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    Music

    Broadway Bound and Beyond

    How musicians on any instrument get hired, build trust, and build lasting careers—especially college students stepping into professional life.

    www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com

    Advertise

    Copyright: © Clayton Craddock

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    Latest Episodes:
    PODCAST #92 - Q. Robinson Apr 26, 2025
    Show notes

    This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

    Broadway Drumming 101 – Episode: Quinton “Q.” Robinson (2025 Update)🎧 Hosted by Clayton Craddock

    Drummer, music director, and Ableton Live wizard Quinton “Q.” Robinson returns to the Broadway Drumming 101 Podcast for a long-overdue update! First interviewed in July 2021, Q has since leveled up in remarkable ways—and in this candid, wide-ranging conversation, he breaks it all down with Clayton.

    From his early connection with Clayton through Ain’t Too Proud, to his time on the Hamilton national tour, Q shares the behind-the-scenes journey of earning trust, honoring commitments, and mastering his craft. He discusses his drum setup evolution, hilarious tour mishaps (air conditioning fan fail, anyone?), and the invaluable lessons he's learned performing in various cities with rotating local musicians.

    Topics Covered:

    * How Q first met Clayton and began subbing for Ain’t Too Proud

    * Getting the call for the Hamilton tour—and turning it down to honor a prior commitment

    * Transitioning from one major tour to another

    * Learning how to communicate respectfully with older local musicians in new cities

    * The physical and mental demands of touring life

    * Touring gear breakdowns, loadouts, and drum booth logistics

    * How Q approaches musical authenticity in drum books

    * The importance of having real-world experience outside of music school

    * Why developing a personal voice on the drums matters

    * Owning the responsibility of gear maintenance and musical excellence

    * What "Got Pocket" means—and why it’s more than a catchphrase

    * His custom ProMark drumstick and Q's hybrid drum key

    Memorable Quotes:🗣️ "Technical skill is just the price of admission. What else are you bringing to the chair?" – Q. Robinson🗣️ "Sometimes learning what not to do is more important than learning what to do." – Q. Robinson🗣️ "Broadway music is not a genre. It’s a subgenre of genres. And if you don’t know who Bernard Purdie is, you’re going to misread the chart." – Q. Robinson

    🎵 Plus, Q talks gear: from his 20-ply custom snare drum to cymbal setups and his preference for heavier sticks with finesse. And yes—he even dishes on his custom ProMark drumsticks and signature drum key (with a magnet and a drill bit!).

    Guest Info:Quinton “Q.” RobinsonDrummer for the North American tour of HamiltonWebsite: www.iamqrobinson.comCustom Drum Key & ProMark Sticks: Available via Atlanta Drum Shop

    Merch Alert:Check out Q’s favorite drumming apparel at GotPocket.com

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    Ray Marchica - BD101 Classic Interview Apr 20, 2025
    Show notes

    This one originally dropped in September 2021 in two parts—but if you missed it back then, don’t worry. I’m bringing it back as part of the Broadway Drumming 101 Classic Interview Series.

    Ray Marchica is one of those drummers whose name has been floating around the NYC scene for decades—and for good reason. He’s done it all: gold records, TV house band gigs, iconic Broadway runs, off-Broadway, jazz big bands, the works. From James Brown's "Living in America" to The Rosie O’Donnell Show to Mamma Mia!—Ray’s been laying it down with feel, power, and style.

    In this episode, Ray shares stories about:

    * Growing up in Brooklyn and learning drums from his uncle in the basement

    * Studying classical percussion at Brooklyn College with the legendary Morris Lang

    * Landing his first major gig on the A Chorus Line tour in the ‘70s

    * Navigating the world of jingle sessions, Radio Registry (yes, that was a thing for you young folk), and Broadway subs

    * Getting the gig with Dan Hartman and playing on hit records

    * What it was like playing for La Cage aux Folles, Starlight Express, Will Rogers Follies, and other major shows

    * His time in the pit for Miss Saigon, the long run with Mamma Mia!, and his approach to training subs

    * Real talk about the rise of drum machines, the shift in Broadway orchestra pits, and how he’s stayed versatile through it all

    Whether you're a drummer, a fan of Broadway, or just someone who loves hearing stories from the road, the pit, and the studio, you’ll dig this.

