ON THIS DAY IN 1991 - THE PROGRAMMER MICK HUCKNALL HIRED TURNED OUT TO BE THE BAND'S NEXT DRUMMER

ON THIS DAY IN 1991, Mick Hucknall released an album featuring a programmer he had hired for rhythm work—only to discover during the sessions that the same musician was also an accomplished live drummer. 🎛️🥁 That programmer, Gota Yashiki, would become Simply Red’s next drummer.

Hucknall had recruited Gota after hearing his programming work with Soul II Soul. As Simply Red prepared Stars, the idea was to bring that rhythmic expertise into the making of the group’s fourth studio album. At that point, Hucknall did not realize the musician he had brought in could also handle a drum kit.

The recording took place at Condulmer Recording Studio in Venice, Italy. 🇮🇹 During those sessions, Hucknall heard Gota playing drums—and the role suddenly became much broader than programming alone. Gota could contribute both electronic precision and live performance. ✨

That versatility is written directly into the album’s credits. On Stars, Gota is listed for drums, percussion and programs, placing him at the rhythmic center of the record alongside Mick Hucknall, Fritz McIntyre, Tim Kellett, Heitor T.P., Ian Kirkham and bassist Shaun Ward.

Stars arrived on September 30, 1991, with songs including “Something Got Me Started,” “Stars” and “For Your Babies.” 💿 The album became a defining Simply Red release, while Gota’s studio discovery also reshaped the band’s lineup: the musician hired as a programmer joined as its drummer.

It is a perfect studio twist—a session booked for one talent revealing another in real time. 🌟 Sometimes the most important addition to a band is already in the room, waiting behind a different job description. 🥁

#musicOnOff #SimplyRed #Stars #MickHucknall #GotaYashiki #OnThisDay #MusicHistory