Working Drummer

493 - Caleb Whitlock: The Scene in Charlotte, Eyes on Nashville, Maximizing a Small/Simple Home Studio, Financial Literacy Oct 31, 2024

Caleb Whitlock grew up in Charlotte and has been based there for two years after having attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He tours nationally with singer/songwriter Ethan Regan, plays locally with a variety of acts, records in his home studio, and also works as a post-production engineer.

Making part of his living doing post-production and editing, and how that differs from mixing
How doing post production on acapalla vocal music has influenced how he hears and records drums
Neutralizing his room acoustically rather than try to make it sound amazing
The Charlotte scene and how he returned to it after college, a couple years of work in "The Triangle" (Raleigh/Durham Chapel Hill), and a few months in a Catholic monastary.
Being clear-eyed about finances, how much different types of work earn, and saying yes and no to gigs according to your lifestyle goals

492 - Chad Wackerman: Working with Allan Holdsworth, Making a Band Sound Better, Auditioning for Frank Zappa Oct 24, 2024

Chad Wackerman’s professional career began in 1978 with the Bill Watrous Refuge West Big Band. Since then he has amassed a remarkable body of work including a seven year association with Frank Zappa, with whom he toured the USA and Europe and recorded 27 albums including the London Symphony recordings.

He has also recorded 8 albums and toured with guitar legend Allan Holdsworth, played on the ‘One Voice’ album and video with Barbra Streisand, and recorded albums and toured with artists as diverse as James Taylor, Steve Vai, Andy Summers, Steven Wilson, Men At Work, Ed Mann, Albert Lee, Colin Hay, Dweezil Zappa, Pasqua/Holdsworth/Haslip/Wackerman Group, Terry Bozzio, Carl Verheyen, David Garfield,John Patitucci, Jennifer Batten, Joe Sample, Robbie Kreiger, Banned From Utopia and The World Drummers Ensemble (Bill Bruford, Luis Conte, Dou Dou Ndiaye Rose and Chad Wackerman) .

As a band leader and composer Chad has five critically acclaimed CDs: ‘Forty Reasons’, ‘The View’, ‘Scream’, ‘Legs Eleven’ and his latest release, ‘Dreams Nightmares and Improvisations’. Chad has written music for the television show ‘The Dennis Miller Show’, as well as composing music for Allan Holdsworth’s ‘Secrets’, ‘Wardenclyffe Tower’ and ‘Sixteen Men of Tain’ CDs. His trio has a performance DVD, ‘Hits Live’.

In this episode, Chad talks about:

Working with Allan Holdsworth
The amazing story behind recording Allan’s record “Road Games”
“Improvising at the highest level sounds like composition”
Interpreting charts efficiently
Auditioning for Frank Zappa
How to make a band sound better
Learning from Murray Spivack
Figuring out what’s important for each gig and artist

491 - John R. Beck: Building on Dad's Legacy, Looking Beyond it to Form His Own, Serving as President of PAS Oct 17, 2024

John R. Beck, Professor of Percussion at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, also teaches at Wake Forest University. He is the principal percussionist of the Winston-Salem Symphony and is a member of the Greensboro Symphony, Brass Band of Battle Creek, and the Philidor Percussion Group. A former member of the United States Marine Band, for 10 years he performed regularly with the National and Baltimore Symphonies, Washington and Baltimore Operas, and the Theater Chamber Players of the Kennedy Center. Beck has toured the United States as a xylophone soloist with the Jack Daniel's Silver Cornet Band, Brass Band of Battle Creek, and the New Sousa Band. John is a Past President of the Percussive Arts Society and presents clinics endorsing Yamaha percussion instruments, Zildjian cymbals, Innovative mallets, and is a Remo Endorsed Drum Circle Facilitator in the Health and Wellness community.

In this episode, John talks about:

What it means to play credibly
How his thoughts on versatility vs. specialization have evolved
Questioning the relevance of knowing how to read a big band chart
How getting good at drumset gives percussionists a better sense of internal time
The advantages and baggage that came with being John Beck’s son
Valuing sound over everything, regardless of instrument or genre
His time as president of PAS and helping the organization become more inclusive and outward-looking

490 - Matt Crowning: Navigating the Remote Tracking World, Drumming with Wife Amber Leigh, Making a Good Impression as a Sub Oct 10, 2024

As a performer, session player, instructor, producer and clinician, Matt Crowning is more than a "drummer's drummer.” He is a "musician's drummer" that brings a wealth of talent, experience, and style to each situation. Matt's diverse performance background ranges from Country, Pop, Rock, Big Band, Jazz and R&B. His work includes performances with various Curb Records, Disney Records / Disney Channel artists, Love and Theft, College 11, Kiki Sanchez, Vanilla Monk, Matt Farr and Kerrie Roberts. Currently, Matt is performing with Country Artist, Amber Leigh, on tour and in the studio. These shows include support act performances with Kenny Chesney, Trace Adkins, Lady Antebellum, Gloriana and many others.

In this episode, Matt talks about:

Navigating the remote tracking world
Buying a house with a home studio built in
Playing drums with his wife Amber Leigh
Maintaining a family/work balance
Making a good impression as a sub
Running tracks in a live show
Using traditional grip

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489 - Martin Diller: From Full-Time Freelancing in LA to Becoming a Licensed Therapist in the Bay Area, Perspective on Mental Health and Music Oct 03, 2024

Originally from the Bay Area, Martin Diller spent over a decade on the LA scene, touring, recording and playing locally with a wide range of acts including Post Modern Jukebox and his own quartet. Over the pandemic, he went back to school and became a licensed therapist, and returned to the Bay Area where he still maintains an active performance schedule alongside his therapy practice.

In this episode, Martin talks about:

The 7-day-a-week grind of freelancing in LA
Playing with Post-Modern Jukebox and other LA artists
How his career shift coincided with a desire to relocate back home to the Bay Area
How he incorporates music and drumming into his therapy practice
Developing intentional ways of maintaining mental health and balance as a musician, especially on the road

488 - JR Robinson Returns: New Book - King of the Groove, The Writing Process Sep 26, 2024

World-renowned, Grammy-winning musician John "J.R." Robinson is widely considered the most recorded drummer in history, playing on albums that have sold well over 500 million copies. He is the drummer on 20 number-one pop songs by artists such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie and Steve Winwood, and has been the drummer on more than 100 Grammy-winning tracks. Rolling Stone Magazine featured J.R. in their list of The Top 100 Drummers of All Time.

J.R. is the drummer on many other Top-40 hits with artists such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Diana Ross, Daft Punk, David Lee Roth, Rufus & Chaka Khan, The Pointer Sisters, Wilson Philips, Peter Cetera, George Benson, and Quincy Jones.

In this episode, JR talks about:

His new book “King of The Groove”
Reflecting back on his previous episode #424
The process of writing the book

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487 - Marlon Patton: The Intersection of Physicality and Creativity, Playing with Liv Warfield, Making the Move From ATL to NYC Sep 19, 2024

Born and raised in Georgia, Marlon Patton is a New York-based drummer and music producer/engineer. Hailing from a long line of drummers dating back to his grandfather, Phil Patton who played in the Chicago big band circuit, Marlon keeps his schedule interesting and packed full of all types of music. He is the first call for so many musicians not just because of his impeccable time, but because of the incredible musicality of what he delivers. He plays within a huge dynamic range, making him the perfect match for quiet piano jazz performances to hard- hitting rock gigs. He can play with everything from precision to reckless abandon and make it truly his own. He currently is a member of Kenosha Kid, Weisshund, Nelson Patton, Lonnie Holley, The Trey Wright Trio and The Mace Hibbard Quintet.

He has toured, performed and/or recorded with Liv Warfield, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Jim White, Larkin Poe, Lonnie Holley, Jeff Coffin, Shahzad Ismaily, Col. Bruce Hampton, John Patitucci, Randy Brecker, Rufus Reid, Marcus Printup, and Wycliffe Gordon. He has recorded for labels such as Sony, Universal, Jagjaguwar, RH Music, Yep Roc, Ropeadope plus many more independent releases. His drumming has been in soundtracks on Adult Swim, ABC, and HBO.

In the studio, Marlon has carved a name for himself recording, mixing, and producing. Some recent projects he's worked on are Lonnie Holley’s MITH, Liv Warfield’s Live at Cafe Wha, Jim White's Where It Hits You, Leah Calvert’s Satellite, Daniel Clay's 10,000 Things, Kenosha Kid's Fahrenheit 451, ILL's Gotten Gains, and Blair Dunlop/Larkin Poe's Killing Time.

In this episode, Marlon talks about:

Being willing to abandon "correct" technique in favor of a sound, feel, or idea
How New York has changed his musical priorities and identity
What true collaboration really means
Improvising vs. "composing in the moment"
Moving away from Atlanta with the goal of expanding, personally and musically
Tapping into old relationships in a new place
Sharing studio space with Jordan Rose and mixing Liv Warfield's latest record

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486 - Ken Coomer: Why Drummers make Great Producers, Touch and Feel Over Fancy Gear, Original Drummer with Wilco Sep 12, 2024

Ken Coomer is a producer best known for his drumming in Uncle Tupelo and later Wilco. He was the drummer and co-founder of the Nashville-based band, Clockhammer, in the late 1980s/early 1990s. As a member of Wilco, Coomer has performed on A.M., Being There, Summerteeth, and Yankee Hotel Foxtrot.

Ken has also played on or produced albums by Steve Earle, Frontier Ruckus, Arlo McKinley, Sons of Bill, Tim Finn, Will Hoge, Jars of Clay, Emmylou Harris, Toy Horses, Malcolm Holcombe, Josh Hoyer and Soul Colossal and Shaver.

In this episode, Ken talks about:

Drumming skills that hold value in the studio
Why drummers can make great producers
Touch and feel over fancy gear
How he started producing
Working with latin artists
Mixing remote tracking with in-person recording
Staying focused on the future

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485 - Sam Merrick: Playing "& Juliet" on Broadway, Touring with Jalen Ngonda and Celisse, Splitting Time Between New York and Nashville Sep 05, 2024

Sam Merrick is a Nashville based drummer, currently holding the drum set chair at & Juliet on Broadway at the Sondheim Theater in New York City. Previously, he spent nearly five years and played over 1200 performances with the national tour of Hamilton: An American Musical.

He has also recorded and/or performed with Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Toots and the Maytals, Jalen Ngonda, Saun & Starr (Daptone Records), The Denver Symphony, People's Champs, Kendra Morris (Colemine Records), and many more. Commercial clients include HBO, Levi Strauss, Chase, AT&T, and This American Life Podcast Network.

In this episode, Sam talks about:

Balancing maintaining a Broadway chair with other musical opportunities
Relearning how to trust his instincts outside the highly controlled environment of a Broadway show
Moving from the note-for-note specificity of Hamilton to the longer leash of & Juliet
Working with producer Max Martin
Maintaining a "healthy ecosystem" of subs

484 - Joel Rothman: Legendary Author of Drum and Percussion Method Books, Using Humor when Writing, Connecting with Teachers Aug 29, 2024

Joel Rothman is the renowned author of almost 100 drum and percussion method books, many of which are among the most popular books used by teachers in private music studios as well as schools and universities worldwide.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Joel studied drums and percussion, as well as piano, with well-known teachers such as Sam Ulano, Ed Shaughnessey, Jim Chapin, Joe Morello, Saul Goodman, and others. He first opened his own private drum studio, then later, after graduating from university, he taught in the New York City school system for many years. During that time Joel was a free-lance drummer playing with various bands and orchestras at private functions, nightclubs and musical shows.

Writing his first book at fifteen, Joel also established his own highly successful publishing company JR Publications, which has been going for over half a century.

In this episode, Joel talks about:

The inspiration for writing drum books
Using humor when writing
Joel’s System(s) for teachers to use
How he started
Studying with Ed Shaughnessy
Connecting with teachers

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483 - Dave Brandwein: Playing with Forrest Blakk, Working His Way Up from Chicago to LA to Nashville, "Learning the Language of the Person in Charge",, Aug 21, 2024

Dave Brandwein is a drummer, originally from Chicago, who spent 4 years in Los Angeles, CA and has now relocated to Nashville, TN. Dave's current main gig is with pop artist Forest Blakk (drums/playback) with whom he played a 2022 theater run supporting Dean Lewis, various fly dates/festivals throughout the same year, and headlining US/Canadian tours in 2023. Dave has also spent the last 12 years playing drums, running playback, and doing session work for various other artists. Dave teaches private lessons to students of all ages, and does session work, tracking remotely from his studio in Nashville or in-person at studios around the country.

How playing for great songs usually means you can do less
Coming up in Chicago, spending some time in LA, and ultimately landing in Nashville
The pros and cons of his collegiate jazz experience
The first eight years of his career after college, on the grind in Chicago
When and why he started to think and look beyond the Chicago scene
His experience in LA, and the difference between posing and assimilating
The song-learning value in wedding gigs, and treating those gigs like “going to the gym”
Being in a relationship with another musician and how that’s only right for some musicians

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482 - Chuck Fields: Drumming for Country Superstar Terri Clark, Putting Your Own Stamp on the Music, Touring Canada Aug 15, 2024

Chuck Fields launched his musical career playing rock, blues, and R&B all while studying jazz at the University of Memphis. In the early 90’s he moved to Nashville and landed his first touring gig with Paul Brandt. Through the years Chuck has toured with several of Nashville’s recording artist such as, Martina McBride, Keith Anderson, Michelle Wright, Mark Selby, Johnny Reid and Terri Clark.

In this episode, Chuck talks about:

Touring Canada
Putting your own stamp on the artist music
Being able to write and read charts
Touring routine
Traditional grip
Drumming for country superstar, Terri Clark

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481 - Kent Aberle: Playing with Blackberry Smoke, Replacing the Late Brit Turner, Renewed Perspective After Loss Aug 08, 2024

Kent Aberle is a first call drummer from Atlanta, GA. Kent is currently performing with Blackberry Smoke. He has previously recorded and toured with Kristian Bush of Sugarland , James Hall (Pleasure Club, Marry My Hope), R.A.H. and numerous other artists. Kent has over 25 years touring experience both in the US and Internationally including China, Japan, Australia, Taiwan, Canada, and others. Kent has performed on The Conan O’Brien Show, The Today Show with Kathy Lee and Hoda, The Talk, and has performed numerous times at the Grand Ole Opry as well as the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and major festivals around the world.

In this episode, Kent talks about:

The old school guitar-driven American rock band that it Blackberry Smoke
Having long-standing relationships with the band and its individual members
Teching and subbing for Brit Turner after Brit got sick
The idea of someone's drumming matching their personality
Being welcomed into the band by members and fans alike
Investing heavily and committing exclusively to one gig

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480 - Dennis Holt: From Nashville to L.A. Back To Nashville, Studio Legend, Staying Active Aug 01, 2024

Dennis Holt is one of Nashville's most gifted musicians, whose drumming abilities cross nearly every genre from Americana to Country to Rock, Jazz, Ambient and R & B. Seasoned global performer, Dennis’ diversity has proven itself in recording with Taylor Swift, AD/Kansas, Emmylou Harris, Trisha Yearwood, and Deniece Williams to name but a few.

Dennis, a first call drummer for top tier artists while living and working in both LA and Nashville, has played and toured the globe and literally performed and recorded on thousands of songs.

When it comes to production, Dennis’ knowledge and experience from years in the studio will help you achieve the best results possible. Dennis leads with soul and always strives for perfection. He is an innovator as he looks for new ways to push creative boundaries. Music,drumming and producing is Dennis’ driving force as he brings a wealth of experience and unparalleled enthusiasm and energy to each and every project.

In this episode, Dennis talk about:

Remote tracking
His formative years
Staying active
Surviving a bad bicycle accident
Negotiating the work load when remote tracking
The importance of maintaining your gear
Recording and performing with Kerry Livgren from the band Kansas
Being able to read anyones chart style

479 - Jamie Eblen: Playing on Broadway's "The Outsiders," Stylistic Authenticity in Music Theatre, Investing Yourself in a Process Jul 24, 2024

Jamie Eblen is currently on the new hit Broadway musical The Outsiders, which just won the Tony award for best new musical. He also originated the drum chair for the smash hit Dear Evan Hansen, which also won best new musical Tony as well as the Grammy for best original cast recording. He has collaborated with acclaimed artists such as Jason Robert Brown and Pasek & Paul, as well as The RT’s and Mike Tedesco. Jamie began playing drums at the age of 10 in Los Angeles, where he was born and raised. Since moving to New York, Jamie has recorded four Original Broadway Cast albums in addition to a wide variety of session work and live performances throughout the U.S., Europe and Asia.

In this episode, Jamie talks about

Going from doing anything and everything to committing more heavily to more specific gigs/playing
Shedding the impulses of gig envy and "grass is greener" syndrome
The Outsiders, the new Broadway musical he's on which just won the Tony Award for Best Musical
Playing off-Broadway shows such as The Connector, and being part of the development process on a show moving towards Broadway
The aspects of The Outsiders that are not the typical Broadway m.o. in terms of playing, mic'ing, and more
How Broadway and the shows that occupy it are essentially "in the real estate business"

478 - David Chiverton: Leading by Example, Double Drumming in the Band - Smoogies, Learning to Sound Like a Pro Jul 18, 2024

David Chiverton is a Miami Florida native who continues to work and live in south Florida. The cultural diversity in Miami as well as his upbringing in the gospel church both played a heavy role in shaping him into the musician he is today. He has toured internationally with various major talents such as Lauryn Hill, Jon Secada, Donnie McClurkin and Sheila E to name a few. His range of musical versatility includes Jazz, Gospel, Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, and the ability to freestyle on cue.

Not only does David teach as an Adjunct professor at University of Miami, He is also member of the group The Smoogies. The band leans into the diverse background of it’s members to influence its sound and direction. Also, David shares the stage with Harvel Nakundi, another drummer for a powerful double drumming sound.

The “Chivertone Sessions” on YouTube showcases David’s diverse skill set.

In this episode, David talks about:

The mojo in south Florida
Maintaining a forward momentum
Learning to sound like a pro
The business of endorsements in 2024
Double drumming in the band Smoogies
Drumming with Sheila E
Leading by example

477 - Charles Ruggiero: Playing Alongside Gadd, Maintaining Humanity and Individuality in the Digital Age, Sobriety and Creativity Jul 11, 2024

Charles Ruggiero has been active since the early 90s, cutting his teeth on the New York jazz scene and landing his first big gig with Chuck Mangione. His New York cohort included such future giants as Joshua Redman, Peter Bernstein, Jane Monheit, Brad Mehldau, and Chris Potter, to name a few. In addition to his jazz exlpoits, Charles found a home on the metal scene as a member of Slunt, and replacing Matt Sorum in the supergroup Circus Diablo. He relocated to LA in 2007 and didn't miss a step, performing with Larry Goldings, Eric Reed, Bob Sheppard, Bob Reynolds, David Ryan Harris, and many others. He has released multiple albums as a leader and performed as sideman on countless others, and also records for Loop Loft.

In this episode, Charles talks about:

Playing double drums with Gadd as the intro to his first big gig with Chuck Mangione
Trying to serve the music through his artistry
What a drummer timekeeping responsibility actually is
His perspective on New York and LA, having spent big chunks of his career in both places
His various side hustles, including teaching, mixing/producing, and creating album art
Trusting his creativity and artistic identity after getting sober

476 - MUSIC CITY DRUM SHOW CLINICIANS: Dre Energy, Greg Hersey, Hayley Cramer, Dante "Taz" Roberson, Jaheim Lee Jul 04, 2024

In this episode we provide a preview of five of the six clinicians that will be performing for the 2024 Music City Drum Show in Nashville TN. The clinicians are Dre Energy, Greg Hersey, Dante "Taz" Roberson, Jaheim Lee, Hayley Cramer.

475 - Josh Bailey: His New Touring Gig with Ben Platt, Running Tracks and Ears from the Drum Chair, Studying with Dafnis Prieto Jun 27, 2024

Josh Bailey has been in New York for ten years, with a wide variety of live and session work to his credit. He is on staff at Studio G (Brooklyn based recording studio), recording drums and percussion for industry and independent artists & producers, and is currently subbing on Broadway's & Juliet and The Outsiders. He has acted as music director and drummer for artists building, arranging & operating live backing tracks, running IEM mixes and contracting musicians. Josh was seen drumming on Saturday Night Live in a digital short with Kyle Mooney and Beck Bennet (2019). As music director and drummer for pop singers Erin Bowman, Josh performed on Good Morning America, and Live! With Kelly and Ryan (2017).

In this episode, Josh talks about

The healthy vibe on the tour that comes from the top down
Posting only what you feel good about on social media, "posting with purpose"
MD'ing from the drum chair
Learning how to streamline track rigs and ears rigs for "skeleton crew" opening acts
His work at Studio G in Brooklyn
The idea of a "drum statement" and how it can flavor the song, show, and band
Studying with Dafnis Prieto and serving as final editor for his book "A World of Rhythmic Possibilities"

474 - Dre Energy: The Different Scenes in Las Vegas, Playing the Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam show, The Power of Relationships Jun 20, 2024

Dre Energy is a native of St. Louis MO, and was inspired a very early age by friends and family at his church to play drums. When the opportunity struck, he found his way to Las Vegas and began performing with Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam show where he held the drum chair from 2010 to 2016. During that time he learned so much about the industry and toured the world. Dre discovered an affinity for performing as a clinician which took them to many places around the world, including China, South Korea, England, and many other places

Dre is also known as an entrepreneur with his own line of snare drums, practice pads and even drums shoes. He works closely with Samsun cymbals and he has his own signature line called Dre Energy signature remix line.

In this episode, Dre talks about:

Finding your people
The power of relationships
The variety of scenes in Las Vegas
Playing the Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam show
Touring China and other other unique locations
Developing his own signature line of snares, shoes, cymbals

473 - Larry Aberman: Making a Late Move to Nashville, Ways to Stay Present, Getting Feel Right at the Source Jun 13, 2024

Larry Aberman has achieved in-demand status in New York, LA, Las Vegas, and Nashville recently moved to Nashville after a 12 year stint on the Cirque du Soleil show Zoomanity. Since moving, he has gotten busy playing with jazz, country, and everything in between, with Mandy Barnett, Pat Coil and others.

In this episode, Larry talks about:

How the time to leave his Zoomanity gig after 12 years became clear quickly
What social context means in music
Tools to make yourself present
How Southern musicians and scenes are more groove and blues based
Being conscious to not bring negative energy into a musical situation
Adjusting to Nashville's needs in terms of tuning and groove
Getting it right at the source with tone AND feel, so that grid correction is less necessary and less noticeable

472 - Bart van der Zee: Host of the Drum History Podcast, Connecting with the Drumming Community, Meeting Charlie Watts Jun 06, 2024

Drum History Podcast was created in October of 2018 and has been on a journey to document the history of the drums ever since. Topics range from the very early beginnings of man’s involvement with percussion up to modern day innovations that are changing the drum industry. The show has seen major growth since its launch and has become a resource for many drum historians and enthusiasts around the world.

Bart van der Zee is a lifelong drummer with a deep passion for learning the full history of the drums. He has been a working musician for many years performing live and as a session drummer. Bart has worked as an audio engineer and has worked on a wide variety of projects including albums, commercials, TV and Film, and a number of podcasts.

In this episode, Bart talks about:

Work / family balance
Drum History Podcast
Inspiring the next generation
The popularity of the “gear episodes”
WW2 era drum manufacturing
Meeting Charlie Watts
Creative ways to stay connected to the drumming community

471 - Adam Marcello: The MD Role, His LA/Katy Perry Chapter, Splitting time between the US and Ireland, His New Teaching Role at Berklee May 30, 2024

Rhode Island native Adam Marcello is a professional drummer, music director, educator, clinician, and programmer most notably recognized for his work with singer Katy Perry. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, his performances range from multiple world tours, the Super Bowl XLIX Halftime Show, Saturday Night Live, and American Idol to recordings for numerous movies and TV shows including theme songs for Modern Family, Arrested Development, and Deadwood. As a clinician and artist for Roland Drums, he has helped to develop techniques and instruments for hybrid electronic/acoustic drumming as well as programming for drummers and percussionists. These versatile techniques can be applied to live performance and studio recording to help maintain musicality and creativity on the drums.

In this episode, Adam talks about:

Treating the different aspects of your playing like actors treat different characters
Becoming Katy Perry's MD in the early stages of her career "out of necessity"
Owning being a control freak and also sharing responsibility and trusting collaborators
How to be manageable and coachable from the MD's perspective,
How to have greater awareness of the song and the show as a whole
His experience of living in Dublin, and living back in his hometown outside Providence

470 - Piero Perelli: Touring with The Swell Season and Glen Hansard, Growing up in a Small Town in Italy, Solo Record “Notte” May 22, 2024

Italian Drummer, Sound Explorer, music maker Piero Perelli is a musical maverick whose skills stretch from free improvisation to film scores, to performances with international artists and musicians, both live and in the studio. His original style is grounded in his journey as a musical explorer, touring around places like the United States, Europe, Africa and India.

Engaged both in the service of songs and in experimentation, Perelli maintains the creative center of his activity in the Tuscan countryside, where he has also created his own personal laboratory-studio, the SoundSet Studio.

As a drummer and percussionist, Piero has recorded with artists like Eddie Vedder, Glen Hansard, Cat Power as well as producers like Robin Hannibal (Kendrick Lamar, Little Dragon), Vinicio Capossela, Paul Savoy (A-Ha) Simone Giuliani (Andrea Bocelli, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra), Rodrigo DʼErasmo, Edoardo Bennato, Roberto Dell’Era, Niki La Rosa, Effenberg, Andrea Biagioni and many others, Piero has also recorded a library of their specific sounds and grooves and loops for the American That Sound made available to producers from all over the world.

He has recently been touring with Glen Hansard and The Swell Season as well as the well respected Italian singer/songwriter Vinicio Capossela.

His first solo album, Notte is a piece of work where Piero expresses his most intimate and experimental soul.

In this episode, Piero talks about:

Working and touring with The Swell Season and Glen Hansard
His journey of learning music and drums in a small town in Italy
Absorbing regional music throughout the world while touring
Recording his solo record “Notte”
Reacting to the acoustics in the space where you’re performing
Recording on a movie sound track with Eddie Vedder, Cat Power and Glen Hansard
Italian drummers that have inspired him
The influence of Tony Allen (father of afro-beat drumming)

469 - Brandon Combs: Playing with Leon Bridges, Studying with Ndugu Chancler, Nashville vs. LA May 16, 2024

Brandon Combs is a drummer, programmer, and producer hailing from Lansing, Michigan. Destined to be a great musician, Brandon has been involved with the Grammy Foundation since the young age of 15, attending their Grammy Camp programs in 2009 and 2010 via full ride scholarship. Now living in Nashville, Brandon recently obtained his BM in Popular Music Studies from the University of Southern California (2015). Currently on tour with Grammy Award-winning artist Leon Bridges, Brandon’s skill, versatility, and professionalism have also allowed him to work with many different world-renown artists across multiple genres such as Keith Urban, Raphael Saadiq, Moses Sumney, Lupe Fiasco, NIIA, Gallant, Chris Bullock of Snarky Puppy, and many more. Some of his most recently completed projects include recording drums on John Legend’s A Legendary Christmas album (2019) and the entirety of jazz-pianist Mark De Clive Lowe’s double album Heritage (2019). He’s also put his hands into music production, co-producing the song “Famous” off of The Internet’s Grammy-nominated album Ego Death (2016).

In this episode, Brandon talks about:

Covering the many vibes and sonic palates in Leon Bridges' evolving catalogue
Getting on the same page about drum sounds with FOH sound people
Archiving snare sounds in his studio
Organic relationships leading to his best and biggest opportunities
Studying with Ndugu Chancler and others at USC
What it means to know a whole song
His thoughts on Nashville vs. LA
His outlook as he's about to become a dad

468 - Justin Amaral: New Record: LIFE IN GROOVELAND - The Hymnal, Practicing Movement and Visualization as a Technique, Creating Opportunities May 09, 2024

Justin Amaral first made a name for himself touring the country in the jam band scene, leading to shows with Mike Gordon of Phish and a profile in Modern Drummer’s (April, 2004) “On The Move” column. After world tours with alt-country guit-steel legend Junior Brown, Justin relocated to Nashville and quickly became first call for many of Nashville’s finest players and songwriters including Paul Burch, Tim Carroll, Fats Kaplin, Jon Byrd, Charles Butler and the late, great David Olney. In addition, Justin has performed and recorded with Jim Lauderdale (Late Night with Conan O’Brien), Laura Cantrell, Michelle Wright, The Wild Iris Brass Band feat. Jeff Coffin, Dennis Crouch, Milan Miller, Mike Farris, Layton Howerton, Tommy Womack, Chris West and many more. Justin maintains an active performing and recording schedule working at some of Nashville’s most prestigious studios like Blackbird, Creative Workshop and the Hen House as well as venues like The Bluebird, The 5Spot, The Exit/In and Roberts Western World.

In 2024 Justin released a collection of traditional hymns re-imagined as world beat instrumental duets called LIFE IN GROOVELAND - The Hymnal. Each track features a different instrumentalist.

In this episode, Justin talks about:

Heeding the call to do your own thing
The origin of his new record: LIFE IN GROOVELAND - The Hymnal
Creating your own opportunities
Jump starting the creative process
The inspiration of Drum and Fife
Practicing movement and visualization as a technique

467 - Ty Bailie: B3 Organ and All Things Keys from Seattle to LA to Nashville, Buying Into an Artist's Vision, Being Musically Agnostic May 02, 2024

Ty Bailie is currently on tour with Mitski playing keys and organ. He moved to Nashville in 2021 after a stint in LA where his main gig was touring with Katy Perry. Since coming to Nashville, he has also performed with Joss Stone, Don Felder, Tanya Tucker, Wilder Woods, and his own group Uncle Bronco featuring Petar Jancic on drums and Adam MacPhail on guitar.

In this episode, Ty talks about:

Touring with Mitski, and buying into at artist's vision
Being musically agnostic and seeing validity in all types music, musicians, and music fans
What makes a good organ drummer - "don't panic"
Moving from Seattle to LA to Nashville, and the differences between those scenes
Finding different versions of yourself while still being yourself

466 - Finch: FDS Drum Services, Managing your Time as a Self Employed Person, Learning New Skills Apr 25, 2024

Born in Northern New Jersey, Finch grew up with an unwavering love for drums that shaped his life's path. Before his eventual move to Nashville Tennessee in late 2020, Finch spent time in the US Army as well as working in the insurance world. Shortly after his move to Nashville, his dream was realized by the founding of FDS Drum Services, a drum tech service that includes repairs, restorations, custom heads, tour teching & so much more.

FDS quickly gained recognition through Finch’s dedication as well as the overwhelming support from the Nashville drumming community. Beyond providing professional drum services, he actively contributes to the community by hosting drummers' hangs, fostering networking, and uplifting fellow musicians.

In this episode, Finch talks about:

Managing your time as a self employed person
Utilizing your network to get things done
Always learning new skills
Being ready when shit goes wrong on stage
Reviewing five different drummers he’s teched for
Creating financial security
Focusing on physical and mental health

465 - Steve Picataggio: Straddling the Worlds of Jazz and Musical Theatre in NYC, Apr 18, 2024

Steve Picataggio has lived in New York for over a decade and has stayed busy on the jazz and musical theatre scenes there. He has toured with The Hot Sardines, The Four Phantoms, and others, and is active on the New York jazz scene playing everything from trio to big band. He is a graduate of University of North Florida where he studied with Danny Gottleib and Ulysses Owens Jr., and NYU where he studied with Billy Drummond. He is also active as an educator, with students from age 4 to adult as well as at the collegiate level.

In this episode, Steve talks about:

His fully remote college gig
Touring with The Four Phantoms
Why he loves rehearsing
The mentorship and influence of Matt Wilson and Bill Drummond
How cutthroat attitudes are mostly gone
His love of accompanying singers

464 - Yamil Conga: Playing with Artist Frank Ray, Diversifying your Portfolio, The Origin of the Conga in American music Apr 11, 2024

Yamil Conga is a percussionist and drummer with over 20 years of experience playing a vast array of musical genres in live venues, music videos and in the studio. A native of Puerto Rico and a current resident of Nashville, Yamil has benefitted from a vast array of musical influences. Salsa runs in Yamil’s blood due to his father, singer songwriter, Eladio Jimenez, who wrote and produced for several Latin giants. Knowing that music has no boundaries, Yamil’s mission is to make people fall in love with the art of live performance and foster a new generation of percussionists.

Yamil tours nationally and internationally bringing educational lectures on the conga drum and salsa music. He is currently the percussionist and DJ for Country artist Frank Ray. Yamil rounds out his calendar performing with corporate bands as well as performing as a soloist as a drumming DJ.

In this episode, Yamil talks about:

Diversifying your "portfolio”
Being proactive with your daily activities
The evolution of the drumming/DJ thing
Playing with artist Frank Ray
Lecturing on the origin of the conga in American music
The influence of his father’s legacy
Percussion advice for drum set players

463 - Tom Jorgensen: Playing on the "Beetlejuice" Tour, Studying with Michael Carvin, A Sound-Oriented Approach Apr 04, 2024

Tom Jorgensen is an active and highly-requested drummer, session musician, composer, and mixing engineer based in New York City, currently on the first national tour of the Beetlejuice Broadway musical. Tom is a graduate with a BFA from The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in NYC, where he studied with jazz legends such as Reggie Workman, Charli Persip, and privately with Master Drummer Michael Carvin, with whom a mentorship continues to this day.

Tom frequently performs with the internet sensation Post Modern Jukebox, having toured with the group extensively in the United States, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and Australia. His career has also taken him abroad throughout Europe, South America, French Polynesia, and the Caribbean while acting as Music Director onboard Holland America Cruise Line.

In this episode, Tom talks about:

The broad range of genres and drumming styles in the “Beetlejuice” show
Auditioning for a Broadway tour vs. being offered the gig outright
The “authenticity meter” in relationship building
What it means to have a sound-oriented approach
His experience studying with Michael Carvin at The New School in New York
What good relationships look like - if one person wins, we all win
“Go, do, be, have” in that order

462 - Matt Muckle: Drumming for Kingdom Come, Shedding Negative Energy from your Life, Finding Your Own Voice Mar 28, 2024

Matt Muckle is a Pittsburgh based drummer who has worked with and toured with acts such as Paul Gilbert, Lynch Mob, Buckcherry, John Waite and many others. He is currently recording with and preparing to tour with the band Kingdom Come. This legendary rock band formed in the late 80’s and with Matt as their new drummer, continues to entertain their committed and string fan base.

In this episode, Matt talks about:

Who inspired him to pursue a career in music
Working and recording with Kingdom Come
Shedding negative energy from your life
His experience in Los Angeles
Teaching and producing in a mentorship style
Finding your own voice
Being proactive for your career

461 - The Hampden Brothers, Iajhi and Brevan: Their Parents' Musical Legacy, Playing in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill "Triangle," Iajhi's LA Chapter, Brevan's Neurodivergent Journey Mar 21, 2024

In this episode, Iajhi and Brevan talk about:

Their parent's musical legacy
Growing up in the Triangle area in North Carolina, and the music scene there
Attending North Carolina Central University, an HBCU and the only college in the state that offered a jazz degree at the time
The ill-fated gig that brought Iajhi to LA
Brevan's experience with being diagnosed as neurodivergent, and how that has changed how he approaches life and music
Creating structure for yourself to avoid getting "emotionally disregulated"
Iajhi's long-standing jam session at The Federal in North Hollywood, and the art and science of curating a good jam.

460 - Miles Stone: Drumming for Cody Johnson, Balancing Life at Home and on the Road, Getting the Big Gig Mar 14, 2024

Hailing the small south Texas town of Poth, Miles was destined to drum. His mama felt him moving to the music before he was even born. At three years old he sat behind his first drum kit, and by age 5 he was banging out some version of "Under The Bridge" by TheRed Hot Chili Peppers. In junior high he joined the school band and began to study percussion formally. From marching band to snare drum solos, Miles took any and every drumming opportunity. He turned that into an affinity for marching, and a gold metal for every snare drum solo he ever played while in school, from a Junior High level solo all the way to "Africa Hot" by John Wooton. Along with other members of the high school drumline, this quickly let to garage bands. I was clear that drumming and taken a strong hold on Miles.

After high school, he headed for College Station and Texas A&M University, and he certainly didn't leave his drums behind. While earning a BS in Horticulture, Miles spent time playing in around Texas and surrounding states with a few bands. During that time he made friends with Cody Johnson. Fast forward a few years, Cody asked Miles to come on the road with him as his permanent drummer, which he has been for at least 10 years now.

When he isn't out on the road with the Cody and The Rockin' CJB, Miles enjoys spending time with his wife Samantha, their son Noah & their daughter Riley, watching football, woodworking, hunting and fishing.

In this episode, Miles talks about:

Playing a sold out show at Bridgestone arena in Nashville
Balancing life at home and life on the road
Key components to getting the big gigs
Establishing trust with the artist/band/singer
Drumming for Cody Johnson
Recording for Cody in Nashville studios
Bringing your live energy to a recording session

459 - Obed Calvaire: Playing with Wynton Marsalis & The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Commemorating Max Roach, Expressing His Hatian Heritage on His New Record Mar 07, 2024

Since 2021, Obed Calvaire has been in the drum chair for Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, with whom he recently curated and directed a series of concerts celebrating the centennial of the great Max Roach. His New York jazz career spans over two decades and includes jazz legends such as Dave Holland, Kurt Rosenwinkle, The Mingus Big Band, Joshua Redman and many others. His new album, “150 Million Gold Francs” will be released April 12th and draws heavily on his Haitian heritage.

458 - Richard Martinez: The Wilson/Spivack Method, Adapting to the Ever Changing L.A. Scene Feb 29, 2024

Richard Martinez grew up in Los Angeles, CA and has performed around the world. He has studied privately with Chuck Flores, Larry Troxel, and for 12 years with Richard Wilson. Richard’s television credits include The Dolly Parton Show, Baywatch Nights, The Joan Rivers Show, and Seinfeld. He has performed with Sam Harris, Keb’ Mo, Allen Frew and with Tony Award winners Linda Hopkins, Betty Buckley, Bebe Neuwirth & Roger Rees. He has recorded with Julian Lennon, Mighty Mo Rodgers, Christoph Bull and with Grammy Award winners Dan Hill, John Jones, and Rick Nowels. He has also written four articles for Modern Drummer’s Strictly Technique section.

In this episode, Richard talks about:

Working with a conductor
Opportunities for performance in the non-profit world
Adapting to the ever changing L.A. scene
How Richard Wilson changed his life
The Wilson/Spivack method
The practice pad: a rarified environment

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHg598jGIStR8y5gDV_w4ZQ

457 - Dave Elitch: His New Course (Not Just for Drummers), Avoiding Compartmentalization, Good vs. Better (Not Right vs. Wrong) Feb 22, 2024

Dave has been teaching privately for over 20 years and has developed a reputation as the technique/body mechanic specialist for drum set. He has helped many of the world's best players as well as top educators "get out of their own way" by being as efficient as possible in regards to conservation of motion and energy.

He has toured and/or recorded with Weezer, Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake, The Mars Volta, and many others.

The importance and benefits of a full-body warm-up

How to literally cool down after playing
What “mobility” means from a fitness and drumming perspective
Why compartmentalization is usually bad thing, in fitness and music
The importance of strength training in addition to body work
Creative development alongside physical development
His take on the role of rudiments in modern drumming

456 - Emmanuel “E-MAN” Cervantes: Inspiring the Next Generation, Drumming for Andy Grammer, Creating a Loop Library Feb 15, 2024

Emmanuel “E-MAN” Cervantes is a Los Angeles based drummer who discovered his calling when he first picked up a pair of drumsticks at age three and later booked his first major studio session at the age of 12.

E-MAN is currently touring with pop singer Andy Grammer. He has had the privilege to work with a wide range of artists such as Gwen Stefani, Lukas Nelson, Cody Simpson, Cameron Rafati, Elan, Son of Levi, Tyrone Wells and many more. EMAN played on a record with Joseph Williams, who is the singer of Toto, who enlisted some of his band mates to also play on that record like Steve Lukather. He’s made multiple appearances on TV shows that include SNL, The Today Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres Show, David Letterman and Americas Got Talent.

In this episode, Emmanuel “E-MAN” Cervantes talks about:

Inspiring the next generation to find their own voice
Lessons learned through home recording
What he’s learned from his brother the engineer
Working with pop singer Andy Grammar
Bringing your best self to every gig/rehearsal
Creating opportunities for yourself
Creating a loop package “Drum Away Loops”
Being at peace with what the future holds

455 - Rob Perkins: From Touring Drummer to Music Contractor, The Best Ways to Say Yes and No, Studying with Ndugu Chancler, "You're In the People Business" Feb 08, 2024

How he got into the booking game through the USC music school as a freshman

Struggling with the decision to ramp down performing/touring and ramp up booking

Seeing the opportunity to improve stability in live music

Bridging the gaps and establishing trust between musicians and the people who hire them

How to make the most out of a $50 gig offer, no matter where you are in your career

Making your interactions about the relationship first and the gig second

Studying with Ndugu Chancler Michael Carvin, and Terri Lynn Carrington

454 - Matt Iceman: Working with David Nail, Home Recording Techniques, Expanding Your Skillset Feb 01, 2024

Matt Iceman is currently the touring drummer and band leader with Grammy nominated country artist David Nail. He has toured/performed/recorded in the past with artists such as Eric Paslay, Francesca Battistelli, Shelly Fairchild, Lizzy McAvoy, Timothy Paul, T.J. Hitt and Tom Schreck, and bands such as BlackJack Billy, Spyderwulf, The Chris Weaver Band, and Liquid Earth.

In this episode, Matt talks about:

What he’s been up to since we last spoke in 2015
New responsibilities as band leader for his gig with David Nail
Building a clientele for home studio recording
Home recording techniques
Hanging out with Shannon Forrest and lessons learned
Seeking out lessons and new ways to grow

453 - Davide DiRenzo: Working with Larry Klein, Staying Open When Collaborating, The Conundrum of In-Ears Jan 25, 2024

Davide DiRenzo is one of the most versatile and in-demand drummers in Canada, with an equally strong profile in the jazz, rock, pop and R&B scenes coast-to-coast and beyond. With years of studio experience under his belt working with some of the world’s top artists, Davide is now also working as a producer out of his home studio (Studio 86) in Toronto, Ontario. From there, he also records and sends drum tracks to artists and producers all over the globe.

Davide has performed and recorded extensively around the world with a wide range of artists including two time Grammy award-winning Cassandra Wilson. Other acts he’s performed and recorded with include Chaka Khan, Mariah Carey, Holly Cole, Feist, Kevin Breit, and just recently recorded and co-wrote three songs on Molly Johnson’s new album, “Meaning To Tell You” where he had the pleasure of working with multi grammy award-winning and internationally celebrated producer/musician, Larry Klein.

He has won six Juno awards to date, including two in 2007: one as a member of jackSoul (Best R&B Recording) and one as a band member with Tomi Swick (Best New Artist). He also received a National Jazz Award nomination the same year for Jazz Drummer of the Year.

In this episode, Davide talks about:

How he creates dialogue with audio engineers
Deciding how many options to provide in terms of mics/tracks
How in-ears have affected how we experience our own playing
Finding the volume where your drums and cymbals start sounding bad
Working with producer Larry Klein on Molly Johnson’s record I Been Meanin’ to Tell Ya
Submitting to the collaborative process and letting go of some control
Collaborative producers vs. impresario producers

452 - Brian Doherty: Drumming For They Might Be Giants, Pre-Social Media “Networking”, Cymbal Hacks for the Studio Jan 18, 2024

Brian Doherty is best known as a drummer for groups like They Might Be Giants, RCA Recording artists, The Silos, XTC, Freedy Johnston, and Ben Folds

In the early 90s, Brian was recruited by They Might Be Giants. For three years Brian and TMBG recorded albums, wrote songs, and relentlessly toured the world.

In 2001, Brian went back to graduate school and became a New York City school teacher as part of the New York City Teaching Fellows program. As well as teaching, he remains professionally active as a drummer recording in the studio and performing on a variety of gigs that includes Broadway shows. On Broadway, Brian has performed in productions of RENT, Hairspray, The Times They Are A Changin’, Waitress and Little Shop of Horrors.

In this episode, Brian talks about:

Growing up close to NYC and it’s musical influence
Early professional experiences
Pre-social media “networking” that still works
One gig leading to another, leading to another and so on
Cymbal hacks for the studio
Touring and recording with They Might Be Giants
Transitioning to public school teaching and drumming on Broadway in New York

451 - Ulysses Owens Jr.: His New Jazz Drumming Course on Drumeo, Jazz Representation on Social Media Jan 09, 2024

In this episode, Ulysses talks about:

Relocating back to his homestate of Florida after 20 years in New York
How he moved from his gospel roots to jazz as a teenager, and the commonalities and differences between the two
His Drumeo video playing Nirvana's "In Bloom"
His jazz drumming video on Drumeo unpacking the nuts and bolts of jazz drumming
The various misrepresentations of jazz drumming
His philosophy for learning jazz drumming, and why he believes it's best to start at the beginning of its history and move forward in time
The most essential skill in jazz drumming - "making the ride cymbal dance"
Subtlety and stealth in big band drumming
Representation in drum media

450 - Dan Shinder: Drum Talk TV, The Challenges of Content Creating, Upcoming “Brilliance” Platform Jan 04, 2024

In 2013, Dan Shinder started Drum Talk TV, an online experience that has brought drummers, musicians, and music lovers together.

Drum Talk TV is an online show showcasing insightful interviews in the world of drumming. These unique interviews from all over the drumming world feature all genres and cultures. They talk with live and session masters, legends, educators, hidden gems, prodigies, drum heroes, fitness experts, techs, producers, manufacturers, and more. Drum Talk TV also provides a series called "Perspectives" where they talk with other musicians ABOUT the drummers they work with.

In this episode, Dan talks about:

The challenges of content creating
Building a support team
The origins of Drum Talk TV
"Hidden Gems” - Showcasing relatively unknown players
Dan’s interview style
Producing documentaries
Upcoming “Brilliance” platform

449 - Davide DiRenzo: What "Presence" Really Means, Opting Out of Social Media, Reconnecting with Toronto, Dec 21, 2023

Davide DiRenzo is one of the most versatile and in-demand drummers in Canada, with an equally strong profile in the jazz, rock, pop and R&B scenes coast-to-coast and beyond. With years of studio experience under his belt working with some of the world’s top artists, Davide is now also working as a producer out of his home studio (Studio 86) in Toronto, Ontario. From there, he also records and sends drum tracks to artists and producers all over the globe.

Davide has performed and recorded extensively around the world with a wide range of artists including two time Grammy award-winning Cassandra Wilson. Other acts he’s performed and recorded with include Chaka Khan, Mariah Carey, Holly Cole, Feist, Kevin Breit, and just recently recorded and co-wrote three songs on Molly Johnson’s new album, “Meaning To Tell You” where he had the pleasure of working with multi grammy award-winning and internationally celebrated producer/musician, Larry Klein.

He has won six Juno awards to date, including two in 2007: one as a member of jackSoul (Best R&B Recording) and one as a band member with Tomi Swick (Best New Artist). He also received a National Jazz Award nomination the same year for Jazz Drummer of the Year.

In this episode, Davide talks about:

Making professional and personal choices based on knowing “where you’re at”
Thinking of time as your most precious resource
Why he has opted out of social media since its inception
Being present in relationships and in music, and how they’re the same
Reconnecting with Toronto music and musicians, especially the club/bar scene
Making yourself available to connect with audience members

448 - Ra Kalam Bob Moses: Getting Beyond Your Tendencies and Patterns, His Documentary, Reconciling His Own Legacy Dec 14, 2023

Ra Kalam Bob Moses spent his youth growing up in New York City and living in the same building as Art Blakey, Max Roach, Abbey Lincoln, Elvin Jones, Rahsaan Roland Kirk. This early experience had a profound effect on this young musician. Ra Kalam would go on to work with jazz luminaries such as Gary Burton, Pat Metheny, Steve Swallow, Jack DeJohnette, Tisziji Muñoz and many others.