    Hit play. Subscribe if you haven’t. And check out more at BroadwayDrumming101.com.

    If you loved this episode, check out some of the other powerful resources we’ve created for musicians looking to bridge the gap between the classroom and the Broadway pit:

    * 🎭 Beyond the Gigs: Why Musicians Must Face Real-Life ResponsibilitiesUnderstanding health plans is just as important as perfecting your art.

    * 🥁 Why You're Not Getting Sub Gigs (And How to Fix It Now)The top reasons subs lose gigs—and how to avoid them for good.

    These articles are part of our Beyond Music School series, which gives you the real-world advice no one else teaches—gear tips, networking strategies, audition etiquette, and more.

    🔗 Subscribe & Support

    📥 Join the Broadway Drumming 101 Substack for free or become a paid subscriber:

    📺 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@BroadwayDrumming101

    🌐 Visit the official website for merch, podcast archives, and resources:

    https://www.BroadwayDrumming101.com

    👕 Grab official Broadway Drumming 101 gear here:

    https://broadwaydrumming101.myshopify.com

    Thanks for watching—and for being part of the Broadway Drumming 101 community.

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and

    . As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    POCAST #91 - Andrew Atkinson Apr 12, 2025
    Show notes

    This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

    🎧 A quick note to our listeners:We want to apologize for the slightly odd sound quality in this episode. It was our very first time recording the podcast remotely, so the audio might sound a little different than usual. Thanks for bearing with us through this little glitch!

    And trust us—you need to check out the video version of this episode when it drops on YouTube. The way we kicked things off is absolutely hilarious. You don’t want to miss it!

    In this episode, we sit down with the talented Andrew Atkinson—Broadway drummer for MJ the Musical, former sub on Hamilton, and an incredibly versatile musician whose journey is anything but typical.

    Andrew shares his unique path from a childhood split between Miami and Jamaica, to discovering his love for drums in a middle school percussion class he tried to transfer out of. We dive deep into his early musical influences (yes, country music and Shabba Ranks), his DIY passion for building computers, and the unexpected road that led him from playing jazz clubs to landing a seat in one of Broadway’s hottest shows.

    He discusses:

    * How he went from Miami art school to NYC drum pits

    * Playing with Gregory Porter and getting the call for Hamilton

    * The challenges and innovations of using fully electronic drums for MJ the Musical

    * Why discipline, preparation, and teamwork are essential for Broadway musicians

    * His experience working on America’s Got Talent and why that production team is the most organized he's ever seen

    * His deep respect for rudiments, practicing to perfection, and emulating legends like Art Blakey and Max Roach

    This episode is packed with inspiration, practical wisdom, and stories from the grind. If you're serious about carving out your path in musical theater—or just want to hear what it takes to go from video games and ska in Jamaica to Broadway's biggest stages—this is the conversation for you.

    👉 Subscribe, rate us 5 stars, and check out exclusive content at BroadwayDrumming101.com

    🎥 Also available on YouTube – don’t forget to hit that bell for updates!

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    MJ The Musical’s Drummer Shares How He Got the Call and Crushed the Audition Apr 11, 2025
    Show notes

    🎧 NEW EPISODE DROPS APRIL 12TH!Broadway Drumming 101 | Featuring Andrew Atkinson — drummer for MJ: The Musical

    🔥 “I didn’t even follow the book... I played it the way I knew it should sound.” 🔥

    When Andrew Atkinson got the call to audition for MJ: The Musical, he didn’t just show up—he embodied the music. Years of preparation led to a moment when he didn’t need to prove himself—he was the guy.

