I've talked to some drummers who seem to have a very hard time staying in shape on the road, including some drummers touring with high-profile acts that don't have to live on fast food every night.
For me, I just try to make sure I eat enough and drink enough water and that's about it.
When I first went on tour with PJ in '98, I was still in shock having gone through the Soundgarden break up.
The fact that Eddie Vedder likes to play 3 hour plus shows a night, I have to be ready for that.
No matter how much success you're having, you can't continue working together if you can't communicate.
Creatively, I thought we were still viable and could do more records. But our working relationship just wasn't happening at all, and our chemistry as people broke down because of that.
I would never want to live in L.A., and I made that decision years ago, so I never chose that path for myself, although I have much respect for those that do it at a high level.
I guess by taking lessons early on, and really trying to play all the rudimentary stuff, and try to have it sound as good as my teacher. It took a lot of practice, which I enjoyed, and still do.
I always loose a little weight on the road, so I constantly have to be on top of my nutrition and hydration.
No matter how much success you're having, you can't continue working together if you can't communicate.