He was also a member of the group The Free Spirits in the 1960’s, considered one of the first Jazz rock bands ever.

Many were introduced to Ra Kalam’s drumming by way of Pat Metheny‘s very first solo record Bright Size Life in 1976 with Jaco Pastorius on bass.

Ra Kalam is also a composer and leader on many recorded projects, going back decades.

In this episode, Ra Kalam talks about:

His thoughts on the documentary being made about him
Growing up in the same building as Art Blakey, Max Roach, Abbey Lincoln, Elvin Jones, Rahsaan Roland Kirk in New York
Getting beyond your tendencies and patterns
His relationship with teacher and musical collaborator, Tisziji Muñoz
The origin of his name “Ra Kalam”
Reconciling his own legacy
Upcoming recordings

447 - Terence Clark: Playing with Keith Urban, His New Improvised Duets Project, Staying Rooted in Memphis Dec 07, 2023

Terence F. Clark is a Memphis based drummer, producer, composer, artist and overall creative. He has played with a huge variety of artists from different regions and genres, Keith Urban being the most recent. Known for his impeccable and soulful performances, professionalism and discipline of craft, Terence has traveled the world building relationships with and through music. As Terence finds inspiration in his travels and engaging other cultures, he always lends inspiration with his unique brand of performance, solid groove, creativity, musical knowledge and excellence. It's always been more than “just about the music”, for Terence; it's about serving the artist, creating the very best and discovering a community of artists with which to learn from and create with along the way.

446 - Caleb Crosby: Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown, Capturing the Moment in the Studio, Building a Record Label Nov 30, 2023

Originally from a small town in Kentucky, Caleb Crosby moved to Nashville to study music at the Belmont University. In a short amount of time, Caleb met a young Tyler Bryant, and they form what’s now known as Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown. The group has released an impressive one body of work since they began recording around 2011. There’re touring credits include opening and being direct support for groups like AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, Jeff, Beck, ZZ Top, Aerosmith, and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Caleb splits his time between the band, their new record label, freelance drumming and raising a young family.

Just recently, Caleb was the drummer with Dolly Parton during her halftime show at a Dallas NFL game.

In this episode, Caleb talks about

Capturing the moment in the studio
The power of positive energy
Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown
Being in a band and freelancing
Playing with Dolly Parton
Building a record label
Creating parts in the studio
Family

445 - Adam Deitch: His New Quartet Record, His 20-year Connection with John Scofield, Lettuce's New Live Approach, The Denver Scene Nov 16, 2023

Adam Deitch is the centerpiece of the instrumental funk juggernaut Lettuce, and is also a beatmaker, producer, and sideman for a wide range of projects. On the heels of Lettuce’s latest release entitled Unify from 2022, Adam is out with “Roll The Tape” a new record featuring his own quartet and special guest John Scofield. He also operates the Deitch Academy, an online drumming course.

In this episode, Adam talks about:

His new quartet record and the soul jazz icons it harkens back to
The value of using professionals to record, mix, and master, as opposed to DIY
Including solo drumming and brushwork on the record
The influence and mentorship of John Scofield
How IEMs have made for a more connected and intimate live experience
Why he calls Denver home, and a snapshot of the scene there

444 - Brandon Green: Drum Mechanics, Combining Fitness and Drumming, Exercises that Specifically Benefits Drumming Nov 09, 2023

Brandon Green is a biomechanics specialist, fitness educator, gym owner and drummer. Brandon’s online presence, often recognized as “Drum mechanics”, explores educational biomechanics perspective on fitness, drums and life.

In this episode, Brandon talks about:

Combining his passions of fitness and drumming
Future plans for more online educational content
Seat hight the works for you and your body type
Exercises that specifically benefits drumming
Active stretching vs passive stretching
Defining post-activation potentiation (PAP) and its benefits

https://www.youtube.com/@brandondrummechanics

https://www.instagram.com/drummechanics

443 - Pepe Jimenez: Coming to Vegas from Puerto Rico, Playing with Lady Gaga and The Raiders Band Nov 02, 2023

Jose “Pepe” Jimenez has played drums professionally since the age of 16 and is known for his versatility in different musical styles. He’s product of the Escuela Libre De Musica (Puerto Rico Performing Arts School), Musicians Institute and the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music. Pepe has played with Lady Gaga, Santana, Giovanni Hidalgo, Jerry Gonzales, Mark Anthony, and The Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra to name a few. Recordings include Ricardo Arjona, Olga Tanon, Armando Manzanero, Elvis Crespo, Ilan Chester, and Glenn Monroig among others. Since movingh to Las Vegas in 2002, he has worked in various production shows and bands including Storm, Mamma Mia, Cirque du Soleil Zumanity, Criss Angel Believe, The Lion King, Latin Grammys, Santa Fe and the Fat City Horns, Pop Evolution Orchestra and his solo project The Groove Culture.

In this episode, Pepe talks about:

Getting handpicked by Lady Gaga to be part of her Vegas orchestra, and what that show entails
How to make the click your friend
Playing with the Raiders Band - a different kind of stadium gig
The developing scene for jazz, Latin, and independent music in Vegas
Instilling good technical foundation in all his students
Defining his drum identity not by genre or style of playing, but his respect and love for the role

442 - Paul Eckberg: Skills to Being a Great Sideman, Realities of the Music Business, Faith Guiding Life Decisions Oct 26, 2023

Paul Eckberg has drummed for Owsley, Danielle Bradbery, Jana Kramer, Amy Grant, Jars of Clay, Whitney Duncan, Andrew Peterson, and many other Nashville-based artists. He spends most of his time recording in Nashville.

In this episode, Paul talks about:

Growing up in Minneapolis MN
The realities of the music business
Human interaction, not “networking”
Skills to being a great sideman
Having a strong count-off game
Life decisions being informed by his faith

441 - Mark Pardy: From England to New York to Vegas, Touring with "Moulin Rouge," Making Gigs You're Right For Come To You Oct 19, 2023

In this episode, Mark talks about:

What he finds rewarding about musical theatre
Other Vegas-specific gigs he’s done over the years
Touring heavily at age 55 and staying connected to home life
Using gear that suits you as a player but also fulfills the needs of the show you’re on
Staying engaged by being detail oriented
Having your boss’s trust
The virtue of contentment

440 - Martin Lynds: Drumming with Chuck Mead, The Hidden Beauty of Traditional Country Drumming, Exploring Styles Outside Your Comfort Zone Oct 12, 2023

Martin Lynds is a musician and editor who tours most often with Chuck Mead and His Grassy Knoll boys but has stayed busy performing and/or recording with many others, including Cheap Trick’s Tom Petersson, Kevin Gordon, Marah, Bobby Bare, Rodney Crowell and Marty Stuart.

In this episode, Martin talks about:

Exploring styles outside your comfort zone
Finding your people without being concerned with the hustle
His experiences living in Washington D.C.
Finding a “clubhouse” to meet other musicians and create experiences
His gig with Chuck Mead
Backline nightmares
The hidden beauty of traditional country drumming

439 - Danny Banks: Playing with Nicole Atkins, Being Part of Howard Grimes' Legacy, Being a Memphis Drummer by Choice Oct 05, 2023

Danny is originally from the Boston area but has called Memphis home for the last decade, where his main gig is touring with Nicole Atkins. He has toured with John Paul Keith and John Nemeth, and is active in Memphis’s many recording studios.

In this episode, Danny talks about:

Being an opening act for major headliners
How Memphis provides ample opportunities to record in proper studios, so Danny hasn't set up a home rig
How he was able to keep gigging remotely during Covid
Mentoring under Howard Grimes and his contribution to the Memphis sound
His appearance on Letterman as an 11-year-old prodigy

438 - Brian Tichy: Touring with the Dead Daisies, Great Playing Over Good Networking, Adapting to the Gig Sep 28, 2023

Brian Tichy is one of the most in demand performers today. Brian studied music at, and has a degree from, the prestigious Berklee College of Music.

Brian has performed and recorded with artists: Billy Idol, Foreigner, Whitesnake, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Ozzy Osbourne, WASP, Don Felder, B'Z, Lynch Mob, Vinnie Moore, Michael Schenker, Seether, Velvet Revolver, Zakk Wylde's Pride & Glory, The Dead Daisies, Glenn Hughes, Slash's Snakepit and is also the founder of the popular celebration events, Bonzo Bash and Randy Rhoads Remembered.

In this episode, Brian talks about:

Drummers that connect with the people
Touring with the Dead Daisies
Being able to adapt on sessions
Different tours/sessions and managing it all
Playing with Don Felder
Recording the album Pride and Glory w/ Zakk Wylde
Great playing over good networking
Hand and feet exercise for desks and floors only : 0

437 - Allison Miller: DC Roots, Connecting Her Drumming to Dance, Playing with Dr. Lonnie Smith, Her New Album Sep 21, 2023

Allison Miller is a New York-based drummer, bandleader, educator, and producer. She studied with Michael Carvin and Lenny White and went on to play with Dr. Lonnie Smith, Ani DiFanco, Brandi Carlisle, and many others. She's active as an educator in many capacities including at The New School in New York, and her new album, Rivers In Our Veins is out now.

In this episode, Allison talks about:

Getting started with big bands in DC, and studying classical percussion in college
The role that traditional bepop vocabulary plays in developing a modern jazz drumming voice
The importance of experiencing jazz in a live setting
Her new record and raising awareness about the role and health of America's rivers
How her jazz credentials and experience led to pop opportunities
Playing with Dr. Lonnie Smith

436 - David Garibaldi: Creating Art, Being Yourself, The Early Days of Recording with Tower of Power, His Latest Book: DG’s Notebook Sep 14, 2023

David Garibaldi has became one of the most influential drummers of his generation and became known as an innovator in funk drumming. As a writer and performer David has worked with such artists as Patti Austin, Natalie Cole, Mickey Hart's Planet Drum, Boz Scaggs, The BBC Orchestra, Gino Vannelli, Talking Drums, The Buddy Rich Orchestra, Ray Obiedo, Wishful Thinking, and many others. David is once again performing and recording with the Tower of Power.

David was Modern Drummer Magazine - readers Poll Winner "R&B/Funk" category six times. Five consecutive years from 1980-1985, and again in 2003. His name now permanently resides in that polls honor roll category for his lasting contributions to the percussive arts.

David's first book, "Future Sounds", was rated one of the 10 greatest drum books by Modern Drummer Magazine (August 1993)

In this episode, David talks about:

The importance of good overall health
The early days of recording with Tower of Power
Creating art and being yourself
Adjusting his approach over time
Getting hit by a train and the recovery
His latest book: DG’s Notebook

435 - Couples Counseling: Partners' Perspectives on Doing Life with a Drummer Sep 07, 2023

This week we’re joined by Christina Albetta (Zack's wife), Liz Shadbolt (Matt's wife) and Kevin Leon, drummer for St. Paul & The Broken Bones and his wife Erin Johnson. Over the years Matt and Zack and many guests have talked about life partners and balancing relationships with our music careers, and we thought it was high time to hear from the other side of this equation about what it’s like to do life with a drummer. A long term committed relationship with a musician or any type of creative presents some unique challenges in terms of money, time, kids, trust, and so much more, and Christina, Liz and Erin offer some valuable perspective on all of it.

In this episode, the couples talk about:

How finances and other responsibilities in a relationship are never 50/50
Being willing to do whatever you have to do to support kids
Creating your own traditions and celebrations on your own schedule
How you can support your drummer without feeling obligated to come to every single gig
Trusting your partner during time apart
Normalizing therapy/counseling for individuals and couples

434 - Danny Douchette: Managing Forks Drum Closet, The Underground Nature of Metal, Local Events that Connect Musicians Aug 31, 2023

Danny Douchette is one of the rare Nashville Tennessee natives living and working in his home town as a musician. He has been working at Fork’s Drum Closet since 2005 and currently manages the legendary drum shop. Known as a skilled metal drummer, Danny can be seen around music city performing at one of the many community supported events like “Rare Hair”, “Industrial Night” and “The Rock and Roll Residency” just to name a few.

In this episode, Danny talks about:

Local events that connect musicians with each other
Growing up with a parent who was a professional musician
The underground nature of metal
Managing Forks Drum Closet in Nashville, TN
The challenges of maintaining an original band

433 - Mike Dillon: His "Punkadelick" Trio, Rooting the Avant Garde in the Traditional, Making Creativity More Intentional Aug 24, 2023

Mike Dillon's decades-long career as a vibraphonist, percussionist, and drummer has included work with Ani DiFranco, Les Claypool, Stanton Moore, Rikki Lee Jones, and many others. He has also led bands in his own right, the latest of which is Punkadelick, with Brian Haas on keys and Nikki Glaspie on drums. Their new record is called Inflorescence. When not on the road, Mike splits his time between New Orleans and Kansas City.

In this episode, Mike talks about:

His new trio, Punkadelick with Brian Haas on kers and Nikki Glaspie on drums
Finding his place at North Texas as a percussionist rather than a drumset player
Committing to mastering the blues and jazz harmony in the improvisatory context
The influence of Johnny Vidacovich as an improvisor
How the scenes of Kansas City and New Orleans have shaped him
How his wife, visual artist Peregrine Honig, has influenced his art and creative process

432 - Jon "Ginger" Hamilton: Drumming for Sam Smith, Preparing for the Gig You Want, Touring in the 21st Century Aug 17, 2023

Originally from South East London and currently residing in Nashville, TN, Jonathan 'Ginger' Hamilton developed his love for music growing up in church. By age fourteen was holding it down for the UK's leading worship leaders and groups. A few years later, he made his Pop music debut and has gone on to work with artists like, Jessie J, Olly Murs, Lianne La Havas, N Dubz, JLS and Westlife. Since 2017, he has been the touring drummer for Sam Smith. *** Use code: JGHDRUMS15 for 10% off at hyperice.com

In this episode, Jon talks about:

Managing drumming and repetitive stress injuries
Acclimating to Nashville, TN from London
Influence of Caribbean and African music in gospel music in the UK
Bringing positivity to every situation and gig
Preparing for the gig you want
Drumming for Sam Smith
The touring rig for the 21st century
Mentorship
His clothing line, Drum and Drummer

431 - Tina Raymond: Her New Record, Running a College Jazz Program, Setting Boundaries Aug 10, 2023

Tina Raymond is an accomplished drummer, composer, bandleader, and educator based in Los Angeles, CA. A unique voice in the contemporary improvised music scene, Raymond blends traditional jazz vocabulary with African polyrhythm and classical percussion technique. She is the Director of Jazz Studies at Cal State Northridge, and her new trio album Divinations will be released October 6th.

In this episode, Tina talks about:

Creating a jazz program where students don’t feel like they’re in competition with each other
Putting boundaries around her professional life, whether it’s as an educator or a performer
How she tries to help her students become well rounded people, not just good jazz musicians
Her new record “Divinations” and its tarot theme
Building drum solos around accompaniment
Making her record “drums forward” both in performance and mix

430 - Chris DiGirolamo: Two of the Show Media, Diverse Opportunities in the Industry, Responsibilities of a Publicist Aug 03, 2023

Chris DiGirolamo has been the owner and operator of Two of the Show Media since 2006. Chris started studying drums at the age of five and still performs to this day. From his time at Berklee College of Music, to his tenure at the well known Systems Two Recording Studio in Brooklyn, NY, to engineering at the legendary Record Plant Recording Studio in California, music has always been number one.

When Chris started Two for the Show Media, a private music publicity firm in Queens, NY, the mission was to provide hard work, honesty, trust, and guidance to the independent musicians of today. With two Grammy wins and over thirty nominations, Chris has fulfilled his goal times ten.

A fraction of the clients he has worked with include: Dafnis Prieto, Jamie Wollam, Cindy Blackman Santana, Simon Phillips, George Coleman Junior, JR Robinson, Bobby Sinabria, Steve Gadd and Manu Katche.

In this episode, Chris talks about:

The benefits of technology with PR
Responsibilities of a publicist
Artist development
Carlos Santana and the thank you letter
Marketing instruments like A&F Drums
Meeting Bill Kreutzmann from The Grateful Dead as a kid
Diverse opportunities in the music industry

429 - Lucy Ritter: Touring with "Jagged Little Pill," Moving to LA, Followers vs. Relationships on IG Jul 27, 2023

Lucy Ritter grew up in New Jersey with a good dose of NYC. She attended music school at Indiana University where Steve Houghton encouraged her to focus on drumset rather than classical percussion or music education. She left school to join the first national tour of the musical An Officer and a Gentleman, and followed that up with the first national tour of Jagged Little Pill. She recently decided to leave that tour and move to LA full time.

In this episode, Lucy talks about

Following through to make IG connections IRL
Learning how to record audio and video for college during COVID
How Steve Houghton encouraged her to focus on drumset rather than classical percussion and music education
How different types of music come with different lifestyles/subcultures
All the different ways professionalism has to be present in how you present yourself.
Seeking out female mentors

428 - Jody Stephens: Drumming for Big Star, Those Pretty Wrongs, Ardent Studios and it's Rich History Jul 20, 2023

Jody Stephens is a drummer based in Memphis, Tennessee, who has played in Big Star and is the last surviving original member. Along with his over three decades working at the historical Ardent Studios in Memphis, he continues to record and tour with groups like Golden Smog (with members of the Jayhawks and Wilco) and Those Pretty Wrongs with Luther Russell.

In this episode, Jody talks about:

Meeting his hero, Ringo
Ardent Studios in Memphis and it’s rich history
The importance of building relationships in the industry
What he learned during the recording of the first Big Star record
His work with Golden Smog
Playing music for fun not money
His duo Those Pretty Wrongs

427 - Petar Janjic: Hitting His Stride in Nashville with Cory Wong, Uncle Bronco, and More Jul 13, 2023

Petar Janjic is best known for playing with Cory Wong these days, but stays busy playing live and recording with many other Nashville artists. Petar's journey in music began with a solid educational foundation in his hometown of Kraljevo, Serbia . He pursued his passion by moving to the United States and earning both a Bachelor's and Masters degrees from McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul. He moved to Nashville in 2019. With his expertise and versatile skills, Petar Janjic continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his dynamic drumming and unwavering dedication to his craft. His contributions to the music industry and collaborations with esteemed artists have solidified his reputation as a true force to be reckoned with in the realm of percussion.

In this episode, Petar talks about:

How the old guard of Nashville studio drumming has influenced his approach
How the Cory Wong gig has fun/goofy aspects, but also takes preparation and quality control very seriously
The Minneapolis approach to time and groove that he and Cory both come from
Releasing an online drum course with Cory, and his "overtone control" cymbal dampeners
Playing with Victor Wooten
Uncle Bronco, his trio project with organist Ty Bailie and guitarist Adam McPhail

426 - Dr. Charlie Kautz and Dr. Shayan Ghaffari: The Fine Tune Clinic, Parallels Between Athletes and Musicians, Using Education to Solve Physical Issues Jul 06, 2023

At the Fine Tune Clinic, Dr. Charlie Kautz and Dr. Shayan Ghaffari are a licensed Chiropractors providing state-of-the-art techniques that directly treat specific muscles to relieve pain symptoms and improve range of motion. After years of observing and working with musicians, they provide a unique combination of advanced myofascial and Chiropractic techniques to address underlying causes of repetitive stress injurys.

In this episode, Dr. Charlie Kautz & Dr. Shayan Ghaffari talk about:

Parallels between athletes and musicians
Matt’s personal work with Dr. Shayan
Dr. Charlie meeting John Densmore, drummer for the Doors
Active Release Technique (ART)
Problems with “drummers posture”
Using education to solve physical issues
Things that we do that sabotages our health and mobility
How supplements optimize recovery

425 - Mike Malone: Gigging Around Northeast Wisconsin, His Youtube Channel, The Virtues of Smaller Markets Jun 29, 2023

Mike Malone is a performer and educator based out of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He attended University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire to study classical and jazz percussion. In 2013 Mike was invited to join The Glenn Miller Orchestra's national tour. After returning to UWEC to finish his degree in 2014, Mike began touring with groups including jazz vocalist, Ray Brown Jr, and vocal jazz group, Five By Design.

As a recording musician Mike can be heard on dozens of albums as both a supporting musician and leader. His diverse skillset has allowed him to be featured musically across numerous styles and settings, and led him to be named "Drummer Of The Year" by the Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) Awards in 2021.

Mike currently maintains a regular performing schedule and manages a private teaching studio with students of all ages and experience levels. Mike is a performing artist for Bosphorus Cymbals.

In this episode, Mike talks about

Why he decided to make his home and career in Oshkosh
How church gigs taught him to convey respect as a performer, which he takes into all performances
Touring with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, and the challenge of playing true old school big band style with no bebop
How tech has changed how we prepare for gigs, for better or for worse
The genesis and scope of his youtube channel
Being able to anticipate what content might be popular, i.e. manufacturing a viral video
Tech tips to improve the audio and video quality of your online presence

424 - John "JR" Robinson: The Down Beat is WORD, SRT: Vanguards Of Groove, Recording #1 Hits Jun 22, 2023

World-renowned, Grammy-winning musician John "J.R." Robinson is widely considered the most recorded drummer in history, playing on albums that have sold well over 500 million copies. He is the drummer on 20 number-one pop songs by artists such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie and Steve Winwood, and has been the drummer on more than 100 Grammy-winning tracks. Rolling Stone Magazine featured J.R. in their list of The Top 100 Drummers of All Time.

J.R. is the drummer on many other Top-40 hits with artists such as Madonna, Lady

Gaga, Diana Ross, Daft Punk, David Lee Roth, Rufus & Chaka Khan, The Pointer

Sisters, Wilson Philips, Peter Cetera, George Benson, and Quincy Jones.

In this episode, John talks about:

The down beat is WORD
Being able to groove without a click
His new trio SRT: Vanguards Of Groove
Working on his book that is coming out in 2024
Hi-Hat technique
Breaking down the session with Steve Winwood
Recording with Daft Punk

423 - Joe Farnsworth: "Just Play Time" Jun 15, 2023

One of the most highly regarded jazz drummers on the scene today, Joe is known for his blazing speed, precision, musical, and melodic playing. Born in South Hadley, Massachusetts in 1968, Joe grew up in a musical family; his father was a music educator and he has four older brothers, two of whom became professional musicians. He studied with Alan Dawson and Arthur Taylor prior to attending and graduating from William Patterson College in New Jersey in 1994.

Upon moving to New York City, he led the weekend jazz combos at Augie’s (now Smoke Jazz & Supper Club). He performed with Junior Cook, Cecil Payne, John Ore, Big John Patton, Harold Mabern, Eddie Henderson, John Jenkins and his brothers, John and James.

Joseph’s career includes recording over 100 CD’s as leader and side-man, jazz festivals and world tours with Pharaoh Sanders, Horace Silver, Harold Mabern, McCoy Tyner, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, Benny Golson, George Coleman, Johnny Griffin, Lou Donaldson, Benny Green, Curtis Fuller to name a few.

In this episode, Joe talks about:

Studying with Alan Dawson
How he arrived at his "just play time" identity as a jazz drummer
the centrality of the ride cymbal in all jazz drumming
The difference between playing with someone and playing for them
Why he chooses to almost always perform in a suit and tie

422 - Mark Poiesz returns: His online program: The Big 3: Steps to the Big Stage, The power of curiosity, Becoming a Professional Certified Coach Jun 08, 2023

As a drummer, Mark Poiesz has performed in front of millions of people on five continents with artists including Tyler Farr, Lindsay Ell, Mitchell Tenpenny, Chuck Wicks, Jon Secada, Lita Ford and Ghost of Gloria. As an alumnus of the University of Miami's prestigious Frost School of Music with a Bachelor of Music degree in Studio Music and Jazz, Mark's career has spanned nearly every conceivable genre of music as he brings his signature energy to each moment. His current role as drummer, bandleader and programmer with multi-platinum country music artist Tyler Farr has involved nearly a decade of touring, major network television appearances and the Super Bowl LI pre-game show.

As an ICF Professional Certified Coach, Mark holds the gold standard credential for coaching. He has built real-world experience not just with individuals in the entertainment industry, but also with leaders and high performers at companies such as AT&T, IBM, Boeing, Capital One, Warner Bros. Discovery, HelloFresh, The US Department of Defense and more.

In this episode, Mark talks about:

Getting out of his comfort zone
The power of curiosity
His online program: The Big 3: Steps to the Big Stage
When you say no to something, you are saying yes to something else.
Having a clear objective when practicing

421 - George Coleman Jr.: Musical DNA from New York, Memphis, and Cuba, "Taking Care of the Listener", May 30, 2023

George Coleman Jr. was born into a musical family. As a drummer, producer, composer, filmmaker, and son of two musical jazz greats, saxophone legend George Coleman Sr. and organist, composer and vocalist, Gloria Coleman, he was seven when master drummer Max Roach gave him his first set of drums. George studied with master teachers including Sam Ulano, Michael Carvin and Billy Higgins.

In 2019, George took on the role of film producer and released a documentary entitled “Another Kind of Soul: The Coleman Family Legacy”. The film chronicles his family’s personal and musical histories and includes concert footage as well as interviews with his family and other iconic jazz figures including Branford Marsalis. Another Kind of Soul is available on various streaming services including Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Tubi TV. He has also released a new record as a leader entitled Resurgence.

In this episode, George talks about

His dad's jazz legacy that began in Memphis
The influence of his mother who was a bassist and organist
Being surrounded by Latin music in his childhood neighborhood in the Upper West Side
Making his album a culmination of all his mentors
What he learned about music from his dad vs. his mom
What he learned and continues to learn from Michael Carvin
How music has served as a between him and his dad later in life

420 - Andy Hull: Relationship Building in the Session World, Drumming for Clint Black, Finding Inspiration from his Son May 25, 2023

Andy Hull is a drummer and a seasoned veteran of the Nashville music scene. He has toured and recorded with many artists including Billy Dean, Ty Herndon, Jaimie O’Neal , Collin Raye, Lee greenwood and is currently on tour with country music super star Clint Black.

In this episode, Andy talks about:

Dealing with last minute gigs and sessions
The psychology of working with others
Drumming for Clint Black
Relationship building in the session world
Be prepared to be uncomfortable on the gig or session
Home studio recording
Lessons and inspiration from his son

419 - Nasheet Waits: Playing with Christian McBride's "New Jawn," Freedom vs. Responsibility, Studying with Michael Carvin May 18, 2023

Nasheet Waits, drummer and music educator,is a New York native. His interest in playing the drums was encouraged by his father, legendary percussionist, Frederick Waits, who played with such legendary artists as Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Sonny Rollins, Lee Morgan, Max Roach, Cecil Taylor, McCoy Tyner, and countless others. While attending Long Island University, Nasheet studied privately with renowned percussionist Michael Carvin. Carvin’s tutelage provided a vast foundation upon which Waits added influences from his father, as well as mentor Max Roach and percussionist Fred King. It was Max that first gave Nasheet’s formidable talent international spotlight, hiring him as a member of the famed percussion ensemble M’BOOM. One highlight of Nasheet’s tenure with M’BOOM was the live concert performance of M’BOOM with special guests Tony Williams and Ginger Baker.

Nasheet’s recording and performing discography is a veritable who’s who in Jazz. Waits has boasted stints with jazz notables Antonio Hart, Jackie McLean, Wadada Leo Smith, Dave Douglas, Mark Turner, Bunky Green, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Eddie Gomez, Steve Coleman, The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, Greg Osby, Wallace Roney, Jacky Terrason, and The Mingus Big Band. Waits has recorded and toured extensively in Africa, Europe, Japan, Canada, South America and the United States.

In this episode, Nasheet talks about:

Learning from Christian McBride's "played with everybody" experience, and high level consistency as a performer
The early influence of his father, musically and culturally
How friends and colleague of his father like like Michael Carvin and Max Roach stepped in to mentor him after his father died
Lessons from Carvin
His experience attending an HBCU in Atlanta

418 - Rich Redmond Returns: New Book: Making It In Country Music: An Insider’s Guide To The Industry, Mitigating Regret, Its All Relationships May 11, 2023

Rich Redmond is an award-winning recording and touring drummer based in Nashville and Los Angeles. As an in-demand artist, Rich has recorded/toured/performed with: Jason Aldean, Carrie Underwood, Ludacris, Kelly Clarkson, Bryan Adams, Bob Seger, Joe Perry, Garth Brooks, Chris Stapleton, Jewel, Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, Thompson Square, Eric Church, Deana Carter, Montgomery Gentry, Alabama, John Anderson, Trace Adkins, Keith Urban, Travis Tritt, Emily West, Chris Cornell, Kelsea Ballerini and many others.

In this episode, Rich talks about:

News of the 8 years since our first interview in 2015
Its all relationships
Why aren’t there “cattle calls” anymore in 2023
Time management challenges when being self employed
Mitigating regret
His podcast: The Rich Redmond Show
New book: Making It In Country Music: An Insider’s Guide To The Industry

417 - John Mader: Multiple Productions of "Hamilton", Playing with Carl Verheyen, "The Sum of All Nuances." May 04, 2023

John began playing drums at the age of 5 in Oakland California. Oakland proved to be a perfect incubator for John as he thrived playing in many of the school, community, rock, jazz, and funk bands in the area. This experience gave John a diverse background that continues to serve him well today. Early in his career, John was playing in local bands opening for such diverse acts as George Benson, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Who (two North American tours), and many more. John’s reputation quickly grew and he found himself playing with San Francisco/Oakland bay area legends including Joshua Redman, Lenny Williams (Tower of Power), and Miles Davis band alumni Barry Finnerty, Garth Webber, and Benny Rietveld.

John continued to cast his net as wide as possible. He began getting calls from New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, and New Orleans to audition with such artists as Pee Wee Ellis, Stephen Jenkins (Third Eye Blind), Cake, and many more. These experiences gave John national exposure which has led to local, touring, and/or studio dates with Josh Groban, Bonnie Raitt, Randy Newman, Pat Benatar, Steve Miller, Booker T., Pee Wee Ellis, Maceo Parker, Fred Wesley, Oz Noy and many more. John has played multiple productions of Hamilton in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Puerto Rico and tours and records with Carl Verheyen.

In this episode, John talks about:

The resume he amassed in the Bay Area before moving to LA
Thinking of different theatre shows as different “dialects”
His experience of playing multiple productions of Hamilton
Getting called out by his musical director for going on auto pilot
The process of constant refinement over the course of a show
The broader palate he gets to use with Carl Verheyen

416 - Bruce Becker: Choreographing Your Movements, New book: The Ultimate Guide to Syncopation, Teaching David Garibaldi Apr 27, 2023

Drummer, Producer, Recording Artist and Educator Bruce Becker has steadily made his mark in the world of Music. Founding member and Drummer behind the David Becker Tribune, Bruce has recorded and co-produced 10 critically acclaimed recordings. The DBT has performed at clubs and jazz festivals throughout the world for more than 3 decades. In 2015 “Message To Attila” was released on Enja records. Bruce was part of an all star cast to honor the music of Attila Zoller, featuring Ron Carter, Pat Metheny, Mike Stern and many others.

Spanning more than 3 decades as an Educator, Bruce has drawn from his more than thirty year association with Drumming “guru” Freddie Gruber carrying on the torch of a unique approach in getting the student to understand the natural principles of the physical body’s interaction with the drum set. Bruce’s reputation has interested a vast array of drummers to seek his teachings. The list includes drummers such as, David Garibaldi, Mark Schulman, Daniel Glass, Glen Sobel and Clayton Cameron. Bruce has performed Master Classes and Workshops in Music Conservatories and Schools in the USA, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands, Latvia, Moscow, Argentina, Uruguay and Australia.

Over the years Bruce has had the good fortune to work with an extremely diverse group of people: David Becker Tribune, Mike Stern, Ron Carter, Russell Ferrante, Barbara Dennerlein, John Abercrombie, Peter Bernstein, composer Chris Field, the San Francisco Symphony, producer Ken Caillat (Fleetwood Mac), Sunny Ledfurd, Mark Schulman, and Deborah Henson-Conant.

Bruce continues to divide his time between International touring with the DBT, workshops, studio recordings, live dates and private teaching.

In this episode, Bruce talks about:

Choreographing your movements
His passion for teaching
New book: The Ultimate Guide to Syncopation
Advice for teachers
Teaching and working with David Garibaldi

415 - Cindy Blackman Santana: The Vegas Residency, Being In a Band with Your Spouse, The Universality of Tony Williams, Apr 15, 2023

Best known for her work with Lenny Kravitz and her husband, Carlos Santana, Cindy's career has spanned over 30 years and involved many other artists from Pharoah Sanders to Joss Stone to Buckethead.

In this episode, Cindy talks about:

The Vegas residency serving as a "laboratory"
How she and Carlos navigate being spouses and bandmates
How Tony played the function of the drums first and foremost
A drummer’s physical and spiritual connection to their sound
How being promoted because of your gender can be just as toxic as being held back

414 - Daru Jones: The Power to Inspire, Navigating the Scene as an Introvert, New PDP Signature Kit Apr 13, 2023

Daru Jones is known for his work with Jack White as well as his list of collaborators that include, Bootsy Collins, Kanye West, Pete Rock, Gloria Gaynor, Slum Village, Jamie Lidell, Talib Kweli, Dwight Yoakam, Nas, Pee Wee Ellis, Lorenzo Jovanotti, Queen Latifah, Black Milk, Salaam Remi, Pharoahe Monch, Rance Allen, Black Violin, Ski Beatz & The Sensei’s, and Jon B just to name a few.

Throughout the course of his career, Jones has received rave reviews from Rolling Stone Magazine, LA Weekly, Esquire.com, Fuse.tv, the Los Angeles Times, and USA Today (among countless others). He has also appeared on several national and international television programs: The David Letterman Show, Jools Holland (UK), The Colbert Report, Saturday Night Live, and on the iconic MTV.

In this episode, Daru talks about:

His new PDP signature kit
Navigating the music scene as an introvert
How his faith has guided his life choices
How to stay grounded when touring
The power to inspire
Moving to Nashville and finding his musical family
New book: Daru Jones play the breaks - Live from Layman Deluxe edition

413 - Craig MacIntyre Pt. 2: Reading vs. Listening, The Portland Scene, Your Non-Geographic Community Apr 06, 2023

In this episode, Craig talks about

Knowing and owning your preparation process/method
How being good at reading can prevent you from listening in-depth, and how reading well doesn’t automatically mean you have good time, good feel, or good ears
Approaching recording with a producer’s ears, thinking about not just the nuts and bolts of the drums, but the whole sound of the whole record
Why he moved to Portland in 2017, and being careful about entering the scene in his new home
Allowing yourself to take a break from the hustle when you have a consistent gig
The option to build your career around your chosen community rather than a geographic community

412 - Kyle May: Home Studio Guru, Creating Helpful and Educational Content, Recording and Producing in Nashville Mar 30, 2023

Kyle May, is a working drummer, writer, and producer in Nashville, TN. He currently plays for Maddie & Tae and Billy Ray Cyrus. Additional touring credits include Lindsay Ell, Runaway June, Brandon Lay, and Carter Faith. He’s cut for artists like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Jimmie Allen, Matt Stell, Clay Walker, Levi Hummon, Willie Jones, Walker Hayes, to name a few. The best part about recording from his home studio is chasing sounds, parts, and more for producers and artists from Nashville to everywhere else in the world.

In this episode, Kyle talks about:

His early interest in remote tracking
The creative freedom that comes from tracking from home
How he delivers his tracks (raw or processed)
Building upon your strengths and interests
Posting high quality content and it’s benefits
Tips to instantly level up your sounds
Creating sample packs
Creating helpful and educational content

411 - Craig McIntyre Pt. 1: Playing With Goo Goo Dolls, The Melting Pot of Josh Groban's Band, The LA Cache Mar 23, 2023

Craig McIntyre has had a long tenure as the drummer for the Goo Goo Dolls and has also performed with Josh Groban, Vertical Horizon, Idina Menzel, Deana Carter, Seal, and many others along the way. After building a very LA-centric career, Craig now lives in Portland Oregon.

In this episode, Craig talks about:

The combination of festival and theatre work that comprises the Goo Goo Dolls’ yearly schedule
The challenge of being present in the music with your fellow musicians, and how different situations can make it difficult in different ways
How to exit a gig in a way that leaves future possibilities open, and not take personnel changes personally
How the gig you’re doing can be a status symbol or platform, apart from whatever the actual music is
The musical cross-pollination that happened among the various members of Josh Groban’s band
The counterintuitive aspects of what the Groban gig required of the drummer

410 - Bobby Sanabria: His MULTIVERSE Big Band, Inspiring the Next Generation, New Record - VOX HUMANA Mar 16, 2023

Bobby Sanabria is an eight time Grammy-nominee as a leader. Known as a drummer, percussionist, composer, arranger, conductor, documentary film producer, educator, activist, and bandleader, his versatility as both a drummer and percussionist, from small group to big band, has become legendary. A native son of the South Bronx born to Puerto Rican parents, he has performed and recorded with every major figure in the world of Latin jazz and salsa, from the founder of the Afro-Cuban/Latin jazz movement Mario Bauzá, to Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaría, Dizzy Gillespie, Chico O’Farrill, Ray Barretto, Candido, to Larry Harlow, Ruben Blades, Celia Cruz, and jazz luminaries as diverse as Henry Threadgill, Charles McPherson, Randy Brecker, Joe Chambers, Jean Lucien, The Mills Brothers, and others. DRUM! Magazine named him Percussionist of the Year (2005); he was named Percussionist of the Year by the Jazz Journalists Association in 2011 and 2013. In 2006, he was inducted into the Bronx Walk of Fame. He was a recipient of the 2018 Jazz Education Network (JEN) LeJENS of Jazz Lifetime Achievement Award for his work as a musician and educator.

In 2008 Congressman Dennis Kucinich honored his work as a musician and educator by reading his name into the Congressional Record and in 2018 the U.S. Congressional Black Caucus honored him as a musician, educator. Every single one of his big band recordings, seven in total, have been nominated for Grammys. His 2018 recording, ‘West Side Story Reimagined,' reached #1 on the national Jazz Week radio charts, was nominated for a 2018 Grammy, and won the prestigious 2019 Record of The Year Award from the Jazz Journalists Association. Partial proceeds from sales of this double CD went to the Jazz Foundation of America’s Puerto Rico Relief Fund for musicians. He is the Co-Artistic Director of the Bronx Music Heritage Center and the forthcoming Bronx Music Hall. His lifetime dedication to spreading the history, culture, of jazz and Latin jazz to the general public as a performer, as well as educating a new generation of players, composers, arrangers, has no parallel. A member of Max Roach’s legendary M’BOOM percussion ensemble, he is on the faculty of the New School (his 26th year) and was on the faculty of NYU, his alma mater Berklee, and was on the faculty of the Manhattan School fo Music for 20 years where he conducted/taught the Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra receiving two Grammy nominations for recordings he did with directing his students.

Sanabria is also the on air host of the Latin Jazz Cruise on WBGO FM and wbgo.org, the number one jazz station in the nation. Lehman College in NYC has recently awarded Maestro Sanabria an Honorary Doctorate. His new double CD, which will be released on May 12 2023, is a double CD with his Multiverse Big Band entitled VOX HUMANA. Recorded live at Dizzy's Club-Cola in NYC, it features three of jazz's finest contemporary vocalists - Janis Siegel from the Manhattan Transfer, blues and jazz Queen Antoinette Montague, and multi-lingual powerhouse Jennifer Jade Ledesna.

In this episode, Bobby talks about:

His MULTIVERSE Big Band
Seeing Tito Puente perform at 12 years old
The new record - VOX HUMANA
Inspiring the next generation
The history of music as related to the history of America
Afro-cuban rhythms and their origins

409 - Joe LaBarbera: His Time with Bill Evans, Playing with Tony Bennett, Leaving a Lasting Legacy at Cal Arts Mar 09, 2023

Joe LaBarbera has spent his life in jazz, first based in New York, then in LA, and has performed with Bill Evans, Tony Bennet, Chuck Mangione, and many more. He also spent 28 years on the faculty at Cal Arts teaching drumset, jazz small groups, and jazz history. His new book, Times Remembered, recounts his time with the Bill Evans Trio during the last two years of Evans' life.

In this episode, Joe talks about:

His motivation for writing a book about his time with Bill Evans
The musical and personal dynamic he had with Bill during their time together
Going from playing with Bill Evans, a very heavy jazz gig, to Tony Bennett, which he doesn't consider to be a jazz gig
The overarching concept he drew from Bill - commitment
How he viewed his role as a mentor to many different types of students during his 28 years at Cal Arts

408 - Brady Blade: Growing up in a Musical Family, Preparing to Tour, Staying Productive Mar 02, 2023

Brady L. Blade, Jr. is one of the most in-demand session drummers in the world, and has played on several critically acclaimed albums, including records by Solomon Burke, Daniel Lanois, Emmylou Harris, Dave Matthews, Buddy Miller, Indigo Girls, Steve Earle, and Shawn Amos.

He is also an accomplished producer and composer. He enjoys working with new talent, developing their songwriting and, ultimately, producing and recording alongside them. He has had a number of major successes, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, where his work has topped their national charts, producing the debut records of Brooke Fraser (7x Platinum in New Zealand), Annabel Fay, and Annah Mac. Brady can be heard on over 70 records to date. Brady’s brother is jazz drummer Brian Blade.

Brady currently plays with Bayou Punks, Rev. Shawn Amos and the Brotherhood and Indigo Girls

In this episode, Brady talks about:

Being the “Floating Artist” on the Americana cruise Cayamo
Why he lives in Stockholm, Sweden
Preparing to tour with The Indigo Girls
Working with Emmylou Harris
Utilizing technology to survive in the industry in the 21st century
Growing up with a musical and supportive family
Producing, writing, and staying productive

407 - Mike Musburger: A Lifetime on the Seattle Scene, Around The World with a Billionaire, Rededicating Himself to Drumming in his 50s Feb 23, 2023

Mike Musberger has spent his life and career in Seattle, where he has played in a long list of bands and projects. In the 90s, he enjoyed some big label/world touring success as the drummer for The Posies. More recently, he was part of Paul Allen's traveling "on call" band, and is part of Ringo's live production crew. He also records in his own studio, housed in Seattle's most famous rehearsal space, The Institution.

In this episode, Mike talks about:

Growing up and starting his career in Seattle, with a front row seat to its musical revolution in the 80s and 90s
The the most useful holdover concept from the analogue recording era
Touring as part of Ringo's live production crew
Relying on the side hustle of contracting when he had to
The changing landscape of how to make a touring band financially sustainable
Some ways the Seattle music scene has improved as a result of the tech boom

406 - Chris Marquart: Touring with multi-platinum country superstar Cole Swindel, Benefits of Transcribing, Staying Healthy on the Road Feb 16, 2023

Chris Marquart is the touring drummer with multi-platinum country superstar Cole Swindell. Originally from a small town in Illinois, Chris attended The Berkley college of music before his eventual move to Nashville, TN. Chris has created a career in the music industry on his own terms all while staying focused on the big picture and things that are most important to him. Chris navigated his way through the Nashville scene playing clubs in the Lower Broadway scene to working with signed artists like Craig Campbell and Cole Swindel.

In this episode, Chris talks about:

Things he learned while at the Berklee College of Music
From Lower Broadway in Nashville to touring with Cole Swindel
How Chris manages his mix and technology on the Cole gig
Playing musically with a click and tracks
The benefits of transcribing
Staying healthy on the road, mentally and physically
Planning the next stage of work life outside of music

405 - Victor Indrizzo: “Everything is a drum” Feb 09, 2023

Victor Indrizzo has long been one of the most in-demand drummers in LA and can be heard on countless records and movie soundtracks. He has recorded with Beck, Sheryl Crow, Queens of the Stone Age, and many, many others. He has also served as Alanis Morissette's touring drummer for over a decade. His recent work includes Lizzo's "About Damn Time," newly crowned with a grammy for record of the year, and a sample pack through Yurt Rock.

In this episode, Victor talks about:

Being a young dad and saying yes to everything
Connecting with his pure love of drumming when he's feeling bogged down in the “work” aspect
Having a dialogue and partnership with sound engineers to shape drum sounds together
Finding ways to make acoustic recorded sounds similar to programmed sounds
Using stacking and overdubbing to highlight choruses instead of moving to the ride or opening the hihat
His approach to creating a sample pack
How the most important aspects of working don’t require you to be extroverted

404 - Dan Ainspan: Hosting the Nashville Drummers Podcast w/Nathan Sletner, Working at Pearl Drums, Studying with Blake Fleming Feb 02, 2023

Dan Ainspan is the co-host of the podcast Nashville Drummers Podcast with colleague Nathan Sletner. The podcast gives a voice to Nashville’s next generation of players — the up-and-coming drummers that you may haven’t heard of yet.

Dan is also currently the Jr. Marketing Manager, Band & Orchestra Products for Pearl Corporation, based in Nashville, TN.

A Slingerlands, NY native, Dan attended the State University of New York College at Oneonta where he received a B.A. in Music Industry with Double Minors in Percussion Performance and Audio Production. At Oneonta, Dan studied percussion with Dr. Julie Licata and drum set with The Mars Volta drummer Blake Fleming.

After graduating in 2015, Dan relocated to Indianapolis, IN to pursue an internship with the Percussive Arts Society before his eventual move to Nashville, TN.

In this episode, Dan talks about:

His job at Pearl drums
Dan’s journey from college to NY to Indianapolis to Nashville
Interning at PAS
Studying with original The Mars Volta drummer Blake Fleming
Leaning into his digital and social media skills
Hosting the Nashville Drummers podcast w/Nathan Sletner
The value of a personal website in 2023

403 - Jay Bellerose: Playing with Robert Plant & Allison Krauss, Finding Homes for His Approach, Treating Instrumental Muisc Like Songs Jan 26, 2023

Jay Bellerose is a Los Angeles-based touring and studio veteran with an approach and aesthetic all his own. His passion for all things old and gritty has resulted in a personality behind the drums that has become sought after by artists and producers including Robert Plant & Allison Krauss, T-Bone Burnett, Bonnie Raitt, Ray LeMontagne,

In this episode, Jay talks about:

The Slingerland "Rolling Bomber" set he plays on the Plant/Krauss tour, and how the sound is captured
Having to find and fight for his aesthetic amidst the LA scene
How singers move, and how drummers can recognize and respond to that
How the Plant/Krauss project is separate and distinct from Robert or Allison's individual history or work
Playing in Molly Miller's trio with his wife, Jennifer Condos on bass
The deceptive challenge of simple instrumental music
Keeping his schedule intentionally sparse when he's home in LA

402 - Jamie Wollam: Drumming for Tears for Fears, L.A. to Canada and Getting Sober, Dialing Sounds with A&F Drums Jan 19, 2023

Jamie Wollam has toured with some of the most talented musicians on earth including, Tears for Fears, Jackson Browne, David Crosby, Tommy Shaw (Styx), Fee Waybil (The Tubes) and Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello’s solo project, The Nightwatchman.

He has recorded with Michael Sweet (Stryper), Guardian, Zache Brooke, The Brave, John Elefante (Kansas), Venice, Jay Nash, Mindy Gledhill, Michael Jackson, Kyle Vincent, Hillary Duff, Eric Hutchinson, Avion, Steve Bertrand, Drake Bell, G.E.M and, Tears for Fears.

In this episode, Jaime talks about:

His move from L.A. to Canada and getting sober
Working through these struggles while working with Tears for Fears
Drumming with Tears for Fears and the support they gave him
Being the drummer for Tears for Fears and working a “regular job”
Drumming for Tears for Fears and the new record
Losing his deal with DW
Dialing in his sound with A&F drums

401 - Matt Starr: Playing with Sarah McLachlan, Activity vs. Direction, Community within Community Jan 12, 2023

Matt Starr is a 20-year veteran of the LA scene and recently landed in Sarah McLachlan's drum chair. Over his career, he has divided his time playing live and recording in the pop/rock world and has also been producing music in his own studio. Matt began formal study of drums in his hometown of Toronto with Vito Rezza, and went on to study with Joe Morello, Jim Chapin, and Bernard Purdie. In addition to the Sarah gig, he has also performed with Buffy Sainte-Marie, Chris Shiflett (from the Foo Fighters), Christopher Cross, Lisa Loeb (with whom he recorded a grammy winning album in 2018), Deana Carter, Glen Ballard, Alphonso Johnson, Lucy Hale, Kiki Ebsen, Kevyn Lettau and Inbar Starr.