    In this clip, Andrew breaks down how recommendations from his work at Hamilton helped get his name in the mix, how he approached the audition with confidence, and what the music supervisor said that made it all worth it. 🙌🏽

    💥 Tap in to hear how a lifetime of playing Michael Jackson's music led to locking down one of the most iconic drumming gigs on Broadway.

    🎙️ Episode drops Saturday, April 12th on BroadwayDrumming101.com, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen!

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    "I Don’t Get Nervous — I Get Prepared": Andrew Atkinson's Path from America's Got Talent to Subbing at Hamilton Apr 10, 2025
    Show notes

    In this exclusive clip from the upcoming Broadway Drumming 101 podcast, percussionist Andrew Atkinson shares how a one-off gig on America’s Got Talent led to an unforgettable opportunity on Hamilton. Hear how a backstage connection, a feature in Modern Drummer, and pure preparation paved the way for his Broadway debut — all without asking for a single gig.

    Andrew recalls the moment he heard "My Name Is Alexander Hamilton" live for the first time, the wild audience reaction, and how he learned the book in just two weeks. Most powerful of all? His mindset: "I don’t get nervous. I get prepared."

    🎙 Full episode drops Saturday, April 12th — make sure you're subscribed so you don’t miss it!

    👉 Subscribe now to Broadway Drumming 101 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

    🎧 Want more insider stories like this? Follow and share with your fellow musicians!

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in-ear monitors.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    The #1 Way to Get a Broadway Drumming Gig (That Nobody Talks About) Apr 09, 2025
    Show notes

    🎧 In this clip from Broadway Drumming 101, Andrew Atkinson — drummer for MJ: The Musical — gets real about how not to introduce yourself if you're trying to break into Broadway.

    He explains why timing matters, how first impressions stick, and why cold emailing without skills or connections usually doesn’t lead to a gig. If you’re not ready—or if you don’t come recommended—you’re probably just wasting your time.

    Andrew breaks down: ✔️ The importance of being musically versatile (even in styles rarely used on Broadway)✔️ Why you need to be ready before making that first move✔️ The power of personal recommendations✔️ How to avoid sending boilerplate emails that get ignored

    📣 “We can tell when it’s boilerplate.”📣 “If Clayton Craddock tells me you're good, I’ll pay attention.”

    This is essential advice for anyone trying to sub, network, or build a career on Broadway.

    🗓️ Full episode drops soon at BroadwayDrumming101.comSubscribe for more clips, interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights from Broadway’s top musicians.

    👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments: What’s your approach to connecting with working musicians?

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    Sean McDaniel - The Broadway Drumming 101 Classic Interview Apr 05, 2025
    Show notes

    This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

    🎙️ Broadway Drumming 101 – Classic Episode: Sean McDanielOriginally Released: September 3, 2021Updated Notes: March 30, 2025

    Welcome back to another Classic episode of the Broadway Drumming 101 Podcast.

    This time, we’re revisiting my in-depth conversation with the incredible Sean McDaniel, one of the most versatile, hardest-working, and well-respected drummers in the Broadway community.

    When we first recorded this back in 2021, Sean had just come off of playing Frozen on Broadway—a gig that ended due to the shutdowns of 2020. Since then? He’s been on fire.

    Sean went on to hold the drum chair for the hit musical Some Like It Hot, then moved over to the current Cabaret on Broadway, and is now the drummer for the highly anticipated new musical Smash. Yeah—that Smash. He’s still crushing it and evolving with every new project.

    But long before those recent credits, Sean built a serious career playing on shows like The Book of Mormon, Spamalot, Violet, La Cage aux Folles, and 9 to 5. He also originated the Off-Broadway run of Hamilton, and has been heard on screen in Tick Tick Boom, Fosse/Verdon, Vivo, Annie Live, South Park, Better Nate Than Ever, and even Broadway at the White House.

    He’s played for artists like Clay Aiken, Barry Manilow, Sutton Foster, Audra McDonald, Jennifer Hudson, Dolly Parton, Sting, and more—and has earned both a BM from the University of North Texas and an MFA from NYU.

