to republish Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) Interview in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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