In this podcast, Matt talks about:

Learning to get the most out of your existing gear before buying more
How drummers now have the expertise to be in conversation and partnership with audio engineers
How his relationship with Victor Indrizzo led to the Sarah McLachlan gig
Being an LA drummer without the LA extroversion/ambition
How you can define "community" by just a couple of relationships

400 - Your Drumming Journey and Ours Jan 05, 2023

400! We’ve celebrated milestones in different ways over the years and this time around we wanted to make you the listener the special guest. Over the last few months we’ve been collecting messages from y’all about where you are in your drumming journey and where the podcast has fit into that.

Matt and Zack also reflect on where they are in their drumming journeys (two very different places) and the role the podcast is playing for in that, professionally and personally.

We want to thank everyone for calling and writing in, it’s been really rewarding to hear from old friends and new, some close to home, some halfway around the world about how what we do here is valued. And thanks also to everyone who has listened, donated, told a friend about us, followed us on social media, there have been so many ways y’all have supported us over the years and that support is the reason we’ve reached this milestone. Thank you.

399 - Jerry Gaskill: Kings X new album - Three Sides of One, Inspired by Bonham, Surviving Two Heart Attacks Dec 22, 2022

Drummer, singer, and songwriter Jerry Gaskill founded the progressive metal band Kings X in 1983. A native of Bridgeton, New Jersey, Gaskill began playing at a young age, forming a band with his father and brother and playing his first gig at the age of seven. After playing in bands throughout high school, he became heavily involved in the Christian faith and enrolled at Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri. Not long after arriving in Springfield, he befriended bassist dUg Pinnick and the two formed a sturdy rhythm section, backing up artists like future Petra singer Greg X. Volz and guitarist Phil Keaggy.

After trying out various combos of their own, Gaskill and Pinnick were joined by guitarist Ty Tabor and the trio, then called Sneak Preview, relocated to Houston, Texas. Changing their name to Kings X in 1987, they eventually signed with metal label Megaforce and released their debut, Out of the Silent Planet, a year later. A prog trio with a strong melodic bent and elaborate three-part harmonies, Kings X have enjoyed a successful career with stints on Atlantic, Metal Blade, and InsideOut Music. Gaskill's contributions as drummer, writer, and occasional lead singer are an integral part of Kings X's sound.

In 2004, he released his solo debut, Come Somewhere, which was recorded and produced by bandmate Ty Tabor. In addition to his work with Kings X, Gaskill has contributed to side projects by his two bandmates as well as albums by blues guitarist Jay Hooks and New Jersey songwriter Bob Burger. After suffering a heart attack in early 2012, Gaskill's home was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy later that same year. Waylaid by a second heart attack in 2014, he rallied to release his second solo LP, Love & Scars. The album was released in October 2015 and featured guest spots from Billy Sheehan, Phil Keaggy, Earl Slick, and others.

In this episode, Jerry talks about:

Kings X new album - Three Sides of One
Insight to Jerry’s time feel
Surviving two heart attacks
Wedges over in-ear monitors
The popularity of Kings X among the musician community
Moving away from the Christian music industry in the early days
The profound inspiration that John Bonham had on his playing
Performing with Bruce Springsteen

398 - Tim Carman: Touring & Recording with GA-20, His Shuffle Love Affair, "Haynes-isms" Dec 15, 2022

Based in Boston, MA, Tim is an international touring musician, session drummer, educator, and published author with both Alfred Music and Hudson Music. Tim currently records and tours extensively with GA-20, a three-time Billboard #1 blues trio signed to Karma Chief/Colemine records. He also leads two of his own projects: Tim Carman & The Street 45s—a world-groove inspired funk band—and the Tim Carman Trio—a vintage organ jazz trio (à la Jimmy Smith) nominated for “Jazz Act of the Year (2022)” by the Boston Music Awards.

Along with performing, Tim is a dedicated educator who has released four drum books: Haynes-ISM (2022 via Hudson Music), Groove Systems (2021 via Hudson Music), Shape Beats: Drum Notation Simplified (2020), and Shape Beats for Kids (2017 via Alfred Music).

In this episode, Tim talks about

The easy decision to commit full time to GA-20 in 2018
His experience at Berklee
Learning to make experimentation part of practicing
Versing himself in Chicago blues, and the shuffles of Fred Below, Ted Harvey, and others
The more jazz-based projects he leads, and playing with B3 organ

397 - Kris Mazzarisi: Owner of Big Fat Snare Drum, Touring in the band Winnetka Bowling League, Experience in Teching and Managing Dec 08, 2022

Kris Mazzarisi is the founder and owner of innovative drum company Big Fat Snare Drum. Big Fat Snare Drum has become a standard must have piece of gear that is used by the majority of drummers around the world.

When he isn’t running his business or inventing new products to add to the BFSD legacy, Kris tours with his brother in the band Winnetka Bowling League.

Kris leans into his years experiences in the music industry as an intuitive guide in the running and growth of Big Fat Snare Drum.

In this episode, Kris talks about:

Creating a balance between touring and running a business
Road managing
Touring with his brother in the band Winnetka Bowling League
Teaching himself to be a professional tech
His company: Big Fat Snare Drum and it’s beginnings
The inspiration for The Drum Click Network

396 - Mona Tavakoli: Playing with Jason Mraz, Centralizing the Cajon in Her Setup and Voice, Inspiring the Next Generation of Girls Dec 01, 2022

Mona Tavakoli is a Los Angeles-based drummer, singer and performer bets known for recording and touring with Jason Mraz. While Mona is equally comfortable performing as a drummer and a percussionist, she is especially known for adapting the cajón to unexpected genres such as rock and pop.

Mona and Mraz have been collaborating for nearly a decade. She toured worldwide on Mraz’s 2012 album, Love is a Four Letter Word, and they performed together as a duo on programs such as The Today Show, The David Letterman Show, Ellen, Dancing with the Stars, and Late Night With Jimmy Fallon.

She is a co-founder and co-director of the Rock n’ Roll Camp For Girls Los Angeles, a nonprofit that encourages girls to find their voices through music during an intensive, weeklong summer day camp. Mona also promotes music education by hosting rhythm workshops at elementary schools and colleges around the country.

Mona has been featured in DRUM!, Tom Tom Magazine, judged and hosted the Hit Like A Girl drum contest and awards show and is the recipient of the 2016 She Rocks awards “Inspire Award” for her work with the Rock n’ Roll Camp for Girls.

In this episode, Mona talks about:

The new album she recently tracked with Jason and Raining Jane
Her hybrid setup and her history with the Cajon
Her unlikely combination of influences from Neil Peart to Jay Belerose
Her background in economics and how that informs her music career
Her #1 piece of financial advice for musicians
Her role with the Rock n' Roll Camp for Girls

395 - John Dittrich: Singing and Drumming for Restless Heart, Working in Nashville in the 1990’s, Retirement Nov 17, 2022

John Dittrich is the well known drummer, singer and founding member of the band Restless Heart who had numerous hits in the country and pop genres. John is originally from Syracuse, New York and moved to Nashville Tennessee in 1981. By 1984, Restless Heart released it’s first recording and continued to record and tour for over thirty years.

After a successful and extensive career, John now enjoys retirement.

In this episode, John talks about:

Stories with John’s longtime friend & co-host with George Lawrence
Studying with Ed Shaughnessy
Working in Nashville in the 1990’s
Singing on stage with Toto
John’s country train sticking rlRl rrLr rlRl rrLr
The origins of Restless Heart
Retirement

394 - Pat Petrillo: His New Record, Instrument Selection in the Studio, Networking vs. Relationships, Product Design Nov 10, 2022

NYC based drummer, educator, and product inventor, Pat Petrillo has been a leader in the drum industry for years. He has backed a wide array of artists from many genres, including Patti LaBelle, Gloria Gaynor, Glen Burtnik, Oz Noy, and numerous Broadway shows. His popular video lessons on Drumeo.com and numerous others have inspired millions of drummers over the years. He now leads his own group, the NYC Big Rhythm Band, which has just released a new record called The Power Station Sessions. Pat also has man product designs to his credit, including the very popular 21" K Custom Organic Ride, and the new Drumeo P4 Practice Pad.

In this episode, Pat talks about

The drumming styles and tones on the new record
His earliest influences - Ringo and Jabo
Studying with Peter Erskine at the Drummer's Collective
His unusual audition for Patti LaBelle
His experience on Broadway
The evolution of the P4 practice pad

393 - Shawn Pelton: Drumming on SNL, Shawn’s Physical Presence Behind the Kit, Attitude Over Chops Nov 03, 2022

Shawn Pelton has recorded with a wide range of artists and has been a first call player since moving to New York in the late 1980s.

Shawn has recorded with artists such as Sheryl Crow, Shawn Colvin, Natalie Merchant, Ingrid Michaelson, Billy Joel, Van Morrison, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Johnny Cash, Rosanne Cash, Pink, Shakira, Kelly Clarkson, Five For Fighting, Michelle Branch, Regina Spektor, Tears for Fears, Citizen Cope, Matisyahu, Jonatha Brooke, David Byrne, Edie Brickell, Marc Cohn, Richie Havens, Joan Osborne, Hall and Oates, Odetta, Pavarotti, Phillip Phillips, George Michael, Carly Simon, Dixie Chicks, Chris Botti and Buddy Guy, and has played on several Grammy winning albums for artists including Ray Charles, The Brecker Brothers, Shakira, Shawn Colvin, Les Paul and the Hank Williams tribute album with Bob Dylan.

Shawn is also the longtime drummer in the house band for Saturday Night Live.

Since 2007, Pelton has been regularly appearing as the drummer on Daryl Hall's internet concert series Live from Daryl's House.

Pelton also served periodically as the substitute drummer in the CBS Orchestra on Late Show with David Letterman during regular drummer Anton Fig's absences.

Pelton is also a founding member of the NYC-based band The Cringe.

In this episode, Shawn talks about:

Powerful insights from his teachers
Utilizing multiple styles in his day to day
Shawn’s chart writing tips
Reading the room and acting accordingly
Managing the back and forth with remote tracking
When to employ your unique voice and sound
Shawn’s physical presence behind the kit
Attitude over chops

392 - Willy Rodriguez: Playing On the New Mars Volta Record, His Puerto Rican Roots, Becoming an American Drummer Oct 27, 2022

Willy Rodriguez is a Latin GRAMMY-winning drummer, percussionist and bandleader. He was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico and began playing drums at age thirteen. He received his musical start playing throughout Puerto Rico in rock and pop bands. When Willy was twenty-one he started working as the Musical Director and drummer for Latin American Idol’s touring group. Following his experience at Idol, he was awarded a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music in 2007. His reputation as a skilled musician spread quickly in the Boston area and he began playing extensively with musicians such as Jason Palmer and Andre Heyward. At Berklee, Willy studied with a host of famed teachers such as Terri-Lyne Carrington, Yoron Israel, Ralph Peterson and Greg Osby.

In 2014, Willy graduated from New England Conservatory with a Master’s degree in Jazz Drum Performance. At NEC, he studied with Billy Hart, Cecil McBee, Miguel Zenon, Jerry Bergonzi and Bob Moses, among others. He has performed alongside some of the premier musicians in jazz and Latin jazz including Jason Palmer, Papo Vasquez and Dave Liebman, with whom he has recorded and played with extensively. In addition to his work in jazz, he has performed and/or recorded with an extensive list of genre-spanning artists including Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, Mon Laferte, Domino Saints, and more. In 2019, he won a Latin GRAMMY for his work on Mon Laferte's 'Norma'. Willy recorded the self-titled seventh album by The Mars Volta, released in 2022 after a ten-year hiatus.

In this episode, Willy talks about

How he got into The Mars Volta's circle, and how his style fit the more intimate feel of the new record
Wanting to make his own name as an artist, as opposed to becoming known as "so-and-so's drummer"
His experience as an older student at Berklee
Understanding the American pocket and shedding his "Puerto-Rican-ness" in pursuit of it
How he got into jazz through metal and math rock

391 - Gary Husband: New Record - The Trackers: Vaudeville 8:45, The Early Days with Allan Holdsworth, Videocast Lessons Oct 20, 2022

Gary Husband is one of a rare breed of musicians in that his expression is divided equally in his capacity as a drummer and a pianist and keyboardist of international repute. His classical roots, his quest and development in the improvisational, jazz and jazz/fusion areas – not to mention his tenure in the pop, rock, funk and blues circuits – are all evident inside Gary’s distinct and far-reaching musical personality. His solo album and DVD output has also reinforced his status as a critically acclaimed writer and arranger in the contemporary music world.

For close to four decades Gary has worked alongside a vast and eclectic range of celebrated musicians including John McLaughlin, Allan Holdsworth, Jeff Beck, Jack Bruce (Cream), Gary Moore (Thin Lizzy), British pop/funk band Level 42, Billy Cobham, Al Jarreau, Mike Stern (Miles Davis), John Wetton (King Crimson), Chris Squire (Yes), Andy Summers (The Police), Steve Hackett (Genesis), Robin Trower (Procol Harum), and with producers Sir George Martin (Beatles), Trevor Horn (Grace Jones & Art of Noise), Quincy Jones (Michael Jackson), Jerry Hey and James Guthrie (Pink Floyd).

Further associations and performing/recording credits include his work with Randy Brecker, Jan Hammer, Jerry Goodman, fusion/jam band Gongzilla, Germany’s NDR Bigband, Soft Machine, Maria Schneider, Christian McBride, Eddie Van Halen, Dean Brown, Bob Berg, Nguyên Lê, Joe Lovano, Charles Tolliver, Bireli Lagrène, Peter Erskine, Ron Sexsmith, drum n’ bass protagonists Lemon ‘D’ and Dillinja.

As an internationally established drum clinician he has performed alongside Dennis Chambers, Vinnie Colaiuta, Terry Bozzio, Billy Cobham, Simon Phillips, Omar Hakim, Ricky Lawson, Todd Sucherman, Paul Wertico, Denny Seiwell and Bernard Purdie, and most recently has been developing a series of motivational videocasts in drumming.

In this episode, Gary talks about:

An early influence: John Von Ohlen
Knowing how to relax and slow down to benefit the performance
Videocast lessons on Gary’s website
The early days of working with Allan Holdsworth
His newest recording with The Trackers: Vaudeville 8:45

390 - Clint de Ganon: Playing with Paul Shaffer, The Changing World of Broadway, "A Groove is an Agreement" Oct 13, 2022

To date, Clint has played on over 1,000 recording sessions and over 75 tours with artists including The Blues Brothers Band, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Chuck Loeb, Art Garfunkel, The New York Voices, Mitch Forman, Cornell Dupree, and Edgar Winter. On television, Clint has appeared with the Saturday Night Live Band, and has performed with various artists on David Letterman, MTV, Bravo, Good Morning America, & The Today Show. He also played on the soundtrack for Stephen Spielberg's West Side Story.

For seven years, Clint played drums with Hiram Bullock's band, a power trio that featured the singing and playing of Hiram, legendary bassist Will Lee. The band made 5 recordings, and toured no less than 25 times. On Broadway, Clint has played for 13 shows, creating the drum books for four of them, including the Grammy Award winning Hairspray.

In this episode, Clint talks about:

The romanticization of session work
Creating a career out of patchwork, and the fragmentation of the record industry
How theatre work is a fusion of a live approach with a studio approach
Getting experience in a given genre on "regular gigs" before playing that genre as part of a musical
Playing with Paul Shaffer, and the unique position of playing drums with a symphony orchestra

389 - John Geiger: Multi-Decade Career in the Music Product Industry, Drumming with the Scotty Mac Band, The Business of Endorsements Oct 06, 2022

John Geiger began his love for music and drumming at an early age and spent his early band years playing 80’s rock on the Sunset Strip and later moved on to country and classic rock. John pursued his music passion by creating a multi-decade career in the music product industry. John has spend over 30 years working in this industry with iconic brands such as Yamaha, D’Addario, KORG USA and Zildjian.

John currently plays in the Scotty Mac Band who’s regional success led to opening slots for national touring acts like Brett Young, Tyler Farr, Phil Vassar, Lee Brice and Chase Rice. The band performs at festivals around the country including Night in the Country, Country Fan Fest, Oregon Jamboree, Country Thunder, Coastal Country Jam among others. In 2016 McLaughlin released his first EP Messin’ Around which was followed in 2018 with a sophomore album Starts With A Girl, both recorded in Nashville. The band won California Country Association’s Entertainer of the Year in 2017. Today, fans can see the band playing in Nashville at bars such as Tin Roof, Winners and Ole' Red.

In this episode, John talks about:

Major changes in the retail industry over the last 40 years
His job title and responsibilities at Zildjian / Vic Firth
John’s history in the music product industry
The communal nature of drummers
The business of endorsements
News about supply chain issues

388 - Chris Parker: Decades on the New York Scene, Playing with Dylan, Stuff, and G.E. Smith, Performing on SNL Sep 29, 2022

Born in Chicago, Chris was playing drums at age three and began performing his first professional gigs at eleven. At nineteen, Parker began recording and touring with blues great Paul Butterfield and then broke into the New York studio scene in 1970,doing records, movie scores and filling the drum chair at Saturday Night Live. Toph, as friends know him, recorded platinum, gold and Grammy winning albums and CDs with many artists, including, Bob Dylan, Cher, Natalie Cole, Donald Fagen, Ashford and Simpson, Aretha Franklin, Freddie Hubbard, James Brown, Stuff, Miles Davis, Patti LaBelle, Michael Bolton, Lionel Hampton, Billie Holiday, Tony Bennett, and Quincy Jones who has written liner notes for the latest cd, ”Blue Print.”

Currently leading his own band, the Chris Parker Trio with Kyoko Oyobe, piano and Ameen Saleem, bass, Parker has just recorded “Blue Print,” a new cd dedicated to Arif Mardin and produced by Arif’s son, Joe. This new work features Randy Brecker on three tracks as well as Parker’s original compositions.

In this episode, Chris talks about

New York scene in the 70s, when he was getting serious about music
His 50 year association with bassist Will Lee
His work with Stuff, and playing double drums in the band with Steve Gadd
Seeing numerous drum legends over and over at New York clubs, and receiving mentorship from them in different ways
How an impromptu rehearsal/jam with Bob Dylan unknowingly served as an audition
Adapting to the many different ways Dylan wanted to interpret songs in the moment
How his passion for drawing and painting has informed his musical approach

387 - Steven Wolf: Creating Emotional Reactions in Programming, Connection Between Mind and Body, Advice for the Young Player Sep 22, 2022

Steven Wolf (also known simply as Wolf) is one of the world’s most in-demand studio musicians. His discography includes numerous #1, Gold, Platinum, and Grammy winning records.

A virtuoso drummer and world class programmer, with an encyclopedic musical vocabulary spanning every musical genre, his distinctive skill-set and versatility have made him the "go-to" rhythmic solution for a long list of the world's top recording artists and producers. In addition to drumming and programming, he's also an accomplished producer, songwriter, and remixer.

Wolf’s credits include: Alicia Keys, Katy Perry, Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus, Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, Pink, Annie Lennox, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Celine Dion,Cher, Joss Stone, Britney Spears, The Bee Gees, Natalie Imbruglia, Leona Lewis, Johnny Cash, Rufus Wainwright, Daryl Hall, Macy Gray, Grover Washington Jr, Oz Noy, Hiram Bullock, Tribal Tech, Larry Coryell, The Gil Evans Orchestra, Lenny Pickett, The Saturday Night Live Band, and many others…

In this episode, Wolf talks about:

Advice for the young player
Transitioning from a touring to session drummer and programmer
Getting the right sounds in the studio
Managing a sample library
Creating an emotional reaction in programming
Staying current with musical styles
The connection between mind and body

386 - Billy Drummond: Playing with Sonny Rollins and Horace Silver, His New Record, "Me Being Me for Right Now" Sep 15, 2022

Acclaimed by Downbeat as “one of the hippest bandleaders now at work,” Billy Drummond’s thrilling, powerful and highly musical playing has also made him one of the most called-for sidemen of his generation. Mentored in the bands of jazz legends Horace Silver, Joe Henderson, Bobby Hutcherson, J J Johnson and Sonny Rollins, Drummond is now widely acknowledged as one of today’s most versatile drummers, making sideman appearances with a veritable who’s who of jazz greats on over 350 albums. He has made three albums as a leader—including Dubai, a New York Times Number 1 Jazz Album of the Year—and five as a co-leader, including We’ll Be Together Again in Three’s Company, a trio with Javon Jackson and legendary bassist Ron Carter, which made several Top Ten lists of the Year.

In this episode, Billy talks about:

The idea of a jazz record being a snapshot of an artist's present condition
How what he loves listening to relates to what he chooses to play
Entertainment vs. expression
Playing with Horace Silver
The influence and mentorship of Al Foster
Teaching at NYU and Julliard

385 - Dez Davis: Drumming for Hunter Hayes & Mickey Guyton, Promoting His Brand “BlackDrumHippie”, Using Faith as a Guide Sep 08, 2022

Desmond Davis the “BlackDrumHippie”, is a Dove Award, Stellar Award & Ascap Rhythm & Soul Award winning, Grammy nominated musician, producer and writer hailing from the west side of Chicago where he honed his skills in the Baptist church playing gospel music however; he is well-rounded with the ability to play various genres including but not limited to; rock, pop, country, hip-hop, jazz, R&B, reggae, funk, and blues .

The BlackDrumHippie’s talent and tenacity has afforded him various endorsements and the opportunity to play a variety of tours, festivals, tv appearances and concert venues.

With growing notoriety, Desmond has played for decorated artists such as: Donald Lawrence, Johnathan McReynolds, Sir the Baptist, Todd Dulaney, Byron Cage, Bri Babrieaux, Hunter Hayes, Mickey Guyton & many more.

Desmond’s hard work and forward thinking has allowed BlackDrumHippie to transcend music as it has grown into a brand that provides customizable Levi denim jackets, t-shirts and other merchandise.

In this episode, Dez talks about:

Moving to Nashville in 2019 with a gig with Hunter Hayes
Affordable home studio options for outboard gear
Growing up and performing in many churches in the west side of Chicago
Trusting in his faith to be a guide
His experience with songwriting yet staying focused on live performance and sessions
Promoting his brand

384 - Larry Florman: Fronting Them Vibes, Collaborating with Maggie Rose, Traditional Percussion vs. Pop Percussion Sep 01, 2022

Larry Florman is a drummer, percussionist, vocalist, and front man for the Nashville-based band Them Vibes. Also known as Brother Love, he fronted numerous bands in New York before relocating to Nashville. Them Vibes has put out numerous singles and EPs since 2013, and became the opener and backing band for Maggie Rose, with whom they co-wrote and toured. Larry is also married to Nashville drummer Sarah Tomek.

In this episode, Larry Talks about:

Joining forces and later parting ways with Maggie Rose
How his musical life came to encompass drumset, percussion, and vocals
Learning traditional African and Latin percussion in New York with Babatunde Olatunji and other masters
Traditional Afro-Cuban conga playing vs. the American soul tradition
How he and Sarah interact musically

383 - Nick Raskulinecz: Producing Rush, Foo Fighters and Others, Loving Drums and Producing Drummers, Reflections on Taylor Hawkins Aug 25, 2022

Nick Raskulinecz is a record producer who has produced a Grammy-winning album for Foo Fighters, a #1 rock album for Alice In Chains, a #1 rock album for Rush, a #1 Billboard album for Evanescence, a #1 UK album for Stone Sour, and many more.

Neil Peart writes:

"Nick was best known for his highly successful work with the Foo Fighters, but before that he had a long history as a musician, engineer and producer. He had started out in Knoxville, Tennessee, and more-or-less worked his way west, studio by studio. When we met Nick, we all liked his youthful, unbridled enthusiasm, but at 36, he was also experienced enough to have a strong background in music and recording."

Of the recording sessions with Nick, he writes: "I have never enjoyed the recording process so much, nor been so satisfied with the results."

Geddy Lee from Rush also writes praise about working with Nick, saying "There's no point in hiring a producer who's not going to speak his mind, but it's a tall order to find someone who can hear Neil's playing, amazing as it is, and still say, 'Maybe you should try going in this direction...' It was a pleasure to be challenged [by Nick]. That's really what a band like us needs."

In this episode, Nick talks about:

Moving to Nashville from Los Angeles
His studio in Nashville “Rock Falcon Studio”
What he’s learned from drum techs over the years
Studio hacks when tracking drums as well as an “anti-hack”
What a producer really does
Producing the last two Rush records
Nick’s hands on approach to producing drummers
Reflections on Taylor Hawkins

382 - Tommy Crane: His New Solo Album, His Journey from New York to Montreal, from Jazz to Ambient, and from Acoustic to Electronic Aug 18, 2022

Tommy Crane is a NYC and Montreal based musician. Crane has recorded and performed with Ambrose Akinmusire, Melissa Aldana, Briars of North America, The Mingus Big Band, Linda Oh, Thus Owls, Aaron Parks, Richard Reed Parry, Logan Richardson, Bing and Ruth, Becca Stevens, Half Waif, Port St Willow, and Wood River.

In 2017 Crane was commissioned by the Lincoln Center, NY, to create a multimedia piece titled "Preservation" in collaboration with filmmaker Tracy Maurice. Crane's composition was performed live and released as a full-length album in 2019. In addition to Crane, the recording features performances by Colin Killalea (Albert Hammond Jr.), Eliot Krimsky (Here we go magic), and Greg Chudzik (Steve Reich).

In 2017/2018, Crane toured extensively with Melissa Aldana and recorded the Grammy Nominated album "Visions" with the band. Crane is also a core member of Aaron Parks's "Little Big" (whom he met and befriended at a jazz camp in NYC when they were both 15 years old). Crane also taught improvisational ensembles at the Accademia Nazionale del Jazz - Siena Jazz in Italy (2019-2020). He contributes original compositions to various WNYC and NPR podcasts and is also a Sunhouse artist.

In this episode, Tommy talks about:

The process of recording his album, almost entirely on his own at home
How he uses Sunhouse products
His early days in New York attending the New School and immersing himself in jazz
Playing with the Mingus Big Band
Getting burned out by life in New York, musically and otherwise
Prioritizing projects, bands, and his own music over the "hired gun" life

381 - Adam Box: Recording and Touring with Brothers Osborne, His Home Studio: Gilded Palace, Experiencing the Grammys Aug 11, 2022

Adam Box is the touring and recording drummer with the country duo, Brothers Osborne.

Adam grew up in Mississippi where with the support of family, friends and his church community, helped to develop the skills he needed to be a world class musician and drummer. This community and environment lead to Adam meeting legendary bass player Chris Ethridge, member of the Flying Burrito Brothers. Chris became a mentor to Adam and was an important figure in the early days of Adam’s career.

Shortly after Adam moved to Nashville, his talents we’re quickly realized and this lead to him joining the group Brothers Osborne.

He has also played on recordings by Chase Bryant, Lucie Silvas, Sonlite Band, Jeremy Lesley, Kristy Lee Cook and many others. Adam also produces and records out of his home studio, Gilded Palace.

In this episode, Adam talks about:

Useful application in his home studio
Humble beginnings in Nashville
Adam’s snare tone(s)
Geeking out on studio tech
An inspiring in-ear mix for live performance
Working with Producer Jay Joyce
Experiencing a performance on the Grammys

380 - Will Kennedy: His Yellowjackets Legacy, His Educational Mission, His Bay Area Roots Aug 04, 2022

Will Kennedy's musicality and finesse are legendary in the jazz world and beyond, performing with luminaries such as Yellowjackets, Herbie Hancock, Chaka Khan, Snarky Puppy, Bobby McFerrin, Esperanza Spalding, George Benson, and Lee Ritenour. His career is marked by pushing musical boundaries and a desire to be inspired yet be an inspiration. As a longstanding member of the Yellowjackets, the celebrated jazz quartet that includes fellow USC Thornton faculty members Bob Mintzer and Russell Ferrante.

Kennedy played percussion and began private lessons with teacher Bill Nawrocki throughout his school years. He also studied under professor and mentor Bill Bell, performing with him in San Francisco. Kennedy quickly became a fixture in the Bay Area scene as a teenager, and was introduced to legendary steel pan virtuoso Andy Narell with whom he recorded and toured Europe.

Joining the Thornton faculty in Fall 2018, Kennedy took over the duties of drumset instruction for Ndugu Chancler, longtime faculty member and one of the founders of the Popular Music program.

In this episode, Will talks about:

His early teachers and influences in the Bay Area, from groove with Willie "Wild" Sparks to jazz with Tony Williams
Playing on daytime talkshow, movie soundtracks, and other studio word during his hiatus from Yellowjackets
His approach to teaching pop drumming at USC
His physical approach and how he uses and teaches rudiments
What it means to play with your body vs. against your body

379 - Ryan Brown: Drumming for Dweezil Zappa, Living and Working in Los Angeles, Channelling Zappa's Drummers Jul 28, 2022

Ryan Brown is a professional drummer and percussionist in Los Angeles, California. In addition to his gig as the drummer for Dweezil Zappa, he plays with Los Angeles-based bands The Young Royals, Black Belt Karate, SexTapes, AM/FM, The Fuxedos and Madras, and in the bands of artists Arrica Rose, Karem Malicki-Sanchez, Colin Armstrong, Josh Canova, Space Oddity and rapper J Naugh-T.

He has toured with Taiwanese pop star Chyi-Chin and L.A. bands OWL and Ultraviolet, performed on “Last Call with Carson Daly” with Ingrid Michaelson and played the Bern Jazz Festival in Switzerland with R&B artist Niki Haris. He has recorded tracks and albums with producers Marti Frederiksen, Mark Hudson, Mikal Reid, Russ Irwin, Rob Seals, Glen Laughlin, Rob Shrock, Brian Dobbs, Klaus Derendorf, Brian Paturalski, Billy Morrison, Larry Crane and David Weisberg, including the hit single “The Real Thing” from Bo Bice.

Ryan can also be heard on releases by Foreigner, Circus Diablo, Hannah Montana, Clay Aiken, Cassie Davis, Nick Lachey, Jesse McCartney, Heather Graham, Suzie McNeil (Rock Star INXS) and Stephanie McIntosh, as well as on the movie soundtracks for Ice Age: Continental Drift (Adam Schlesinger), Kung Fu Panda (Hans Zimmer and John Powell) and The Dark Knight (Hans Zimmer). He’s performed on recordings with Alex Lifeson, Earl Slick, Elliot Easton and Rudy Sarzo.

Ryan has also appeared as a sideline musician in numerous TV shows and movies, including Pirates of the Caribbean 3: At World’s End, Desperate Housewives, Jag and Samantha Who?. He plays all styles of music, including rock, R&B, jazz, ska, funk, blues, folk and country. He is on the drum faculty at Musicians Institute in Hollywood, Calif., and teaches private lessons as well. A native of Denver, Colorado, he has played drums and percussion since he was 11 years old. Ryan graduated from Indiana University with a degree in jazz studies and percussion.

In this episode, Ryan talks about:

Why he chose Los Angeles
Teaching and mentoring
Growing his network in LA
The audition for Dweezil’s gig
Channeling Zappa’s drummers on the gig
Working with Alex Lifeson

378 - Brandon Draper: Touring with Drum Safari, A Wholistic Approach to College Music, An Evolving Role on the KC Scene Jul 21, 2022

Brandon Draper has enjoyed a celebrated career as drummer, percussionist, producer, multi-instrumentalist and educator. He has been based in Kansas City for the last 15 years where he has led and played in an eclectic mix of projects from jazz to Turkish to electronic music, and runs the acclaimed children's interactive music program Drum Safari with his wife of 14 years Teryn. His extensive resume also includes performances with both the New Mexico and Santa Fe Symphony Orchestras and the Kansas City Symphony, Ottmar Liebert, DJ Logic, Donna Summer, Mose Allison, Steve Coleman, Dick Oatts, Bobby Watson, and Kevin Hays, and Particle. Draper was musical director and live drummer for Quixotic Fusion 2007-2012. He continues to write, consult and occasionally perform with the KC-based cirque group.

Draper is on music faculty at the University of Kansas where he teaches jazz drums, world percussion, steel band and is the director of Music Enterprise certificate combining music business and entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Brandon talks about:

His entrance onto the Kansas City scene after grad school
Drum Safari, a touring music education program for kids, which is becoming the family business
His philosophy as an educator, and the drumset and music business/entrepreneurship programs he heads up at The University of Kansas
Playing with his father, a B3 organist, from an early age
How some tough love from Kevin Hays helped him find a more authentic voice
How his place on the Kansas City scene has changed along with his identity and interests over the years

377 - Mason Ingram: His Duo Slowave, Managing Technology to be Inspiring, Drumming on Broadway Shows in NYC Jul 14, 2022

Mason Ingram is a composer, session drummer, and Ableton programmer, living in Nashville. He is one-half of ambient music group slowave, acting as writer and producer.

He has been the drummer on Broadway's Kinky Boots, The Prom, and RENT (Off-Broadway). He has had the privilege of working with Bibi Bourelly, Angus & Julia Stone, Paul Baloche, The Discovery Channel, 070 Shake, Lewis Capaldi, NOTD, All These Small Moments, The Lone Bellow, Walking Shapes, Annaleigh Ashford, Shacks and Palaces, and Matt Doyle. He is a member of bands The Last Royals, Hundred Hounds, and Young Oceans, and has played on Broadway's The Lion King, The Waitress, Finding Neverland and Little Shop Of Horrors.

Mason also loves working in Abelton Live, from programming, to writing, and recording. He has programmed backing tracks for Broadway shows and pop tours including the current production of Little Shop of Horrors, La Jolla Playhouse’s FLY, Pretty Woman London, Young Oceans, The Last Royals and many others.

Growing up in Austin, TX, he spent 13 years in Brooklyn, before moving to Nashville, where he currently lives with his wife and son. He loves writing, producing, mixing, collaborating, learning of any kind, and finding out new ways of creative inspiration.

He has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Late Late Show with James Cordon, The Wendy Williams Show, LIVE with Kelly and Ryan, and Live at Lincoln Center, along with countless US and European tours.

In this episode, Mason talks about:

Drumming on Broadway shows in New York City
The importance of playing with confidence
The why and how of the DAW Ableton
His duo Slowave and the compositional process
Prioritizing family
Managing technology to be inspiring, not distracting

376 - Kris Myers: 20 Years with Umphrey's McGee, Coming Up in Chicago, Finding Where You Belong, Musically and Personally Jul 07, 2022

Kris Myers began playing drums for progressive-rock band Umphrey’s McGee in 2003. Since then, the band has released eleven albums and maintains a rigorous touring schedule of over 100 live shows per year. Umphrey’s has performed at legendary festivals and venues such as Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Fuji Rock Festival, South by Southwest, Red Rocks Amphitheater, The Ryman Theatre, The Beacon Theatre and more.

Myers attended Elmhurst College from 1995 – 1999 where he was a music major and the drummer in the Elmhurst College Jazz Band. Under director Doug Beach, the Elmhurst College Jazz Band played gigs in the U.S. and Internationally at events such as the Umbria Jazz Festival, Jakarta Jazz Festival and the Montreaux Jazz Festival. Myers has played with a variety of jazz artists such as Nicholas Payton, Diane Schuur, Randy Brecker, Dennis DiBlasio as well as local Chicago musician Mark Colby. In 2001 Myers enrolled in DePaul University where he earned his Master’s Degree in Jazz Drumming.

Myers works as a studio musician in the Nashville for various projects. He continues to play with musicians such as Mike Keneally, Bill Evans, Jeff Coffin, and Billy Strings on a variety of projects in both the Nashville and Los Angeles area.

In this episode, Kris talks about:

Getting started around Chicago's network of educators, drum shops, and universities
Umphrey's McGee's early jam/funk influences (Galactic, MMW, Lettuce, Bela Fleck etc.)
His drumming influences - bringing an adventurous and active drumming presence to Umphrey's
Finding a "give and take" band dynamic - giving a band what they need but being allowed to explore and be you
Projects outside of Umprhey's he's been involved with along the way
Moving from Chicago to LA in 2014, and ultimately settling in Nashville
How where you live and whether it suits your personality/priorities is as important as any musical aspect of your life
What he sees in the present and future of Nashville

375 - Aaron Apter: Being the Best Version of Yourself, Load vs Capacity, PR3 Performance Jun 30, 2022

Aaron Apter is a corrective exercise specialist and professional drummer based out of Nashville, TN. Having a uniquely specific education and professional credentials in both music performance and pain management, Aaron combines both practices in a way that directly addresses the needs of musicians who want to correct nagging injuries without impacting their career. He has worked with a wide variety of acts ranging from Cirque Du Soleil to the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra to War. In 2022, Aaron founded PR3 Performance, a company designed to help musicians resolve chronic pain without having to see a surgeon or miss a performance.

In this episode, Aaron talks about:

Both adapting to a scene and learning from an environment
Prioritizing his health
Surviving a serious bike accident that changed his life
Aaron’s unique coaching practice - PR3 Performance
Aaron’s work to build back Matt’s health with a focus on drumming
Load vs Capacity
Building a tolerance through recovery
Being the best version of yourself

374 - Joy Lapps: Exploring History, Community, and Expression Through the Steel Pan Jun 23, 2022

Joy Lapps is a bandleader, composer, and educator based in Toronto. She was introduced to the steel pan through her church music program as a teenager, and soon started playing community and church events. This soon led to composing her own music and leading her own bands. Her latest release is Girl in the Yard, featuring her own compositions and arrangements, and her husband, Larnell Lewis on drums. The album reflects her exploration of the steel pan as a traditional folk instrument of resistance, but also as the vehicle for her original compositional ideas.

In this episode, Joy talks about:

The musical and geographic origins of the steel pan
How Larnell encouraged her to compose, improvise, and take the steel pan beyond its traditional stylistic role
How having a son with special needs has affected her relationship with music
Leaning into her instrument's traditional identity vs. carving a new musical path for it
How her relationship with Larnell has affected her relationship with the drums
Working with her band to translate traditional Afro-Caribbean styles to a modern jazz format

373 - Hubert Payne: Curiosity Over Judgement, Life and Performance Coaching in “The Space”, Touring with Little Big Town Jun 16, 2022

Hubert Payne is one of the most sought after musicians in the Nashville music scene with a Performance Coaching skill set that’s a cross between ministry, life coaching, therapy and motivation. With over 20 years of performance experience in athletics and music, Hubert is widely recognized for his ability to ‘Unblock’ his clients so they are fully equipped to live from the best of themselves in every area of their lives.

Hubert is a certified life coach, practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic-Programming and a Level 2 ISEP Experiential Coach. He is skilled in emotional wellness and performance after trauma and has worked with The NFLPA, The Green Bay Packers, Chick-Fil-A. Hubert maintains a roster of clients from NFL Coaches and players to real estate agents and musicians.

Hubert is also the touring and recording drummer for National Country Music Artists, Little Big Town. When not on location at The Space (The mental gym he founded in Nashville, TN), you can find Hubert and his wife, Nicole, with their 5 children in Spring Hill, TN.

In this episode, Hubert talks about:

Using the concept of performance when navigating life
Touring with Little Big Town and Miranda Lambert
Double drumming with Miranda’s drummer Max Zemanovic
Life and performance coaching in “The Space”
Normalizing mental health and the help that’s available
Becoming a compassionate witness to our own history
Being able to manage your failings
Choosing curiosity over judgement

372 - Erik Aylesworth: Playing with Jet Black Roses, Recording at Ronnie's Place in Nashville, Thinking like a Producer Jun 09, 2022

Erik Aylesworth is an Atlanta-based drummer who joined Jet Black Roses through remote recording during the pandemic. He attended Atlanta Institute of Music but cut his gigging teeth on the funk/R&B scene in Dayton Ohio. He returned to Atlanta in 2016 and got himself busy playing the usual combo of corporate, bar/restaurant, and church gigs. Jet Black Roses signed with N-Ovation Music Group in Nashville and just finished recording their debut album, with songs set to be release starting in late summer of 2022.

In this episode, Erik talks about

The recording process for Jet Black Roses at Ronnie's Place
The band's unique strategy for releasing and publicizing their music, skipping a few of the usual steps
Becoming a father during the pandemic
How recording with guitarist Rob McNelly influenced his own approach as a drummer
How the usual influences of Bonham, Colaiuta, and Peart combined with pocket influences like Prince and Lil' John Roberts

371 - Jerry Pentecost: Drumming for Old Crow Medicine Show, Dealing with Systemic Racism, Traditional Country Drumming and Serving the Song Jun 02, 2022

Drummer and Nashville native, Jerry Pentecost has played with John Prine, Brent Cobb, Amanda Shires, Caitlin Rose, Aaron Lee Tasjan, and many others. In 2018 he became only the second drummer ever nominated for the Americana Music Association’s Instrumentalist of the Year award.

Since around 2019, Jerry has been the drummer for the Grammy award winning group, Old crow Medicine Show.

In this episode, Jerry talks about:

Loyalty over pay when juggling multiple gigs
Playing the Medallion Ceremony at the Country Music Hall of Fame honoring Eddy Bayers
Drumming for Old Crow Medicine Show
Covering many roles with OCMS including playing mandolin, bones and singing
Recording the latest OCMS record, Paint This Town
Two op-eds he wrote for the Tennessean focusing on Black History
Dealing with systemic racism
Traditional country drumming and serving the song

370 - Eric Slick: Playing with Dr. Dog and Waxahatchee, Building Songs Around Drum Sounds May 26, 2022

Eric Slick is a product of the Philly area where he began touring with Dr. Dog. After relocating to Nashville in 2018, he continued that gig until the band’s recent hiatus, and has gone on to perform with Waxahatchee and The Crooked Rhythm Band among others. He is also a singer, songwriter, and producer in his own right, his latest release as a solo artist is an album of ten original songs called Wiseacre.

In this episode, Eric talks about

His ongoing studio learning process
The power of "no" - filling your schedule vs. being fulfilled
Playing with the Crooked Rhythm band and digging into the Fela Kuti/Tony Allen stuff
His interest in late 70s/early 80s drum machines and productions
Wrestling with drums and mics vs. wrestling with the computer
How Nashville is becoming a place for everyone, musically and otherwise
His "jazz damage"

369 - Al Murray: The British Drum Company, His 2nd WW podcast: We Have Ways of Making You Talk May 19, 2022

Al Murray is a Co-Founder and Managing Director of the British Drum Company

He is also one of the UK’s most recognizable comedians! In his guise as the Pub Landlord he has played drums with the likes of Phil Collins and Queen as well as touring the world appearing on TV and radio.

Al has published books and is planning a movie, but his first love is drums. A keen and enthusiastic drummer, Al has played since he was a kid, and is currently active in the band 'Fat Cops'.

Lastly, Al and historian James Holland discuss all matters Second World War with their immensely popular podcast, We Have Ways of Making You Talk. The podcast is a bi-weekly show exploring the war in close up and James and Al have a stunning knowledge of the subject.

In this episode, Al talks about:

His podcast, “We Have Ways of Making You Talk”
His interest in the 2nd World War
The British Drum Company
The variety of snare drums that The British Drum Company offers
His full time gig as a touring comic act, the Pub Landlord
How the history of drum manufacturing is also the history of manufacturing

368 - Danny Paschall: From Metal to Mainstream to Experimental, Playing with Col. Bruce Hampton and Brent Hinds May 12, 2022

Danny Pachall has been active on the Atlanta scene for nearly 20 years with gigs ranging from the most precise metal to the most experimental improvisation. He toured with "blues surrealist" Col. Bruce Hampton and was part of the long-standing jam session hosted by bassist Kevin Scott. He has also toured and recorded with metal guitar heavyweight Emil Werstler, Zappa alum Ike Willis, tribute outfit Georgia Players Guild, and many others. He is currently in the house band for "Metalsome Mondays," a live band metal karaoke show, and most recently he was tapped to perform live and record for a new side project by Mastadon's Brent Hinds.

In this episode, Danny talks about

His view of the current metal landscape
His "Jim Keltner" approach to Brent Hinds' project
Recording and touring with Emil Werstler's metal project "Verlorener"
The influence of bassist Kevin Scott, and the role Kevin's experimental jam session on the Atlanta creative scene
Playing with Col. Bruce Hampton
Being capable of the precision of metal and the freeness of experimental music, sometimes simultaneously
Getting over imposter syndrome - being a jack of all trades vs. needing a musical home

367 - Jim Brock: Developing Your Own Voice with Percussion, Recording in the Pre-Digital Era May 05, 2022

Jim Brock has proven to be an innovator in the world of drums and percussion. Within his forty five year career he has appeared on literally hundreds of recordings with artists such as Joe Walsh, Joan Baez, Kathy Mattea, Joe Cocker, Janis Ian, River Phoenix, and James McMurtry. With five solo recordings and a DVD entitled The Nature Of Drumming, Jim Has traveled the world extensively with performances on The Tonight Show, A Prairie Home Companion, Good Morning America, MTV, and multiple appearances on The View, just to name a few. Among these include a concert at the White House for President Clinton in 2000. In 2007, Jim was asked to compose the music for the documentary "The Spirit of Sacajawea". For this work he is the recipient of the prestigious Telly award, and was nominated for an Emmy award in the category of Composer/Arranger.

In this episode, Jim talks about:

Learning to develop his own voice with percussion
When and when not to use traditional patterns and feels
Recording with Joe Walsh
Recording in the pre-digital era
Living and working in Charlotte NC
The recording scene in Charlotte
The rhythm of life itself
Recording with Steve Gadd, Alex Acuna, Mel Lewis and others

366 - Brian Steever: Finding and Exploring His Unique Voice in Kansas City, Letting Sounds and Ideas Guide The Way Apr 28, 2022

Brian Steever is a drummer on a mission to inject joy into every musical situation that he finds himself. One of the most in-demand drummers on the Kansas City scene, the drums have been his passion since he was born. He began his studies with Loyd Warden in Columbia Missouri and is an alumnus of UMKC where he studied with Doug Auwarter, Brandon Draper, Curtis Lundy, Michael Carvin and Bobby Watson. Brian enjoys many performance opportunities in the Kansas City area and beyond. He can be seen around town with Mike Metheny, Matt Otto, Bob Bowman, Jeff Harshbarger, and Hermon Mehari. Brian has also had opportunity to play with musicians from all over the world including Ben Allison, Javon Jackson, Deborah Brown, Bob Sheppard, Tony Tixier, Shunzo Ohno, and Sam Newsome among others.

In this episode, Brian talks about:

Having the three strong influences of a mentor, a peer, and a community all before he left high school
How the Kansas City jazz scene is supportive of everyone's unique voice
His experience at University of Missouri-Kansas City
The influence of Matt Wilson - being effortless and intentional
Exploring sounds and ideas vs. practicing drums
The never-ending matched vs. traditional conundrum

365 - Shannon Forrest: Performing With Spirit and Intent, The Confidence of Jeff Porcaro, Staying in Contact With Your Muse Apr 21, 2022

As a session drummer, Shannon Forrest has contributed to the work of many well-known artists, including Brooks & Dunn, Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, Mary Chapin Carpenter, The Chieftains, Willie Nelson, Ricky Skaggs, Trisha Yearwood, Lee Ann Womack, Jerry Douglas, Merle Haggard, and many others. Shannon is also a producer and engineer.

Born in Easley, South Carolina and now living in the countryside just outside of Nashville, Shannon's recording career is unparalleled. In his twenty-plus years as one of Nashville’s top session drummers, he's constantly in demand for practically every top artist that town produces. The list includes mega stars Brooks & Dunn, Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, Toby Keith, Faith Hill, Sugarland, Tracy Lawrence, LeAnn Rimes, The Chieftains, Michael McDonald, Willie Nelson, Alabama, Art Garfunkel, Ricky Skaggs, Trisha Yearwood, Blake Shelton, Martina McBride, Lee Ann Womack, Gretchen Wilson, Merle Haggard, Trace Adkins…and countless others. Shannon Forrest is a recipient of the Academy of Country Music’s Top Drummer/Percussionist Of The Year.