    In this episode, Sean and I dig into:

    * His early days growing up in Texas, Oklahoma, and Atlanta

    * Starting drums on a kit he inherited from his uncle

    * Being inspired by rock drummers like Ricky Rocket and Tommy Lee before diving into jazz and musical theater

    * His wild experience subbing on 11 Broadway shows at once (yes, 11)

    * The importance of building relationships with MDs, conductors, and fellow musicians

    * His experience getting his first Broadway chair with Spamalot

    * Working on cast recordings (and what can go right... or wrong!)

    * How he got involved with readings and workshops—including Hamilton, Frozen, and Newsies

    * The mindset and preparation it takes to be a top-level sub and drummer on Broadway

    Sean’s journey is a masterclass in professionalism, versatility, and humility. Whether you're trying to break into theater or just want to hear the story of a drummer who’s done it all, this one’s worth every second.

    🎧 Stream this Classic episode wherever you get your podcasts.📺 Video versions available on BroadwayDrumming101.com and YouTube.

    Let me know what you think—and if you’ve ever subbed 11 shows in one season, hit me up. I want to hear your story too.

    Thanks for listening.

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    🎧 Re-Released: My 2021 Interview with Sean McDaniel – From Book of Mormon to Smash Apr 03, 2025
    Show notes

    Back in 2021, I sat down with one of the most versatile and in-demand drummers on Broadway: Sean McDaniel.

    Since that interview, Sean’s career has only expanded. He’s played Some Like It Hot, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club and now holds the drum chair for one of the most buzzed-about new musicals on Broadway: Smash.

    So I figured—why not bring this conversation back to the forefront?

    In this re-released episode, Sean gives us an inside look at the early development of The Book of Mormon, starting with a modest 20-minute workshop. It’s wild to hear how the show started with hand-drawn cartoons projected behind a reading stage—and how Sean’s ability to adapt, play by ear, and control dynamics became essential in shaping the drum parts that evolved over the years.

    Broadway Drumming 101 is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

    He talks about the two lives of Broadway drumming: playing with “toothpicks” during readings and unleashing full stadium energy in the pit once the show is fully staged. That flexibility—combined with a deep understanding of styles and musical storytelling—is what sets him apart.

    Sean also shares how his high school show choir days prepared him for the dynamic, mic-less world of workshops and readings. He developed a skill many overlook: playing softly while still maintaining intensity.

    If you’re a drummer looking to understand what it really takes to build a Broadway career from the ground up—this is an essential listen.

    The full episode drops this Saturday.

    📢 Ways to Listen & Support:

    🎧 Listen & Subscribe – Find the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube so you never miss an episode.🎥 Watch the full videos – Check out our YouTube channel for exclusive interviews and insights.☕ Love what we do? – Support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee and helping us bring you more valuable content.👕 Get the Merch! – Rep Broadway Drumming 101 with exclusive T-shirts and more in our shop.

    📖 Big News! – I’m writing a new book that breaks down everything you need to know about being a Broadway musician. Stay tuned for updates!

    💡 Spread the Word!Tell people about our content, share this with friends, and let’s keep building the next generation of Broadway musicians together! 🎭🥁🔥

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    Podcast #90 - Andrew Beall Mar 27, 2025
    Show notes

    In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, we sit down with Andrew Beall, an accomplished percussionist, composer, and Broadway musician whose career spans international performances, musical theater orchestration, and a deep love for percussion. From his early days in Ohio to working on some of Broadway’s biggest productions, Andrew shares insights into his journey, his influences, and his passion for composition.

    We dive into the art of orchestration, the challenges of subbing on Broadway, and how he balances multiple musical roles—including running Bachovich Music Publications and managing orchestras. Andrew also talks about adapting to technological advancements in music, the impact of Finale’s discontinuation, and how biking in NYC keeps him in rhythm with the city's fast pace.

    Whether you're an aspiring Broadway musician or just love behind-the-scenes stories from the theater world, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical advice.

