Rick Allen – on Def Leppard and Brian May

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 AJC.COM [Alanta Journal Constitution)
Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen talks new art showcase in Atlanta, Rock Hall induction
2 May 2019 by Melissa Ruggieri

EXTRACT:

The affable musician called in from his home on the  central coast of California to talk to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Kaedy Kiely of 97.1 The River about his upcoming visit to Atlanta, Def Leppard’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction and what diehard fans can expect from the band’s upcoming residency in Las Vegas.

— On the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and induction by Brian May…

Q: Congrats on the recent induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. What was your reaction to the news?

A: When I first heard, it was a bit of an inconvenience (with the timing) because I just got home! I wanted to enjoy northern California and groove on the weather. And then Brian May agreed to get involved, and we went to New York five or six days before the event so we could do press. As it got closer to the day it became a bigger deal, and then standing on stage and looking out at basically at the while industry – wow, this is really the first time we’ve gotten recognition form industry. It was the largest fan vote in history, and it’s a very exclusive club and we’re now in it. (But) I think its code for, we’re on the endangered species list (laughs). Rick Allen (center) and the rest of Def Leppard.

Q: What is the band’s history with Brian May?

A: We met him years ago, in 1983, at the Forum in L.A. and we just kept in touch with him ever since. He and Joe are in touch with each other on a regular basis. We’re just happy that an iconic person (wanted to induct us). What he represents as a person and a musician is just off the charts. Q: Any special moments from the induction? A: Brian May’s speech. And I thought Joe’s speech was really cool. People do tend to waffle on a little bit, (but) Joe kept his speech really short. It was great. Everybody really enjoyed it. I think the whole moment was captured really well.

Rick Allen
Rick Allen

Rick Allen, the drummer for Def Leppard, will appear at Wentworth Gallery in Phipps Plaza on May 4 to discuss his artwork