In this episode Shannon talks about:

The confidence of Jeff Porcaro
The “inter-dynamics” of the Rosanna shuffle
What separates the “session musician” from others
The intent of building his own studio
The production of the Tom Bukovac record - Plexi Soul
Performing with spirit and intent
Developing a good working relationship with the click
Recent recording project - Judson McKinney and the Wanderers
Shannon’s YouTube channel

364 - Corey Fonville: The "SuperBlue" Project with Kurt Elling & Charlie Hunter, Playing with Butcher Brown, Evolving Through Self-Acceptance Apr 14, 2022

After spending the first part of his career in the New York-based jazz world, Corey Fonville has evolved into playing and producing more groove-based music. With his band Butcher Brown and most recently with Charlie Hunter and Kurt Elling on new album SuperBlue, Corey is exploring playing and tones that are firmly in the supporting role rather than the more explosive/interactive jazz role. Corey is the product of a couple of non-traditional educational environments; The New School in New York and the Dave Brubeck Institute in Stockton, CA, and his jazz resume includes Christian Scott, Nicholas Payton, Jacky Terrasson and many more. But he has found himself moving past that world in search of drumming and music that's more true to his musical identity and values.

In this episode, Corey talks about:

How the SuperBlue project came about, and how Charlie and Kurt turned to him to help shape it
Being a bridge between Kurt's energy and Charlie's energy
Being influenced by Kareem Riggins, Kendrick Scott, Obed Calvaire, and other New York jazz drummers
How sounding like other drummers is a step in the journey to sounding like you
Ways he's thinking about combining his new musical identity with the jazz world he used to inhabit, and approaching jazz with a production mindset
How turning something down or moving away from a certain music requires self-acceptance

363 - Nate Felty: Being Yourself on the Session or Gig, Seeking Out New Music and Experiences, Teaching and Learning Apr 07, 2022

Originally from Syracuse, New York, Nate Felty is an experienced live/session drummer and educator who enjoys performing a wide range of musical styles. Nate has been living and working in Nashville, Tennessee since 2012 and earned his Masters in Commercial Music at Belmont University in 2014.

Nate is the drummer for Nashville-based, nationally touring country/roots artist, Kelsey Waldon. With Waldon, he has shared the stage on tour with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives, and John Prine.

Since his arrival in Nashville, Nate has performed and recorded with notable touring bands from Nashville. Among these are The Amanda Broadway Band, Abby Anderson, Devon Gilfillian, Dan Smalley, Marquee Mayfield, and a 9-piece funk/fusion group Dynamo. While with Dynamo, the group earned Nashville Industry Music Awards (NIMA's) in 2015 for "Best Funk/Fusion Band" and "Album of the Year" for their 2015 release, Find Your Way.

When not on tour, Nate is an adjunct professor of drum set at Sewanee University of the South. Nate continues to make his imprint on Nashville's local music community, performing with notable musicians such Roy Agee (Prince), Jeff Coffin (Dave Matthews Band), Micah Hulscher (Margo Price), Jay White (Amos Lee, Cory Henry), Mike Hicks (Rascal Flatts), David Rodgers (Keb Mo), De Marco Johnson (Marc Broussard) and Paul Horton (Alabama Shakes).

In this episode, Nate talks about:

Being yourself on the session or gig while paying reverence to the genre/style
His early influence and exposure to jazz
Following his “North Star” and seeking out new music and experiences
Playing in the house band for “The Pitch Meeting”
Understanding musical references when creating parts
His award winning band Dynamo
Teaching and learning
Recovering after snapping a tendon in his left hand

362 - Jordan Perlson: An East Coaster Finding His Way in Nashville, Being Intentional About Saying Yes or No,"Async" Drum Coaching Mar 31, 2022

Jordan Perlson has spanned about as wide a stylistic reach as one can imagine. Be it with jazz legends Seamus Blake and Gary Burton, folk heroes Alison Brown and Missy Raines, reggae giants Matisyahu and Trevor Hall, cutting edge music innovators like Becca Stevens, Snarky Puppy, and Jeff Coffin, progressive innovators Adrian Belew or Kaki King, or fusion megastar Hiromi, Jordan has become a known force in these many circles. With credits on 100+ recordings, including national and international ad campaigns, Jordan is as at home in the studio as he is on stage. Having taught at prestigious institutions such as Berklee College of Music, New York University and masterclasses all over the world, Jordan is a passionate educator. An author of 2 books for Mel Bay publishing, Jordan’s books have been translated into several languages and are used the world round by teachers and students of many levels.

In this episode, Jordan talks about:

Why he moved to Nashville after 12 years in New York
Curating musical situations that line up with momentum in a direction, even if the end goal is abstract
Being more intentional about not just what he says yes to, but why he says yes
How New York shaped his personality, and how that shapes his musical identity
Trusting that his instincts and intentions will make good music, even if the execution isn't quite perfect
His "asynchronous" drum coaching approach to private teaching

361 - Michael Bland: The Demands of Working for Prince, The Power of Mentorship, Drumming for Soul Asylum Mar 24, 2022

At age sixteen, Michael Bland won the "twin cities' best drummer" contest and was the beginning of a rewarding career.

With his recognition as a prodigy, Michael was actively sought by many local acts. At seventeen, Hiram Bullock snagged him up, and took him to Pittsburgh and New York to do some one-nighters. That same year, he joined Dr. Mambo's Combo, a house band at Bunker's Music Bar and Grill, a local club where many Minneapolis musicians cut their teeth. Bunker's is where Prince first spotted Michael, Michael joined prince in 1989 and he toured, recorded, and performed with the new power generation for the next seven years.

In 1996, immediately after his tenure with Prince, Michael went on tour with Paul Westerberg, which led to tours and recordings with other national acts, such as Chaka Khan, Maxwell, Dionne Farris, George Benson, Phil Upchurch, Howard Hewitt, and many others. Since 2005, Michael has been a member of the band Soul Asylum.

In this episode, Michael talks about:

The demands of working for Prince
How he got the gig with Prince
The podcast, MUSIPOLITIX he ran during the pandemic
Drumming for Soul Asylum
The power of mentorship
Stories of working for Chaka Khann, Madonna

360 - Quinton "Q" Robinson: Touring with "Ain't Too Proud," Making a Career Transition into Musical Theatre, A Different Kind of Musical Fulfillment Mar 17, 2022

Over the last decade plus, Quinton "Q" Robinson developed a busy and sustainable career drumming with Gospel and R&B acts such as Avery Sunshine, Peebo Bryson, and Anthony David, and recording in his home studio. But he got interested in musical theatre and started spending time in New York meeting Broadway drummers, musical directors, and contractors, and playing readings and off-Broadway productions. He also got in with the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta played a litany of shows there. That legwork has culminated in Q landing the drum chair for the touring production of "Ain't Too Proud," the Tony-winning Temptations musical.

In this episode, Q talks about:

The process of getting on the radar of decision makers in the musical theatre world
His experience at The Alliance Theatre in Atlanta
How he got on Clayton Craddock's radar, and how Clayton came to recommend him for "Ain't Too Proud"
The intricacies of the show
The qualities required of a musical theatre drummer
His goals for the new studio he's about to build

359 - Clifford Koufman: Studying Drumming in West Africa, Completing the Cycle of Music Through Sharing, "Clif Chats" Interview Series Mar 10, 2022

Clifford Koufman is a Nashville-based, award-winning drummer who founded Sound & Rhythm Drumming School in 2000. With over 20 years of experience, Clifford carries a world of experience to every scenario, whether creating music, performing or teaching. He's honored to be the recipient of multiple grants, the Thrive award to build community through community drumming classes, performances, and drum circles, and the Regional Arts & Culture Council professional development grant to study music in Guinea, West Africa. He's toured internationally, throughout the US, and in Alaska. Clifford has spent time living and learning from master musicians in Ghana and then Guinea, West Africa, and has performed, taught, and worked with thousands of people as well as working with numerous bands, songwriters, and composers throughout the United States. In an effort to share in his musical experience, inspiration and to connect with creative people through conversation, he began "Clif Chats" where he's has conducted over sixty interviews of creative people at the top of their fields.

Clifford teaches people in Nashville as well as traveling to schools, colleges, and universities as well as teaches internationally online. He creates play-along tracks for drum circle facilitators as well as making music for licensing. Clifford embraces the spirit of collaboration in Nashville, performing and recording and writing, collaborating with songwriters, bands and composers. He is continually experimenting with a hybrid drum set, incorporating percussion and drum set elements with various hand drums. He facilitates leadership development events using the drum circle as the vehicle. Clifford continues to teach students all over the world and is excited to collaborate with songwriters, bands, and composers. He continues Clif Chats and is always looking to geek out about people living creatively, drums, art, and music.

In this episode, Clifford talks about:

His journey into hand drumming
Studying and adventures in Ghana and Guinea, West Africa
Completing the cycle of music through sharing
Building a teaching practice
Clifford’s interview series: Cliff Chats

358 - Blair Sinta: The "Three Jobs in One" Endeavor of Recording Yourself, His Courses and Podcast, Bringing Your True Self to a New Gig Mar 03, 2022

Blair has been an LA staple for over two decades, having recorded and/or toured with Alanis Morissette, Chris Cornell, Gwen Stefani, Brandi Carlisle, Melissa Etheridge, and many others. Blair has a couple of new calling cards, one of them is his podcast Recording Drums, he’s getting ready to get season 2 of that going. And the other is his suite of online courses, Introduction to Recording, The Snare Sound Bible, andImprove Your Groove. For the month of March, Blair is offering a 15% discount on these courses to drum click listeners, check ‘em out at blairsinta.com and use the promo code BFSDSDB at checkout.

In this episode, Blair talks about:

Tracks that require a set of drum sounds and parts vs. tracks that require a drum performance
What led him to create his online course
Focusing on a narrow or specialized set of goals/skills in the studio vs. taking on the challenge of going after any sound
His six week zoom course
What "listening with your eyes" means
Phone audio considerations
His time with Alanis Morissette
Trying to be what you think a band wants vs. representing yourself accurately

357 - Noah Levy: Working with Brian Setzer, Building and Growing His Home Studio, The Power of 2 and 4 Feb 24, 2022

Noah Levy is an in demand drummer that lives in the Minneapolis / St Paul area of Minnesota. He has toured and recorded with a long list of international artists including Five For Fighting, The Honeydogs, Peter Frampton, Nelson, The Bodeans, and Golden Smog.

Noah spends a lot of time as a session player working in studios around town as well as his own home studio. He currently plays with Brian Setzer in his Rockabilly Riot, and Orchestra.

In this episode, Noah talks about:

Building his home studio
Self discovery
Time management in the home studio
The power of 2 and 4
The talent in Minneapolis / St Paul
Working with Brian Setzer
Studio etiquette

356 - Matt & Zack: Our Relationship with the Click, Our Interview Style, What's Coming up for WDP and The Drum Click Feb 17, 2022

Zack was recently in Nashville for a gig, so he and Matt took the opportunity to sit down and chop it up.

In this episode, Matt and Zack talk about:

What "burying the click" really means and how it fits into the greater goal of sounding and feeling good
The phenomenon and business model of the social media drummer
An interaction we had with a listener regarding our interview style
What's coming up with The Drum Click Network from discounts to a Nashville Drum Camp

355 - Rob Rufus: Drummer, Published Author, Cancer Survivor and Advocate, The “Band Drummer” vs the “Working Drummer” Feb 10, 2022

Rob Rufus is an author, musician, screenwriter, and advocate. He is the recipient of the American Library Association’s prestigious ALEX Award. His literary debut, Die Young With Me, was named one of the Best Books of the Year by Hudson Booksellers and is currently being developed as a major motion picture. His follow-up, The Vinyl Underground, was named one of the Junior Library Guild’s Gold Standard Selections. He lives with his dog in East Nashville, Tennessee. Catch him on the road with his bands The Bad Signs or Blacklist Royals, and learn more at www.robrufus.net

In this episode, Rob talks about:

His first book - Die Young With Me
The power of artistic expression
His 2nd and 3rd book: The Vinyl Underground and Paradise, WV
Touring with his band The Blacklist Royals
The “Band Drummer” vs the “Working Drummer”
Realities of being a working creative
Facing down cancer that gave him a new outlook on life

354 - George Fludas: A Lifetime of Chicago Jazz, Playing in The Ray Brown Trio, The Alchemy of Sound and Feel from Bonham to Blakey Feb 03, 2022

Chicago drummer George Fludas was born in Chicago on October 10, 1966. He was inspired to play drums by his father, who was also a drummer, and who exposed him to great jazz drummers such as Art Blakey, Max Roach, and "Philly" Joe Jones.

He has played with many stellar musicians such as Lou Donaldson, Kenny Burrell, Betty Carter, Benny Green, Roy Hargrove, Hank Jones, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, Benny Carter, Phil Woods, and Bobby Hutcherson. George has performed at numerous jazz venues in the U.S. such as the Jazz Showcase in Chicago, Yoshi’s in Oakland, the Blue Note, Village Vanguard, Smoke and the Jazz Standard in New York and Catalina's in Hollywood, as well as many international Jazz Festivals, including Montreal Festival du Jazz, Bern Jazz Fest in Switzerland, and Glasgow and Edinburgh Jazz Fests. He toured Europe and Japan extensively as a member of Ray Brown's Trio, and with groups led by Hank Jones, Diana Krall, Monty Alexander, Cedar Walton and Joey Defrancesco. He can be heard on numerous recordings as a sideman with Ray Brown, Eric Alexander, Monty Alexander, Bobby Broom, Lin Halliday and The Chicago Jazz Orchestra.

In this episode, George talks about:

What makes a successful jazz club
His experience playing with the iconic Ray Brown trio
How Bonham influenced him, and what Bonham had in common with some jazz drumming icons
How the synthesis of sound and feel should be included in the definition of "technique"
How the Chicago scene shaped him as a player and the musical element that is prevalent in Chicago jazz
How the trends of remote recording and sample packs are working their way into jazz

353 - Simon Phillips: Protocol 5, Signature Drum Sound and Tone, Composer, Engineer, Producer Jan 27, 2022

Simon Phillips, multifaceted drummer and composer, producer and engineer, is renowned for his historic stints with Jeff Beck, The Who, Toto, Jack Bruce, Mike Oldfield, Joe Satriani, Judas Priest and countless others. His life of top-tier session work has fostered an extraordinary versatility and boundless artistic curiosity, something he’s long carried into his work as a leader, mainly under the banner of Protocol.

An entirely self-taught composer, Phillips debuted the solo Protocol project eponymously in 1989, then revived it in quartet form on Protocol II (2013), Protocol III (2015) and Protocol IV (2017). Throughout, Phillips has grown his vision for an instrumental music with pop sensibility and lyrical, almost singable melody, all over a complex and elusive harmonic foundation. Of the original members (guitarist Andy Timmons, keyboardist Steve Weingart, bassist Ernest Tibbs), Tibbs remains in the fold; he joined keyboardist Dennis Hamm (Thundercat) and guitar virtuoso Greg Howe for Protocol IV. He is gamely on board again for Protocol V, partnering with the group’s newest members: veteran keyboard magician Otmaro Ruiz and two prodigiously gifted young players that Tibbs himself recommended, guitarist Alex Sill and saxophonist Jacob Scesney.

In this episode, Simon talks about:

His interest composing
Working in his dad's band when he was very young
The origin of his set up
Simon’s signature drum sound and tone
Early exposure to the studio environment
The recording of Protocol 5
The value of understanding multiple styles

352 - Ash Soan: Learning How to Track and Mix Simultaneously, Letting Who You Are Determine How You Sound Jan 20, 2022

Ash Soan is one of the most in-demand drummers in the world, with a long list of live and studio credits that includes many of the biggest names in pop music over the last few decades. In addition to his studio and touring work, he is also well-known for his seven-year stint as the house drummer on The Voice UK. He is the creator of a series of video lessons available on his website and commands a wide social media influence from the confines of his small home studio, a converted 18th century windmill base that resides on his property outside London and has become synonymous with his drumming.

In this episode, Ash talks about:

His approach to mixing drums after he's tracked raw sounds
Finding sounds through science and manuals vs. intuition, experimentation, and trial and error
Knowing your sound and yourself well enough to be not just capable, but confident in any situation
Following iconic drummers on a gig without trying to be them
How he's avoided any major physical issues through a relaxed approach
How the greatest drummers' playing reflects their personalities, from Gadd to Guiliana to Ferrone to Copeland to Ringo

351 - Kenny Aronoff: Eight Steps to a Healthy Life, Early days with John Mellencamp, Staying Focused on 1 or 2 Things Until Perfected Jan 13, 2022

Kenny has entertained millions of people with his drumming all across the world, played on thousands of records, provided the beat of America’s culture for four decades, and has been the “go to” drummer for the biggest stars in music, ranging from John Mellencamp to Lady Gaga, Bob Dylan to The Smashing Pumpkins, and everyone in between!

In this episode, Kenny talks about:

Learning to focus on 1 or 2 things and making them perfect
Questions from a few of our Patreon members

James Osborne, Jimi Allison & Isaac Sanchez

Preparing every detail for TV performances
Work / Life balance
Eight Steps to a Healthy Life
His book “Sex, Drums, Rock n’ Roll”
Early days with John Mellencamp
Charlie Watts

350 - Brandon Bush: Drumming with Dark Water, MD'ing Musicals, "Make it Great...You Will Win" Jan 06, 2022

As a studio musician, Brandon has performed on over 100 recordings including Grammy nominated and winning releases by John Mayer, Sugarland and Shawn Mullins. As a member of the multi-platinum-selling rock band Train, Brandon toured the world, indulging in his life-long rock and roll fantasy of performing a keyboard solo on a smoke-emitting Moog synthesizer.

These days, in addition to touring with country music mega stars Sugarland, Brandon is a member of the music collective Songs of the Architect where he works as a songwriter, composer and producer on a wide variety of projects including film, TV, gaming and media formats. In recent years, he and his brother Kristian have been collaborators in the original project Dark Water, as well as numerous musical theatre productions with Kristian as composer and Brandon as musical director.

In this episode, Brandon talks about:

The many responsibilities of being MD for a musical, from the micro (drum notation) to the macro (room tuning)
Being self-critical without being self-defeating
How taking 16th note interpretation out of the drummer's hands can strengthen a song/groove
Defining the word "swing," in conversation and within a song
Turning negative feelings (envy, bitterness, regret, etc.) into positive ones (gratitude, admiration, etc.)
"Correctness" vs. human-ness in music production

349 - Nick Buda: Nashville Session Powerhouse, Returning Guest After 7 Years, Bringing the Best Out of Every Song Dec 24, 2021

Nick Buda was the featured artist on just the second ever Working Drummer podcast back in January 2015 and we are happy to have him back to talk about what he’s been up to and see what more we can learn from this super pro player.

Early in his career, Nick toured with such diverse artists as Edwin McCain, Hank Williams Jr., Jedd Hughes, Maia Sharp, Emily West, Col. Bruce Hampton and the Codetalkers and many others. Playing with these various artists has led to performing at so many great iconic venues such as the Grand Ole Opry along with TV appearances on many of the late night and daytime talk shows. It also led to a whole new side of Nick's career as a session drummer.

Nick's unique drumming style combines his delicate touch with a soulful r&b backbeat and an explosive energy, which adds depth and excitement to his tracks. His unmistakeable style infiltrates both live and studio settings putting him in high demand amongst the Music Row elite.

His playing is featured on country/pop sensation Taylor Swift's first 5 multi-platinum albums. This includes "Fearless", which won many Grammy's including Album Of The Year. Other artists Nick has recorded with include: Richard Marx, Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, Kenny Loggins, Lady Antebellum, Martina McBride and Randy Houser to name a few.

In this episode, Nick talks about:

How his perspective has changed since becoming a father and living through the pandemic
Good uses of social media
The effects of 2020
Working with Will Bowen and the band One Man Riot
How sessions work in Nashville
Bringing the best out of every song you record
The inspiration of Steve Gadd’s signature feel and personality

348 - Dave Elitch: New Additions to His Online Course, Incorporating Alexander Technique, "Making Your Body Disappear" Dec 16, 2021

Dave Elitch first gained notoriety touring with the American progressive rock band The Mars Volta in 2009-2010. Since then he has lent his talents to Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake, M83, The 1975, Juliette Lewis, Big Black Delta, and many others. An established LA session player, Dave has performed on various records, syncs, and film scores for major motion pictures, including “Trolls" and “Logan." He also conducts masterclass lectures worldwide and keeps a busy private teaching practice in Los Angeles. Dave has developed a reputation as the technique/body mechanic specialist and has helped many of the industry's top players and educators expand their vocabulary, overcome physical/mental barriers and get out of their own way.

In this episode, Dave talks about:

What's new in the latest additions to his online course
What The Alexander Technique is and how he has incorporated it into his approach
How the physical and the psychological can work with each other or against each other
How to be mindful without being obsessive
How diet plays into how your body works, both in the immediate and over time

347 - Joe Gilder: Home Studio Corner, Get It Right At The Source, Advice When Recording Drums Dec 09, 2021

Joe Gilder is a musician, songwriter, and producer living in the Nashville area with his wife Pam and 3 kids.

Joe started Home Studio Corner back in 2009. Over the years, he's created thousands of pieces of content — videos, podcasts, articles, training courses, and more — all with the goal of helping home studio folks make better music.

In addition to Home Studio Corner, Joe's worked for Sweetwater and Presonus, as well as leading worship for a few churches in the Nashville area.

Looking for free help? Check out his YouTube channel as well as these free resources.

Looking to dive deeper? Check out my courses here.

In this episode, Joe talks about:

How “Home Studio Corner” got started and what it is
Advice for content creators
Get It Right At The Source - G.I.R.A.T.S.
What Joe loves about working with drummer Tim Horsley (WDP ep 025)
Advice when recording drums
Ideas for growing your home studio clientele

346 - Frank Zummo: Going Solo in the EDM World, His Physical Regimen, The Lasting Influence of Dom Famularo Dec 02, 2021

Frank Zummo is currently the drummer of the rock band SUM 41, EDM Artist Kayzo, and has recently begun releasing music and doing live performances under his own name. His schooling started with Dom Famularo and continued at the Drummer's Collective in Manhattan. In 2004, Zummo co-founded the award-winning drum ensemble Street Drum Corps, which became his biggest project to date, resulting in countless world tours, Vegas residencies and performances onstage with Linkin Park, 30 Seconds to Mars, Chris Cornell (Soundgarden); and has now expanded into a nationwide franchise with several theme park residencies. Other projects Zummo has in his pocket include: Motley Crue (filled in for Tommy Lee during a hand injury), Krewella, Gary Numan, Scott Weiland (Stone Temple Pilots' late singer), Julien-K, Dead By Sunrise, Orianthi, the Start, Dhani Harrison, and many more.

In this episode, Frank talks about:

What he learned from DJs about how to put on a live EDM show
How drummers like Tommy Lee and Chad Smith inspired his approach to live shows
What he does (and doesn't do) to manage the physical challenges of his playing style
How Dom Famularo set him on a positive path
Assembling and managing his business team

345 - Tommy Harden: Nashville Studio Great, Drumming for Legendary Country Band Alabama, Playing for the Song Nov 18, 2021

Tommy Harden has been in Nashville since the early 90's. The first gig he landed was 4 months after moving to town with the Grammy award winning Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers. He then went on to tour with Ricky Skaggs, playing drums in the coveted Kentucky Thunder band as well as touring with Reba McEntire for 14 years. Tommy has played on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, David Letterman, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Oprah, The View, Regis and Kelly, and many others. He has performed at the White House, the Kennedy Center, and the Capitol for the 4th of July, and has played in every state in the nation, in arenas and amphitheaters all over the country.

Since getting off the road full time in the mid 90’s, Tommy pursued studio work, where he became a top call, ‘A' list studio drummer. He played on hundreds of recordings for artists such as Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire, Big and Rich, Waylon Jennings, Jessica Simpson, and has been on number one hits for Justin Moore, Dustin Lynch, and James Otto. Since 1997, he has played on an estimated 5,000-7,000 sessions.

Tommy was featured playing drums in the movie ‘Muscle Shoals', playing for Rick Hall and Candi Staton. He fronts his own band, Lost Hollow with his wife Lorrie. He currently tours with the legendary country band Alabama. Tommy has a studio at his house called Tommy's Dungeon, where he does drum tracks for clients all over the world, produces, and writes songs.

In this episode, Tommy talks about:

His home studio and the build of his drum room
Recording and performing hacks
His duo: Lost Hollow
Playing for the song
A look behind the scenes when recording couple #1 hits
Changes in the industry that lead to his work with Reba McEntire
Touring with Alabama

344 - Mike Jackson: Multi-talented Musician, Composer and Overall Creative, Understanding the Technical Side of Creating Music Nov 11, 2021

Mike Jackson is a multi-talented musician, composer and overall creative with over 30 years of experience in the fields of music, commercial composition as well as video and audio production. He has composed music for a diverse range of clients and formats like CD-ROM game titles such as Spy Kids® and Totally Spies®, WGN's Footnote and CMT.

While serving as staff composer at one of the nations largest production facilities, Mills James Productions, Mike composed music for Victoria's Secret, Toyota, the critically acclaimed "Light Tunnel" at the Detroit International Airport, The Ohio Lottery, for which he received an Emmy® award, and many other fortune 500 companies.

Mike also composed the music for the International Academy of Web Television nominated show Aidan 5, A sci-fi, film-noir, detective drama. Mike is currently the visual and digital experience designer for the company Sedgwick.

In this episode, Mike talks about:

Deciding on plug-ins for your DAW based on experience
G.A.S. - Gear Acquisition Syndrom
Mike’s journey to understanding the technical side of music
Composing commercial music
Reviewing and defining standard recording terms like compression, phasing, etc

343 - Megan Coleman: Drumming for Grammy-Nominated UK Artist Yola, Gigging as a DJ, Detroit to Jordan to Nashville Nov 04, 2021

Megan Coleman was born in the heart of Detroit. She grew up in church, learning from the rich culture that is Detroit Gospel, Jazz and RnB music. She always had a passion for music and had the chance to start exploring that both in church and in school when she started playing drums in Jr. High. She continued to grow in love and passion for music, but wanted instead, to pursue Medicine.

In the midst of these studies, she moved to Nashville to try her hand at pursuing music full-time. Megan has since had the opportunity to grow and flourish both in Nashville and in the industry as a whole.

As a drummer and percussionist, she has shared the stage with a wide variety of artists such as Jackie Greene, Foy Vance, and Ron Pope-to name a few. Most recently, she can be found touring with Yola.

When she is not on the road, Megan spends her time in sessions around town, teaching lessons, or volunteering in mentorship programs.

In this episode, Megan talks about:

Her journey from Detroit, TX, the middle east and Nashville
Learning music and drumming from a non-traditional place
Living in Jordan
Working as a DJ
Embracing fear and anxiety
Working with Grammy nominated artist Yola

342 - Chad Melchert: 5 x CCMA (Canadian Country Music Association) Drummer Of The Year, Abbigail Road Studio, Supporting Canadian artists Oct 28, 2021

Chad Melchert is one of Canada’s most pre-eminent live and session drummers who is also an acclaimed drum teacher. This native Canadian calls Edmonton (Morinville), Alberta, home but despite his Canadian residence Melchert has toured all over the world and played with artists from all types genres including Gord Bamford, Brett Kissel, Adam Gregory, Aaron Goodvin, Duane Steele, Hemingway Corner, Gil Grand, Jake Mathews, Dallas Smith, Beverley Mahood, Michelle Wright, Bobby Wills, Mikaila Cooper, Corb Lund, Charlie Major, Tyler Connoly (Theory Of A Deadman), Rose Maddox (Grand Ole Opry legend), Jean Shepard (Grand Ole Opry legend), Ian Tyson, FOXX Worthee, Drew Gregory, Deric Ruttan, Jason Blaine, Chad Brownlee, Aaron Pritchett, Lindsay Ell, Patricia Conroy, Tenille Alee, Lindi Ortega, Charlie James, Shawn Oates, The Lovelocks, Eric Ethridge, Jeremy Dallas, Chris Henderson, Trinity Bradshaw, Michela Sheedy, Katie Love Hess, Amber Bauer, Amber Stoby, Hastie and The Alibi, Freedom’s Note, Thin Line Sid, Jordan Lee,, The Dungarees, James Murdoch, Deon Blyan, Jay Sparrow, Mike Nash, Dan Davidson, Codie Prevost, Alex Runions, Craig Moritz, and Joal Kamps, to name a few.

Melchert has also earned repeated recognition as the CCMA (Canadian Country Music Association) Drummer Of The Year (2012, 2014, 2015, 2016 and, 2019) and in fact, Melchert was the first drummer to enter the CCMA Hall Of Honor. Melchert endorses, Gretsch drums, Canopus Snares, Remo Drum Heads, Beier Drums Snares, Paiste Cymbals, Porter & Davies Monitoring System, Vic Firth Drumsticks, Protection Racket Cases and, Rhythm Tech Percussion.

In this episode, Chad talks about:

Maintaining and growing his home studio
Home studio hacks
Playing a supportive role in a studio environment
Supporting Canadian artists
Being “studio ready”

341 - Jake Sommers: Drumming for Country Artist Luke Combs, The Value of Charting Skills, Studying with Dom Famularo Oct 21, 2021

Jake Sommers attended The University of the Arts in Philadelphia (UArts) as a music performance major. He was fortunate to study under Marc Dicciani, Jimmy Paxson (Ben Harper, Stevie Nicks, and Natalie Maine), Gerry Brown (Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross), Marcus Baylor (Yellowjackets), as well as Erik Johnson. He graduated from University of the Arts in May 2013 with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Music Performance. He was awarded the prestigious Paul D. Patterson Drum Set Award. Jake also studied under Dom Famularo and John Favicchia.

Jake relocated from his hometown in New York to Nashville, TN to pursue playing drums. Jake started drumming at the honky tonk scene on Broadway in downtown Nashville. Shortly after, he met singer-songwriter /artist by the name of Luke Combs. Jake became Luke Combs touring drummer in 2015. Over the course of Jake’s time touring with Luke Combs, Jake has made appearances on Saturday Night Live, The Today Show and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. In addition to touring Jake teaches lessons and plays on recording sessions.

In this episode, Jake talks about:

Building a home studio client base
How he got the Luke Combs gig
Networking in a new town
His responsibilities in the Luke gig
The value of charting skills
Studying at The University of the Arts Philadelphia

340 - Shawn Zorn: Memphis Over Nashville, Playing with Mike Doughty and Other Songwriters Oct 14, 2021

Shawn Zorn is a drummer from Memphis, TN who now splits his time beween Nashville and Memphis. He has performed or recorded with artists such as Twin Forks, Allen Mack Myers Moors (featuring Zach Myers of Shinedown) Amy LaVere, Will Sexton, Cory Branan, Mike Doughty (Soul Coughing), Anthony Raneri (Bayside), Dashboard Confessional, Susan Marshall, Luther Dickinson, John Paul Keith, and more. He is a creative studio performer who does sessions in the Nashville or Memphis areas and also records remotely from his studio in Memphis.

In this episode, Shawn talks about:

What got him a foothold in Nashville, but why he ultimately prioritizes Memphis
Tracking drums vs. mixing drums
The unique process/experience of recording with Mike Doughty
Creating a sample pack and finding a marketable angle for it
A few of the Memphis drummers that have influenced him

339 - Dave Moraata: Drumming for Saving Abel, Finding His Own Voice in a Town Like Nashville, Learning from Podcasts! Oct 07, 2021

In 2021, drummer Dave Moraata become the newest member of the band Saving Abel. Originally from a small Mississippi town (Philadelphia), Dave eventually made his way to Nashville, Tennessee in 2017. In between raising a young family and holding down a full time job, Dave took every opportunity to introduce himself to the rock scene in Nashville through jam nights, tribute shows and subbing gigs for other drummers. His dedication and attitude paid off when a chance encounter with the original singer for Saving Abel turned into a touring and recording gig of a lifetime.

In this episode, Dave talks about:

Humble beginnings in Mississippi and making the move to TN
Finding his voice at jam nights, tribute shows in Nashville
Getting the gig with Saving Abel
Dave’s personal experience in Nashville
Learning from podcasts like Drummer’s Resource, Big Fat Five and WDP

338 - Sam Merrick: Resuming the "Hamilton" Tour, Building Cred in Multiple Cities, The Team Effort of a Sample Pack Sep 30, 2021

Sam Merrick has been in the drum chair for the touring production of Hamilton since January 2018. Prior to that, he was a busy freelancer in New York, working a bartending job for some of that time, and playing a wide range of gigs from weddings to Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings. When the pandemic shut down Hamilton, he relocated to the Washington, DC area and set up a home studio where he has done remote tracking and a sample pack which he has just released through The Drum Broker.

In this episode, Sam talks about

The random wedding gig that led to the Hamilton gig
The various learning curves the show presented, from reading to energy
How the show forced him to reckon with some physical issues
Creating "normal" life away from home
"De-Hamilton-izing" his playing over the break, and seeking out inspiration and motivation from others rather than waiting it for to come from within
The sample pack partnership between drummer, producer (Jeremy Page) and platform (Drum Broker)

337 - Chuck Palmer: Applying Drumming Expertise to Produce, Write, Arrange, Conduct and Create, Collaborating with Cellist Dave Eggar Sep 23, 2021

As a drummer/percussionist, producer, engineer, arranger, songwriter, conductor and composer Chuck Palmer has performed and recorded with a myriad of artists including Foreigner, AG, Gil Goldstein, RJD2, Frank Ocean (Channel Orange), Dave Eggar, Esperanza Spalding, Norah Jones, Cellogram, Dr. Ralph Stanley, The City And Horses, John Patitucci, Earwig, Five For Fighting, Amber Rubarth, O.A.R., Waway Saway with the Talaandig Tribe, and Amy Lee of Evanescence.

In this episode, Chuck talks about:

Using your skills and expertise as a drummer to produce, engineer, mix, write and create
His experiences and growth as a musician in New York City
Collaborating with cellist, pianist and composer Dave Eggar
Conducting and creating string arrangements for the band Foreigner

336 - Cameron Tyler: Carving a Niche in Las Vegas On and Off the Strip Sep 16, 2021

Cameron Tyler has been based in Las Vegas since 2017, where he is involved with numerous shows including Cirque du Soleil's Ka. He spent the first chapter of his career in Los Angeles learning the ropes of touring and recording, but relocated to Vegas in search of more affordable housing and studio space, and more creative autonomy as a drummer and producer.

In this episode, Cameron talks about:

Why he chose to relocate to Vegas, and how he got involved with Ka
How reading and Ableton are table stakes for most Vegas gigs
The importance of treating your space for optimal sound
The piece of gear that has upped his mixing game

335 - Bobby Jarzombek: From Fates Warning to George Strait, Splitting Duties Between Metal and Country Sep 09, 2021

Bobby Jarzombek is currently the drummer for progressive metal band Fates Warning, vocalist Sebastian Bach, and country music legend George Strait.

He has also recorded and toured extensively with the Halford band, featuring legendary Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford as well as the long-running New York City metal institution Riot. Bobby made his recording debut with Juggernaut on "Baptism Under Fire" in 1986. Other touring and recording credits include his work with Spastic Ink, CED Earth, Demons & Wizards, Rob Rock and John West among others.

In this episode, Bobby talks about:

Early interests that shaped his drumming
Tracking from home for different projects
Getting the gig with George Strait
Adapting to changes in live performances

334 - George Sluppick: The Memphis Vibe, The Sample Pack Business Model, Erasing Genre Sep 02, 2021

George Sluppick is an American drummer born in Memphis, Tennessee, specializing in blues, funk, soul and R&B music. In 1986, he graduated from Overton, a prestigious creative & performing arts high school. Growing up in Memphis, he shared the stage with many legends, including BB King and Rufus Thomas and just one year after his high school graduation at age 19, he went on the road with blues guitarist Albert King. He has since played with Charlie Hunter, JJ Grey & MoFro, Chris Robinson Brotherhood, and many others, and has just released a Memphis-infused sample pack through Yurt Rock.

In this episode, George talks about:

The process of creating and marketing his new sample pack
Why he moved from his hometown of Memphis to the smaller town of Greensboro, NC
The influence of Idris Muhammed and the idea of genre-free drumming

333 - Joe McCarthy - Band Leading the New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band, His B.A.S.I.C. Training Lesson Program, Living and Working in Miami Florida Aug 25, 2021

Joe McCarthy has led a diverse career as drummer/percussionist, bandleader, producer and educator in a myriad of settings from symphony orchestra to bebop, big band, afro cuban, theater and beyond.

Joe is the founder, leader, producer and drummer of The New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band, winner of the 2008 Latin Grammy for Latin Jazz Album of the Year, and nominated in the same category for the 51st Grammy Awards for the Heads-Up release “Afro Bop Alliance”, featuring Dave Samuels.

Active in education, Joe has held adjunct appointments at the collegiate level since 1992 upon graduating from the University of North Texas with a Masters in Percussion Performance. Previous adjunct positions include Texas Wesleyan University, Delaware State University, Georgetown University, George Mason University and Washington College. As a clinician, Joe has been a featured performer and clinician at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC), Jazz Educators Network International Convention (JEN), numerous PAS Days of Percussion, MusicFest Canada, The National Jazz Workshop, George Mason University Summer Jazz and Percussion Seminars, The Jazz n Youth Exchange of Germany, and many others. Joe has been featured at many of the nation’s top collegiate music institutions and festivals, in addition to numerous high school jazz festivals as a guest soloist, clinician and adjudicator.

As an author, Joe is published by Alfred music with “Joe McCarthy’s Afro Cuban Big Band Play-Along Series”, featuring a book/CD play-along and Vol’s I & II DVD’s.

Joe spent a twenty-year tour as Chief Petty Officer with The United States Naval Academy Band, where he served as principal percussionist with the wind ensemble and Chief in Charge/drummer of the Next Wave Jazz Ensemble- one of the Navy’s two premier big bands.

In this episode, Joe talks about:

Living and working in Miami Florida
How he spends his practice time
Teaching in the 21st century
The value of learning multiple styles
His B.A.S.I.C. Training lesson program - Balance, Alignment, Substitution, Interdependence, and Control
Band leading the New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band

332 - Stephen Chopek: Playing with John Mayer, Charlie Hunter and More; Writing, Recording, and Mixing His Own Original Songs Aug 19, 2021

Stephen Chopek is a musician living and working in Atlanta, GA. Prior to releasing his first solo album in 2012, he spent over 10 years drumming on tour and in the studio with Charlie Hunter, John Mayer, and Jesse Malin among many others. He had just returned home from a tour playing drums with former Soul Coughing frontman Mike Doughty when an explosive songwriting streak hit him. While in the throes of his creative deluge, the Pandemic put most of the world on indefinite lockdown. With no other commitments for the foreseeable future, he finally had the latitude to take his time with the new songs. It was a luxury that he, as a touring musician for the last two decades, is normally not afforded. His new EP, Dweller, is out now.

In this episode, Stephen talks about:

How Memphis changed his playing
Studying with Leon Parker and playing with Charlie Hunter in his early New York-based career
Playing on the John Mayer Room for Squares tour
Taking a year away from drumming to volunteer with Americorps and delve into other instruments
Taking the opportunity during the pandemic to fully realize his original songs

331 - Music City Drum Show: "Flash Interviews" Featuring Former and Future Guests and Many More Aug 12, 2021

August 7th, 2021 the first annual Music City Drum Show was held in Nashville Tennessee. Music City Drum Show was created to unite the drumming community in the Greater Nashville area and beyond. Organized by drummer Landon Hall, the Music City Drum Show was focused on drum displays, sales, networking, and clinics.

Big thanks to all who participated in our "Front line war correspondence recording". Not all the interviews were usable due to the volume in the room and it could be hard to listen to at times. But, we hope you enjoy this collection we created from what was a super fun weekend.

This episode features

JC Clifford, AJ Maland - (Recycled Rhythm), Drummers Hands, Sam Bacco, Dan Ainspan - (Nashville Drummer Podcast), Josh Touchton - (Ludwig), Rodney Edmonton, Chris from UFIP Cymbals, Kayleigh Moyer, Angela Lese, Mike McKee from Baldman Percussion, Bryson Nelson from Nelson Drumshop and Evan Hutchings

These fine people were interviewed but the recording didn’t work out due to external volume:

Vincent Dee, Brian Zach, Arjuna Contreras, Marshall Richardson, Jeremy McCormick, Dan Douchette, Jeff Brown, Po Shy from Po’s Percussion representing the Rogers Booth

330 - Aaron Serfaty: Playing With Your "Accent," A Universal Teaching Approach, Paying Attention to What Your Drums Tell You Aug 05, 2021

Aaron Serfaty was born in Caracas, Venezuela. He began playing drum set at the age of fifteen and started to play professionally at seventeen. He did extensive work as a session and touring drummer from 1980 until 1991 with local and international artists. In 1991 he moved to Los Angeles to study Jazz and African American studies at the California Institute of the Arts. Aaron has also taken lessons with Peter Erskine, Joe LaBarbera, Jeff Hamilton, Jerry Steinholz, and Juan Oliva. Since his move to the US he has played with artists like Arturo Sandoval, Sergio Mendes, Jon Anderson, Oscar Hernandez, Otmaro Ruiz, Denise Donatelli, Kristin Korb, Kathleen Grace, Bill Cunliffe, Shelly Berg, and Alan Pasqua among many others.

He has taught at Los Angeles College of Music (1997-2014), at The California Institute of the Arts (2000-2014) and is currently on faculty at the University of Southern California (1997-present) where he conducts the Latin Jazz Ensemble, teaches drum set, and a Latin Percussion class.

In this episode, Aaron talks about:

Growing up in Caracas and the many types of music he was exposed to through his dad's business
His experience studying jazz at Cal Arts, and privately with Peter Erskine
Bringing your "accent" to every musical conversation you have
His teaching philosophy
His tuning approach

329 - Nashville's Lower Broadway Roundtable: Kelly Bamberger, Eddie Bell, Billy Freeman, Jake Gammon, John Root & Derek Smith Jul 29, 2021

This episode features six amazing drummers with a wide range of experience, discussing the many unique aspects of gigging in Nashville's downtown tourist district known as lower Broadway. Some have referred to it as "The Honkytonk Industrial Complex". This scene is not for everyone but, for those who are willing to slug it out in the trenches of lower Broadway and perform for a mostly over served audience, the money can be good, great music can happen and important connections can be made.

In this round table discussion, the group talks about:

Explaining what the lower Broadway scene is
The pros and cons of gigging on lower Broadway in Nashville
The unique skill set that’s needed to play lower Broadway
Advice for the player that wants to break in to the scene
Essential gear to carry with you when playing lower Broadway

328 - Rod Elkins: Playing with Tyler Childers, Overcoming Anxiety Issues, Staying in His Small Hometown Jul 22, 2021

As the touring drummer for Childers, Rod Elkins is the heartbeat of a rhythm section that includes Elkins’ high-school friends and college bandmates who’ve been playing together for the past 10 years. That band, The Food Stamps, has performed sold out concerts around the world, including a headline debut at Red Rocks Amphitheater, concerts at the Ryman Auditorium, The Grand Ole Opry, Mountain Stage, and festivals around the world including Bonnaroo, Stagecoach, Lollapalooza. The band also appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and has opened for everyone from Willie Nelson and The Raconteurs to Guns N’ Roses. Rod still lives in his hometown of Huntington, West Virginia, where the band was formed.

In this Episode, Rod talks about:

How his existing band became the backing band for Tyler Childers, and how they caught the attention of Sturgill Simpson
What he learned from the Nashville musicians who have recorded Childers' albums
Finding ways to create variety in songs with the same groove at the same tempo
How his lifelong anxiety showed up in his playing, and how he dealt with it
Why he stays in Huntington, WV, where he grew up and where the music and bands he's a part of were cultivated

327 - Blake Fleming: Quality Over Quantity, The Book of Rhythm, Speaking Honestly About the State of Music and Drumming Jul 15, 2021

Blake Fleming is a percussionist known for his involvement with several influential experimental bands and has recently written his first book, The Book of Rhythm, an unprecedented collection of 5,096 meticulously organized rhythms for all instruments. His drumming has been written about in such major publications as The New York Times, NPR.com, Spin, Rolling Stone, MOJO, Modern Drummer, DRUM!, Dangerous Minds, and Pitchfork. He was included in SPIN’s 100 Greatest Drummers of Alternative Music and has recorded and toured extensively, working with luminaries in the jazz, rock and avant-garde worlds. Alongside a variety of studio work, he also enjoys teaching students worldwide with live online lessons and is an adjunct professor at The State University of New York at Oneonta.

In this episode, Blake talks about:

Quality over quantity
A homogenization of music and drumming
Early experimental bands
His book: The Book of Rhythm
Asking yourself “Why?” And being self aware

326 - Joe Bergamini: The Working Drummer's Chart Book, "Knowing the Job," Remembering His Friend Neil Peart Jul 08, 2021

Joe Bergamini maintains a diverse career as a drumming performer and educator. Joe is constantly behind the kit for everything from prog rock to Broadway to his touring gig, The Doowop Project. He stays equally busy as the drum editor for Hudson Music, where he has overseen the creation and production of countless books and videos featuring many of the world's greatest drummers. He is also an author in his own right, having authored or coauthored over a dozen books.

In this episode, Joe talks about:

How to demonstrate that you "know the job" and instill trust in those you're working with
What a drum editor does, and how he came to that job with Hudson Music
His latest book, The Working Drummer's Chart Book
Collaborating with Steve Gadd on Gaddiments
His relationship with Neil Peart which began as a professional collaboration and evolved into a friendship

325 - Stephen Bidwell: Playing with Black Pumas, Studying with Johnny Vidacovich, "I'm Not Here to be Drummer Guy" Jul 01, 2021

Stephen Bidwell was born in Washington, DC and grew up in nearby Reston, Virginia. Since being first handed drumsticks in the late 80s he has studied and lived in West Virginia, Pittsburgh, New Orleans, and New York but has called Austin, Texas home since 2005. Somewhere in those travels he earned a Bachelors degree in classical percussion and a master’s degree in jazz studies. Since early 2018 he has been the drummer for the Grammy nominated Black Pumas, a psychedelic soul group known for incendiary live shows. When not on tour with Black Pumas, Stephen plays in several diverse projects (Hard Proof, The Calm Blue Sea, Azmaris, the Mood Illusion), works in any genre you can think of as a sideman, and teaches lessons at his home studio in Austin.

In this episode, Stephen talks about:

How Johnny Vidacovich trained him to rely on instinct, not charts
The sustaining gigs he did during his first few years in Austin
How a prior ongoing relationship with Austin guitarist, producer, and Black Pumas founder Adrien Quesada led to getting the drum chair
Still working a day job during the first 1-2 years of Black Pumas activity
Chasing gigs vs. chasing the dream
The grooves and tones on The Black Pumas record

324 - Jim White: The Importance of Mentorship, Overcoming Cancer, Life Experiences that Inspires Our Drumming Jun 24, 2021

Drummer Jim White is an active performer and educator. His first musical experiences took place in his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia, where he studied percussion with Paul Yancinch, Mike Cebulski, Sonny Emory, and Jeff Sipe. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Jazz Studies/Composition from Middle Tennessee State University, and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of North Texas.

While a student at the University of North Texas, White performed with the renowned “One O’clock Lab Band” for three years. In 1992, Maynard Ferguson recruited White for his “Big Bop Nouveau” band with which he toured internationally. White is featured on Ferguson’s recording, Footpath Cafe. In 1995, White moved to Nashville, Tennessee where he remains active as a performer and studio musician. His versatility and unique sound have been r featured on many jazz, pop, and country recordings. White’s performance and recording credits feature a diverse array of artists including J.D. Souther, Alison Krauss and Union Station, Crystal Gayle, Jerry Douglas, Curtis Stigers, Charlie Peacock, Jack Pearson, Pam Tillis, Lorrie Morgan, and Willie Nelson. In addition, he has performed with many top jazz artists including Dick Oatts, Terell Stafford, Joey Defrancesco, Pat Bianchi, Greg Gisbert, Jim Ferguson, Chris Potter, Annie Sellick, the North German Radio (N.D.R.) Big Band, and many others.