    Episode Highlights:

    🕛 00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome🎵 00:44 – Early Life and Musical Journey🎭 02:58 – Broadway Inspirations and First Shows🥁 08:21 – Influences and Favorite Drummers🎼 13:39 – Composing and Orchestration🎻 19:51 – Musical Projects and Instrumentation🚢 32:45 – The Origin of Let's Go to the Boat💡 34:20 – Advice for Aspiring Musicians🎭 37:42 – The Challenges of Subbing on Broadway🖥️ 41:31 – Adapting to Technological Changes🎶 47:02 – Balancing Multiple Roles in the Music Industry🚴 51:22 – Navigating Life in New York City🎤 59:43 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    About Andrew Beall:

    Hailed by NY Classical Review as “Spectacularly Virtuosic,” Andrew Beall is an internationally recognized composer and performer whose work has been showcased across Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas. His musicals Song of Solomon and Platinum Girls have received widespread acclaim, and his commissioned work Goodbye New York is set to premiere in London during the 2024-2025 season.

    Andrew’s Broadway credits include Les Misérables, West Side Story, The Notebook, Maybe Happy Ending, Death Becomes Her, Gypsy, The Lion King, In The Heights, Beetlejuice, Aladdin, Six, Spiderman, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, Days of Wine and Roses, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. He has also performed with esteemed ensembles such as the Albany Symphony, American Symphony, Columbus Symphony, and the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Americas.

    Beyond Broadway, Andrew is a guest soloist with the Siberian Symphony Orchestra, the American Dance Machine, and Cordis drummer, and has appeared in film and television, including Breathe In and Mozart in the Jungle. As the owner of Bachovich Music Publications and a former president of the Percussive Arts Society New York Chapter, he is a leader in the percussion community.

    Andrew endorses Pearl Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Innovative Percussion, Latin Percussion, and Evans Drumheads and is a Manhattan School of Music and New York University graduate.

    🎧 Tune in for a great conversation about perseverance, passion, and the evolving landscape of Broadway music!

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

    This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

    Playing 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' – And How I Almost Screwed It Up Mar 21, 2025
    Show notes

    Throwback to one of the wildest and most unforgettable nights of my Broadway career—the opening night of Ain’t Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations on March 21st, 2019, and performing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

    Playing live on national TV was already a huge deal, but throw in a mad dash through Times Square with a police escort to make it back to the Imperial Theatre for opening night? That took it to another level.

    After performing on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon at 5 PM, we still had to race across town to the Imperial Theatre for our Ain’t Too Proud opening night. Traffic leaving Rockefeller Center was brutal, and for a moment, it looked like we might not make it. But somehow, we pulled up just in time.

    I had a click track in my ears during this Tonight Show performance—same with the music director. The band and lead vocals were 100% live, but the background vocals were pre-recorded and locked to the click.

    Here’s a little secret that not many folks—maybe not even most of my Ain’t Too Proud cast and bandmates—know: between “Get Ready” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” I had four clicks to cue me into the next tune. I was supposed to kick things off with that classic Benny Benjamin intro fill… but with the adrenaline rushing, nerves firing, and Questlove and The Roots watching from the wings, I skipped the fill and went straight into the groove.

    Thankfully—it worked. But man, knowing millions of people were watching, then thinking about how we had to jet across town and race to opening night right after this? My head was spinning.

    Looking back, I’m grateful for moments like that—creating something meaningful, making people smile, and sharing the stage with some of the best in the business. Ain’t Too Proud should still be running, no doubt—but that’s a convo for another day. For now, I’m just appreciating the journey. And with what I’m working on over the next few weeks, maybe there’s one more Broadway run in my future.

    But if not? I’m good. I’ve had my shot—and I truly hope you get yours. There’s nothing like the feeling of playing a show. It’s one of the most rewarding experiences a musician can have.

    Have you ever had one of those moments where you knew the show or song like the back of your hand—but then one little thing throws you off? Let me know. I know I’m not the only one. Leave a comment here:

    Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

    Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

    Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

    Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

    This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.


    Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

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