What Do You Know About…? Barry de Souza He was ubiquitous in British studios during the ’70s, a favorite of producers and artists for his elegance and efficiency—and occasionally for his ability to navigate some weird and wonderfully ambitious art-rock tracks. Will Romano investigates the life and work of a quiet giant of classic rock. by Will Romano To paraphrase C.S. Lewis, humility isn’t thinking less of yourself and your character, it’s thinking of yourself less. Sacrificing a bit of ego to help bolster various aspects of the music isn’t bad career advice, and, ironically, some drummers have made a name for themselves by consciously playing supporting roles. Few drummers, however, have embodied Lewis’s statement—and its musical corollary, “serving the song”—more than Barry de Souza, an introverted man who let his performances speak for themselves. Producers, artists, and session “fixers” alike swore by de Souza’s musical sensitivity, effortless grooves, and […]