As an educator, White has performed clinics at universities and jazz festivals throughout the country. In 2005, he joined the faculty at the University of Northern Colorado, where he currently serves as Professor of Music, Jazz Studies. He directs UNC’s Lab II Big Band, supervises the jazz combo program, teaches jazz history, as well as applied drum set students. He currently co-leads the Colorado Jazz Orchestra, a big band featuring many of the finest jazz musicians in the Northern Colorado area.

In this episode, Jim talks about:

Bringing his personality and style to Nashville
The importance of mentorship
Being diagnosed with cancer in 2015 and over coming it
How his fight with cancer changed his perspective on life
Life experiences that inspires our music

323 – Roundtable with Nick Ruffini Jun 17, 2021

Once a year, we sit down with our buddy Nick Rufinni of Drummer’s Resource to shoot the shit. Each of our careers and podcasts are always on the move, heading in different directions with different challenges, and it’s good to unpack things and talk about what’s coming at us and how we’re moving through it.

In this episode, Matt, Zack and Nick talk about

* Social media strategies* Re-entering gig life* How remote recording does and does not deliver a fulfilling musical experience* Answering the question “why does this feel good?” when listening to other drummers* Recalibrating priorities and ambition as we come out of the pandemic

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

Keith Dudek Recovery Fund

322 – Jeff Fabb: Drumming for Black Label Society, Employable Skills Beyond Your Playing, Overcoming Physical Barriers Jun 10, 2021

Originally from a small town in Long Island, New York, Jeff Fabb made the move to Los Angeles shortly after high school at the age of 18. Jeff moved to L.A. looking for more opportunities in music and that’s just what he found. The journey was slow, answering classified ads—everyone that placed ads said they were going to be the next big thing, but he just wanted to get out there and play. After a few years playing the L.A. club scene, Jeff came into contact with members of female-fronted metal/rock band – In This Moment, including guitarist Chris Howorth and former Five Finger Death Punch bassist Matt Snell, who had a project together. Around the end of 2011 and three records later, Jeff decided to move on from ITM.

Other bands and artists he found himself working with include James Durban (American Idol), Sixx:A.M. (with Nikki Sixx) and Filter. Jeff is currently the drummer for Black Label Society.

In this episode, Jeff talks about:

* Overcoming physical issues* Questions by Nashville drummer Danny Douchette covering range of topics* Moving to L.A. at 18 and the things he learned* The events that lead to his gig with Black Label Society * Employable skills beyond your playing

Jeff endorses Drums, Meinl, Vic Firth and Evans

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

Keith Dudek Recovery Fund

321 – Dena Tauriello: From Rock Touring to Broadway, and What They Have in Common Jun 03, 2021

A Grammy-nominated and studied musician of several decades, Dena’s versatility has afforded her opportunities to play in a variety of settings – from arenas to rock clubs and Broadway to recording studios. She has been highlighted in several drum publications, including the September 2018 issue of Modern Drummer Magazine. Dena has held the drum chair for several Broadway and Off-Broadway productions including Little Shop of Horrors, Kristin Chenoweth: For the Girls, and Head Over Heels. In addition to her 20 years with Antigone Rising (Lava/Atlantic), she has performed with Rob Thomas, Bernie Worrell (Parliament Funkadelic, Talking Heads), The Go-Go’s, Anita Cochran and Williams Honor. Other past projects have included studio sessions with Lisa Loeb and Robert Randolph.

In this episode, Dena talks about:

* Developing a virtual clinic during the pandemic* The years she spent doing bus and van tours with Antigone Rising* The show that brought her to Broadway, and why her pedigree was the perfect fit for it* The increasing inclusivity in the Broadway community, especially among musicians* How rock touring skills translate to musical theatre* Her brief but meaningful brush with Leland Sklar

Dena endorses Pearl Drums and hardware, Zildjian cymbals, Evans drumheads, Promark sticks, SKB cases, Big Fast Snare Drum, Sledgepad and Ultimate Ears.

320 – Mark Stepro: Recording in the 21st Century, Working with Butch Walker, Drumming for The Wallflowers May 27, 2021

Mark Stepro is a Los Angeles-based musician originally from Galion, Ohio.

He is currently performing and recording with singer-songwriter-producer Butch Walker (Dangerbird Records), with whom he has been working since 2011, as well as singer-songwriter Brett Dennen (Elektra Records). He recently recorded the upcoming album by the Wallflowers, “Exit Wounds,” their first release in ten years.

Since 2010, Stepro has performed and recorded with singer Mary McBride under the auspices of the U.S. Department of State as a Cultural Ambassador, presenting a program of American music overseas. The group has logged performances in twenty-three countries including Russia, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Indonesia, appearing in schools, hospitals, prisons, women’s shelters, orphanages, and places of worship.

He has also performed or recorded with Leon Bridges (including a European slot opening for The Rolling Stones), Panic! At The Disco, Gavin DeGraw, Jewel, Keith Urban, Rob Thomas of Matchbox 20, Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem, Jackson Browne, Shooter Jennings, Hayes Carll, Dan Wilson, Ben Kweller, Andrew McMahon, Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine, The Old 97s, Courtney Love, Corb Lund Sara and Sean Watkins of Nickel Creek, Morgan Kibby of M83, Mike Viola, Joe Pug, Robert Ellis, Adam Levy, and Tim Easton. He also spent five wonderful years and a staggering number of liver and brain cells as the bass player for Brooklyn indie-roots favorites The Madison Square Gardeners, led by Aaron Lee Tasjan.

He has studied with teachers Ed Soph, Steve Houghton and Glenn Kotche of Wilco.

He has performed on every continent except Antarctica and has appeared multiple times on The Late Show With David Letterman, The Tonight Show With Jay Leno, Conan O’Brien, Craig Ferguson, and Carson Daly, Jimmy Kimmel Live! and CBS This Morning

In this episode Mark talks about:

* Teachable moments early in Mark’s life * From Ohio to New York to L.A.* Working with Butch Walker* Recording in 2021* Playing a last minute show on Conan O’Brien* To play or not to play to a click live* Engaging with your music community without relying solely on social media

Keith Dudek Recovery Fund

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

Mark endorses: Zildjian, Ludwig, Remo and Vater

319 – Ross Pederson: Playing with Grace Kelly and Manhattan Transfer, Designing a New Home Studio, The North Texas Pedigree May 20, 2021

Ross Pederson has been in New York for over a decade after going through the famed North Texas program and studying with Ed Soph. He tours and records with a number of notable New York based acts including Grace Kelly and Manhattan Transfer, and records, mixes, and produces at his home studio in Brooklyn.

In this episode, Ross talks about:

* Moving into a new house and starting a home studio from scratch* Being married to bassist Julia Adamy* His biggest takeaways from North Texas and Ed Soph* The musical families both he and Julia come from * Starting with Grace Kelly as a hired gun sub, and growing into a trusted collaborator

Ross endorses Meinl Cymbals

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

Keith Dudek Recovery Fund

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318 – Doane Perry part 2: Composing and Creating, More Jethro Tull Stories, Doane’s Sustained Passion for Music and Creating May 13, 2021

A professional musician since 1972, Doane Perry has been called one of the most prolific and versatile drummers in contemporary music.

His career spans over 28 years with the internationally acclaimed progressive rock band Jethro Tull, incorporating 18 world tours, countless records, videos, and DVDs, and a Grammy. As a performer, composer or producer, he has appeared on more than 100 records to date, many of which have attained gold or multi-platinum status, and also on numerous #1 records in multiple genres. He has worked in the recording studios of New York, Los Angeles, Sydney, and London. And as an author, he has been a featured writer for musical magazines, anthologies, book publications, websites, CD liner notes, Jethro Tull concert programs.

He attended Browning, St. Bernard’s and Collegiate Schools in New York City. Later he briefly attended New York University and extension programs at The New School, Rutgers, and Juilliard, followed by extensive private musical study in jazz and orchestral percussion.

The people with whom Perry has worked with during his career reads much like a who’s who across many genres of music. The short list would have to include Lou Reed, Bette Midler, Todd Rundgren, Pat Benatar, Martha and the Vandellas, Peter Cetera, Dweezil Zappa, Stan Getz, Kitaro, Dionne Warwick, Liza Minelli, Jeffrey Osbourne, and Magellan.

In this episode (part 2), Doane talks about:

* Meeting Al Jackson when he was very young (11)* How he spends his practice time * “Great chops is simply the articulation of your own ideas, clearly” * A useful definition of what good technique is and can be* Composing and orchestrating * The current state of his compositions

Follow the link below if you are able to help out our friend drummer Keith Dudek. He is fighting to recover from Covid. There is a GoFund.Me page where you can help. Thanks – Matt

https://www.gofundme.com/f/keith-dudek-recovery-fund?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

Doane endorses: Premier, DW, Paiste, Remo, Promark, Rhythm Tech, Sure, Kick Port & Stick Handler

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

317 – Doane Perry part 1: His Work With Jethro Tull, Bringing Your Ideas to the Session, Working with Lou Reed Early in His Career May 06, 2021

A professional musician since 1972, Doane Perry has been called one of the most prolific and versatile drummers in contemporary music.

His career spans over 28 years with the internationally acclaimed progressive rock band Jethro Tull, incorporating 18 world tours, countless records, videos, and DVDs, and a Grammy. As a performer, composer or producer, he has appeared on more than 100 records to date, many of which have attained gold or multi-platinum status, and also on numerous #1 records in multiple genres. He has worked in the recording studios of New York, Los Angeles, Sydney, and London. And as an author, he has been a featured writer for musical magazines, anthologies, book publications, websites, CD liner notes, Jethro Tull concert programs.

He attended Browning, St. Bernard’s and Collegiate Schools in New York City. Later he briefly attended New York University and extension programs at The New School, Rutgers, and Juilliard, followed by extensive private musical study in jazz and orchestral percussion.

The people with whom Perry has worked with during his career reads much like a who’s who across many genres of music. The short list would have to include Lou Reed, Bette Midler, Todd Rundgren, Pat Benatar, Martha and the Vandellas, Peter Cetera, Dweezil Zappa, Stan Getz, Kitaro, Dionne Warwick, Liza Minelli, Jeffrey Osbourne, and Magellan.

In this episode (part 1), Doane talks about:

* Playing producer, engineer, and drummer in his home studio* Bringing your ideas to the session* His work with Jethro Tull* Working with Lou Reed

Doane endorses: Premier, DW, Paiste, Remo, Promark, Rhythm Tech, Sure, Kick Port & Stick Handler

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

316 – Steve from Junk Drummer TV: Making Hundreds of Drum Reaction/Analysis Videos Apr 29, 2021

After years of steady touring and teaching, Steve set about cultivating a Youtube audience. In hundreds of videos, Steve analyzes drummers and drum parts from every imaginable genre and era, deconstructing the techniques and musical concepts that make them great. At 36,000 followers and over 6 million views, his channel’s popularity as a Youtube resource is on the rise and not looking back.

In this episode, Steve talks about:

* Why he started Junk Drummer TV and how it differs from other “react” videos* His pre-pandemic touring and teaching life* Building his playing and videos around what he really likes and cares about * How various types of Southern music and culture shaped him as a musician * The legacy of his hero, Levon Helm

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

315 – Jack Bruno: Drumming for Tina Turner, Backing up Legendary Singers, Touring Over the Decades Apr 22, 2021

Jack was born and raised in the Boston, Massachusetts area. Influenced by a musical family, he started playing drums at the age of nine and was playing in rock bands by the time he was twelve.

He’s toured and recorded with many different artists over the course of his career including Joe Cocker for 20 years, recording and playing on all Tina Turner tours for 28 years, as well as tours with Elton John, Richard Marx, Peter Frampton and Taj Mahal.

He’s currently playing with Texas blues great Delbert McClinton.

In This episode, Jack talks about:

* Getting the gig with Tina Turner* Touring eastern European countries in the 1980’s* Drumming behind singers* Changes in tech over the years * Filling in on an Elton John tour and how it came about* Moving Nashville and working with Delbert McClinton

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

314 – Brody Simpson: A Distinct Set of Sounds, Staying Focused on His Thing, “I’ve Never Gone Looking for Work” Apr 15, 2021

Brody Simpson lives and works in Perth, Australia, where he is the co-owner of Underground Sounds, a full service tracking and production house. As a drummer, engineer, and producer, he is becoming known for a unique set of sounds influenced by Boom Bap, Drum & Bass, 808s, and other electronic genres.

In this episode, Brody talks about

* The alchemy of playing, tuning, mic selection/placement, and mix he uses to get his unique sounds* A few of his favorite plugins* The non-musical responsibilities of running a brick-and-mortar business* Not getting caught up in the hustle, staying patient and focusing on the music and sounds he wants to make* The extensive process of shaping the acoustics in his studio’s rooms. * His social media approach – “do our thing, not just something,” both when it comes to content and followers* Why he generally avoids extensive touring

Brody endorses A&F drums and Meinl cymbals

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus.

313 – Sound Treatment part 3 with Anthony Grimani: Sonitus USA, A/B-ing Matt’s studio with Sound Treatment Apr 08, 2021

Anthony Grimani has spent 28 years in the audio industry, is a highly respected expert in home theater acoustics and design and consults worldwide. He is responsible for several audio/acoustic patents. His experience includes positions at Dolby and Lucasfilm THX where he led the development of both Dolby and Lucasfilm THX Home Theater technologies. In 2013, CEPro Magazine named him one of the “Top 20 Most Influential People of the Past 20 Years.”

Check out Sonitus USA here

In this episode, Anthony talks about:

* A/B-ing Matt’s studio with the sound treatment* The strategic use of absorbers and diffusers * The benefits of sound treatment in small rooms* How drums “sit” in the mix* The positive visual element of treatment

Fig #5 – Right side wallFig #4 – front wallFig #7 – The ceilingFig #6 – the back wallFig #3 The Left wall or hi-hat sideFig #2Fig #1

This episode is sponsored by Sonitus USA

312 – Max MacVeety: Music as Social Movement, Earning His Place in the Hip Hop World, Touring with Karl Denson, Running a One-Stop Shop Studio Apr 01, 2021

With a drumming pedigree from Berklee and a musical ethos from the eclectic creative community in The Berkshires where he grew up, Max MacVeety has been embedded in the LA scene, specifically Long Beach, for over a decade. He has toured and recorded with Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, Lyrics Born, DJ Williams, and many others. Prior to that, he was based in Oakland, primarily riding the drum chair for seminal west coast hip hop group Crown City Rockers. He also helms his own studio, Bunkhouse Recordings, where he does drum tracking, mixing, producing, and artist development.

In this episode, Max talks about:

* The unique experience of growing up in the Berkshires where his father was a musician* How studying jazz and world music at Berklee made him turn to more socially conscious types of music* How he overcame imposter syndrome in the hip hop world * Oakland’s rich history and thriving creative community* The various musical cultures and subcultures of L.A. * How he uses Tik Tok * His experience playing with Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe* His studio, Bunkhouse Recordings, and the blurred lines between engineering, mixing, producing, etc.

Max endorses Bosphorus Cymbals and Mono Cases

311 – Dan Needham: Drumming for Michael McDonald, “Reading the Room” when Recording, Being a Chameleon in the Studio Mar 25, 2021

Dan Needham is recognized in Nashville as one of the top session and live drummers. Dan has performed and/or recorded with Michael McDonald, Amy Grant, Peter Cetera, Dave Barnes, Chaka Khan, Nathan East, Garth Brooks, Sara Bareilles, Phil Keaggy, Gino Vannelli, Al Green, Billy Preston, James Ingram, Steven Curtis Chapman, Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross, Carole King, as well as many other amazing artists.

Besides being in the studio, Dan has appeared on several nationally syndicated television shows including Regis & Kathy-Lee and the Pat Boone Show.

In this episode, Dan talks about:

* The balance between live and studio work* “Reading the room” when recording * Being a chameleon in the studio* Working with Michael McDonald * Early and important lessons

Dan endorses, Yamaha drums, Paiste cymbals, VicFirth sticks, Remo drumheads and SlapKatz

310 – Joe Montague: All You Need is Drums, Recreating Ringo’s Drum Parts, That 60’s Recording Podcast Mar 18, 2021

Joe Montague graduated from the renowned Jazz Course at Leeds College of Music in 2011 before embarking on a career as a touring drummer. Spending the next few years playing with numerous theatre shows and original projects, touring all over the UK and Europe, Joe soon found his passion in faithfully recreating the music of The Beatles. Through his website and email list, Joe offers a recreation of Ringo’s drums free for anyone who is interested. Joe is also the host of a podcast called That 60’s Recording Podcast.

Joe tours worldwide in the internationally acclaimed theatre show Beatlemania, and has performed at The World Famous Cavern Club with The Cavern Club Beatles and worked with West End theatre tour Let It Be.

Joe endorses Amedia Cymbals and Balbex Drumsticks

309 – Ben Hilzinger: Hosting the Big Fat Five Podcast, Drumming for Eve 6, Working in L.A. Mar 11, 2021

Ben Hilzinger is a Los Angeles-based drummer and songwriter with 20+ years of performing, recording and teaching experience.

Currently the drummer for Eve 6, Ben has also written, recorded, and/or toured throughout the USA/internationally with MXPX, Fitness, Mike Herrera, The classic crime, tapir, cannons, chevy mustang, Party Nails, We Shot The Moon, prxzm, Glorybots, Ever So Android, Jake Cummings, Josh Eacrett, rental 58, ray little, Jody ellen, young Professionals, Dave Cavalier, madhawkes and many more.

In addition to performing and teaching, Ben is the Director of Artist / Client Relations for Big Fat Snare Drum and hosts the ‘Big Fat Five’ podcast. Before moving to Los Angeles in 2016, Ben also taught drums/percussion/music theory both privately and at Off The Wall school of music in Seattle, WA.

In this episode, Ben talks about:

* Finding his voice during the shut down* The Big Fat Five podcast* Ben’s Big Fat Five* Ben’s role at BFSD* Setting time aside for yourself* Finding work in L.A.

308 – Sound Isolation with Anthony Grimani from Sonitus USA Mar 04, 2021

Anthony Grimani has spent 28 years in the audio industry, is a highly respected expert in home theater acoustics and design and consults worldwide. He is responsible for several audio/acoustic patents. His experience includes positions at Dolby and Lucasfilm THX where he led the development of both Dolby and Lucasfilm THX Home Theater technologies. In 2013, CEPro Magazine named him one of the “Top 20 Most Influential People of the Past 20 Years.”

Check out Sonitus USA here

In this episode, Anthony talks about:

* Sound Isolation vs Sound Treatment * Why Sound Isolation * STC or Sound Transition Class* The “how to” of sound isolation with graphics* Isolating the floor and ceiling

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This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

307 – Josh Harmon: Drums & Comedy, TikTok for Drummers, Communicating Who You Are Through the Drums Feb 25, 2021

Before Covid, Josh was between three worlds – drumming (mostly gigging with his brother in a party band), comedy & improv (performing around New York and working as an intern at NBC), and French Literature (his college major). During Covid, he started making videos in which he played along with different comedians, as a way of combining two of his loves to study and get better at both. He posted them on Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube, where they quickly went viral, garnering him hundreds of thousands of followers and millions of views, culminating in an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

In this episode, Josh talks about:

* How he goes about creating his transcriptions and videos* The importance of delivery, in comedy and music* Always thinking of ways drumming can go beyond the drums* Drum legends whose playing had an inherent comedic side* Thinking of the drumset as an emotional communication device* How social media’s algorithms lead to a homogenization of content* Monetizing and further developing his concept

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

306 – Room Treatment for Home Studios with Anthony Grimani – Sonitus USA Feb 18, 2021

Anthony Grimani has spent 28 years in the audio industry, is a highly respected expert in home theater acoustics and design and consults worldwide. He is responsible for several audio/acoustic patents. His experience includes positions at Dolby and Lucasfilm THX where he led the development of both Dolby and Lucasfilm THX Home Theater technologies. In 2013, CEPro Magazine named him one of the “Top 20 Most Influential People of the Past 20 Years.”

Check out Sonitus USA here

In this episode, Anthony talks about:

* His transition from electronics to the science of acoustics* The distinction between sound treatment and sound proofing * Differences between diffusers and absorbers * How to treat a room and avoid a “boxy” sound from your drums* What Sonitus offers* Treating a mixing room

Fig #1Fig #2Fig #3 The Left wall or hi-hat sideFig #4 – front wallFig #5 – Right side wallFig #6 – the back wallFig #7 – The ceilingSonitus PremiumSonitus StandardSonitus UltraFig #8

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

This episode is also sponsored by Airgigs. Check out our Patreon page to get early access to our 7-part conversation with CEO David Blacker about how to build a profile and clientele on Airgigs.

305 – Jay “J-Zone” Mumford: “Time is the Scariest Thing” Feb 11, 2021

J-Zone spent the first chapter of his music career as a Hip hop DJ, but eventually burned out on various frustrations with the music business. His reentry into music began with reconnecting with the funk, soul, R&B, and jazz he grew up on, and an unexpected gift from his father, a cheap Sonor drumset. Obsession and instinct drove him further and further into the world of drumming, and what started as a mid-life hobby evolved into a drumming career.

He has released a series of solo breakbeat records, been sampled by Madlib, Prince Paul, Alchemist, Marco Polo, and recorded for Danger Mouse, Broken Bells, Lord Finesse, Pharoahe Monch, Karen O, Michael Kiwanuka, DJ Nu-Mark and many more. He is also the drummer and cofounder of instrumental funk outfit The Du-Rites.

In this episode, Jay talks about:

* His unconventional entry into drumming resulting in his instinctual non-“drummy” style and lack of drummy ego* How his producing background made him obsessed with the sounds of drumming* Discovering that his cred in the hiphop world meant little to nothing in the drumming world * “Convincing people that what you do can work for them” rather than changing what you do to suit everyone* The importance of restraint, whether in what to pursue or what you play* His experience interviewing legends like Purdie, Garibaldi, Greg Errico, and many others* The festival experience that showed him how all drummers are on the same team

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

This episode is also sponsored by Airgigs. Check out our Patreon page to get early access to our 7-part conversation with CEO David Blacker about how to build a profile and clientele on Airgigs.

304 – Brian Czach: Finding and Creating the Work You Want, Building a Patreon page, Miles Davis Tribute: MILEStones Feb 04, 2021

Brian Czach (pronounced “Zack”) is currently playing sessions and live shows around Nashville. Czach has devoted his life to being as creative and versatile anyone with a pair of sticks could hope to be. Born in Schenectady NY, he has experience playing in every imaginable musical setting, from the filthiest rock club, to the swankiest hotels, film & TV scores, artist sessions, tours, dance bands, and live theater, Brian’s musical experience is vastly extensive.

Brian leads a tribute to Miles Davis called MILEStones which plays monthly at Rudy’s Jazz Room in Nashville. He has toured/performed/recorded with: Reggie Wooten, Jimmy Castor & The Bunch, Clayton Anderson, Rick Monroe, Joshua Jones (Steel Magnolia), Dalton Gray, Scott Van Zen, Tony DeSare, Joe Piscopo, Martin Nievera, Clint Holmes, Rick Faugno, Zach Ryan, Amelia Eisenhauer Band, & Brynn Marie among many others. Production credits include: Mannheim Steamroller, Australian Bee Gees Show, You’ve Got A Friend, & Pin Up, as well as recording Film/TV credits “Gigolo” on Showtime Network & “I Am Rebel” on NGC.

Click here for Brian’s Patreon page

In this episode, Brian talks about:

* Providing regular content for his new Patreon page* Brian’s new home studio rebuild and sonic improvements* Working on cruise ships and Las Vegas and lessons learned* Band leading and creating your own work environment * Shifting gears between traditional live acts and heavily produced shows

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

This episode is also sponsored by Airgigs. Become a patron of the show on our Patreon page to get early access to our 7-part conversation with CEO David Blacker about how to build a profile and clientele on Airgigs.

Brian endorses: Istanbul Agop cymbals, Canopus snare drums & snare wires, Aquarian drum heads, Innovative Percussion drum sticks, Prologix Percussion Drum Pads, & Humes & Berg cases

303 – Luke O’Kelley: Building an Airgigs Presence, Valuing Relationships Over Platforms, The Mind Game of Tracking Jan 28, 2021

Based in Athens, GA, Luke O’Kelley has quietly built a long resume or live work and a large portfolio of session work ranging across pop, rock, country, and folk/singer/songwriter genres. His transition from marketing work to full time music coincided with joining Airgigs, which has been integral in Luke’s remote recording income. Artists he’s played with include Matt Papa, The Welcome Home, Son and Thief, The Tuten Brothers, Zach Seabaugh, Grant Cowan, Oak House, Andrew Brantley, and more.

In this episode, Luke talks about:

* What makes the Athens music scene special* Avoiding imposter syndrome, but also avoiding truly getting in over your head* How setting a low session rate might attract more clients, but more low quality clients* Luke’s article on getting more remote session work* Aaron Sterling’s dirty secret* Valuing personal relationships over digital contacts* Not psyching yourself out when tracking

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

This episode is also sponsored by Airgigs. Become a patron of the show on our Patreon page to get early access to our 7-part conversation with CEO David Blacker about how to build a profile and clientele on Airgigs.

302 – Josh Day: The Importance of Listening, Working with Sara Bareilles and John Oates, Real and Organic Relationships in Music Jan 21, 2021

Nashville drummer Josh Day, has recorded and performed with top acts ranging from Sara Bareilles to John Oates, Jennifer Nettles and Brandy Clark.

Josh attended Appalachian State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. After an additional year of post graduate at ASU for Musical Performance, Josh made the move to Los Angeles, where he attended the Musician’s Institute and graduated with honors in 2003.

Most recently, Josh has spent a considerable amount of time recording and performing with John Oates of the famed Hall & Oates, where he is a member of John Oates and The Good Road Band. He has also spent time performing with country singer-songwriter Brandy Clark. Josh is also a member of The Contenders, an original duo project with singer-songwriter-guitarist, Jay Nash. When not touring, Josh likes to spend time in his own recording/production studio, where he writes and records songs for film and TV, and also teaches lessons.

Throughout his career, Josh has also recorded and performed with many other artists, such as Carrie Underwood, Maroon 5, The Secret Sisters, Brent Cobb, The Kruger Brothers, Meiko, Jay Nash, and many, many others.

In this episode, Josh talks about:

* Staying productive during the shut down in 2020* Being efficient in your home studio* The importance of listening * The differences between what you learned in school and the real world* The influence of folk and bluegrass on Josh * Working with Sara Bareilles and John Oates

Josh endorses, Gretsch, Big Fat Snare Drum, Zildjian and Vic Firth

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

This episode is also sponsored by Airgigs. Become a patron of the show on our Patreon page to get early access to our 7-part conversation with CEO David Blacker about how to build a profile and clientele on Airgigs.

301 – Dan Bailey: Home Rig Practicality, Building Relationships (not contacts), Demystifying the Skillset and Process of Recording Drums – It’s a Job Jan 14, 2021

Dan Bailey is a veteran musician/engineer based in Southern California.

He’s been Father John Misty’s drummer since 2014 and music director since 2017. With 20 years of studio experience, he records remote record drums and creates educational materials at my studio Trackland II.

In addition, he’s contributed to the live performances and recordings of, First Aid Kit, Reignwolf, Onerepublic, Aaron Lee Tasjan, Johnathan Wilson, Everest, Gambles, Pacific Air, Anderson East, Jon Foreman, B.o.B, Sean and Sara Watkins, Christina Aguilera and Escondido, among others.

In this episode, Dan talks about:

* Compartmentalizing your various duties when recording yourself (setting up mics/tracks vs. playing vs. editing, etc.) * The all-purpose beauty of the SM-57, and when/why to invest in high-priced studio gear* How to prioritize sound treatment in your space * Not thinking of session work vs. touring work as very different in terms of playing or relationships* How people’s perception of you is shaped by what you continue to say yes to, and having to say no to change that* Why “networking,” “hustle,” and “grind,” are the wrong terms for what musicians need to do to build a career* What playing with Father John Misty has taught him about constructing drum parts

Dan endorses Canopus Drums, Istanbul Agop cymbals, and Vic Firth sticks

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the new Drummer Bundle Track Pack now on sale!

This episode is also sponsored by Airgigs. Become a patron of the show on our Patreon page to get early access to our 7-part conversation with CEO David Blacker about how to build a profile and clientele on Airgigs.

300 – Our Favorite Moments from our Least Favorite Year, Fifteen Former Guests Featured Jan 07, 2021

The last year has affected our lives, careers, relationships, and lives behind the kit in ways we never could have imagined. We’ve all lost work, but this time has also provided opportunities to learn, improve, and grow, musically and otherwise. So for our 300th episode, we want to highlight some of our most memorable interviews of the last 100 episodes. We’re going to hear from a handful of former guests who we feel best articulated ideas that kept coming up – obviously the various ways covid was affecting the lives and careers of our guests, but also the intersectionality of the music industry and the racial justice movement, concepts around technique and technology that drummers have been exploring at home during this time, and the psychological reckoning many of us have been going through, taking stock of what really matters to us and what our priorities should be moving forward.

In this Episode:

* Recording techniques with Kip Allen (260), Jordan Rose (267), Grady Saxman (272), and Eric Darken (279)* Physicality and performance with Dave Weckl (269), Todd Sucherman (232), Jimmy Paxson (262), and Steve Goold (250)* Racial justice and music with Otis Brown III (276), Derrek Phillips (274), Peter Retzlaff (275), and Matt Brennan (259)* Real life priorities with Beth Goodfellow (280), Steve Sinatra (212), and Christopher Allis (284)

Watch this episode here on YouTube:

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the featured mic bundle DMK57-52

This episode is also sponsored by Airgigs. Become a patron of the show on our Patreon page to get early access to our 7-part conversation with CEO David Blacker about how to build a profile and clientele on Airgigs.

299 – Dave Elitch: Helping Pros Overcome Physical/Mental Barriers, On-line Course “Getting Out of Your Own Way – Redux” Dec 17, 2020

Dave Elitch first gained notoriety touring with the American progressive rock band The Mars Volta in 2009-2010. Since then he has lent his talents to Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake, M83, The 1975, Juliette Lewis, Big Black Delta, and many others. An established LA session player, Dave has performed on various records, syncs, and film scores for major motion pictures, including “Trolls” and “Logan.” He also conducts masterclass lectures worldwide and keeps a busy private teaching practice in Los Angeles. Dave has developed a reputation as the technique/body mechanic specialist and has helped many of the industry’s top players and educators expand their vocabulary, overcome physical/mental barriers and get out of their own way.

In this episode, Dave talks about:

* Treatments and techniques that treat and prevent “drumming injuries”* Finding a balance between productivity and self care * Teaching players like Gregg Bissonette and Chris McHugh* The origin story of his teaching method* Helping people to overcome their physical/mental barriers* Important reads* His online teaching program “Getting Out of Your Own Way – Redux”

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the featured mic bundle DMK57-52

Dave endorses: DW drums, Remo drumheads, Sabian Cymbals and Vic Firth sticks

298 – Randy Cooke: A Self-Imposed Freeze on Live Gigs, The Influence of an Approach, The Live Gig Hustle vs. the Session Gig Hustle Dec 10, 2020

Influenced by his drummer father, Cooke picked up the drums as a child, learning and playing as part of a local drum corps in Toronto before starting his own bands as a teenager.[1] After high school, he took his talents to the recording studio and the national stage, recording and/or touring with the likes of FM, Lee Aaron, Strange Advance, Marc Jordan, Rik Emmett, Amy Sky, Sass Jordan, Kim Mitchell, Alannah Myles, and Alanis Morissette, and quickly emerged as one of Canada’s top session musicians.[2]

In 2004, Cooke relocated to Los Angeles and has since worked with some of music’s biggest names. Shortly after his move, he was selected to record and tour with Dave Stewart of Eurythmics. Impressed, Stewart recommended Cooke to Ringo Starr, who was looking for a band to back him up as he began the promotional circuit for his solo album, Liverpool 8. Cooke got the spot and would accompany Starr on drums on The Rachel Ray Show and at the European Capital Of Culture Celebration, among other major appearances.[1] Since moving to the US, he has also toured and/or recorded with Five for Fighting, Kelly Clarkson, Hilary Duff, Natasha Bedingfield, Colin Hay (of Men at Work), Pointer Sisters, Mick Jagger, David Archuleta, Mandy Moore, and Taylor Hicks.[3] He has also appeared on Jay Leno, David Letterman, Regis & Kelly, A&E Private Sessions, Larry King, CBS Early Show, The View, and Martha Stewart.

In this episode, Randy talks about:

* Getting video of EVERYTHING he does in the studio* His criteria for returning to travel work* The lasting influences of Stewart Copland and Steve Gadd* Getting multiple mini-lessons out of learning one short groove or fill* Habits from live playing that don’t serve you in the studio* Why LA was the place for him * The separate worlds of networking for live work vs. session work

297 – Mike Zimmerman: Drumming for Kenny Rogers, Taking Leaps of Faith, Producing from Home Dec 03, 2020

Mike Zimmerman is a drummer and producer in Nashville Tennessee. Mike started playing drums at age 14 after playing the guitar for a year. Drums appealed more to Mike probably due to his mother being a rhythm player in the traditional Serbo-Croatian folk scene in the Cleveland area. This atmosphere rubbed off on Mike to seek out the uncommon, yet traditional sounds in the music around him.

After years of playing in the Cleveland music scene, Mike decided to uproot his small family and move to Nashville to give it a real go. After getting to know the landscape, Mike landed his first artist gig with Doug Stone. He then had the great opportunity to play with other artists such as Earl Thomas Conley, Tracy Byrd and Jamie O’Neal. Years of touring, sessions and odd-jobs finally led to a gig with legendary singer Kenny Rogers. This also led to opportunities to play with other artists such as Linda Davis, Billy Dean and even Lionel Richie! Mike has had the honor and pleasure of playing all over the world.

In this episode, Mike talks about:

* Growing up in a musical family in Cleveland, OH* Making the move to Nashville, TN* Getting the Kenny Rogers gig* Gigs that prepared him for high profile artist gigs* Traveling the world with Kenny* Producing tracks from home

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the featured mic bundle DMK57-52

Mike endorses Sabian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Yamaha drums and Beier Snare Drums

296 – Peter Erskine: Tools for Remote Work, Enjoying Life Off the Road, Creativity Through Subtraction Nov 19, 2020

Peter Erskine is a drumming legend and a friend of WDP. He has appeared on WDP more than any other drummer, and for good reason. As we near the end of 2020, Peter shares how the year has affected him as a performer and educator. On November 21 and 22, he’ll be performing a livestream concert as part of Drumhead Live https://live.champion.biz /. In this episode, Peter talks about

* How he adapted his home studio into a multi-cam, multi mic teaching suite* Using the virtual platform to help his students up their audio game* Things he misses and doesn’t miss about pre-COVID times* The psychological shift he made partway through the pandemic * His upcoming livestream performance for Drumhead Live https://live.champion.biz/* Improving through subtraction rather than addition* An engineer’s mixing trick * His new Tama signature snare

Peter endorses Tama drums, Zildjian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Remo heads, Roland V-Drums, Meinl percussion, and Zoom recorders

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the featured mic bundle DMK57-52

295 – Miles McPherson: Building a Creative Sound Design Library, Early Studio Opportunities, Touring with Paramore and Kelly Clarkson Nov 12, 2020

Miles McPherson moved to Nashville in 1986, when his father, Jerry, relocated the family there so he could work in the studios as a session guitarist. When he was still touring, Miles played with Kelly Clarkson, Paramore, Tonic, and Better Than Ezra. In 2013, he came off the road to pursue being a session drummer full time. In the studio Miles has worked notable artists such as Reba McEntire, Rascall Flatts, Chris Young, Kelly Clarkson, Tyler Farr, Lee Brice, Chase Rice, Jeremy Camp, James Otto and many others. In 2017 he was awarded drummer of the year by the Academy of Country Music.

In this episode, Miles talks about:

* Building a usable sound library from unconventional things* Staying busy during the Covid crisis* Growing up with a father who was a professional session guitarist * Touring with Paramore and Kelly Clarkson* Surviving a horrific golf cart crash

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones. Check out the featured mic bundle DMK57-52

Miles endorses: Yamaha drums, Meinl Cymbals, and Vater drumsticks.

294 – Tony Coleman: An Encyclopedia of Blues & Soul, Playing with B.B. King and Bobby Blue Bland, Demystifying the Shuffle Nov 05, 2020

Tony Coleman has played with Blues and Soul legends such as B.B. King, Bobby Blue Bland, Buddy Guy, Albert Collins, and many, MANY others. Over his long career, Tony has lived in Chicago, Memphis, and Texas, and the succession of artists and regions he’s gone through have made him a unique authority on many sub-styles of blues and soul drumming. In recent years, he has also toured with country artist Jamey Johnson.

In this episode, Tony talks about:

* The importance Black culture places on arranging a show, not just songs* How exhibitionism detracts from music* Looking down on the Blues in his younger years, and how B.B. King changed his mind* Some of the differences in Blues and shuffle styles between Chicago, Memphis, and Texas * Understanding a culture in order to master its musical styles

Tony endorses Mapex drums, Sabian cymbals, Remo drumheads, Vater drumsticks, Audix mics, Gon Bops percussion, Jerry Harvey in-ears, and DW pedals.

293 – Robyn Flans: Author of “It’s About Time: Jeff Porcaro, The Man and His Music,” Her Early Days at Modern Drummer Oct 29, 2020

As an entertainment journalist for more than 40 years, Robyn Flans has worked for such diverse publications as People Magazine, In Touch, Mix, Modern Drummer, Country Weekly and a daily newspaper. She has authored four music books, written numerous bios, electronic press kits, including cut by cuts for artists, and album liner notes. She has a new book about Jeff Porcaro that only someone as close to Jeff as she was could write.

Links to Robyn and the book:

Robyn Flans Drummer Interviews

Robyn Flans Media

Jeff Porcaro Book

In this episode, Robyn talks about:

* Her early days at Modern Drummer* Her book about Jeff Porcaro* Getting Jeff on the cover of Modern Drummer* Jeff’s influence on music today* The sadness of finishing the book

292 – Andrew Atkinson: Playing with Oz Noy and Gregory Porter, Building a Foundation in Miami, Becoming an Individual in New York Oct 22, 2020

Andrew Atkinson’s drumming draws on the seductive beats of his native Jamaica, the percolating rhythms of his childhood home Miami, and the world of jazz that has beckoned and captivated him in all his travels. Highlights of his resume include guitarist Oz Noy, vocalist Gregory Porter, and steel pan player Othello Molineux.

After graduating high school, Atkinson would find himself becoming one of the most in demand young drummers in Miami, playing with every type of band imaginable. With reggae-ska band The Monjees, Atkinson got his first taste of life on the road by performing on the 2002 Warped Tour and opening for James Brown at the 2002 Sunfest. Of course, he stuck close to jazz, his first musical love, and wound up doing gigs with luminaries such as Randy Brecker, Arturo Sandoval, Danilio Perez, and Donald Harrison.

Andrew moved to New York in 2011, where he has played with many of the biggest names in jazz, subbed on Broadway musicals including “Hamilton” and “Ain’t Too Proud,” and will be the full time drummer for a new musical currently in development.

In this episode, Andrew talks about

* How he came to the drums through a middle school scheduling error* His early career in Miami playing Reggae, Punk, Ska, Salsa, Timba, and Jazz * Being attracted to New York’s celebration of individual artistic voices, and wanting to develop his there* Going out every night (literally) his first year in New York to learn the scene and make contacts* How to be a drummer that singers like* Adapting to Broadway’s detail-oriented culture

Andrew endorses Vic Firth sticks, Sabian cymbals, Sonor drums, and Westone in-ears.

291 – Mike Dawson: The New Modern Drummer Podcast, Continuing to Learn in all Stages of Life, Effective Use of Time Oct 15, 2020

Michael Dawson is a New Jersey–based drummer, educator, and clinician and is currently managing editor for Modern Drummer, the world’s most widely read magazine exclusively for drummers. Dawson produced and co-hosted the industry-leading weekly podcast, The Modern Drummer Podcast With Mike and Mike, along with renowned online educator/clinician Mike Johnston. 2020 is bringing a new, interview based podcast called The Modern Drummer Podcast.

Additionally, Mike serves as book editor for Modern Drummer Publications, with most releases including Progressive Drumming Essentials by drummer/educator Aaron Edgar, Rhythm and Chops Builders and Stick Technique by rudimental specialist Bill Bachman, and Exercises in African-American Funk by top touring drummer Jonathan Joseph and University of Miami faculty member Steve Rucker. In the pages of MD, Michael has authored dozens of artist features, educational columns, and product reviews.

Dawson has a bachelor’s degree in music education from West Virginia University and a master’s degree in music from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He’s a senior lecturer in music journalism and drumset at the UArts, and he operates a recording studio out of his home in New Jersey, where he tracks drums and percussion remotely for artists around the globe. Michael was a regular sub for the drumset chair in the hit Broadway musical The Lion King.

In this episode, Mike talks about:

* Effective time management* Drawing inspiration from the community at Modern Drummer Magazine* The ability to grow as a player through all stages of life* How to inspire and be honest when teaching* The creation of the Neil Peart MD tribute issue* The new Modern Drummer Podcast

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums

290 – Billy Brimblecom: Losing a Leg to Cancer, Moving from KC to Nashville and Back, Heading Up the Steps of Faith Foundation Oct 08, 2020

Billy Brimblecom’s career has taken him from drumming to philanthropy, and from his hometown of Kansas City to Nashville, and back to Kansas City. Over his 25 year career, Billy has manned the drum chair for Blackpool Lights, The Start, The Creature Comforts, and Summer Breeze.

In early 2005 Brimblecom learned he a form of cancer in his leg called Ewing’s sarcoma.[2] This resulted in his left leg being amputated above the knee. After 13 rounds of chemotherapy and a few months of rehab, Brimblecom re-joined Blackpool Lights and returned to touring ( with a prosthetic leg) in March 2006. Brimblecom and the band did extensive tours of the U.S., Canada and Japan as well as support slots for Social Distortion, Anberlin, Angels and Airwaves.

Brimblecom relocated to Nashville in 2009 where he did session work with producer/songwriter Don Chaffer (of Waterdeep) and Greg LaFollette. During this time, he also founded the Steps of Faith Foundation, which helps amputees get the prosthetics they need.

Billy and his family returned to Kansas City in 2017, where he has continued both his philanthropic and musical endeavors. Since 2017, he has partnered with his fellow Kansas Citian and high school friend Jason Sudeikis to produce Thundergong, a live benefit for Steps of Faith which featured performances by a host of big names including Ben Harper, Fred Armisen, Wynona Judd, and The Get Up Kids.

In this episode, Billy talks about:

* The challenges of playing Yacht Rock* Merging his old life in full time music with his new life in philanthropy* How he moved forward physically, emotionally, and practically after losing his left leg* What attracted him to Nashville, and why he ultimately returned home to Kansas City* Becoming the Executive Director of the Steps of Faith Foundation, and how he has fused that role with his identity as a drummer and his expertise in the music business* Thundergong – a yearly fundraiser event he coproduces with Jason Sudeikis

289 – Jason Cooper: Balancing the “Day Gig” with a Thriving Home Studio, Cymbals that Work in the Studio, The Good & Bad of Social Media Oct 01, 2020

Jason Cooper is a native of Memphis TN and played his first professional gig at 11 years old. Since then, he has gone on to play in many local bands and has travelled the country playing for numerous acts. He has also played in almost 40 professional theater productions including Dream Girls, Footloose, The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins and Into the Woods. He has also done numerous recording sessions for artists in the US, Canada and throughout Europe. Jason worked at the Memphis Drum shop from 1999 to 2006. While at Memphis Drumshop, he teched for Dennis Chambers, Sonny Emory, Herman Matthews, Alex Acuna, Billy Ward, Peter Erskine, Will Kennedy, Virgil Donati, Akira Jimbo Keith Carlock and many others. He even changed a drumhead for Tony Williams once. – Very cool.

After many years of slugging away in the unpredictable world of the music business, Jason decided to take a break from it all and go back to school and earn a degree that lead to a job as an x-ray technician. Today he splits his time between his “day job” and maintaining a solid roster of clients from all over the world providing drum tracks from his home studio – Old Lantern Studio. A project of note includes the Neal Bowen Trio which will have an EP out soon.

In this episode, Jason talks about:

* Working as an x-ray technician and leaving room for drumming * His decision to go back to school and get a “day job”* Learning to produce the best drum tracks he can from his home studio* Cymbal selection in the studio* The good and the bad of social media

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums

288 – Adam Alesi: L.A. Gigs of All Shapes and Sizes, A Few Key Relationships, Taking Big Studio Experience into the Home Studio Sep 24, 2020

Drummer Adam Alesi is in high demand for session and live work in Los Angeles and around the greater Southern California region. As a student of drum legend Gregg Bissonette (and later as Gregg’s drum tech), Adam learned how to connect with music and musicians on a personal and emotional level. Like his mentor, he has made taste and versatility his hallmarks.

One of Adam’s longest musical relationships has been with veteran pianist/composer/producer Geoff Stradling. Adam has been Geoff’s first call for over a decade, and the two have worked on countless recording projects together including Mad Men, the Golden Globe Awards, the SAG Awards, and Geoff’s original big band, The Stradband. Another decade-plus tenure Adam maintains is with the all-pro band that supports Burbank High School’s show choir, In Sync. The group is nationally competitive, perennially award-winning, and served as the model for the hit Fox series Glee.

Adam’s other credits for film and TV include the IMAX original film Pandaswith composer Mark Mothersbaugh, and a national Samsung ad campaign featuring Rihanna. He has performed regularly with numerous big band legends including Grammy Award winner Gordon Goodwin and Tonight Show composer/arranger Mike Barone. Over his 15-year career, Adam has also performed with legendary artists across many genres including Aretha Franklin, Richard Carpenter, and David Benoit.

In this episode, Adam talks about:

* Getting a jump on the home studio game before COVID* File management skills and other ways he’s improved his workflow* Becoming the go-to drummer for Hollywood composers Geoff Stradling and Mike Barone* What he’s learned through his long relationship with Gregg Bissonette * His experience playing in the Pixarmonic Orchestra at Disneyland California Adventure* Drumming and contracting the band for Burbank High School’s nationally competitive show choir

Adam endorses Dixon drums, Sabian cymbals, Aquarian drumheads, Vanguard Audio Labs microphones, and Presonus Audio Electronics

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums.

287 – Neil LaFortune: Hosting the “Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break”, Working with Tribute Acts, Adapting to the Socioeconomic Climate of Your Scene Sep 17, 2020

Neil LaFortune has covered many styles throughout the years from Classic Rock, Funk, R&B, Country, Latin, Pop, Jazz, and Blues based cover bands, to original acts. Studies at Ontario College of Percussion in Toronto and later studies with Jim Blackley helped prepare Neil for professional settings that required reading and versatility.

The last several years Neil has been busy with Tribute acts such as Abba Revisited, Police tribute “Message In A Bottle,” as well as many other tributes in the U.S. and abroad. Neil’s work included gigs with his duo Sticks and Tones as well as rising Canadian country singer Meghan Patrick opening for the likes of Rascal Flatts, Dwight Yoakam and Kiefer Sutherland. In 2020 Neil started hosting his weekly interview series called the Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break.

Teaching is another passion and Neil teaches lots of private lessons at home and does clinics and workshops locally and abroad. His teaching efforts earned him the Drummers Choice’s Teacher of The Year in 2003.

In this episode, Neil talks about:

* Differences between the music scenes in Canada compared to the U.S. * Hosting the “Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break” * Navigating the world of endorsements * Adapting to the socioeconomic climate of your scene* Working with tribute acts* Good health after 50

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums

Neil proudly endorses: Gretsch drums, Dream Cymbals and Regal Tip products

286 – Cooking Drummers: Marcus Finnie and Zack Albetta Talk Food Sep 10, 2020

Marcus Finnie and Zack Albetta both have a deep and abiding passion for food and cooking. So since a lot of us are probably doing more cooking these days, we wanted to talk what we’ve been up to in the kitchen, share some resources, recipes, tips, tricks, and hacks, in hopes that it will inspire some others to push their kitchen game a little higher.

