Stephen "Animal" Empringham

Drums

Home Town - Milford

During the wonderful transition of leaving the chaos of the big city to the tranquil life of the County, I quickly realized how much is going on musically here. I had the fortunate honor of moving next door to one of the most talented (and unique) guitar players I’ve ever met. Willy Walker is his name. When Willy found out I was a drummer there was always a “jam” at his place nearly every weekend. I met a lot of musically talented and friendly people at these jams. I must confess, I really was not familiar with country music and had no idea what the songs were until we started playing but I managed to muddle through.

My greatest regret is not moving sooner because Willy passed away only two years after I met him. I would have liked to have been his friend a lot longer.

At Willy’s jams I met some friends who were to become my stepping stones to playing with Grampa’s Goodtime Gang and several other music bands. They are Bruce (bass guitar, vocals, etc.) Tony (guitar, vocals) and Chris (guitar and vocals). Grampa’s Goodtime Gang was looking for a drummer so Bruce and Tony suggested I give it a try. The first “gig” was for Bud’s (one of the long standing Grampas) Birthday Party. I had a great time and I guess “I passed the audition” because I’m still playing with “Grampa’s”. They are all a great bunch of guys who truly enjoy playing. Their music is much more familiar to me because my father was a disc jockey in the 60’s to the 80’s and I was always listening to the popular music of that era.

My alternate ego is playing with a classic rock band in Toronto called Blue Moose. I’ve been friends with most of the guys in that band since public school. It’s always been for the love of music we’ve stuck at it so long.
Well, that’s my story so far. If you enjoy listening to Grampa’s Good Time Gang as much as I enjoy playing then we are all fortunate to be a part of the fun times they provide.
Keep toes a tappin’…..