In this episode, Marcus and Zack talk about

* What got them into cooking* The importance of quality, sharp knives, and the difference between sharpening and honing* Pans: the versatility of non-stick, and moving on to stainless steel, carbon steel, and cast iron* Cooking for kids and how to make delicious veggies* A few basic tips to make simple things like pasta or roast chicken AWESOME* Venturing into baking* Parallels between cooking and music

Links to stuff we talked about:

Smitten Kitchen

The Paprika III recipe organization app

“Ruhlman’s Twenty” Cookbook

Instant Pot

Knives: Shun, Wustoff, Global, Cutco

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums

285 – Mike Hansen: Recording the New Hurricane Album, “Cross-blending” with Acoustic and Electronic Drums, Covering Ted McKenna’s Drum Parts on a Rory Gallagher Tour Sep 03, 2020

Originally from Chicago and spending over 35 years and in the Los Angeles music scene, Mike Hansen had the opportunity to work with many great artists such as the band Hurricane, Steve Vai, George Lynch, Doug Pinnick of kings X fame, The Pointer Sisters, Albert Lea, the band tribe after tribe and many others.He’s been spending this last year living in Chicago taking care of his parents and tending to his fathers needs who’s been suffering from cancer. His father was an important figure in Mike’s musical development as his father was a professional guitar player and exposed Mike to many great musicians and opportunities throughout his life.

In this episode, Mike talks about:

* Working “non-music” gigs * The influence of his father* Using the Roland TM-6 drum module to mix with his acoustic kit live and when recording* Recording the new Hurricane record* Covering Ted McKenna’s drum parts on a Rory Gallagher tour* Working with Dug Pinnick* Touring in the mid-80’s

This episode is sponsored by Beier drums

Mike endorses: Aquarian drum heads, Sawtooth Drums, Soundbrenner, Kickport, Beier Drums, JBL, Cymbal Sox, Techra drumsticks, ChromaCast and Chicago Drum company

284 – Christopher Allis: The Never-Ending Journey of Home Recording, Reassessing Our Relationship with Music, Balancing Career and Caregiving Aug 27, 2020

Christopher Allis has been active on the LA scene for over a decade doing session, touring, commercial and jingle work. He has lent his talents for TV spots for Coca-Cola, Discovery Channel, and others. His playing can also be heard a variety of commercial music for shows including “Smash”, “The Voice”, “True Blood”, “Sons of Anarchy”, “Buffy The Vampire Slayer”, and a variety of children and young adult shows on ABC, ABC Family, Nickelodeon, and the Disney Channel. Film music includes “Planes – Fire and Rescue”, “The Hills Have Eyes”, and overdub sessions for the James Bond films “Gold Finger”, “The Man With the Golden Gun”, and “Dr. No”.

His latest touring stints have been with Deanna Carter and Michael Nesmith. He has also entered the world of academia as a special guest lecturer at the USC Thornton School of Music where we works with production classes to discuss and demonstrate modern studio drumming techniques.

In this episode, Christopher talks about:

* Tailoring your home recording rig to your skill level and your target market* The flexibility of minimal mic’ing techniques* Acquiring recording gear that you’ll grow into * His listening habits during COVID* Leaning into a particular aesthetic to find his place on the LA scene* Reassessing what we really want out of music and how to get it* How his life and career have changed as a result of his wife’s ongoing battle with cancer* Not asking “why?” but rather, “what now?”

Christopher endorses Ludwig drums, Istanbul Agop Cymbals, Remo Drum Heads, Vater drumsticks, Canopus Snare Wires and Accessories, Big Fat Snare Drum, Snare Weight, SKB Cases, Yamaha DTX Electronic Drums, andToontrack software.

283 – Danny Gottlieb: New Duo Record with Mark Egan, Drumming for Pat Metheny, Studying with Joe Morello Aug 20, 2020

Danny Gottlieb is one of the most popular drummers in jazz and contemporary music. While best known as the drummer in the original Pat Metheny Group, of which he was a member for six years, Danny, during the past 30 years, has performed and recorded with some of the world’s greatest musicians including Airto and Flora Purim Group, Al DiMeola Project, Blues Brothers Band, Bobby McFerrin Trio, Elements (co-leader with Mark Egan), Gary Burton Quartet, Gil Evans Orchestra, WDR Big Band, Gary Sinise’s band: Lt Dan Band and many more.

Danny has been on the covers of Modern Drummer, Down Beat, Drums and Percussion, Rhythm, and Drum Scene magazines.

In this episode, Danny talks about:

* Teaching at the University of North Florida* The multicultural experiences of music * Drumming with the Pat Metheny Group* Recording in the late 70’s* The new recording “Electric Blue” with Mark Egan* Reflecting on Lyle Mays* Studying with Joe Morello * Drumming for the Gary Sinise’s band: Lt Dan Band

Find the new recording here: https://markegan.com/wavetone

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums

Check out Troy Lucketta rocking the Beier 4 x 15 snare here

Danny currently endorses: Zildjian Cymbals, Remo Drum Heads, Basix Drums, Hot Sticks, Eames Drum Shells, Calato Brushes, Vic Firth Mallets, Alternate Mode-Kat products, Shure Microphones, Hammerax Products.

282 – Jack Jones: Making YouTube Videos with Rick Beato, Diving Into Creativity and Improv During COVID, Playing in a Hard-Working Cover Band Aug 13, 2020

Jack Jones has been performing and teaching music for 25 years. Jack has has toured the U.S. and Japan extensively with jam band luminary Col. Bruce Hampton, Texas Blues artist Chris Duarte, and Blair Crimmins and the Hookers. In 2019, Jack was featured in YouTube music channel host, Rick Beato’s videos, Top 20 Drum Intros of All Time and Top 20 Drum Fills of All Time, which have collectively received more than 3 million views. He has a B.M. in Music Education from the University of LA at Monroe, and a Masters Degree in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University, and he has worked with many local and national artists such as Scott Henderson, Keven Bales, and the Joe Gransden Big Band. He is currently the full time drummer with The Mike Veal Band, a well known Atlanta cover band. He also composes music and leads his own project, The Jack Jones Trio, a jazz trio with which he will be recording in the coming year.

In this episode, Jack talks about:

* Using the last few months to explore his creative process and improvisatory instincts* Planting seeds for a collection of original compositions* Trying to find a “free” state of mind in musical situations with defined parameters * Rick Beato’s in-the-moment approach to producing his Youtube videos* His main live gig with the Mike Veal Band, a long-time Atlanta favorite

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums

Check out Troy Lucketta rocking the Beier 4 x 15 snare here

281 – Stephen Taylor: Stephen’s Drum Shed, New and Creative Ways to Teach Drums, Staying Focused on Family while Building a Career in Music Aug 06, 2020

Stephen Taylor is the founder and owner of StephensDrumShed.com as well as the creator of the Drum Better Daily system. The website is membership based and offers a way to learn the drums online in an organized and goal oriented fashion. Stephen has written three drum method books and also offers downloadable video drum lesson packs and individual lessons on his site.

Stephen began playing professionally at the age of 16. During his formative years, he studied under drumming phenom Henrique De Almeida (Current Associate Professor of Percussion at Berklee College of Music). In his late teens and early twenties, he cut his teeth playing nightly in clubs on Bourbon Street, in New Orleans, LA. After three years of gigging up to ten hour days, he relocated to pursue his education. While obtaining his degree in Jazz Studies from the University of Southern Mississippi, he studied under Dr. John Wooton.

Stephen currently maintains a busy teaching and playing schedule in Nashville, TN. He has played and toured with independent and major label artists including Danielle Peck (Big Machine Records), Jason Jones(Warner Music), Meshach Jackson, and many others. In late 2008, Stephen began playing with an original project, Lovers and Liars. They signed with Universal Republic Records between 2010 and 2011, had several songs featured on MTV, and had the opportunity to share the stage with Hoobastank, Finger Eleven, Civil Twilight, Candlebox, Hurt, Cavo, Hinder, Fuel, Eve 6, Hawthorne Heights, Red, Thriving Ivory, Theory of a Deadman, Saving Abel, Framing Hanley, 10 Years, Seether, Shinedown, and many others. Stephen also has a passion for teaching with current and past students having achieved or been featured on MTV, NBC, The Grammies, VH1, The Real World, the Dove Awards, and various college scholarships. In addition, Stephen was part of a feature article in the October 2013 issue of DRUM! Magazine entitled “The Drum Stars of You Tube”.

In this episode, Stephen talks about:

* His online drum school: Stephens Drum Shed* Finding new and creative ways to teach drums* Lear...

280 – Beth Goodfellow: Loops and Layers with Drums, Percussion, and Voice, How COVID will Effect the Lives and Livelihoods of Working Musicians Jul 30, 2020

Beth Goodfellow is an LA-based drummer, percussionist, and vocalist. She studied classical percussion at San Jose State while playing gigs around the San Francisco Bay Area, simultaneously serving as a drummer in the California Air National Guard Band of the West Coast. While residing in San Francisco Elizabeth appeared on two episodes of America’s Got Talent as a drummer in The Emily Anne Band and subsequently relocated to Los Angeles. Since moving to L.A. Elizabeth has released two albums of her original music, recorded with artists including Boygenius, Per Gessle, and Crossrecord, and has toured with Iron & Wine and Madison Cunningham.

In this episode, Beth talks about:

* Her varied background of drumset, percussion, classical music, musical theatre, military band, and songwriting* What leading creative projects taught her about working as a side player on others’, and vice versa* The National Independent Venue Association* The Restart Act* The questions musicians need to be asking ourselves, each other, and our employers during and after COVID* How Ableton aligned perfectly with the layered and looped way she likes to make music

Check out Beier Snare’s here – https://www.beierdrums.com

David Northrup is the 2nd drummer in the Beier ad. You can find his solo CD here.

279 – Eric Darken: Percussionist, Composer, Performing with Jimmy Buffett, From Congas to the Garden Weasel Jul 23, 2020

For over 30 years Eric Darken has worked as a studio and touring percussionist for some of the biggest bands and artists in the world. Just a few of his recording credits includes Taylor Swift, BonJovi, Jewel, James Bay, Maren Morris, Bob Seger, Carrie Underwood, The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and new artists Carly Pearce and Moon Taxi.

Eric has traveled around the world and throughout the United States performing with artists such as Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Faith Hill, Take 6 and Bob Seger. He currently tours with Jimmy Buffett and The Coral Reefer Band and frequently performs live with Mac McAnally.

An accomplished composer and producer, Eric has written original underscores for TV and film. These shows include Dateline NBC, 20/20, Fox Sports, the Discovery Channel, The NFL Network, National Geographic and the film, The Fantastic Four – Rise of the Silver Surfer. Other projects include A Drummer Boy’s Christmas and Sunday Drive.

In this episode, Eric talks about:

* Taking advantage of the downtime to grow, learn, write and record from home* “Owning the instrument” learning all the tones and possibilities an instrument can deliver* Working with Jimmy Buffett* Creating percussion parts that are felt but not always heard* From household items to gardening tools to create percussion sounds * Building a sample library

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR SPONSOR – BEIER SNARE DRUMS

Spotify link to Damon Johnson Live record with Jarrod Pope playing the 6.5×14 Beier Snare

Eric endorses Meinl Percussion, Paiste Cymbals, Mike Balter Mallets, The Trashkat and Shure Microphones

278 – Rudy Royston: An Album of Solo Drumming, Storytelling on the Drumset Jul 16, 2020

First-call New York drummer Rudy Royston has honed a thoroughly engaging voice as a composer and bandleader, and has also performed as a sideman with Dave Douglas, Bill Frisell, and many other jazz greats. His releases include his compelling debut ‘303’ (2014), the raw and bracing trio follow-up ‘Rise of Orion’ (2016) and the chamber quintet release ‘Flatbed Buggy’ (2018). His latest release, “PaNOptic,” is a collection of four suites for solo drumset, the proceeds of which are going to MusiCares to benefit musicians in need during the pandemic. Check it out

In this episode, Rudy talks about:

* The making of his new record* Communicating emotional or story-driven ideas on the drumset* How Denver shaped his development as a student and young professional* How gospel and jazz share an “in the moment” ethos* What he took from his experience as a public school music teacher

Rudy endorses Canopus drums, Vic Firth sticks, Gibraltar hardware, and Sabian cymbals.

This episode is sponsored by Beier snare drums – CHECK THEM OUT HERE!

277 – Allen Jones: Drumming for Will Hoge, “DIY Touring”, Horror Stories from the Road Jul 09, 2020

Growing up in southern Mississippi, Allen Jones spend his formative years creating his own music career through “DIY touring” and discovering his love of music and drumming. Since his move to Nashville, Tennessee he has played and/or recorded with Americana singer/songwriter Will Hoge and Lilly Hiatt, among others.

In this episode, Allen talks about:

* Tapping into the underground music scene even from a small town in Mississippi* “DIY Touring”* Growing your music community organically * Horror stories from the road* Moving to Nashville* Being excited about the music you’re playing * Recording the last two Will Hoge records

BEIER SNARE AD INFO AND LINKS BELOW

Check out Beier Snare’s here – https://www.beierdrums.com

Mark Beckett is the drummer featured on the “snare drum of the week”

David Northrup is the 2nd drummer in the Beier ad. You can find his solo CD here.

Allen endorses Sabian Cymbals and Evans Drumheads

276 – Otis Brown III: Playing with Esperanza Spalding and Joe Lovano, The New School Environment, Racial Justice in Jazz Jul 02, 2020

Otis Brown III is a Grammy-nominated jazz drummer, composer, and recording artist who is a go-to session and touring sideman. He is best-known for his work with Joe Lovano in Us Five, and Esperanza Spalding, though he has been on dozens of sessions and is as noteworthy for backing singers as he is instrumentalists.

Brown III was born in Hackensack, New Jersey. His mother was a vocal music teacher and choir director, and his father a school band instructor and noted percussionist who played with Al Green and James Brown.

The younger Brown III began his musical studies on alto saxophone at the age of seven under his father’s tutelage, and showed early promise. He played not only in school but in church. After moving to Newark where he attended high school, he played alto in jazz orchestra and snare drum in the marching band, both of which were directed by his dad.

Brown III attended Delaware State University where he came under the tutelage and mentorship of jazz trumpeter Donald Byrd, an influence that would prove to be profound.

After completing his studies at Delaware State, he earned a scholarship to New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York — his classmates included pianist Robert Glasper, saxophonist John Ellis, vocalist Bilal Oliver, and trumpeter Kenyon Harrold. In New York, Brown III studied with Larry Goldings, Lewis Nash, Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, Carl Allen, and others.In this episode, Otis talks about

Check out Beier Snare’s here – https://www.beierdrums.com

In this episode, Otis talks about:

* Reconnecting with some of the music that inspired him early on* Growing up the son of musicians and music educators* The accessibility of heroes in New York* His experience at The New School, and his perspective on music education* His thoughts on racial justice in the music world, and how music can and should deliver a message

275 – Peter Retzlaff: Teaching at The Collective School of Music in NYC, Exposure to Multiple Cultures Through Music, Important Mentors in His Early Years Jun 25, 2020

Peter Retzlaff is a New York City-based drummer. As a performer, Peter is equally at home in jazz, rock, funk, Brazilian, Afro-Cuban, Afro-Caribbean, odd meter, and New Orleans drumming styles. Peter has played with Kenny Werner, Greg Osby, Diane Schuur, Ray Vega, Maynard Ferguson, Pete McCann, Kim Bock, Loren Stillman, The BMI Big Band, The Jamie Begian Big Band, and his own group, Steeplechase recording artists Flow.

As an educator, Peter is Director of Curriculum and a full-time instructor at The Collective School Of Music (formerly known as The Drummer’s Collective). In addition, Peter teaches at the New School in New York City.

Peter is the author of two books, Turn It Up And Lay It Down: Baby Steps To Giant Steps and Contemporary Jazz Styles For Drums.

Peter received a B.A. in Jazz and Commercial Music and a B.A. in Business Administration from Capital University. He has also received a M.M. in Jazz Studies from the Manhattan School of Music and is the recipient of three National Endowment for the Arts Grants.

Check out Beier Snare’s here – https://www.beierdrums.com

Featured Beier snare recording is Eddie Bayers drumming for Scotty Simpson

In this episode, Peter talks about:

* Why he moved from Columbus Ohio to New York City* Teaching at The Collective School Of Music* The books he published* The influence and inspiration of growing up in Columbus Ohio* The influence of diverse cultures in music* Teaching in New York in the midst of Covid-19

Peter endorses Innovative Percussion, Zildjian, Remo, and Canopus

274 – Repost! The Black Drummers of Nashville 2017 Encore Edition: Building Relationships Upon the Common Ground of Music, Creating a Support System Jun 18, 2020

In this episode we have the opportunity to share the unique perspective of a group of talented black musicians who make their living in Nashville, Tennessee. They share stories of resilience and realism in an unpredictable work environment.

Our guests include Keio Stroud, Derek Phillips, Jeremy Roberson, Marcus Finnie and Hubert Payne. Their respective artist gigs include Big and Rich, Chase Rice, Hank Williams Jr., Kirk Whalum, Little Big Town as well as other live and studio work that keeps these drummers busy.

In this podcast, this round table discusses:

* Building relationships upon the common ground of music* Being the only black person at an arena gig* Influencing the culture on and off the kit* Learning how to develop thick skin* Being mistaken as the band’s security* The influence of urban music in country music* Hands = knowledge / Ears = wisdom* Creating a support system

Recommended resources:

Duncan Trussell Podcast with guest Mehcad Brooks (ep 387)

Drummers Resource Podcast with Host Daniel Glass – Black Sounds Matter pt 1

Drummers Resource Podcast with Host Daniel Glass – Black Sounds Matter pt 2

Black Lives Matter

273 – Charlie Hunter: Master of the Hybrid Guitar, His Favorite Drummers, Valuing Uniqueness Over Versatility Jun 11, 2020

With a career spanning three decades and almost 20 albums, Charlie Hunter consistently ups his game as an innovative writer and bandleader. He has worked with the likes of Norah Jones , Mos Def, John Mayer, D’Angelo and countless others. He is widely considered the authority on the seven and eight – string guitar, and continues to stun audiences with his ability to simultaneously bust out tasty bass parts, melodic leads and swinging rhythms.

Hunter has previously recorded for the venerable Blue Note label, Concord, Ropeadope, GroundUP and others. His recent independent venture is steered by his motivation to release music that most inspires him. Critics have touted his genius technique, but it’s his profound artistic sensibility that propels his original music. Hunter’s signature style of writing and performing has secured his place as one of today’s great guitarists.

In this episode, Charlie talks about:

* Developing his three-part playing style* The drummers he’s played with over the years, and what they have in common* The key to effective duo playing* Projects with singers Kurt Elling and Lucy Woodward, and why Derrek Phillips is the drummer for both* “The music education industrial complex” and how it is especially a disservice to drummers * Using quarantine to dismantle and reconstruct his playing and approach* How the live music industry could be reimagined from the ground up

272 – Grady Saxman: Drumming, Engineering & Producing, Techniques for Small Room Recordings, Studio Etiquette Jun 04, 2020

In the short time he’s been in Nashville Grady Saxman has gained a solid reputation in Nashville Tennessee as a Drummer, engineer and producer. From just drum tracks and demo recordings to singles, ep’s and fully produced records, Grady’s credits include many indie artists and writers to higher profile artists like Luke Combs and Uncle Kracker.

In this episode, Grady talks about:

* His path to engineering and producing* The distinction between phase and polarity * Recording techniques for small rooms* The importance of mixing yourself when tracking * Playing drums on a Luke Combs single * Moving into the role of producer* The importance of being tech savvy in the modern scene * Studio etiquette

271 – Fabio De Oliveira: Playing with George Ezra, Combining Pop Drumset and Brazilian Percussion, Looking for Balance After Covid May 28, 2020

Raised in London to Brazilian parents, and described as having the perfect mix of Brazilian passion and British sensibility, Fabio’s natural feel and broad understanding of various musical styes makes him one of London’s most versatile and in demand drummer/percussionists.

In 2011 Fabio graduated with a First Class Honors Degree in Music Performance and Production from the London Centre Of Contemporary Music.

In 2014 Fabio landed the job as stickman for number one selling artist George Ezra, giving him the opportunity to tour extensivley performing on some of the world’s biggest stages including Glastonbury Pyramid Stage, Madison Square Gardens, Montreux Jazz Festival, Coachella Music Festival and The Brits. Fabio has also backed George Ezra on TV shows such as Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Ellen, Jimmy Kimmel, Conan O’Brien, The Late Show with James Corden, The Graham Norton Show, Alan Carr Chatty Man and Top Of The Pops.

In this episode, Fabio talks about

* What he’s been working on during lockdown* Translating non-drumset sounds to the drumset* His Brazilian heritage, and growing up as part of London’s Brazilian community* The positive and constructive environment of the London Centre of Contemporary Music* How making friends and getting gigs are one and the same* The importance of a supportive partner* Ways he’s going to adjust his professional priorities and life balance moving forward

Fabio endorses Istanbul Agop Cymbals, Vic Firth, Remo, Protection Racket, Porter & Davies, and Roland.

270 – James Beier: Beier Drums, Bringing Back the 15″ Snare, An Honest and Personal Approach to Business May 21, 2020

But every once in a while there’s an opportunity to discuss the business of creating the tools that we all love. And, the lessons that we all can take away from such a discussion. James Beier talks about his process, work flow and what motivated him to build a snare drum that fit his vision of what a snare could be for the working drummer. With confidence, I’d say he’s done that and more. In addition to building a “workhorse” durable snare, he has single handedly reintroduced the 15” snare back into the drumming world.

In this episode, James talks about:

* James’ personal approach to introducing his drums to people * How he started Beier drums* Detailed description of what he offers* His amazing 4×15” snare* Creating a business and a work load that works for him* The importance of listening to others

“One of the few traditionally manufactured instruments left in the industry today”

“Beier Drums introduces a very alternative snare drum, something that may sign the time. As we all know-13, 12 and 10 inch snare drums have established the majority type of the used snares as current alternatives to the classical 14 inch standard over the years. Now, thanks to Beier, the 15 inch snare will be a valid alternative too”

“A Timeless, Traditional, Classic, Original & Unchanging Series Of Snare Drums”

“The only drum company ever to specialize in Steel for snare drums, and dedicate itself to the revitalization of it in the world of drums…”

269 – Dave Weckl: His Brand, His Favorite Bassists, His Physical Evolution May 14, 2020

For more than 35 years, Dave Weckl has developed and maintained a reputation among fans, peers, and the international music community, as one of the great living drummers. His contributions to iconic music, music education, and the gear that drummers use, are many. Modern Drummer magazine has inducted Weckl into their Hall of Fame (2000) and named him “one of the 25 best drummers of all time.”

He’s perhaps most well known for his ongoing tenure with the Chick Corea Elektric and Akoustic Bands, as well as side man duties for Michel Camillo, Mike Stern, Oz Noy, and many others. Weckl’s solo career began in 1990 with the release of Master Plan. In 1998, Weckl realized his long-time goal of forming a world-touring band. The Dave Weckl Band released five studio records, including: Rhythm Of The Soul, Synergy, Transition, Perpetual Motion, and Multiplicity. The band also released a hot live album, LIVE (And Very Plugged In) plus a compilation of DWB and instructional videos entitled The Zone.

Instructional videos have always played a big role in Weckl’s career. His original product, entitled Contemporary Drummer + 1, was one of the first play-along products ever published for drums. His Back To Basics and The Next Step releases were best-sellers in the ’90s and also continue to sell today.

In 2015, Weckl formed an acoustic jazz group with longtime friend/collaborator Tom Kennedy (bass), Gary Meek (sax), and Makoto Ozone (piano/B3). The group was called The Dave Weckl Acoustic Band. To date, the band has released a CD entitled Of The Same Mind and a live DVD filmed at Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood.

More recently, Weckl has returned to touring with the Elektric Band, Mike Stern, and Oz Noy, while completing sessions in his Los Angeles-area home studio. He has also formed an online school with comprehensive lessons, new play along products, and live footage from current tours.

In this episode, Dave talks about:

* The development and expansion of his online teaching school* Creating and maintaining a drumming brand (at any level)* Playing “with” Chick before actually playing with Chick, and having to find a different, “burning” time feel with the Elektric Band* Bassists: Tom Kennedy, John Pattitucci, Anthony Jackson and others* Changes in his physical approach and their connection to changes in his mental/emotional approach* His passion away from the drums – track racing – and what it has taught him about drumming and himself

Dave Weckl endorses Sabian cymbals, Yamaha drums, Vic Firth, Remo heads, LP percussion, Shure mics, QSC monitors, ZOOM cameras, and Carmichael Throne top.

268 – Joel Stevenett: Drumming in the Pro Session Scene in Salt Lake City, Finding Common Ground when Networking, Reflections on Neil Peart May 07, 2020

Originally from Alberta, Canada, drummer Joel Stevenett spent over ten years in Nashville before his eventual move to Salt Lake City where he currently lives and works as a first call session drummer. During his years in Nashville, Joel found himself on the road with such acts as JoDee Messina, The Wilkinsons, and SHeDAISY, among others.

His recording credits include the recording of Sony Playstation, X-BOX and Nintendo Wii video game soundtracks, including popular titles like Twisted Metal Head On, Dance Dance Revolution, and Disney’s Ultimate Band. Joel’s inventive and physical flair can be heard on numerous TV theme songs such as the NBA and The Today Show as well as movie soundtracks like Meet Joe Black, August Rush and Along Came Polly.

In this episode, Joel talks about:

* The work and attraction of Salt Lake City* Being proactive in seeking work* Film score and video game sessions* Finding common ground when networking* Reflecting on Neil Peart’s life and his influence * Preparing for a tribute to Neal

Joel endorses: DW drums, Paiste Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, HUMES AND BERG, VIC FIRTH Sticks, Shure Microphones, Porter and Davies

267 – Jordan Rose: Movement and Touch, Overcoming Hearing Loss, Making Your Sound Fit Anywhere Apr 30, 2020

A native of Houston, Texas, drummer Jordan Rose has performed at festivals and venues throughout the US, Canada, Europe, Mexico, Asia, and the Middle East. From 2012-2014 Jordan toured extensively with multi-Grammy award winner Joe Louis Walker. He now resides in Brooklyn, New York where he’s had opportunities to collaborate with Charlie Puth, Jeff Coffin, Nona Hendryx, Bakithi Kumalo, Louis Cato, and many others. Recently, he has toured with Theo Katzman and Corey Wong of Vulfpeck, The Blues Brothers, and Caleb Hawley.

In this episode, Jordan talks about:

* How his style of movement behind the kit developed* Using a lighter touch in a smaller recording space * Learning recording techniques from Aaron Sterling and Dan Bailey* Relying on touch and feeling when he couldn’t trust his hearing* Growing up in Houston, and how the music scene there shaped him* Merging generations and genres in instrumental music, and different band leadership styles between them* His first touring gig after college with blues man Joe Louis Walker, and how it helped set him on a path of roots/groove-based drumming

LA Fonda Theatre. Photo: Dara Munnis. @daramunnisLA Fonda Theatre. Photo: Dara Munnis. @daramunnisLA Fonda Theatre. Photo: Dara Munnis. @daramunnis

266 – Louis Newman: Adapting to Change, Drumming for Gretchen Wilson, Son of Famous English Rock Drummer Apr 23, 2020

Louis Newman was born in London England as the son of famous rock drummer Tony Newman and moved to Nashville at a very early age of two. Louis moved back to London at age fifteen to pursue a career as a session drummer before finally settling back in Nashville in his early 20’s.

Louis is the current touring drummer for country singer Gretchen Wilson. Louis’ wife Gwen Sebastian performed on The Voice which lead to touring work with Blake Shelton and currently Miranda Lambert. Before this time, Louis performed a variety of roles from manager, to drummer.

(side note)****If you have questions about finances during this time, we recommend you get in touch with Michael Mercurio at Michael@SandAWealth.com or request contact through http://www.sandawealth.com

In this episode, Louis talks about:

* How he’s making the most of the covid-19 shutdown* Taking stock of years of experiences* Studio lessons from Aaron Sterling* Being the son of a famous English rock drummer, Tony Newman* Drumming for Gretchen Wilson* Band leading and drumming for his wife Gwen Sebastion

Louis endorses Pearl Drums, Paiste Cymbals, Promark sticks, JH Audio and SKB Cases

265 – Steve Hass: Finding Success in NYC then LA, Identity vs. Versatility, The Setup/Motion/Sound Connection Apr 16, 2020

Over his multi-chapter career, Steve Hass has found success on both coasts playing with Ravi Coltrane, Richard Bona, and John Scofield, and The Manhattan Transfer among others. He has recently launched a new Patreon endeavor which combines some playing-based lessons with “behind the scenes” info from gigs he’s been on over the years.

In this episode, Steve talks about

* How being versatile can make it hard to find your own identity* Finding your “local flow”* The LA scene being a bit less welcoming to new voices than New York, although that’s changing* How to behave when bandleaders don’t set you up to succeed* Physical issues (pain, numbness, etc.) that are tied to set-up issues, which are sometimes tied to vanity* How finding your motion will help you find your sound* Making a couple easy choices go a long way in capturing multiple vibes on a single gig

Steve Hass endorses Yamaha drums, Sabian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Evans drumheads, and GonBops

264 – Kari Paavola: Living and Drumming in Vienna, Budapest, London and Helsinki, Providing Valuable Information for Freelancers Apr 09, 2020

Kari Paavola is a freelance drummer who started his career in the club scene in Helsinki, Finland. Kari studied at the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles before moving to London.

After two years in London, Kari joined the band Cinerama, an international touring act, and toured across US four times as well as shorter tours of Europe and UK. In addition, he did the Womack and Womack UK tours in 2006 and 2008. In 2009 he toured with Womack and Womack again as the drummer and Musical Director.

During his time in London, Kari recorded albums and demos and appears on 17 internationally available albums including a Top-40 hit in the UK when The Wedding Present song I am from further north than you entered the charts.

Kari currently lives and works in his home town of Helsinki, Finland and offers a masterclass / seminar on important aspects of working as a freelance musician.

******If you have questions about finances during this time, we recommend you get in touch with Michael Mercurio at Michael@SandAWealth.com or request contact through http://www.sandawealth.com

In this episode, Kari talks about:

* Dealing with the Covid-19 situation* His time working in London* Living and working in Vienna, Budapest, and Stockholm* Lessons learned after losing a gig * Kari’s masterclass on freelancing * Organizing tours and bands for American artists

263 – Quarantine Roundtable with Nick Ruffini: Resources for Musicians, Ways to Use the Downtime, Finding Your Voice Apr 02, 2020

Our annual chat with Nick Ruffini of Drummer’s Resource happens to coincide with pretty much the weirdest and most challenging time most of us will go through. We discuss some ways freelancers can get help, the pandemic’s implications for the future of the music industry, and what we’re all using this time to focus on.

HERE ARE SOME RESOURCES FOR MUSICIANS:

https://www.grammy.com/musicares

https://www.sweetrelief.org/

https://www.usa.gov/unemployment

https://cityofbostonartsandculture.submittable.com/submit/162763/boston-artist-relief-fund

https://www.unitedwaynashville.org/

COVID-19 Emergency Funding and Artist Resources

https://musicunitesus.bandzoogle.com/home?fbclid=IwAR2yQ57t3hm69Yw0GCbbIijA6uzlZhKdu89A5-i4zNeQm71br5TmzJNO1Ik#financial-assistance

In this episode, Matt, Zack, and Nick talk about

* Organizations musicians can turn to for help* Nick’s reignited passion for drumming after years of focusing on producing podcasts* Getting in touch with how you really want to sound – whatever you play, MEAN IT. * Ways drummers can set themselves apart in the remote tracking market * What we’re watching on TV

262 – Jimmy Paxson: Drumming for the Dixie Chicks, Stevie Nicks, Ben Harper, Lessons Learned from Veterans like Waddy Wachtel & Joe Sample Mar 26, 2020

Jimmy Paxson has toured, performed and/or recorded with Stevie Nicks, The Dixie Chicks, Alanis Morissette, Idina Menzel, Ben Harper, Ellen Harper, Charlie Musselwhite, Eikichi Yazawa, Edgar Winter, Ronnie Montrose, Stanley Clarke, Rod Stewart, Joe Sample, Randy Crawford, Robben Ford, Philip Sayce, Waddy Wachtel, Keiko Matsui, Sophie B. Hawkins, Sub.bionic, Lady Antebellum, Don Henley, Steve Vai, Sheryl Crow, Roy Gaines, Rick Derringer, Ravi Coltraine, Jerry Goodman, Dave Stewart, Mike Campbell, Johnny Rivers, A Fine Frenzy, Anna Nalick, Adam Levine, Vanessa Carlton, Lili Haydn, Annie Clark (of St. Vincent), Larkin Poe, Ladies of the Canyon, Abandon Jalopy with Brad Smith of Blind Melon, Shy Carter, Batture Boys with Tommy Malone and Ray Ganucheau, Jenni Alpert, Andra Day, Sunnie Paxson, Cagnet, Barbara Morrison, Bernard Fowler, Julian Coryell, Rachael Spector, Elizavetta, Ray-J. and Giorgia. His organ trio “The Casualties of Jazz” (with bassist Chris Golden and Matt Rohde on B3 Hammond Organ) recorded a critically acclaimed record of Black Sabbath songs performed as organ jazz called Kind of Black.

He is the son of Philadelphia Jazz musicians – Drummer Jimmy Paxson Sr. and Pianist Sunnie Paxson.

In this episode, Jimmy talks about:

* How the music community is dealing with the health emergency* Drumming for the Dixie Chicks* Lessons learned from Waddy Wachtel during his Stevie Nicks gig* What Jimmy learned from his parents who were pro musicians * Being creative in the studio with everything from trashcans and suitcases * Studying with Murray Spivack in L.A.* Sheet music software Aero Drums

Jimmy endorses: C&C Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Earthworks, Dunnett Snares, DW Hardware and Innovative Percussion Sticks

261 – Khari Parker: Chicago Born & Bred, Playing with George Benson and Destiny’s Child, The Importance of Playing in a Room with People Mar 19, 2020

Khari Parker has spent his entire life in Chicago. He began playing drums in church and became interested in jazz and fusion during his high school and college years. He left college to gig full time and hasn’t stopped since, remaining in high demand by acts spanning jazz, rock, R&B, and gospel. He gained notoriety playing with Destiny’s Child in the late 90’s and is currently the touring drummer for George Benson.

In this episode, Khari talks about:

* Going to a small regional college rather than a huge program* How he would construct a college drumming curriculum * The driving musical forces of the Chicago scene* How remote tracking lacks the critical elements of in-person collaboration and in-the-moment invention* Managing his energy during shows when he began playing arenas with Destiny’s Child* The lineage of George Benson drummers (Gadd, Mason, et al)

Khari endorses Yamaha drums, Vic Firth sticks, and Sabian cymbals.

260: – Kip Allen: Cultivating Your Own Voice & Sound, Working with Producer Jay Joyce, Building a Strong Instagram Following, Drumming for Devin Dawson Mar 12, 2020

Kip is the touring and recording drummer for Nashville artist Devin Dawson. Drumming for Devin allowed Kip the opportunity to work in the studio with award winning producer Jay Joyce.

Kip is known throughout the drumming community for his well produced and insightful video clips on Instagram that has garnered a sizable following.

Originally from Dallas, Texas, Kip Allen moved to Nashville, Tennessee to attend Belmont University to study commercial percussion. During his time in and around his time at Belmont, Kip traveled, and playing drums, with Devin Dawson, Paul Childers and the Black Tie Affair, Forest Fire Gospel Choir, and Baylor Wilson just to name a few.

In this episode, Kip talks about:

* Setting aside practice time to work on recording techniques * The importance of finding space in your playing * Cultivating your own voice and sound* Working with producer Jay Joyce in the studio* Kip’s effective use of Instagram * The use of samples in recordings

Kip endorses: Dw Drums, Pedals and Hardware,Drumtacs & Madbox Cajons

259: Matt Brennan – Author of “Kick It: A Social History of the Drum Kit” Mar 05, 2020

Matt Brennan is an author, musician, and researcher. His creative practice as a musician informs his teaching and research process, which also draws from historical, sociological, business, and ethical approaches to understanding music in society.

At the University of Glasgow he is Director of the Interdisciplinary Music Industries Research Group (IMIRGe) and Convenor of the MSc Music Industries degree.

He has served as Chair of the UK and Ireland branch of the International Association for the Study of Popular Music (IASPM), and held a Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship and Chancellor’s Fellowship at the University of Edinburgh prior to taking up his current post as Reader in Popular Music.

Matt has authored, co-authored, and edited several books in the field of popular music studies. His latest book, Kick It: A Social History of the Drum Kit (Oxford University Press 2020), establishes the drum kit’s central role in shaping the history of music over the last 150 years.

BUY THE BOOK HERE – for 30% off, enter promo code AAFLYG6 at checkout

In this episode, Matt talks about:

* Why the drums have been simultaneously maligned and indispensable for so long* How negative views of drummers and drumming are rooted in the slave trade and racism* The history of solidarity among working drummers* The role the drums and drummers played in the birth of many musical genres* How The Beatles and Ringo made the drum industry global

258 – Creighton Doane: Drummer, Mutli-instumentalist and Producer, A Drummer’s Sensibilities when Arranging and Writing Feb 27, 2020

Creighton Doane’s musical life began at a young age in a household where music formed the heart and soul of the home. A mutli-instumentalist and talented producer, Creighton has played drums and toured the world with artists like Allah Myles, Harem Scarem and sister Melanie Doane. He has and performed with some of Canada’s best-know artists in a variety of genres. Moving his talents to the studio, Creighton brings a wealth of knowledge to a diversity of projects – from writing custom music for advertising and TV; to composing for film and theatre; to songwriting and record production; while continuing to push the envelope behind the kit.

In this episode, Creighton talks about:

* Sound design in theatres* The advantage of a drummer’s sensibilities when arranging and writing * His transition from playing live to studio work* Modern recording applications* Creating situations that build upon your experiences * “Faith” as a part of your business plan

257 – Chris Brady: 23 Years with Aquarian Drumheads, The Legacy of Roy Burns Feb 20, 2020

Chris Brady has been in charge of Artist Relations at Aquarian for 23 years. He also has a hand in marketing, product development, and whatever else he needs to do for the company to grow and thrive. Chris began his playing career in Southern California, a contemporary of Gregg Bissonette and others. Handpicked by Roy Burns to join Aquarian, he made the jump to the product side of the music business and hasn’t looked back. Roy died in 2018, but Chris and the Aquarian team are carrying on with the love for music and musicians that Roy instilled in the company.

In this episode, Chris talks about:

* The last round of NAMM* His criteria for taking on endorsers* His early gigging life in SoCal* How and why he chose a career path on the product side * Aquarian’s products and “kick and snare” ethos* Roy Burns’s “music first” approach

256 – Steve Brewster: Nashville Studio Great, Tapping Into the “Muse” When Recording, Applying Your Thumbprint to the Music Feb 13, 2020

Steve Brewster has lived and worked in Nashville as a session player for over 20 years. A native Tennessean, Steve attended MTSU on a full music scholarship and studied jazz at UT-Knoxville. He moved to Nashville in 1988, after touring early on with country artist, Janie Fricke, and CCM artist, Michael W. Smith. Shortly after moving to town, Steve was embraced by the Nashville studio community and developed a steady and high-profile studio career, which he has maintained to this day. His passionate and creative musical approach, combined with his diverse, eclectic taste have afforded him the opportunity to contribute in a wide range of musical situations ranging from Rock to Pop, to Country, Contemporary Christian and Gospel. Steve has recorded with artists including Bob Seger, Jewel, Deirks Bentley, Chicago, Michael W. Smith, Faith HIll, Sara Groves, Amy Grant, and Richard Marx. He is a devoted husband and father, and, along with a busy studio schedule, he enjoys a strong family life. In addition to being involved in sessions around the Nashville area, Steve has developed and is involved at his own studio, “Brewbeat”.

In this episode, Steve talks about:

* Helping to create the sound, style, brand of the artist your drumming for* Seeing the chart on the session as a “portal” into what to play* Tapping into the “muse” when the red light goes on* Using diversity as a strength not a weakness* Applying your thumbprint to the music with varying degrees * Steve’s home studio space

Steve endorses Paiste Cymbals and Innovative Percussion Sticks

255 – Cole McSween: Touring and Recording with The Shadowboxers, Opening for Justin Timberlake, Making the Kind of Christian Music He Wants to Hear Feb 06, 2020

Cole’s style ranges from Neo Soul to 70’s inspired yacht rock. His journey as a musician started as a drummer. Attending Georgia State University, Cole studied 5 years towards a degree in Jazz Studies. Cole quickly became a well known drummer in Atlanta, playing with artists such as The Shadowboxers, Kenny Loggins, Larkin Poe, Faye Webster, ATL Collective, and more. He has also appeared on stage with Justin Timberlake, Chris Stapleton, Maren Morris, Little Big Town, Reba McEntire, Hunter Hayes, Phillip Phillips, and Lucie Silvas.

He spent five years in based in Nashville, touring and recording with The Shadowboxers. The band recently decided to relocate to LA, but Cole chose to move his family back home to Atlanta where he can focus on his new creative goals, including making groove-driven Christian music with a more personal message.

In this episode, Cole talks about:

* Being in Nashville, but dedicated exclusively to the Shadowboxers* Opening for Justin Timberlake on the Man of the Woods tour* The factors in his decision not to follow the band to LA* His new original project, and the new ideas he’s trying to bring to Christian music* The importance of simplicity in music, despite the endless availability of digital sounds and techniques

Cole endorses Pearl drums, Istanbul Mehment cymbals, and Vic Firth sticks.

254 – Neil Peart Tribute: Jason Sutter, Peter Erskine, Ed Toth, Josh Birkhimer, Scot Corey, Lee Kelley and Zack Albetta Share Stories and Thoughts About Neil Jan 30, 2020

Wherever Neil Peart ranks in your list of drumming greats, it’s safe to say that he has influenced more drummers and musicians than just about any other drummer in modern history. The ripple effect of his passing can be felt across the drumming community in a way not experienced since Buddy or John left us.

Neil not only inspired many to pickup the sticks, he made it made it cool to be smart and well read. He made us want to ride our bikes, write lyrics, go on hikes, use big words unabashedly and pursue all things with integrity. Many of us ask ourselves, “What’s the most excellent thing I can do today?” That’s what Neil asked himself every day.

253 – Harold “HB” Brown: Touring with Jacob Banks, Straddling the CCM and Secular Worlds, Minimalism in Drumming and Production Jan 23, 2020

Harold Brown is a drummer/producer from Atlanta, GA. He is originally from Savannah, GA but relocated to Atlanta in September of 2012. Harold has been playing drums professionally for over 12 years with various artists and music groups such as Phil Kaeggy, Jacob Banks, Chris Tomlin, David Crowder, and Housefires among many others.

Harold is currently touring with U.K. singer and songwriter Jacob Banks as his drummer. While touring full time with Jacob Banks, Harold enjoys producing and playing studio sessions remotely and off the road locally.

In this episode, HB talks about:

* His activity in the CCM world before joining Jacob Banks’ band* The value of recording an album as a band, all in the same room* Playing with Atlanta bassist and producer Robby Handley* Lowering the dynamic ceiling* His “less is more” approach to drumming, arranging, and production

HB endorses SE Electronics Microphones, Alclair Ear Monitors, Vater drumsticks, and Shy Baffles

252 – Matt Starr: Drumming for Mr. Big, Ace Frehley, Staying Relaxed and Centered when Playing, Asking Tough Questions when Coaching Jan 16, 2020

Matt Starr is a drummer, singer, producer, career coach and public speaker. As a drummer, Matt has built a reputation for working with some of rock’s most influential musicians including Ace Frehley (KISS), Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow), Kevin DuBrow (Quiet Riot)and most recently alongside Billy Sheehan and Paul Gilbert in Mr. Big. He has also worked with members of Guns ‘n Roses, Bon Jovi andWhitesnake.

In the studio Matt has recorded with producers Jimmy Bralower (VP A&R Atlantic Records, Madonna, Mick Jagger, Joan Jett), Toby Wright (Metallica, Alice In Chains, Korn), Mike Chapman (Blondie, The Knack, The Sweet), Dave Bianco (AC/DC, Tom Petty, KISS), Anthony Focx (Aerosmith, Foreigner) and Warren Huart (Aerosmith, The Fray).

His workshop Turning Passion Into A Career has taken Matt around the world speaking to musicians and non-musicians in both academic and corporate settings.

Matt endorses, Ludwig Drums, Paiste Cymbals, DW hardware, Vater sticks and Remo drumheads

251 – Eric Kalb: Playing with Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings and John Scofield, Merging Groove and Improv, Finding Work that Suits You Jan 09, 2020

Southpaw drummer Eric Kalb is a versatile musician who enjoys playing groove based music. A devotee of R&B and Soul drumming, his improvisational aesthetic is colored by sudden bursts of rock aggression. Based in Brooklyn, New York, Eric is a multi-faceted studio and touring drummer whose “energetic and exhilarating style” (Jazz Times) keeps him in constant demand.

Over the course of his twenty-year career Kalb has taken to both studio and stage with a dazzling cavalcade of influential and innovative artists. He’s laid it down hard for the supernatural force of Miss Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, the seven-string guitar wizardry of Charlie Hunter, jazz guitarist John Scofield and living organ Legend Dr. Lonnie Smith; to name but a few.

In this episode, Eric talks about:

* How he got into Soul and R&B music* Being part of the Sharon Jones “machine”* John Scofield’s “hands-off” style of bandleading* Making Southpaw, his first record as a leader* The many ways success can be defined

Eric endorses DW drums, Istanbul Mehmet cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, and Evans heads

250 – Steve Goold: Identifying Weaknesses and Tackling It, Drumming for Owl City, Sara Bareilles, Mat Kearney, “Modern Drumming” and Using Electronics Tastefully Jan 02, 2020

Steve Goold plays drums in recording studios and on live stages as well as working as the Lead Music Director at CCV in Phoenix AZ, where he lives with his wife and daughters. Steve also runs a drum lesson website called The Drum Library.

As of 2019 Steve works regularly with Nashville-based artists Ben Rector and Mat Kearney, and occasionally with other artists like Cory Wong, Joel Hanson, Cody Fry, and Sara Groves. In the past, Steve has performed and/or recorded with Owl City, Sara Bareilles, Paul Baloche, Marc Martel, Caitlyn Smith, Yam Haus, Carly Rae Jepsen, Jason Gray, The Blenders, Michael Tait, The Honeydogs, Yuna, Cloud Cult, Go Fish, Larnelle Harris, and many others. Check out this 2015 recording of Steve on this indie recording project that was completely improvised under the band name MaSSs (How I Killed a Bear)

In this episode, Steve talks about:

* Identifying weaknesses and tackling it* Prepping for gigs* The unique demands of a church drummer* The ability to perform without a good mix * “Modern Drumming” and tasteful uses of electronics

Steve plays Risen Drums and Paiste Cymbals exclusively. All the sticks/mallets/brushes Steve uses are made by Vic Firth, and all of my drums have Remo heads on them. Steve uses Alclair IEMs and a bunch of various items made by Tackle Instrument and Index Percussion. Big Fat Snare Drum named their “Donut” model after Steve.

249 – Tom Knight: Touring and Recording with TLC, A Second Career in Voice Overs Dec 19, 2019

Tom Knight came to prominence in the 90’s as a first call of producer Dallas Austin. Through Austin, Tom toured and recorded with TLC, Adam Nitti, Michael McDonald and many others. After more than a decade of solid road work, Tom took a step back from touring and playing live, and began a somewhat accidental second career in voice-overs. As a voice actor, Tom’s credits include Disney, BMW, and an Emmy-Award winning performance for Crown Royal. Tom is still active as a session drummer, mostly in his home studio in Atlanta.

In this episode, Tom talks about:

* The influence and friendship of Dave Weckl* An intensive season of shedding with Jeff Sipe* Being able to hear and feel music in different ways as you get older* Teaching at the Atlanta Institute of Music & Media* The recording process with producer Dallas Austin* Getting into the voice-over profession

Tom endorses Yamaha drums, Zildjian cymbals, and Vic Firth sticks.

248 – JC Clifford: Drumtacs, Pros and Cons of Social Media, Mentors Shaping a Strong Work Ethic Dec 12, 2019

JC Clifford is best known for his work with and promotion of Drumtacs. He is the owner and president at Scorpio Marketing & Management LLC.

JC’s vocation took a left turn around 2012 that steered away from the auto industry and into the world of music business with a focus on the drumming community. His interpersonal, communication and overall organizational skills as well as a strong work ethic has enabled JC to create a steady business that has taken him all over the world. JC has worked with many drummers like Rich Redmond, Daniel Glass, Thomas Lang, Troy Luccketta and Mike Dawson.

In this episode, JC talks about:

* The pros and con of social media * His trip to Germany with Daniel Glass for Daniel’s Jazz Intensive * Cancer can Stick it foundation with April Samuals * Troy Lucketta’s program, “Troy Shows Up” * JC’s history in the auto industry and how it shaped his work ethic* Drumtacs

247 – Jerrod Sullivan: Playing with The 4 Korners, Studying at the Atlanta Institute of Music Dec 05, 2019

“J-rod” isn’t your typical product of a family of musicians; rather, he grew up in a family who loved listening to music, and exposed him to Gospel and R&B. Through church and school he worked on his music, participating in bands and teaching himself bass guitar, keyboard, and music production. By 2006 he began posting drum cover videos to YouTube, the base of his ever-growing social media following, currently totaling 103K followers on Facebook and Instagram, not to mention his 43K YouTube subscribers.

After graduating from the Atlanta Institute of Music (studying music performance), J-rod joined The 4 Korners in 2013. As well as The 4 Korners, J-rod also drums for Alex Bugnon and Byron Cage. Besides being a full time performing musician, he continues to program live shows and produce for different artists under his business name: J-rod Sullivan Productions, LLC. J-rod has worked with the likes of Jidenna, Seven Streeter, Xscape, Bebe Winans, Everette Harp, Nick Colionne, Kenny Latimore, Chantae Cann, Avery Sunshine, Byron Cage, Alex Bugnon, Ronnie Laws and appeared in films such as BET’s ‘Being Mary Jane’, VH1s ‘Single Ladies’, Oprah’s ‘Greenleaf’, and BET HER.

In this episode, Jerrod talks about:

* The 4 Korners – formation, influences, and writing process* Setting himself apart from his peers with dynamics and touch* His experience in the Atlanta Institute of Music’s one-year performance program* Strategies for increased comfort behind the kit* His clothing company Got Pocket* How he has amassed over 100,000 social media followers

246 – Matt Tecu: Playing “Ideas” in Sessions, Drumming in the Echo In the Canyon Documentary Nov 28, 2019

Matt Tecu is a Los Angeles based studio and live touring drummer. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri. Matt has played on hundreds of recordings and thousands of live concerts world wide throughout the years. He has recorded and/or performed with such artists as Jakob Dylan, Cat Power, Neil Young, Brian Wilson, Stephen Stills, Nora Jones, Beck, Regina Spektor, Stephen Stills, Roger McGuinn, Daniel Lanois, Fiona Apple, Jackson Browne and Sam Morrow to name a few. He presently can be seen and heard in the new documentary/concert film ‘Echo In The Canyon’, as the house drummer for the whole project.

Matt lives in Los Angeles and continues to record and perform with some of musics legends as well as new up and comers like Sam Morrow. He also has taught private drum lessons for years.

In this episode, Matt talks about:

* Serving the song* Playing “ideas” in sessions* Echo and the Canyon documentary * The importance of Ringo* Matt’s journey

Matt endorses: Paiste cymbals, Pork Pie drums, Aquarian heads and Innovative Percussion

245 – Mark Cobb: Playing with Yacht Rock Revue, Combining Clean Craft and Bombastic Showmanship Nov 21, 2019

As the drummer in Atlanta’s ’70s juggernaut Yacht Rock Revue, Mark Cobb performs for thousands of rabid fans every week. From the Irving Plaza in Manhattan to the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles, he brings to life the sounds of the most iconic studio drummers of all time — the Purdie shuffle, Russ Kunkel’s artful tom fills, Jeff Porcaro’s relentless grooves, Steve Gadd’s perfect precision — with stunning accuracy.
He’s performed at the Rose Bowl, the College Football National Championship, the NCAA Final Four, for 35,000 fans on the 4th of July at Turner Field, and on music cruises with Kid Rock, Weezer, KISS, Train, Zac Brown Band, Dinosaur Jr., Emmylou Harris and Heart.
Mark’s infectious enthusiasm for music and drumming was heightened during his time at the prestigious Indiana University School of Music. However, it was not until after he received his degree and spent a year in Los Angeles that he grew into the seasoned player he is today.
In this episode, Mark talks about:
* The good, bad, and ugly of social media* Building a tribute band around a concept rather than an individual artist* Getting era-specific sounds out of backline kits * Combining the styles and sounds of the era’s drummers into one setlist* How the rise of Yacht Rock Revue and the genre’s rise in popularity have fed each other
Mark endorses Vic Firth sticks, Porter & Davies, and Big Fat Snare Drum

244 – Zack Stewart: Creating the Kind of Work You Want, Parallels Between Karate and Music/Drumming, Touring with Country Singer Jerrod Niemann Nov 14, 2019

Nashville drummer Zack Stewart was born in Owensboro, KY. Zack began playing drums at the age of 10 when his parents bought him a snare drum and soon found himself playing in local bands and participating in his school’s music program. After high school Zack went on to attend the University of Kentucky and then the Percussion Institute of Technology in California. At PIT, Zack had the opportunity to study with some of the best players and teachers in World. While at PIT he was offered a full-time touring position with The Van-Dells. This led to him relocating to Nashville in the spring of 2005. Since coming to Nashville, Zack has gone on to work with many different artists including Josh Thompson, Rick Monroe, Sean McConnell, Josh Gracin, Lindsey Ell and has toured all the over the US, Europe, and parts of South America. Currently Zack tours with country singer Jerrod Niemann. When he’s not on the road Zack maintains a busy teaching schedule as well as conducting clinics and master classes throughout the South and Mid-West. In 2013 Zack became the Percussion Coordinator for the 24-time State Champion McGavock High School Band Program. Zack also is the owner and head karate instructor at Traditional Karate Nashville.

In this podcast, Zack talks about:

* Endorsements in the 21st century* Clinic information that’s useful* Working out musical parts* The parallels between karate and music/drumming* Creating the kind of work you want * Preparing for a 60 minute set in less than 24 hours

Zack endorses: Sonor Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Humes & Berg, Remo Drumheads, Prologix Percussion and Vic Firth Sticks

243 – Andres Forero: Original Drummer for Hamilton Nov 07, 2019

TONY, GRAMMY and EMMY award winning Andrés Patrick Forero is the original drummer for the Broadway production of Hamilton, and is considered to be one of the best “crossover” drummer/percussionists in the industry. In 2002, Andrés connected with Tony award winning composer-lyricist Lin Manuel Miranda and Grammy award winning composer Alex Lacamoire. Andrés played a key role in the development of the drum book for In the Heights. Andrés can be found on the original cast recording that was released in 2008. This amazing musical partnership would be rekindled a few years later when Andrés was asked to join Lin and Alex again in the musical development for another Tony Award nominated musical; Bring it On.

In 2015 Andrés joined Lin and Alex during the development of Hamilton, An American Musical where he spent several months with the company during its off Broadway run. In 2016, Hamilton won the Grammy for Best Original Cast Recording and has since been certified Triple Platinum. The musical also set a record with 16 Tony nominations and took home 11.

In this episode, Andres talks about

* His early musical influences, from Bach to the Ohio Players* How music gave his childhood some direction and purpose* Playing with Ringling Bros. Circus* Understanding the elasticity of jazz* The physical and emotional stamina Hamilton requires* Constantly finding nuance in a musical

242 – Personal Finance For Musicians: Financial Expert Michael Mercurio, Myths and Misconceptions of Personal Finance, Q & A from a Live Audience Oct 31, 2019

Michael Mercurio is the Vice President, and a financial advisor for Stephen and Associates Financial Planning, with offices on Music Row in Nashville, TN and in West Palm Beach, FL. Michael works with clients in almost all financial stages of life throughout the country to create strategies that protect and maximize assets, retirement income, estate, and financial opportunities.

Michael works with clients in almost all financial stages of life throughout the country to create strategies that protect and maximize assets, retirement income, estate, and financial opportunities. Michael believes and has proven time and again that virtually everyone has substantial growth potential that they are not even aware of. He has helped numerous clients grow and protect their wealth throughout his years as a financial strategist.

People can get in touch with Michael at Michael@SandAWealth.com or request contact through http://www.sandawealth.com

In this episode, Michael talks about:

* Myths and misconceptions of personal finance * Understanding where your cash is going and why* How compound interest works when investing * The four basic rules of business* The importance of protecting your assets * Good debt * Different types of financial planning * Questions and answers from our audience

241 – Mike Levesque: “Playing Drums Like a Songwriter,” Blues and More in Boston, “Buckabeat” Loops Oct 24, 2019

Mike Levesque has spent his career in the Boston area. His touring and recording experience includes David Bowie, Seven Mary Three, Natalie Imbruglia, Susan Tedeschi, and many more. He plays on approximately one original record per month and fills out the rest of his schedule with 150-200 live dates per year, still saying yes to almost everything and preferring to be out playing than sitting at home on a given night. He is also currently in the process of launching Buckabeat, using the huge archive of material he’s recorded over the years with producer Sean McLaughlin, and a new model for selling samples and loops.

In this episode, Mike talks about:

* Still saying yes to almost every gig* The producers and studios in Boston he’s forged relationships with over the years* “Playing drums like a songwriter”* His recent fascination with Reggae drumming* His thoughts on the great shuffle debate* Building a new business and a new business model with “Buck-a-Beat”* Why he prefers doing sessions in person with artists and rather than remotely

Mike endorses Vater Drumsticks.

240: Dave Stark – Defining Success in the Music Business, Working as a Clinician & Author, Parallels Between Drumming & Yoga Oct 17, 2019

Dave Stark is a highly in demand session and touring drummer, as well as one of the world’s top drum instructors and clinicians. He’s been playing music since the age of 5 and drums since the age of 7. Born and raised in New York, Dave studied with legendary teachers Dom Famularo, Jim Chapin, Al Miller, Frankie Malabe, Gary Chaffee and an abundance of other great drummers.

After attending Berklee College of Music on a scholarship, Dave’s career took off quickly back in NYC where he became a first call session artist. He also started a teaching career which to this day, has many top drummers seeking out his advice and guidance. For over 25 years, Dave has traveled around the world doing clinics for Zildjian, Yamaha, and ddrum/clavia.

In this episode, Dave talks about:

* Defining success in the music business* Important teachers for Dave like Dom Famularo and Jim Chapin* Being prepared when work is scarce * His involvement in PAS* Parallels between drumming Yoga

Dave endorses GMS drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Drum Muffs, Evans Drumheads, Tru Tuner and Soloman Mics

239: Pudge Tribbett – Touring with Anita Baker, Tye Tribbett & Greater Anointing, “The Philly Sound” Oct 10, 2019

Leonard “Pudge” Tribbett is currently the touring drummer for R&B legend Anita Baker. Pudge hails from the Philadelphia area, where he came up in the family business of Gospel Music under the leadership of his cousin Tye Tribbett and Greater Anointing. After attending college on a football scholarship, Pudge went straight into full-time playing and hasn’t looked back. In addition to Anita Baker, Pudge’s resume also includes Roberta Flack, Ray Chew, Regina Bell, and Sheila E, and he is also part of the creative team behind Soul Surplus sample packs.

In this episode, Pudge talks about

* Anita Baker’s “in the moment” approach to live shows* Getting involved in Greater Anointing as a teenager, and the foundation it laid for his career* Splitting time in college between football, academics, and music* What he learned on a tour opening for Don Henley* “Don’t play what’s in front of you, play what’s in you” * The mentorship of fellow Philadelphian Brian Frasier Moore* His relationship with gear

Pudge Tribbett endorses DW Drums, Sabian Cymbals, and Remo Drumheads

238 – Jay Tooke: Drumming and Producing, Touch and Tone, Working with The Steel Woods and Life after the Band Oct 03, 2019

Originally from Saskatchewan, Canada Jay Tooke grew up playing bass, drums, guitar, and piano. Before his eventual move to Nashville, TN he spent 15 years dividing his time between traveling the world playing and singing with many artists like Michelle Wright, Chad Brownlee, Doc Walker, Dean Brody, Jodi King and One More Girl as well as writing songs and honing his craft of producing records.

Looking to expand his musical horizons and opportunities, Jay eventually made Nashville TN his permanent home around 2012 where Jay continued to produce as well as build upon his reputation as a solid, tasteful drummer. All of this lead to a 3 1/2 year relationship with the band The Steel Woods. During the week of this podcast recording, Jay announced his decision to leave the band. With recording and producing projects on the horizon, Jay will stay busy expanding his roles in music all while leaving room for growth in an ever changing industry.

In this episode, Jay talks about:

* Building relationships and comradery on the road * Touch and tone * His tenure in Winnipeg, Canada and what he learned* Challenges to immigrating to the U.S.* Recording and touring with The Steel Woods* Pursuits after The Steel Woods* The current climate of endorsements

Jay endorses Pearl Drums, Innovative Percussion Sticks, JH Audio and Aston Mics

237 – Louis Newsome: A Unique Weekly Steady, “Renewing Your Mind,” Changing Grip to Change His Sound Sep 26, 2019

Louis Newsome moved to Atlanta in 2012. In addition to church gigs in Atlanta, his bread and butter has been a weekly Thursday steady at Suite Lounge, where he is part of a house band backing a different touring artist every week. Highlights of the long list of artists he’s played with in this capacity include Nathan East, Jeff Lorber, and Keiko Matsui. Louis spent the first part of his career working the triangle of Toledo, Cleveland, and Detroit, and got extensive touring and recording experience with Dwele, Ledisi, Chubby Checker, and many others. Recently been a recurring featured guest in tribute shows to Vinnie Colaiuta and Dave Weckl, and performed with Sheila E. at the 100 Black Men of America Conference in Las Vegas.

In this episode, Louis talks about:

* His weekly gig at Suite Lounge, and the business model of a house band vs. a touring band* Time management – how to adequately prepare for whatever an artist is throwing at him that week* Being able to anticipate an artist’s needs/tendencies just by hearing their music and looking at their charts* Boredom vs. burnout* How the responsibilities of preparing for a one-off are the same as preparing for what could be a long-term gig* What brought him to Atlanta* The concept of “renewing your mind” in music and life* Why he switched to traditional grip after years of playing matched* “Play That Record Right”

236 – Jerry Marotta: Working with Peter Gabriel and the Influence on Jerry’s Approach to Music, New Record with Tony Levin & Phil Keaggy Sep 19, 2019

Following on the heals of his older brother Rick, Jerry Marotta jumped right into the music scene at a very young age finishing high school a year early and hitting the road with a band with a top 40 hit. For the next three decades Jerry divided his time between recording and touring with Peter Gabriel, Daryl Hall and John Oates, Tears for Fears, Indigo Girls, Paul McCartney, Sarah McLachlan, John Mayer and countless others.

Jerry is currently dividing his time between recording and touring and managing two studios: DREAMLAND and JERSVILLE. When not in the studio, Jerry is spreading his time between The Marotta Brothers Band (with Rick), The Fragile Fate with Rupert Greenall – from The Fixx, Flav Martin, Security Project with Trey Gunn, Reelin’ in the Years, and Annie & The Hedonists.

Jerry’s latest recording project is called The Bucket List that features Phil Keaggy and Tony Levin.

In this episode, Jerry talks about:

* His first major gigs as a teenager including drumming for Orleans* The new record with Tony Levin & Phil Keaggy – The Bucket List* Working with Peter Gabriel * Peter’s use of technology and the challenges inherent * The influence that Peter had on Jerry’s approach to music * Jerry’s current projects

235 – Jason “JT” Thomas: Playing with Snarky Puppy and FORQ, “Phrase-Based” Soloing, Memories of Roy Hargrove Sep 12, 2019

Jason “JT” Thomas, is a drummer/producer/singer/writer in high demand for both live and studio work for an array of artists such as Snarky Puppy, Phillip Phillips, CeCe Winans, Fred Hammond, Forq, and many others. JT’s high level of preparation for each artist he works with, along with being a consummate professional on and off stage, is what continues to keep him busy performing on stages and in studios all across the world. He is currently touring with Snarky Puppy and FORQ, and maintains a presence in his hometown of Dallas, where he plays with the Daystar Christian TV Network and various and corporate groups when not on the road.

In this episode, JT talks about

* The current lineups of FORQ and Snarky Puppy* Why he prefers to live in Dallas, even though he works in New York frequently* His friendship with Keith Carlock* How playing covers with corporate bands improved his jazz playing * Taking EVERY gig seriously as a craftsman – playing a cover song as if you’re playing with that artist* His “phrase-based” approach to soloing * Playing with bassist Kevin Scott* Playing with Roy Hargrove, and the reflections he’s had on Hargrove’s legacy and influence since his death in 2018

JT endorses Yamaha Drums, Vic Firth Sticks, Meinl Cymbals/Percussion, Evans Drumheads, Big Fat Snare Drum, and Lowboy Beaters.

234 – Michael Grando: Drumming for Joe Diffie, The Value of Honesty and Reliability in the Music Business, Working with a Click Sep 05, 2019

For several years, Michael Grando held the drum chair for national recording artist Chris Knight. He appeared on both his “Heart of Stone” album, produced by Dan Baird formerly of the Georgia Satellites (2008) and on Chris’ 2012 release titled “Little Victories” which was produced by Grammy award-winner Ray Kennedy and featured performances by Buddy Miller and John Prine. After seven years, two critically acclaimed records and countless live performances, Michael left Chris Knight in order to pursue new projects. In the spring of 2013, Michael joined multi-platinum recording artist Joe Diffie.

Michael has performed and/or recorded with a very diverse group of artists including such names as, Charlie Daniels, Jason Aldean, Dan Baird, Todd Snider, Warner E Hodges (Jason and the Scorchers), Bomshel, Cowboy Troy, Mike Aiken, Austin Cunningham, Shawn Mullins, Kristen Hall, Francine Reed, Col. Bruce Hampton,”Big Bill” Morganfield, Blueground Undergrass, and many many more.

In this episode, Michael talks about:

* Drumming for Joe Diffie* Making his way to Nashville from New York via Atlanta * The value of honesty and reliability in the music business * Working with Dan Baird in the studio* Developing a healthy relationship with the click* Moving from your hometown to a music town

233 – Brendan Buckley: 20 Years with Shakira, Touring with International Artists, Preparing with No Expectations Aug 29, 2019

Brendan Buckley is best known for touring and recording with Shakira. He grew up in New Jersey and attended the University of Miami. In 2004, Buckley moved out west to Los Angeles and has since amassed an impressive pop resume that includes Miley Cyrus, Tegan & Sara, Leehom Wang, Perry Farrell and many, MANY others.

In this episode, Brendan talks about:

* Why LA is a good home base for him and why he moved there in the first place* Extroverts vs. introverts in the music world* Why image is important, but not in the way we think * Spending his college years exploring the many directions the Miami music scene had to offer * Approaching his career path with openness to possibility rather than specific goals * His long tenure with Shakira, and the schedule management and negotiating skills required to fill the gaps* What he covered in his recent clinic at Musicians Institute in LA * Good enough vs. better than it has to be

Brendan Buckley endorses DW drums, Vic Firth drumsticks, Remo drumheads, Sabian cymbals, and Roland electronics.

232 – Todd Sucherman: Drumming for Styx, The Importance of a Relaxed Grip, Applying Complex Ideas Aug 22, 2019

Todd Sucherman is one of the most in-demand drummers on the planet. In addition to a 20+ year tenure with the legendary rock band Styx, Sucherman is a leading clinician and session artist. In 2018, the readers of Modern Drummer magazine named him “#1 Progressive Rock Drummer” plus”#1 Recorded Performance” for “The Mission” (Styx). His Methods and Mechanics instructional DVD series has won multiple awards. Read more about Todd here.

In this episode, Todd talks about:

* The importance of a relaxed grip* His set up and the logic behind it* Application of complex ideas on the gig* His time studying with Gary Chaffee* Being an ambassador for education* His experiences with Styx* Recording process with the 2017 Styx record, The Mission

Todd Endorses: Pearl Drums, Promark Sticks, Sabian Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, Carmichael Thrones and Audio Mics

231 – Larry Wilson: Constructing a Career and Creating a Life in Atlanta Aug 15, 2019

Larry Wilson grew up in Jacksonville, FL and studied music at Florida State in Tallahassee with Leon Anderson. He moved his young family to Atlanta in the fall of 2017 and has gotten busy with a variety of Gospel, R&B, and jazz artists, as well as hosting what has quickly become one of the city’s most popular weekly jam sessions. He has recently released a jazz album called Our Thing, a tribute to the music of saxophonist Joe Henderson. He also hosts a monthly live stream called “Jazz for Lunch” on Instagram and Facebook.

In this episode, Larry talks about

* The weekly jam at Ten ATL and how he became its de facto host* His experience at Florida State and its growing reputation* The concept of apprenticeship in music* Having his sites set on New York, but deciding against it in favor of Atlanta* Constantly tweaking his set up to play games with himself and explore* Blending the physicality of gospel drumming with the phrasing and nuance of jazz and classical music* Getting in on the beginning of what he feels is a boom in Atlanta

230 – Jim Rupp: Owner of Columbus Pro Percussion, Drumming with the Woody Herman Orchestra, Teaching in the Information Age Aug 08, 2019

Jim Rupp has done extensive touring with the bands of Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson, and Glenn Miller. Jim spent close to ten years with Grammy Award-winning jazz singer Diane Schuur, and has also performed and toured with artists such as Ray Charles, Tony Bennett, Joe Lavano, Hank Marr, Buddy DeFranco, Maria Schneider, Clark Terry, Joe Williams, Rosemary Clooney, John Fedchock, Natalie Cole, the Cleveland and Columbus Jazz Orchestras, and the Smithsonian Masterworks Jazz Orchestra. These touring credits, plus his educational background, have prepared him well for clinics and performances at colleges and high schools around the country. He has given workshops at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention and the International Association of Jazz Educators Conference. In this capacity he is a clinician for Noble and Cooley drums, Zildjian cymbals, Pro Mark drumsticks, and Remo drumheads.

As a teacher, Jim has taught at Indiana University and the University of Michigan, as well as his current appointment at The Ohio State University. He is also the co-author of an acclaimed drum set method book, “Baby Steps to Giant Steps”. Jim is currently First Vice President of the Percussive Arts Society and is a past chair of the drum set committee for the PAS. He was also a board member of NAMM, the International Music Products Association. He also founded, and is president of Columbus Pro Percussion Inc, one of the countries largest and most respected percussion specialty stores.

In this episode, Jim talks about:

* His teaching approach * Working with the Woody Herman Orchestra * The mental aspects of performing* Teaching in the information age * The challenges of getting backline for jazz gigs* The history of Columbus Pro Percussion

229 – Robert Boone: On the Road with the Count Basie Orchestra Aug 01, 2019

Robert Boone recently graduated from Florida State University with his Masters Degree in Jazz Studies and is currently drummer for The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra. He has collaborated with leading artists such as Eric Reed, Marcus Roberts, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Scotty Barnhart, Marcus Lewis, Lester Walker, Rodney Jordan, Bill Peterson, and Leon Anderson. Boone received an undergraduate degree in Music Performance at Kennesaw State University, studying with percussion professor John Lawless and jazz drum set professor Justin Chesarek, and was selected to participate in the 2015 Disneyland All American College Band.

In this episode, Robert talks about:

* How he got the Basie gig* How relying too much on reading can limit your musicianship* His take-aways from a summer with the Disney All American College Band* Different ways to decipher big band charts and set up phrases* Why Sonny Payne is his favorite Basie drummer* How to make the most of a college program* Avoiding a negative/competitive mindset toward your contemporaries* How to stay plugged into your scene if you’re on the road a lot

228 – Dave McAfee: Drumming for Toby Keith, Remaining Pro Through Tough Times, USO Tours Jul 25, 2019

Dave McAfee has been the drummer for every one of Toby Keith’s tours since 2000. Shows with Toby include stadium shows and festivals topping 80,000 fans, televised performances, country awards shows, USO tours as well as a Super Bowl performance for Super Bowl XXXVIII.

Other artists Dave has performed and/or recorded with include Wade Hayes, Bryan White, Scotty Emerick, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Willie Nelson, Jerry Lee Lewis, Sammy Hagar, David Allen Coe, Steve Wariner, Glen Campbell, Terri Clark and many more.

In this episode, Dave talks about:

* Touring with Toby Keith * Defining success and happiness * Overcoming technical difficulties on the gig* Significant changes in the industry * USO touring

Dave endorses: Yamaha drums, Paiste cymbals, Aquarian heads, Vic Firth sticks, Woodshed Art, The Grombal, Buttkicker

227 – Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez: His New Big Band Album, Revolutionary Rock Roots, Jul 18, 2019

Born in Havana, Cuba, in 1963, ‘El Negro’ Hernandez has been a force on the international scene since 1990. Whether performing with jazz legends like McCoy Tyner or Michel Camilo, rock stars like Carlos Santana and Stevie Winwood or in notable Latin American ensembles like the Tropi-Jazz All Stars of the late Tito Puente, ‘El Negro’ has also shown himself to be one of the most versatile musicians in the international music scene today. He is the author of Conversations in Clave, one of the drumming world’s most widely used and well-respected method books, and he has just released his first big band album as a leader, Italuba Big Band Live, which is also available on DVD.

In this episode, El Negro talks about:

* Growing up in Havana, the son of the only jazz DJ in Cuba, and the grandson of a trumpet player* Going to prison for playing rock music* Spending two years in Rome before moving to New York* The young Cuban musicians he recruited to play on his new big band record* The overlaps between Afro-Cuban and big band music and history* The longevity of Conversations in Clave, and his advice to Afro-Cuban beginners.* Challenges and ideas he’s still chasing

Horacio endorses Pearl drums and percussion, Istanbul Mehmet cymbals, Promark sticks, Evans drumheads, Shure microphones, and Protection Racket cases.

226 – Daniel Glass: Making Yourself More Employable Through an Understanding of History, The Importance of Teaching Fundamentals Jul 11, 2019

Daniel Glass is an award-winning drummer, author, historian and educator. He is widely recognized as an authority on classic American drumming and the evolution of American Popular Music. Daniel was a member of the pioneering swing group Royal Crown Revue from 1994 to 2014. He has recorded and performed all over the world with many top artists, including Brian Setzer, Bette Midler, Liza Minnelli, Jose Feliciano, Michelle Shocked, Mike Ness, Freddie Cole, Marilyn Maye, the Hot Sardines, the Budapest Jazz Orchestra, Air Supply’s Graham Russell and KISS frontman Gene Simmons. For two years running, Daniel was voted one of the top five R&B drummers in the world by readers of Modern Drummer and DRUM magazine. Since 2011, he has been the house drummer every Monday night at New York’s legendary Birdland Jazz Club.

As an educator, Daniel has published five books and three DVDs, including the award-winning titles The Century Project, The Roots of Rock Drumming, and The Commandments of Early Rhythm and Blues Drumming. He is a regular contributor to publications like Modern Drummer, DRUM and Classic Drummer. He has performed hundreds of clinics and master classes globally, appearing at many of the world’s top educational conferences and music festivals. In 2013, he co-curated an exhibit on the history of the drum set at the Rhythm Discovery Center in Indianapolis, IN, for which he was awarded the Percussive Arts Society’s “Distinguished Service Award.” Daniel currently resides in New York City.

In this episode, Daniel talks about:

* Playing cabaret style gigs* The importance of knowing history when learning styles * His podcast, “The Daniel Glass Show” * The importance of teaching the fundamentals * The story and evolution of the hi-hat

http://danielglass.com/daniel-bio/daniels-gear/

225 – Johnny Radelat: Playing with Gary Clark Jr., Playing a TV Gig for a Week, The Austin Scene Jul 04, 2019

Johnny Radelat has been touring and recording with Gary Clark Jr. since 2012. Born to Cuban immigrants in Jersey City N.J., Johnny came of age in Miami, FL, and currently resides in Austin TX. Prior to teaming up with Gary Clark Jr, he honed the skills and subtleties of playing/touring with reggae, R&B, soul, and Funk bands, while still embracing a bombastic/caveman-ish approach to drumming.

In this episode, Johnny talks about

* Guesting for a week with the 8G Band on Late Night with Seth Meyers* What attracted him to Austin after getting his start in Florida* How Austin supports musicians in tangible ways (healthcare, etc.)* The first gigs he played in Austin, and how they challenged him* How moving to Austin and playing with Gary changed his approach* Gary’s esoteric way of expressing what he needs from Johnny * How “dancing” behind the drums can reinforce your feel

Johnny endorses Gretsch drums, Sabian cymbals, Promark sticks, and Evans drumheads.

224 – Rick Brothers: Drumming Life After Nashville, Drumming for Former Bad Company Singer Brian Howe, Lessons Learned After 15 years in a Music Business Town Jun 27, 2019

Rick Brothers has performed with over 40 artists at events such as the GRAMMYs, Billboard Music Awards, CMT Music Awards, the AMAs and the Super Bowl XXXIX pregame show. During his decade and a half in Nashville Tennessee, Rick worked with various national artists including Ty Herndon, Jo-El Sonnier, Sarah Johns, Doug Stone, Gretchen Wilson, Colt Ford and most recently Bad Company’s former lead singer Brian Howe.

During his five year tenure with Colt Ford, Rick recorded drums on four of Ford’s albums. He also recorded with a number of artists and producers including music legends such as Dan Huff (Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Taylor Swift) and Jonathan Cain of Journey.

In this episode, Rick talks about:

* Making the move to Florida after a decade and a half in Nashville * Drumming for Brian Howe, the former singer for Bad Company * Responsibilities of a band leader * The self confidence that’s needed to survive in the music business* Using a Zendrum on gigs

Rick endorses: CRUSH Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Peavey Power amps, Aquarian Drumheads, Qwik Stix Stick holders and accessories, Gibraltar Hardware, and Groove Juice Cleaner

223 – Chad Gamble: Playing with Jason Isbell, Arranging by Instinct, Believing in Talent Jun 20, 2019

A professional musician for over twenty five years, Chad Gamble grew up in Tuscumbia, AL in the Muscle Shoals Area. Upon graduating from the University of Alabama, he made moves to Shreveport, LA and Memphis, TN gaining valuable experience along the way, including being nominated twice as “Premier Drummer” by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Memphis Chapter. He has toured internationally with The Bluebirds, Gamble Brothers Band and Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. Chad has been with Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit since 2008 and has returned to his hometown where he lives with his wife and daughter.

Chad received a Grammy for his work on “The Nashville Sound” released in 2017. In 2015, Chad played drums on the Grammy Award winning album “Something More Than Free.” In 2016, he played on the Grammy Nominated Song, “Mother’s Children Have a Hard Time” with the Blind Boys of Alabama. When not on tour, Chad stays busy in Muscle Shoals with recording sessions and teaching lessons.

Chad Gamble endorses Gretsch drums, Vic Firth sticks, and Zildjian cymbals.

222 – Megan Jane: Drumming for Hannah Dasher and band Side Piece, Providing a Sonic Pallet for Singer/Songwriters Jun 13, 2019

Megan Jane brings a simple stylistic philosophy to her playing – “less is more.” After attending Berklee College of Music for two years, Megan moved to Southern California and began getting as much experience playing live and working with varied artists as possible. She decided to make the move to Nashville in order to gain more opportunities in her musical career.
Since moving to Nashville, Megan has played drums live and in the studio with several artists like Kree Harrison, Misa Arriaga, Sonia Leigh, Fiona Culley, Hailey Steele, Steve Grand, Hannah Dasher the band Side Piece and others. She has also had the opportunity to play with Joan Osborne as well as to sit in on auxiliary percussion with Dr. John at the Americana Music Awards. She has experience playing all types and sizes of show and stage and has opened for artists ranging from Chris Young to DEVO.
Megan has also been involved with several projects as a studio musician including working with Grammy award winning Sony producer Josh Monroy (Ludacris, Quincy Jones) on various projects. She has recently recorded for Nashville-based Fiona Culley, Wild Ponies, Ellen Angelico and Amelia White, as well as London-based Worry Dolls.
In this episode, Megan talks about:
* Performing on the Grand Ole Opry* The mind / body connection * Working with the band Side Piece and singer Hannah Dasher* Channeling Jim Keltner & Marco Giovino in creating a sonic pallet * Normalizing seeing women on stage * Knowing when to be flexible or firm when keeping time
Megan endorses Murat Diril cymbals & Vic Firth sticks

221 – Clayton Craddock: Drumming for “Ain’t Too Proud,” Constructing Your Own Safety Net Jun 06, 2019

Clayton Craddock’s drumming career spans decades and numerous Broadway and Off-Broadway musicals. Clayton is currently the drummer of the Broadway Show Ain’t Too Proud-The Life AndTimes Of the Temptations now playing at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway. Clayton has also held the drum chair and recorded the cast albums for the musicals Altar Boyz, tick…tick… BOOM!, Memphis the Musical and Lady Day At Emerson’s Bar And Grill with Audra McDonald.

After earning his bachelor’s in business administration from Howard University in Washington, Clayton stayed in the D.C. area, managing record stores by day and immersing himself in the local music scene by night as a drummer for blues and rock bands. In 1993, Clayton took a leap of faith and moved to New York City to pursue a career in music.

In this episode, Clayton talks about:

* The development and upward trajectory of Ain’t Too Proud * The process of launching a musical from the conception and initial workshopping to the full production* Learning the vocabulary of choreographers to understand what they want from a drummer* Emulating Benny Benjamin and other drummers who were part of The Funk Brothers, Motown’s “Wrecking Crew.”* Taking low money for workshops and readings in hopes that you can get in on the ground floor of something big * The many shows he’s played for over the years, either on a permanent or sub basis* The role of the Musicians Union in New York and the musical theatre scene* His experience at Howard University in Washington DC* His white collar career after college, and making the leap to full time drumming* How building your network is constructing your own safety net

Clayton endorses Innovative Percussion.

220 – Harry McCarthy & Jon Hull: The Business of Drum Teching, Cartage, Professional Backline May 30, 2019

Harry McCarthy has offered his technical skills on the road and in the studio for major artists such as Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band, The Eagles, Eric Clapton, Neil Young, Mark Knopfler, Carly Simon, Hall & Oates, Michael McDonald, Madonna, Toto, James Taylor, Keith Urban and numerous others. He was raised in the same metro New York neighborhood as successful drummers, Rick and Jerry Marotta. In 1989, he established Drum Paradise Los Angeles, with partner Jeff Chonis.

Throughout the late 80s and early 1990s, Harry toured extensively with many high profile acts. In 1994, McCarthy relocated to Nashville and established Drum Paradise Nashville, Inc. Throughout his career, McCarthy has assisted legendary drummers, including Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, Don Henley, Rick Marotta, Jerry Marotta, Max Weinberg, Richie Hayward, Bernard Purdie, Vinnie Colaiuta, Jim Keltner, Mitch Mitchell and many others.

Jon Hull was born and raised in Chillicothe, OH. He started playing drums at age 13. Thoughout high school and college he played and recorded in various bands, and marched indoor drum corps. After finishing college and relocating to Nashville, he began working as a drum tech both on tour as well as in the studio. He has since worked with such artists as Jason Aldean, Paramore, OAR, Young the Giant, Story of the Year, and others.

Harry and Jon’s latest venture is The Drum Pad, a new teaching facility for drummers of any age or skill level.

In this episode, Jon and Harry talk about:

* What is involved in being a drum tech * The “Drum Pad” in Drum Paradise* The origins on Drum Paradise * How Jon got the job of drum teching for Rich Redmond* Dealing with emergencies * Harry’s experience working the Super Bowl halftime show with Bruce Springsteen * Importance of understanding technology * Harry’s tech work with Jeff Porcaro * Managing your time and expectations in the music business

219 – Mathieu Gramoli: The Paris Scene, The Band HER, Using Technology to Make Human Choices May 23, 2019

Mathieu Gramoli is a French-American drummer, composer, teacher and producer, who is best known for recording and touring with the band Her. Born in Paris, his musical talent became apparent at the age of fifteen when he picked up drumming during high school to play rock and funk with some friends. After high school he went to the Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris III to study Applied Foreign Languages for two years before attending the Centre des Musiques Didier Lockwood, graduating in 2004.

Professor André Charlier entrusted him to replace him as the drummer for Captain Mercier. He then entered the Conservatoire National Superieur de Musique de Paris and went on tour the same year. In graduate school, he met and performed with musician Ricardo Herz and played with Marco Pereira, Philippe Baden Powell, all members of the Brazilian scene.

He has toured with French artists Lou Marco, L, Nina Attal, Corneille, Gaël Faye and had his first experience as a co-leader with the band Tekere with which he recorded two LPs. As a studio musician, he recorded on Eric et Ramzy’s movie Seul Two, Sofia Ribeiro and Guillaume Duvignau’s Porto LP, Orquestra do Fuba’s Quem Mando and Fabrica do Sonhos.

In this episode, Matthieu talks about:

* The challenge of playing simple but funky grooves with Her* His musical education in Paris* Getting involved in Paris’ Brazilian music scene and traveling to Brazil* Getting into Hip Hop, and how Brazilian phrasing overlapped with it * Some of his favorite venues and musicians in Paris* Learning how to communicate with musicians who don’t speak “drum,” – what people say doesn’t always express what they want.* The value of recording drums at low volume, and some micing techniques* Wanting to lead more projects, but knowing that nobody does it alone *

Mathieu endorses Bay Custom Drums.

218 – Jarred Pope: Heavy Drumming with Tom Keifer (Cinderella), Damon Johnson (Alice Cooper, Thin Lizzy), “Thee Rock and Roll Residency” in Nashville May 16, 2019

After his thoughtful move to Nashville from his home state of California in 2012, Jarred Pope has found strong and steady work in the heavy rock world. Throughout his career, Jarred has and continues to earn respect among a highly reputable group of musicians within many genres that includes rock, hard rock, country and pop.

Jarred has worked with Gene Simmons, Whiskey Falls, Hannah/McCuen, Julianne Hough, Jimmy Hayslip, Waylon Holland, Crosby Loggins, Beasto Blanco, Dennis Hamm, Mother Funk Conspiracy. In recent years, Jarred has been working with The Tom Keifer Band (lead singer from Cinderella) as well as Damon Johnson (Alice Cooper, Thin Lizzy, Black Star Riders) with whom he recorded on a new record, – Memoirs of an Uprising.

In April of 2014, Jarred started playing drums for the Thee Rock and Roll Residency that was started by guitarists Jeremy Asbrock and Phil Shouse. It became a regular and longest-running, star-studded, Rock N’ Roll extravaganza in Nashville, TN.

In this episode Jarred talks about:

* Working with Tom Keifer and the trust and respect that Tom extends to his band mates* Jerred’s drum tech Jeff Brown and the benefits of having a drum tech* Jarred’s early experience in California * His short stint with Gene Simmons* “Thee Rock and Roll Residency” in Nashville* Touring and recording with Damon Johnson * The parallels between playing golf and playing drums

Jarred endorses Gretsch Drums, Aquarian, Vater and Gibraltar

217 – Dame Drummer: Touring with Fantastic Negrito, Coming up in Cleveland, Opportunity & Creativity in Oakland May 09, 2019

Dame Drummer lives in Oakland, tours with Fantastic Negrito, and is about to release his latest original project, a double-length album called Loveolution. Dame grew up in Cleveland where he cut his teeth on the local scene playing funk, R&B, and whatever else came along. He moved to Oakland in 2012 at the urging of some friends who already lived there. His Rust Belt work ethic quickly and creative spirit put him in high demand Oakland and he’s been busy ever since, both as a collaborator and a leader.

In this episode, Dame talks about:

* The drum chair with Fantastic Negrito, and sharing it with other drummers* Combining drumming, singing, and rapping* How drums and rap influence each other* Why it’s important to be “more than a drummer” * The underdog identity of his hometown of Cleveland, and how it gave him a strong work ethic* His move to Oakland and working his way onto the scene there* The history and legacy of Oakland Funk, Hip-Hop, and R&B* Viewing each gig as a point on the arc of your career, rather than a make-or-break single event* Getting creative and proactive about building and targeting an audience

Dame Drummer endorses Regal Tip sticks.

216 – Derek Mixon: Drumming for Chris Stapleton, Supporting the Song May 02, 2019

For the last few years, Derek Mixon has been the drummer for country singer and songwriter Chris Stapleton. Derek played drums on all of Chris’s award winning solo albums to date. Originally from West Monroe, Louisiana, Derek drew inspiration from his surroundings that included his father who was a professional musician. The musical sensibilities he learned early in life as well as his time in Nashville over the last 20 years has been the preparation that was needed to play the role of drummer supporting one of the most prolific writers and modern country music.

Derek has also worked with Sam Lewis, Jedd Hughes, Rodney Crowell, Tracy Bird, She daisy, Jack Pearson, Sarah Buxton, Sam Bush, Jamey Johnson, Jace Everett, Jim Lauderdale and Al Perkins

In this episode, Derek talks about:

* Performing on Austin City Limits* Derek’s intro to music through his dad* His start in Nashville * How to support the songwriter * Derek’s drum tunings in the studio

Derek endorses: Ludwig Drums, Remo drumheads, Vic Firth, Zildjian, Winding Wheel Supply

215 – Damian Erskine: The Portland Scene, Playing with Uncle Peter, The “Strength of Ego” to Play Simply Apr 25, 2019

Damian Erskine is known for his ability to fit into most any musical situation, extraordinary reading and improvising skills as well as being an educator and columnist. He has played in the studio or on the stage with Peter Erskine, Gino Vannelli, The Jaco Pastorius Big Band, Bob Sheppard, John Beasley, Jeff Lorber, The Buddy Rich Alumni All-Star Band, Antonio Hart, Charmaine Neville, and many others as well as being featured on the GospelChops.com “Shed Sessionz Vol. 1” DVD.

Damian is an adjunct professor at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. In addition, he regularly teaches abroad with JAE (Jazz Education Abroad) in Shanghai, Beirut, Cyprus, and Bangkok as well as teaching camps in the US at • Gerald Veasley’s Bass Bootcamp, the National Guitar Workshop, and Berklee College of Music’s Guitar Week.

Damian has written for Bass Player Magazine, Bass Musician Magazine, as well as continuing to maintain a popular weekly column at NoTreble.com.

Damian has also authored two books, “Right Hand Drive” and “The Improvisor’s Path”

In this episode, Damian talks about:

* The Portland/Pacific Northwest scene, and what keeps him busy there* Starting on drums, moving to bass* How the competitive environment of Berklee didn’t inspire or motivate him* Growing up and playing with Peter Erskine, and how Peter influenced his bass playing* The pros and cons of having a “drummer brain” as a bassist* His take on Peter’s “tough love” style of mentorship* Staying up on the Portland scene and forming new relationships with younger players

Damian Erskine endorses Skjold basses, Aguilar amplification, Groove Gear, MXR pedals, D’Addario strings, Reunion Blues gig bags, and Pig Hog cables.

214 – Rick Marotta: Bringing Your Personality to Music, Recording w/Steely Dan, James Taylor Apr 18, 2019

Rick Marotta is known for his recordings and touring with such luminaries as James Taylor, Jackson Brown, Steely Dan, Carly Simon, Paul Simon, Linda Ronstadt, Aretha Franklin, Larry Carlton, Warren Zevon and Bette Midler.

Rick began playing drums at 19 when a friend went into the army and left his set of drums to Rick. It wasn’t long before Rick began playing with R&B bands in the New York area, recording with David Spinozza and the group Giant as well as The Riverboat Soul Band.

Rick’s current activities include writing music for movies and television, recording jingles and producing.His scoring for TV can be heard on Everybody Loves Raymond, Yes Dear, and the Hank Azaria Show.

In this episode, Rick talks about:

* His master class at Drum Paradise in Nashville* Staying open to input and fresh ideas* Skills that are needed to record in the studio * Bringing your personality to your playing * Playing gigs with his brother Jerry* Composing music * Cutting “Hour That the Morning Comes” for James Taylor * Recording with Steely Dan * Double drums with Steve Gadd* Changes in the music industry

213 – Nick Ruffini: Our Annual Roundtable Apr 11, 2019

Once a year, we get together with our buddy Nick Ruffini of Drummer’s Resource to catch up on developments in our lives, podcasts, and careers.

In this episode, Zack, Matt, and Nick talk about:

* Los Angeles: Nick’s first impressions, Zack’s memories, the good, the bad and the ugly

* Nick’s new company, Revoice Media

* Playing drums vs. other music-related jobs, and how ego and identity plays into that mix

* Insecurity surrounding money

* Matt’s outlook on the Nasvhille scene

* Examples of drummers who had amazing gigs, then took a step back from music to do something different

212 – Steve Sinatra Part 2: Working with Hunter Hayes, Source-Science-Sound, Rediscovering the Love of Music Apr 04, 2019

Accomplished drummer and spiritual teacher Steve Sinatra has dedicated fifteen plus years to making his living as a full time professional studio and touring musician. He’s toured and shared the stage with many nationally recognized artists such as Sarah Buxton, Pat Green, Richard Marx, Vertical Horizon, Billy Gilman, Joe Nichols, Little Big Town, Hunter Hayes and many others.

After spending ten plus years performing with these notable artists, he had achieved the dream that he embarked on as a child. Still feeling unsatisfied and unfulfilled, he was inspired to dig deeper as to why. That tough question lead him to spending the last four years examining and finding answers to some of life’s tough questions. As he refines and organizes the information, he roots to it through self experience and teaching it to others. The unique blend of experiences and teaching modalities he uses are all linked to three categories, Source, Science, and Sound.

www.sourcesciencesound.com is also the website where Steve can be found offering a resource for those asking the same tough questions.

In this 2nd episode, Steve talks about:

* Asking the question, “Am I a session player or am I a live player?”

* Working with Hunter Hayes

* Explaining the “perspective paradigm” and how t effects us

* Rediscovering the Love of Music

211 – Steve Sinatra Part 1: Achieving Your Dreams & Still Feeling Unfulfilled, Creating Source-Science-Sound, Choosing How We React to the Good and Bad in Life Mar 28, 2019

Accomplished drummer and spiritual teacher Steve Sinatra has dedicated fifteen plus years to making his living as a full time professional studio and touring musician. He’s toured and shared the stage with many nationally recognized artists such as Sarah Buxton, Pat Green, Richard Marx, Vertical Horizon, Billy Gilman, Joe Nichols, Little Big Town, Hunter Hayes and many others.

After spending ten plus years performing with these notable artists, he had achieved the dream that he embarked on as a child. Still feeling unsatisfied and unfulfilled, he was inspired to dig deeper as to why. That tough question lead him to spending the last four years examining and finding answers to some of life’s tough questions. As he refines and organizes the information, he roots to it through self experience and teaching it to others. The unique blend of experiences and teaching modalities he uses are all linked to three categories, Source, Science, and Sound.

sourcescincesound.com is also the website where Steve can be found offering a resource for those asking the same tough questions.

This episode is sponsored by Shure. Enter here – https://drum-mastery.shure.com to enter the Shure drum solo contest by April 15th, 2019.

210 – Tarik Abouzied: Creative Projects in Post-Grunge/Post-Tech Boom Seattle, Cultivating a Global Audience Online Mar 21, 2019

Tarik Abouzied has played and traveled with a vast array of incredible musicians. His groups have collectively produced seven original albums: two from Pocket Change, an instrumental funk septet in the vein of Tower of Power, three from Hardcoretet, a modern instrumental jazz quartet, one from McTuff, an incredible funk/jazz Hammond organ trio, and one from his current project, Happy Orchestra. Happy was awarded 4Culture’s Arts Project Grant and its debut album, Baba, reached #5 on the KEXP NW Music Chart and was nominated NW Recording of the Year by readers of Earshot Jazz. Aside from these groups, Tarik has performed with Victor Wooten, George Porter Jr., John Medeski, Chris Wood, Jeff Coffin, Brian Haas, Jessica Lurie, Nigel Hall, Mike Stern, Bob Franceschini, Damian Erskine, and many more.

As an educator Abouzied has led clinics and classrooms at universities and schools internationally. He was a coordinator and teacher for the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra’s Jazz Scholars Program, which provides free music instruction for low-income students, and was the Musical Director for Kentridge High School’s drama program, where he led a pit orchestra comprised of student musicians and professional section leaders. He maintains a private studio of drum set, guitar, bass, piano, and music theory students.

In this episode, Tarik talks about:

* The creative projects he’s involved with in Seattle

* Playing bass on pop/cover gigs, and drums on original gigs

* Seattle’s support for original/creative music and art at the government/corporate level

* Attending University of Washington, which was not a top-tier music school, but perfect for him at the time

* “The Amazon Effect”

* Amassing an audience online first, THEN booking and marketing a live show

* His blog posts and the role writing plays for him

* His take on the “low-paying-gig” debate

* An influential night with Dennis Chambers, Victor Wooten, and Bob Franceschini

This episode is sponsored by Shure. Check out their drum solo contest at

209 – Petar Janjic: Drumming for Cory Wong, Subbing for Michael Bland, Moving to the U.S. from Serbia to Study Music Mar 14, 2019

Petar Janjic was born in Kraljevo, Serbia, also known as Kingstown. At 5, his father, a well known Serbian drummer, gave him a drum set and at the age of 10, Petar began studying with legendary a Serbian drummer Slobodan Stojanovic. In high school, Petar toured all over Europe before his eventual move to the United States. In 2008 he studied Music Performance & Percussion at the McNally Smith College of Music and eventually became one of its percussion instructors.

During his time in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area in Minnesota, Petar’s passion for learning and persistence won the trust of Prince drummer Michael Bland and the music community that surrounded him. Petar eventually became Michael’s first call sub. Currently, he continues to tour and record with Cory Wong and just moved to Nashville in pursuit of more music and recording opportunities.

In this episode, Petar talks about:

* Moving to the U.S. from Serbia to study music

* Becoming the sub for Michael Bland in Dr. Mambo’s Combo in Minneapolis

* Overcoming the challenges of learning “popular western music” in Serbia

* How he approaches live drumming vs. drumming in the studio

* Being asked to play on a Prince record by Prince

* Working with Cory Wong

* His approach to soloing

Petar endorses Paiste Cymbals and Vic Firth sticks

This episode is sponsored by Shure microphones. Apply online by April 15th 2019 at drum-mastery.shure.com for the Shure Drum Contest.

208 – Jordan Manley: Touring with Mattiel, Making the Jump to Atlanta, Setting Big Goals, Being a “Band Guy” Mar 07, 2019

Jordan Manley made the move to Atlanta in 2014, after growing up and spending the early years of his career in the small town of Columbus, GA. Since moving, he has been a member of several Atlanta-based groups including Black Linen, Lightning Orchestra, and Mattiel, with who he has been touring the U.S. and Europe, opening for the likes of Jack White and St. Paul & The Broken Bones.

In this podcast, Jordan talks about:

* What Mattiel and her band have learned from each other

* The early years of his career in Columbus

* Breaking into the Atlanta scene

* Struggling with his musical identity

* The West African influence in his childhood church

* How playing in hip-hop bands made him more attuned to accompanying vocalists

* Focusing on the role of the drummer in a given situation, not just the content of the drumming

* A different approach to teaching at Meta Music

* His goal-setting philosophy

This episode is sponsored by Shure Microphones.

Enter the Shure Drum Mastery Contest by April 15th!

207 – Carmine Appice: The GUITAR ZEUS Project, Mixing Technique with Power and Volume Feb 28, 2019

One of the premier showmen in rock, Carmine Appice became known worldwide for his astonishing live performances and a highly sought-after session drummer, He is known As the drummer for many ground breaking rock bands in the late 60’s to early 70’s like Vanilla Fudge Cactus as well as one of the first super groups with Jeff Beck, Beck, Bogert & Appice.

In 1976, he joined Rod Stewart’s band, touring, recording and writing two of Stewart’s biggest hits, “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” and “Young Turks.” In the early 1980s, he toured with Ozzy Osborne and Ted Nugent. In the mid ’80s, he formed King Kobra for two Capitol albums and international touring. In the late ‘80s, he formed Blue Murder with Whitesnake’s John Sykes and The Firm’s Tony Franklin. In the early ’90s, he pounded away soul-style for The Edgar Winter Group.

As an educator, Carmine was the first to legitimize rock drumming with his landmark book, The Realistic Rock Drum Method, selling over 400,000 copies

His latest project is a re-release of his GUITAR ZEUS project, a compilation album featuring a who’s who list of the best and world-renowned guitarists on the planet including Brian May, Slash, Neil Schon, Yngwie Malmsteen, Paul Gilbert, Richie Sambora, Dweezil Zappa, Vivian Campbell, Steve Morse, Dug Pinnick, and many others

In this episode, Carmine talks about:

* The GUITAR ZEUS project, a compilation album

* New projects and a stage in Carmine’s career

* Life leading up to Vanilla Fudge

* The influence of drummers in the 60’s

* Mixing technique with power and volume

* Carmine as educator and his very successful book

* Advice for teachers

Carmine endorses Vic Firth, ddrum, Evans drum heads, Sabian cymbals, DW Pedals, Anvil Cases, The Carmichael Throne, Zoom

206 – John Bryant: The Dallas Scene, Playing with Ray Charles, Teaching Drums and Production, Musical Partnership with Stewart Copeland Feb 21, 2019

John Bryant is a drummer, percussionist, composer, educator, and music producer residing and working in Dallas, Texas. Originally from Virginia, he moved to Dallas and majored in music at the University of North Texas, where he performed and recorded with the One O’Clock Lab Band. He has recorded and/or performed with numerous artists including Ray Charles, Delbert McClinton, Joe Walsh, Lightnin’ Hopkins, the Paul Winter Consort, and Doc Severinsen. Bryant has played, composed and produced music for many different types of projects that include regional artists, touring shows, major motion pictures, and documentary films for PBS and National Geographic. His latest project is playing and co-producing for a new record with Glen Clark, a hit singer/songwriter and veteran of Bonnie Raitt and Delbert McClinton.

Bryant is a founding member of the world music percussion group D’Drum, and acted as producer of the group’s collaboration with composer and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame drummer Stewart Copeland and the Dallas Symphony on the world premiere of Gamelan D’Drum, a three-movement concerto commissioned for D’Drum.

Bryant has recorded across the country in some of the most important recording studios pivotal to the history of American popular music. These include A & R / Columbia Studios in New York with Phil Ramone, RPM Studios with Ray Charles, and Sound Castle Studios in Los Angeles, Criteria Studios in Miami, The Automatt in San Francisco, Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals, Ardent Recording in Memphis, Arlyn Studios in Austin, and most every recording studio in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

In this podcast, John talks about:

* The pros and cons of the Dallas scene, and what keeps him and other working musicians there

* Leaving school in the middle of his last semester to join the Paul Winter Consort

* How living and working in Dallas helped him get the gig with Ray Charles

* Dallas’s role in the jingle recording industry

* Teaching drumset and music production at Southern Methodist University, and the role of listening in both

* One of the keys to nailing a style: the balance or “EQ” between the voices of the drumset in that style

* Practicing for coordination/ideas vs. practicing for sound/touch

* Playing with Ray Charles, and his experience as a white musician in that predominantly black band

* His long friendship and musical partnership with Stewart Copeland

BBC SERIES: HISTORY OF DRUMSET WITH STEWART COPELAND

HISTORY OF THE BASS WITH TINA WAYMOUTH

HISTORY OF GUITAR WITH LENNY KAYE

205 – BaldMan Percussion: Drummers Mike McKee & Danny Young, Creating The Junk Hat, Promoting with Integrity Feb 14, 2019

Danny Young (bald) and Mike McKee (bald) met a few years back while touring together and very quickly bonded over their mutual love for all things drums/percussion. Since then, they started a very nerdy friendship of developing and creating new instruments to use on their respective gigs: Mike with Delta Rae and Danny with Dan Tyminski.

In 2018, the two officially joined forces and created “BaldMan Percussion”. The baldmen are continually developing new and unique instruments to help take the drum and percussion world to the a new sonic space! Their first release, The Junk Hat™, is now making it’s way across the world and they are currently in the test stages of their next product!

Mike McKee of Raleigh, North Carolina is the drummer/percussionist for the band Delta Rae. He has traveled the world with Delta Rae since 2009, and has performed on Conan O’ Brien, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and The Late Show with Seth Meyers.

When not traveling with Delta Rae, Mike teaches private drum lessons, records for various artists, and conducts team building programs with Drum Team Collective™.

Mike endorses Ludwig Drums, Remo Drumheads, and Vic Firth Drumsticks.

Danny Young has been playing drums for 18 years in every sort of band, ensemble, and setting imaginable. He is currently based in Nashville, TN where he plays drums, sings and music directs for Eastland, Lucie Silvas, and 14-time Grammy award winner, Dan Tyminski. Danny can also bet seen playing with Thompson Square, Brandy Clark and Lindsay Ell.

In addition to touring, Danny is also heavily involved in the studio, both playing drums and singing. He has worked for a wide range of clients including singer-songwriters, pop, rock and country artists, several Cruise lines, theme parks, music publishers and more.

Danny endorses Treehouse Drums, Snareweight, Vic Firth and Humes & Berg

This episode is sponsored by Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs. Go to www.discovervibes.com and use promo code WDP to get 15% off plus free shipping (free shipping only applies to customers in the USA)

In this episode, Danny and Mike talk about:

* Representing at NAMM

* Current news with podcast alumni Danny Young

* Modernizing the approach to recording in the publishing world

* Mike drumming for the band Delta Rae

* Mike’s project “Drum Team Collective”

* Describing The Junk Hat and it’s many uses

* Promoting yourself all while maintaining authenticity

204 – Sam Wisman: One Foot in Drumset, One Foot in Percussion, Both Feet in Kansas City Feb 07, 2019

Drummer/Percussionist Sam Wisman is a versatile fixture in Kansas City’s thriving creative music scene. He is a member of the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, the Mark Lowrey Trio, Roger Wilder Quartet, Kinnor Philharmonic, Marimba Sol de Chiapas, and the People’s Liberation Big Band. He has performed with the Kansas City Symphony, the Topeka Symphony, New York Voices, Bobby Watson and more. He has worked extensively as a percussionist in musical theater including the Kansas City Repertory Theater, New Theatre Restaurant, Unicorn Theater, Musical Theater Heritage, and the Coterie Theater. Sam has helped premiere works by Harry Connick Jr., Stephen Schwartz, Shirley Jones & Richard Maltby Jr., Henry Krieger & Bill Russell, Samsel/Anderson & Jodi Picoult, and Ahrens & Flaherty. You can also listen to Sam as a DJ for Jazz Afternoon on 90.1 FM KKFI.

In this podcast, Sam talks about:

How his career of late has become centered around musicals

Straddling the classical and jazz departments in college

203 – Dillon Napier: Drumming for Grammy-Nominated Margo Price, Recording at Sun Studios, The Benefits of Learning Multiple Styles Jan 31, 2019

For over 10 years, Dillon Napier has been the drummer for Grammy Nominated artist Margo Price. From performing at the O2 in London and Red Rocks in Colorado, to performing on multiple TV shows including Saturday Night Live, Margo’s success in recent years has afforded Dillon many unique and bucket list opportunities with many more to come. You can hear Dillon on Margo’s 2016 record, Midwest Farmer’s Daughter as well as the recording, All American Made from 2017 that features Willie Nelson on one track.

Well before his work with Margo, Dillon was already a familiar face behind the drums in Nashville’s most popular rock clubs, honky tonk bars, and studios. Dillon has been a go-to hired gun on record and on the road for country, rock, and Americana artists such as Chris Knight, Caitlin Rose, Patrick Sweany, Sonia Leigh, and many more.

In this episode, Dillon talks about:

* Working with Margo Price

* The subtle intricacies of traditional country drumming

* The benefits of learning different styles

* Recording at Sun Studio

* Feeling the positive influence of JJ Johnson’s drumming

* Recognizing the difference between a good drummer and a great drummer

Dillon endorses: Sabian Cymbals, Promark sticks, Evans drumheads, Sakae drums

202 – Bob Knight Part II: Building a Live Resume, What Your IG Feed Tells Employers, TV Gigs Jan 24, 2019

Bob Knight was our guest on episode 165 and was so informative and entertaining, we had to go back for more. Bob lives in London where he commands somewhat of a dual career, both as an in-demand drummer and a music agent or “fixer,” matching musicians with bands or artists who need backing. He graduated from the jazz program at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London and has gone on to work with some of the biggest names in pop music including Sting, Cee-Lo Green, Charlotte Church, and Jennifer Hudson. His company, BEK Music, has provided musicians for a huge variety of acts from Andrea Bocelli to Eminem.

In this episode, Bob talks about:

* Custom-building a new practice/rehearsal studio

* Being a session drummer week in, week out vs. casting yourself that way on social media

* The results of a few months of intensified practicing

* Being more committed, confident, and consistent in his timekeeping, and the positive response it’s gotten

* The Yamaha EAD10

* Using social media to shine a light on others, and how social media factors into his hiring decisions

* “Not playing” with Sting, the other artists he’s done sideline TV gigs with, and the prep involved with that kind of gig

* His most recent TV gig as drummer and M.D. on Celebrity Game Night

* Not taking himself seriously while taking what he does seriously

* The strategy in turning down certain gigs, even when you’re available

* His thoughts on the ”tribute” trend

This episode is sponsored by Motion Pro Drum Thrones

201 – Drummers Fitness Round Table: Danny Elliott, Mark Poiesz, Matt Iceman, Dave McAfee and Corbin Cagle Jan 18, 2019

In this episode we share stories and experiences of five accomplished drummers who maintain standard fitness practices as part of their daily and weekly routines. This roundtable includes Matt Iceman – (David Nail), Dave McAfee – (Toby Keith), Corbin Cagle – (indépendent), Mark Poiesz – (Tyler Farr), and helping to moderate the conversation is fitness expert and life coach Danny Elliott. Danny is a drummer and owner at Heart Body Soul.

In this episode, the roundtable talks about:

* What each of them is doing to stay healthy and their personal journey

* Matt Iceman talks about losing over 110 pounds

* The importance of nutrition in conjunction with exercise

* “You can’t out-exercise a bad diet” – Matt Iceman

* Misconceptions about products that claim to be healthy

* How your exercise routine changes as you age

* Back pain

* Warm up routines and staying hydrated

* The power of a healthy mental attitude

* The benefits of a daily meditation practice

* Substance abuse and it’s adverse effects

* Self awareness

This episode is sponsored by Motion Pro Drum Thrones

200 – Chris McHugh, “Best Of” Roundtable: Seth Rausch, Harry Miree, Travis McNabb & Hubert Payne Jan 16, 2019

To celebrate our 200th episode, we invited four of our favorite past guests – Seth Rausch, Travis McNabb, Hubert Payne, and Harry Miree – to participate in a roundtable discussion. We then did an extended interview with Chris McHugh. The show was recorded and filmed at The Drum Pad in Nashville at Drum Paradise.

Seth Rausch is a skillful drummer currently working as the touring drummer for Keith Urban. Other artists he’s worked for include Gary Allan, Joe Nichols, Phil Vassar, and Little Big Town. While he was with Little Big Town, he had the opportunity to record on two of their records and work with producer Jay Joyce. He continues to collaborate and record with some of Nashville’s top writers, musicians, and producers.

Travis McNabb is best known as a longtime member of the band Better Than Ezra, and brings his style and integrity to every situation. In mid-2007, He became the full-time touring and recording drummer with Grammy-award winning act Sugarland. He puts his years of recording and engineering experience to use in his own home studio and in recent years he’s been the drummer for country artist, Frankie Ballard.

Hubert Payne excelled at football in high school and college and won two State Championships. His athletic skills as well as superb drumming skills continue to inspire. He has worked with many nationally-touring country artists that include Love & Theft, David Nail, Casey James, and since early 2015, Little Big Town.

Harry Miree has built a successful YouTube channel where he covers many topics like “The True Life of a Side Musician, Open Handed Techniques, alternatives to playing a Cajon and many other useful videos. He has over 76,000 subscribers and is currently the touring drummer for LoCash.

In this podcast, the roundtable panel talks about:

* Goals and intentions for 2019

* Physical and psychological challenges

* What listening means to them

* Memorable mistakes and lessons learned from them

Chris McHugh is one of the most sought-after drummers in the Nashville recording scene. His playing can be heard on thousands of recordings dating back to the mid-1980s. He has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Michael Bolton, Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, LeAnn Rimes, Brooks & Dunn, Reba McIntire, Faith Hill, Kenny Rogers, Jars of Clay, Trace Adkins, Jewel, Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Lionel Richie, and countless others.

In this podcast, Chris talks about:

* How his playing has changed conceptually over the years

* What it means for your playing to have character

* Being mentored by Larry Londin, and the current state of mentorship in Nashville

* The homogenization of the recording industry (Nashville vs. L.A.)

*

199 – Dusty Simmons: Playing with The Cris Jacobs Band, The Richmond Renaissance, Concepts from a Self-Taught Drummer Dec 20, 2018

Dusty Simmons was born and raised in Richmond, VA, which he still calls home. He tours and records with The Cris Jacobs Band, and is part of multiple projects in Richmond. Dusty’s dad is a musician and had a garage full of instruments when Dusty was a kid. This is where and when Dusty began learning about music, and he was gigging by his sophomore year in high school. It has been non-stop gigging since then, be it in bands on the road and in the studio, in music stores, or as a drum tech and audio engineer. During his adult life, he has seen an explosion of art and music in Richmond, driven by locally grown creatives, locally owned and operated venues, labels, studios, and the prestigious art school at Virginia Commonwealth University.

In this podcast, Dusty talks about

* His main gig with the Cris Jacobs Band

* His three Richmond-based tribute projects

* Secretly practicing on his dad’s gear as a kid

* The vibrant music and arts scene in Richmond

* His Instagram Live show, “Diggin’ with Dusty”

* How he learned to conceptualize drumming and music as a self-taught

* The early experience that turned him off from formal music education

* Thinking of a groove to a dance

* Teching for Lamb of God’s Chris Adler

*

198 – Rod Morgenstein: Drumming for The Dixie Dregs, Winger, The Steve Morse Band Dec 13, 2018

Rod Morgenstein’s unique, dynamic and musical drumming style has led to Rod’s winning the Best Progressive Rock Drummer award in Modern Drummer Magazine’s Reader’s Poll 5 years in a row (1986-1990) and Best All-Around Drummer (1999), earning him a permanent position in the magazine’s prestigious Honor Roll. Rod was a founding member of the groundbreaking group the Dixie Dregs. Rod is also very well known as a member of the award winning rock group Winger. These two groups have reunited in recent years and continue to tour regularly.

Other projects that Rod has been involved with are The Steve Morse band, The Rudess/Morgenstein Project, the jam band Jazz Is Dead, Platypus, whose two recordings feature John Myung (Dream Theater), Ty Tabor (King’s X) and Derek Sherinian (Planet X) as well as an offshoot of Platypus, The Jelly Jam, a power trio featuring Rod, Ty Tabor and John Myung.

In addition to his recording and touring credits, Rod is very active in drum education. He recently retired from the position of Professor of Percussion at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass. Also, his highly recognized instructional materials include videos, audio cassettes and books. His most recent offering is Drum Set Warm-Ups, touted as the definitive text for developing and improving all aspects of drum set playing.

In this episode, Rod talks about:

* Diversifying your workload

* How his teaching position came about at the Berklee College of Music

* The early years of the Dixie Dregs

* The unique challenges the Dixie Dregs faced within the music business

* The Steve Morse band opening up for Rush in 1985

* The awesome story of what lead to Rod playing on the Burning for Buddy project

* His audition for Winger

* His audition for Journey in 1986

* Taking chances on stage and the benefits of his book: “Drum Set Warm-Ups”

* Developing Berklee online courses https://online.berklee.edu/courses/rock-drums

197 – Kevin Leon: Touring with St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Creative Pursuit vs. “Work,” Groove is Groove is Groove Dec 06, 2018

Kevin Leon has been on the Atlanta scene for nearly a decade and recently landed the touring gig with St. Paul & The Broken Bones. Kevin grew up in Birmingham, AL. He studied music at The University of Alabama at Birmingham and got a fast start playing all kinds of gigs on the Birmingham scene. After school, he moved to New York for a year and returned to Birmingham when it became clear he didn’t have the inclination (or the money) to live there long term. He then landed a gig with country artist Niko Moon, which brought him to Atlanta, where he has been active ever since with singer/songwriters, jazz artists, and corporate bands. He is also part owner of Music Lessons Decatur, a local teaching network.

In this podcast, Kevin talks about:

The somewhat emergency process by which he joined St. Paul

His relationships with Chris Fryar and Harry Miree

Exploring his non-musical outlet, fishing, on the road

Gearing up to be the primary breadwinner when his girlfriend went to grad school

Filling your schedule with “work” vs. keeping it open for creative projects

Lessons learned when the gig that brought him to Atlanta ended abruptly

The experience that made him realize making 2 & 4 feel good required as deep a dive as jazz

A snapshot of his hometown, Birmingham

Publishing videos (and an eventual album) of his original compositions, and his thoughts on managing his output

Kevin Leon endorses Vic Firth sticks

196 – Gregg Bissonette & Kennan Wylie: Writing & Creating The Hal Leonard Drumset Method Nov 29, 2018

Gregg Bissonette performing and recording credits include working with Ringo Starr, David Lee Roth, James Taylor, Santana (on his Grammy-award winning Supernatural), Don Henley, Joe Satriani, Andrea Bocelli, ELO, Maynard Ferguson, Spinal Tap, and countless others.

He has recorded for many films—including The Bucket List, Finding Nemo, Best in Show, For Your Consideration, The Bourne Supremacy, The Mighty Wind, The Polar Express, The Devil Wears Prada, Waiting for Guffman, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, The 40-Year-Old Virgin as well as TV shows, including the hit NBC series Friends.

Gregg exclusively uses Zildjian Cymbals, Dixon Drums, DW Drum Pedals, Remo Drum Heads, Vic Firth Drum Sticks, Samson Audio, Audix Mics, the Gregg Bissonette Signature Stick Bag by Kaces, XL Specialty road cases, Beato Drum Bags, LT Lug Locks, and LP Percussion products.

Kennan Wylie is in his 22nd year as the Director of Percussion Studies at Marcus High School in Flower Mound, TX. Kennan is a free-lance performer in the Dallas-Forth Worth area and a member of the Dallas based jazz group Fingerprints.

His previous publications include the book “Simple Steps to Successful Beginning Percussion”, through K. Wylie Publications (www.kwylie.com). With a Bachelors and Masters degree in Music Education from the University of North Texas, Kennan is active as a clinician and adjudicator throughout the Southwest, as well as serving as the President of the Texas PAS Chapter.

Kennan endorses Yamaha drums, Zildjian cymbals, Innovative Percussion, and Evans drumheads

In this episode, Gregg and Kennan talk about:

* Gregg and Kennan’s presentation at PASIC 2018

* Describing the book – Hal Leonard Drumset Method book 1 and 2 & it’s many features

* Unique challenges teachers have these days / private lessons vs YouTube

* The importance of performing with other people

* The “Flow Sticking System”

* The growing popularity of open handed technique

* Setting goals and a rough plan for teaching so students reach the goals you’ve set for them

* Things that educators can offer that can go beyond just teaching drums?

195 – Jeff Mellott: Playing in “Us Today,” The Cincinnati Scene, Your Region’s Musical Heritage Nov 22, 2018

Jeff Mellott has spent his entire life in Ohio and become a fixture on the Cincinnati scene. His trio, Us Today, recently release its fourth album, Computant. After starting at a community college, he transferred to Ohio Univeristy and went on to earn a master’s degree in Jazz Studies from the College Conservatory of Music at The University of Cincinnati. In addition to Us Today, Jeff performs with guitarist Brandon Coleman and many other Cincinnati-based jazz artists, and has diversified his working life between performing and being a Music Educators Rep for Willis Music.

In this podcast, Jeff talks about:

* The evolution of Us Today

* Getting featured on NPR

* The band’s composition process

* His upbringing and musical background in Ohio

* Starting out at a community college, transferring to Ohio University, and going on to grad school at University of Cincinnati

* His other job with Willis Music, outfitting music educators with everything they need from instruments to sheet music to tech

* His advice on endorsements

* What keeps him in Cincinnati, and the city’s musical legacy

* Appreciating the different pockets and regions of American music

* The possibility and feasibility of someday moving away from Cincinnati

Jeff Mellott endorses Canopus drums, Bosphorus cymbals, and Vic Firth drumsticks

194 – Sean Paddock: Touring w/ Kenny Chesney, Recording and Producing in a Home Studio Nov 15, 2018

Growing up in Watertown, NY, Sean Paddock started playing the drums at the age of four, and within a year was sitting in, performing live with his musician parents, Don Paddock (bassist) and Claudia Paddock (singer, guitarist) at local nightclubs. By the time he was 9-years-old, Sean had begun formal drum lessons and participated in the school band program. At fourteen, Sean and his family moved to Arizona where he continued his involvement in variety of high school music groups, including marching band, orchestra and stage band. It was during his high school years that he started his music career as a semi-pro, playing paid gigs with his father. After high school, Sean was working as a full-time musician, playing the local music seen both in Phoenix and northern New York.

In 1996, Sean traveled to Nashville to check out the music scene, heard that Kenny Chesney needed a drummer, auditioned and landed the gig which he’s been playing ever since.

Besides Kenny Chesney, Sean has worked with such rock and country icons as Vince Gill, Sammy Hagar, John Mellencamp, Steve Miller, George Strait, and numerous others. His televised appearances with Chesney include The Grammy’s, Austin City Limits, Sound Stage, the ACM, CMA, AMA award shows, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, The Late Show with Letterman, Good Morning America, and Today Show. Sean can also be seen in many of Kenny Chesney’s music videos, as well as the Summer In 3D Movie.

When not on the road, Sean is back in Nashville — doing recording sessions with an A-list team of musicians or tracking drums at his home studio.

In this episode, Sean talks about:

* The importance of mic placement, creating phase coherence, kit placement, etc when recording at home

* Tracking and producing full tracks with all instruments

* Touring with Kenny Chesney

* The realities of touring with a major label act

* How he got the gig with Kenny

* Being authentic on the gig

* Recounting the flood of 2010 and how it affected tour production

* Final words of advice in maintaining sanity on the road

Sean endorses: Tama Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Evans Drumheads, Audio Technica, Puresound Snare Wires

193 – Bill Stewart: The Jazz Master on Trio Drumming, Composing, and Scofield Nov 08, 2018

Bill Stewart has been one of the most unique voices in jazz drumming for decades. He is especially known for his work with jazz guitar greats Pat Metheny, Jim Hall, Peter Bernstein, and most consistently and profoundly, John Scofield. His resume is rounded out with other iconic artists such as Michael Brecker, Maceo Parker, Joe Lovano, and Nicholas Payton. He has released several recording as a leader including Think Before You Think, Snide Remarks, and his latest, Band Menu. Stewart grew up in Iowa but made the move to New York for college and never left, and has remained one of the most sought-after drummers in jazz.

In this podcast, Bill talks about:

* The dynamic of his new record, and playing and composing for a “chord-less” trio

* Growing up in Iowa and playing with family members and in Top 40 bands in high school

* His simultaneous development as a drummer and composer

* How other genres such as roots/blues and classical have influenced him

* His transition from Iowa to the East Coast, and from college to the New York scene

* Studying with Elliot Zigman

* The importance of playing with clarity – in rhythmic content, orchestration, and tone

* How he first hooked up with John Scofield, and the musical adventures they’ve had since

* His long-standing trio with Larry Goldings and Peter Bernstein, and his thoughts on playing with organ

The challenges and opportunities presented by trio drumming

Bill Stewart endorses Gretsch drums, Remo drumheads, and Zildjian cymbals and sticks.

192 – Bart Robley: Drumming for The Sam Morrison Band, The Responsibility of Drumming Educators, Playing for the Song Nov 01, 2018

Bart Robley is a perfect example of a full time musician that stays busy by diversifying his work load through teaching, performing live, recording as well as publishing educational material.

Through his many projects, Bart learned the nuances of rock, country, jazz, fusion, hard rock and heavy metal. As his thirst for musical adventures grew, so did his need for larger projects. So he bid goodbye to his small town life in Colorado and in 1989, relocated to Southern California. Bart networked the L.A. music scene, replete with a host of metal, punk and industrial bands. Bart returned to studio work and live performances as a ‘hired gun’ in many diverse projects from country to hard rock. It was one of these situations that led to Bart being hired full time by Southern Rock mainstays The Sam Morrison Band.

To date the Sam Morrison Band has recorded 8 CD’s with legendary producer Michael Vail Blum whose credits include work with Madonna and Pink Floyd. The band has sold over 700,000 downloads on I-Tunes and have been streamed over 10 million times on Spotify.

Bart has been involved in music education, teaching private and semi-private drum lessons, as well as hosting master classes and drum clinics for 20 years. Bart’s extensive knowledge of drumming and rhythm has come together in three popular instructional books, as well as three instructional DVDs. Bart’s efforts were recognized in 2009, when he won a Telly Award for his instructional DVD, “The School Of Hard Rocks”.

In this episode, Bart talks about:

* Bart’s teaching practice

* The importance of teaching students to read music

* How to stay organized as a teacher

* How to start and maintain a successful teaching practice

* “What you’re doing not How you’re doing”

* Teaching business side of the music business to students

* His full time band The Sam Morrison Band

* Working with legendary producer Michael Vail Blum

* Being the best you you can be

* Playing for the song

* Bart’s instructional books and DVD’s

* The responsibility of drumming educators

* 3 instructional books, & 3 instructional DVDs

Bart endorses: Gretsch Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Aquarian Drumheads, Symphonic Percussion, Trick Drums, Clamp-It, Kickport, Gorilla Snot, The Kelly Shu, Humes & Berg, Audix Microphones

191 – Bernie Dresel: His New Big Band, The L.A. Session Scene, The Confluence of Groove and Swing Oct 25, 2018

Prior to forming his own jazz orchestra, The BBB Featuring Bernie Dresel, Bernie backed Maynard Ferguson, the Brian Setzer Orchestra, and Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band. Bernie served 15 years for both Setzer and Goodwin. He has been the drummer on numerous Brian Setzer Grammy Award®-winning recordings and more recently on every recording that Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band has released, including the Grammy Award-winners.

You can see Bernie on the silver screen and hear him in Jersey Boys. He also played on Jurassic World, Inside Out, Tomorrowland, Minions, American Sniper, Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, Mission Impossible 3, Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice, Superman: Man Of Steel, Up, The SpongeBob Squarepants Movie, Cars 2, Super 8, Transformers 3, Get On Up, Star Trek Generations, Star Trek 2009, Speed Racer, The Bourne Supremacy, Payback, The Hulk, Ratatouille, Elf, Me Myself And Irene, The Santa Clause, Once Upon A Time In Mexico, Stuart Little, Jingle All The Way, The Mask, Analyze This, The Flintstones In Viva Rock Vegas, An Extremely Goofy Movie, The Aristocats, Liberace: Behind The Candelabra, Ice Age: The Meltdown, Hairspray, The Bucket List, Walk Hard, Enchanted, and many more.

Bernie has played on sessions for TV including Family Guy, American Dad, The Cleveland Show, The Simpsons, King Of The Hill, Pinky And The Brain, Animaniacs, Tiny Toon Adventures, Lost, The Sopranos, Jag, Star Trek Voyager, Star Trek Next Generation, Star Trek Deep Space Nine, Star Trek Enterprise, Baywatch, The Young And The Restless, American Music Awards, Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild Awards, Emmy Awards, American Comedy Awards, Dawson’s Creek, Dallas, Knots Landing, Simon And Simon, Murder She Wrote, Cheers, Frasier, News Radio, Beverly Hills 90210, Christmas At Rockefeller Center, Tom And Jerry, Ugly Betty, and many more. He also performed as the drummer for Jerry Lewis’s MDA Labor Day Telethons.

In this podcast, Bernie talks about:

* His philosophy on leading and recording a big band

* Joe’s Great American Bar & Grille, and the place it holds on the LA music scene

* Growing up in rural Pennsylvania

* How parts of the new record “Bern Bern Bern” tell the story of his early musical experiences

* His experience at Eastman School of Music

* Working his way onto the LA scene, and how he distinguished himself from guys like Vinnie, rather than trying to emulate or compete with them

* Playing with bassist John “Spazz” Hatton

* How the LA scene has changed over the years, and how it can turn musicians into specialists

* The groove aspects of jazz and big band drumming

* The importance of putting on a visibly energetic performance

Bernie Dresel endorses Craviotto drums, Remo drumheads, Vic Firth sticks, and Sabian cymbals

190 – Sandy Gennaro: Drumming for Cyndi Lauper, Joan Jett, The Monkees and Many Others, Opening for Queen in ’86, Inspirational Speaking w/ His B.E.A.T.S. Program Oct 18, 2018

Sandy Gennaro was born and raised in NYC and currently resides in Nashville TN. Sandy has toured and/or recorded with: Cyndi Lauper, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Bo Diddley, Johnny Winter, The Monkees, Joe Lynn Turner, Michael Bolton, Benny Mardones, Craaft, The Mamas and Papas and Jon Paris. He has recorded several Top 10 singles and has performed for for over a billion fans spanning his 50 year career.

Sandy has also made numerous TV appearances including The Tonight Show, The Grammy Awards, The American Music Awards, The MTV New Years Ball, and The Late Show with David Letterman among others. He is also a favored councelor at the Rock and Roll Fantasy Camps.

He is currently recording and gigging with various artists in Nashville.

Before his move to Nashville in early ‘14, Sandy gave lessons, master classes and inaugurated the Music Business program at the Collective in NYC where he started in 1987.

Gennaro is also a corporate/academic inspirational speaker. He has brought his “B.E.A.T.S.” presentation to FedEx, Belmont University, Pacific Hotel Management LLC, Sam Ash Corp. The U.S. Space and Rocket Center, The Collective NYC and The School of Rock with extraordinary results. Participants in his “B.E.A.T.S.”program return to work or school with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm, increased passion, tenacity and a renewed engagement in their work. They will be inspired by new behaviors that increase productivity and drive business, sales and leadership performance. “B.E.A.T.S.”in an acronym for Belief, Enthusiasm, Attitude, Tenacity and Service.

In this episode, Sandy talks about:

* Appreciating the journey over any destination

* The acronym “B.E.A.T.S.” that he uses for his speaking engagements

* Sandy’s early career highlights during the 1970’s and 80’s

* Positive interaction with others that lead to monumental change in Sandy’s life

* What lead to his long time gig with The Monkees (1987 – 2012)

* Teaching at The Collective in New York City for 27 years

* His tour with Cyndi Lauper in 1984/85 and his hybrid electronic/acoustic kit

* Opening up for Queen in 1986 on four month tour with German band Craaft

* Info about “Breast Cancer Can Stick It”

Sandy endorses DW drums, pedals and hardware, Zildjian cymbals, Hot Sticks, Remo drumheads, Rhythm Tech percussion

189 – Cody Rahn & Ben Smith: “Sounds Like A Drum” – Talking Tone Oct 11, 2018

Cody Rahn and Ben O’Brien Smith are the creators of Sounds Like A Drum, “an ongoing video series for drummers, audio engineers, and anyone who is responsible for achieving great drum sounds at the source. Sounds Like a Drum offers in-depth tutorials on tuning in ways most have never learned, tips and tricks for a memorable sound, and hacks that you might never have thought of.” Cody’s background as a working drummer in New York and Ben’s background in product development give them a unique and insightful approach to achieving great drum tone, whether that means finding creative new sounds or just troubleshooting the old ones.

In this podcast, Ben and Cody talk about:

* The philosophy behind the aesthetic and presentation of Sounds Like a Drum

* SLAD’s origin story

* How to associate certain drum tones with certain genres

* Going beyond the “what” and “how” of tone, and getting into the “why”

* Developing your ear and taste to inform your tone choices, rather than buying gear

* Making confidence part of you sound

* Balancing tone with feel

* Cody’s approaches for mic’d vs. un-mic’d situations

* How they handle comments and feedback on their channel

* Their advice for anyone who wants to start a social media or digital enterprise

Cody Rahn endorses Promark sticks and Evans heads.

188 – Rodney Edmondson: Drumming For Country Music Legend Ronnie Milsap, Changes in the Music Scene in Nashville Oct 04, 2018

Since the early 1990’s, Rodney Edmondson has been the drummer for award winning singer and piano player Ronnie Milsap. Ronnie Milsap is credited with six Grammy Awards and forty No. 1 country hits. He was selected for induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2014.

Growing up in Virginia, Rodney developed his feel and approach to drumming throughout the 1970’s with local groups that included many styles that prepared him for his eventual move to Nashville. Rodney quickly established himself as a solid musician that could cover many different styles from heavy rock to traditional country. Just before landing the Milsap gig, Rodney was the full time drummer for the traditional country group, The Whites.

Rodney balances his touring with Ronnie with his work at Spectrum Sound Inc. building and designing road cases.

In this episode, Rodney talks about:

* Ronnie Milsap and his history including the time he meet Ray Charles

* How Rodney got the gig with Ronnie

* Evolving with the gig

* Recordings that Rodney did with Ronnie

* Growing up in Virginia and playing music locally in the 70’s

* Significant changes In the music scene in Nashville

187 – Elmo Lovano: The Founder of JAMMCARD on Networking, Community, and Branding Sep 27, 2018

Los Angeles native Elmo Lovano built a successful career as a touring and studio drummer with Juliette Lewis, Miley Cyrus, Christina Perri, James Fauntleroy, Avril Lavigne, Paul Oakenfold and many more. He began to see the need for a legitimate networking platform for professional musicians because, “as creatives, we don’t use Linkedin, and as professionals, we don’t use Craigslist.” After a couple years of beta testing among friends and colleagues he launched the Jammcard app in 2017. After a successful rollout amongst L.A.-based musicians, Jammcard then launched in Atlanta, followed by Nashville.

In this podcast, Elmo talks about:

* How networking for musicians is pretty much the same at any level

* Fully completing your product (album, app, whatever) before you market it and release it

* The team he assembled to help him create, maintain, and grow Jammcard

* Best practices for Jammers

* Why Atlanta was chosen as the second launch city

* How to build a professional portfolio that will get you accepted to Jammcard

Elmo Lovano endorses Pearl drums, Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, and Remo heads.

186 – Anthony Citrinite: Founder and CEO of The MeetHook App, The Director at The Collective School of Music in New York Sep 20, 2018

MeetHook Founder & CEO Anthony Citrinite is an established pro musician with a number of career highlights including playing on live TV with the classic rock band Boston at the Fiesta Bowl in 2002, Katy Perry and Joe Perry in 2009 at Radio City Music Hall on the MTV Video Music awards, and playing percussion for Coheed and Cambria to a sold out show later that year. He can be heard on a number of notable major label releases & movie soundtracks with his band The SmashUp. Anthony has been a part of The Collective School of Music executive staff and board for 23 years.

Anthony is a visionary who is constantly coming up with new ways to help all people follow their passions while sustaining a career in music.

In this episode, Anthony talks about:

* What the MeetHook app is and how it’s used

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* The personal experience that the app MeetHook offers

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* How to tackle a daunting task

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* Anthony’s journey

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* The great teachers at The Collective

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* Spreading the word about MeetHook

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* The importance of making connections in the music business

Anthony endorses: MRP Custom Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Vater Drumsticks, Evans Drumheads

185 – Jake Wood: Touring with “Hamilton,” The San Francisco Scene, Building an Independent Teaching Studio Sep 13, 2018

Jake Wood has been touring with Hamilton since early 2017, playing percussion, keyboards, electronics, and running Ableton. With no prior experience in musicals, he landed the gig through a San Francisco acquaintance, and proved himself by taking a month away from pretty much everything else in his life to spend ten hours a day practicing and learning the show. In addition to Hamilton, Jake plays with Bay Area groups including Diego’s Umbrella and March Fourth, and has been running his own teaching studio for nearly a decade.

In this podcast, Jake talks about:

* How he landed the Hamilton gig with no prior experience in musicals

* Creating drum cover videos using songs with no drums

* How his social media content became a useful resume booster

* The month-long process of learning the show

* The intricacies of his part and learning to follow a conductor

* The mix of acoustic drums and samples in the pit set-up

* Playing continuous grooves vs. isolated single notes

* The Bay Area scene, and his musical life there outside Hamilton

* His strategy for building his teaching studio

184 – Ben Hans: Author, Editor & Performer for Hal Leonard Publishing, Performing Acoustically w/ Kip Winger, Partnering w/ John S. Pratt Sep 06, 2018

Ben Hans is a musician and music instructor who keeps a busy performance schedule performing many genres of music. Ben performs as a freelance artist, who cut his teeth performing under the tutelage of Jazz Guitarist Jack Grassel and the late Swing Clarinetist Chuck Hedges.

Ben has shared the stage with a diverse list of artists such as singer/songwriter/composer and Grammy nominated C. F. Kip Winger. Legendary Rudimentalists John S. Pratt, Mitch Markovich, the great Jazz Pianist Barry Harris, celebrated Saxophonists Eric Morones, Johnny Padilla and Jesse Lee Montijo, Jazz Guitarists Scott DuBois, Jeff Schroedl and Steve Peplin. Guitar virtuosos Reb Beach, John Roth, Jorge Salan and Donnie Wayne Smith as well as rock vocalist Fiona Flanagan. Ben has also performed alongside many great regional jazz artists such as Rick Embach, Berkeley Fudge, Tom McGirr, Pete Billman, Aaron Gardner, John Babbitt, Michael Arnold, Kirk Tatnall, Mark Solveson, Jeannine Rivers, Swing Nouveau, and many more.

As an educator, Ben is currently teaching Music Business at SAE Institute in Nashville, TN. Past teaching positions include Milwaukee Area Technical College as well as the Wisconsin Lutheran College.

Ben is also an author, proofreader, freelance editor and session performer for Hal Leonard Publishing, with published works including: “Workin’ Drums – 50 Solos for Drumset,” “40 Intermediate Snare Drum Solos,” “Rudimental Solos for the Marching Snare Drummer,” “Modern School for Mallet Keyboard Instruments,” “HalLeonard School for Snare Drum,” and transcriptions of Ray Luzier’s “Double Bass Drum Techniques”, as well as performing on and writing for the Hal Leonard DVD “Traditional Rudimental Drumming”by John S. Pratt.

In this episode, Ben talks about:

* Building and developing his private teaching practice

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* The importance of being able to read music

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* Changes in the recording industry

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* Diversifying your work load

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* Successfully working through drum books – a strategy

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* The history of John S. Pratt

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* Ben’s gig with Kip Winger

Ben endorses Yamaha Drums, Aquarian Drumheads, Mike Balter Mallets, Vic Firth Drumsticks, and Tycoon Percussion

183 – Quinton Robinson Pt. 2: The Culture of a Musical, The Gig You Have vs. The Gig You Want Aug 30, 2018

Quinton Robinson moved to Atlanta from Miami in 2010, and has established himself as a busy touring and session drummer for acts including Kenny Lattimore, Avery Sunshine, Algebra Blessett, and the newly released New-York-based musical “Born For This.” Jonathan Joseph served as his primary mentor on the drums, and Q has also made himself valuable as an expert Ableton practitioner and STEM producer. In addition to many roles as drummer, Quinton is also the musical director for Anthony David.

In this podcast, Q talks about:

The different type of fulfillment he gets from playing in musical theatre

How trust between a musical’s M.D. and drummer drives (and sometimes saves) the show.

What it means to be more than your job title

Navigating the culture clash that happens among people from different backgrounds on a musical

The enormous potential in musicals for drumming to contribute to emotional content

Honing your gift vs. honing the “vessel” that carries and delivers the gift

Being a good player vs. “living in musical excellence”

How being willing to do a little extra thing for free can lead to an income source

Using social media to make authentic connections and create genuine community

Quinton Robinson endorses Pearl drums, Vater sticks, Sabian cymbals, Humes & Berg cases, Reunion Blues gigbags, Audix microphones, Empire ears, Pighog cables, Ableton, Kickport, Drumdots, and Big Fat Snare Drum.

182 – Christian Matthew Cullen: Keyboardist, Composer, Sound Designer, Creative, Reaching Outside Your Comfort Zone Aug 23, 2018

Christian Matthew Cullen started his professional career as a session musician and sideman for Jim Peterik (Ides Of March, Survivor) in his Wold Stage band where he gained the opportunity to play with notable rock artists such as Alan Parsons, Don Barnes (.38 Special), Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon), Kip Winger, Joe Lynn Turner ( Deep Purple, Rainbow), Mickey Thomas (Starship), and Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger).

Christian took over the keyboard chair in Night Ranger in early 2007. Joining up with original members Jack Blades and Brad Gillis, Reb Beach (Winger) and later, Joel Hoekstra (TSO, Rock Of Ages) , he toured the world supporting rock giants Journey, Styx, Boston, REO Speedwagon, Peter Frampton, Heart, Alice Cooper, Steve Miller and Eddie Money.

Christian launched a sample company called Sound Famous. It’s for Apple MainStage and features iconic synth sounds from classic records like Prince’s 1999 using analog and virtual synths captured through analog gear and processed to sound exactly like the records they came from.

Currently, he composes music and creates sound design for video games, animation and advertising. He has produced music for acclaimed clients such as Smirnoff, Party City, Hollywood Casino, The Kentucky Derby, Jeep, and the Florida Gators and award winning music for children’s media and toys for Tomy, Alex, Infantino, Fisher-Price, Radio Flyer, and Learning Curve.

In the episode, Christian talks about:

Recording with Abe Laboriel Jr

Being open to ideas in when recording

The benefits of “live tracking”

Defining the difference between composing and sound design

Finding out what your truly passionate about

Transitioning from live work to sessions and “in town” work

The influence of technology in the way we work and produce

The power of a peer to peer network to create work

Discovering new opportunities when you reach outside your comfort zone

181 – Quinton Robinson: JammCard, The Virtues and Stigmas of Gospel, The ABC’s of Ableton Aug 16, 2018

Quinton Robinson moved to Atlanta from Miami in 2010, and has established himself as a busy touring and session drummer for acts including Kenny Lattimore, Avery Sunshine, Algebra Blessett, and the newly released New-York-based musical “Born For This.” Jonathan Joseph served as his primary mentor on the drums, and Q has also made himself valuable as an expert Ableton practitioner and STEM producer. In addition to many roles as drummer, Quinton is also the musical director for Anthony David.

In this podcast, Q talks about:

The advent of JammCard in LA, Atlanta, and Nashville

The mentorship of Jonathan Joseph and Will Kennedy

Making the jump from his gospel upbringing to the broader music world

The mixed reputation of the term “gospel drummer”

How church drumming makes you “road ready”

Why at least some Ableton literacy is almost necessary

How programming can be used as an enhancement or a crutch.

Quinton Robinson endorses Pearl drums, Vater sticks, Sabian cymbals, Humes & Berg cases, Reunion Blues gigbags, Audix microphones, Empire ears, Pighog cables, Ableton, Kickport, Drumdots, and Big Fat Snare Drum.

180 – Billy Thomas: Drumming for Vince Gill, The Time Jumpers, Singing and Drumming Aug 09, 2018

Billy Thomas moved to Nashville from Los Angeles in 1987 and immediately began working with award winning singer, songwriter and instrumentalist Vince Gill. He has been a member of Gill’s touring band ever since and regularly sings and plays on Gill’s records. Billy is also a member of the multi Grammy nominated western swing band, The Time Jumpers.

Billy has recorded and/or toured with Patty Loveless, Emmylou Harris, Steve Wariner, Marty Stuart, Ricky Nelson, Don Williams, Earl Scruggs and Dolly Parton. During the early ‘90s, Thomas was a founding member of the MCA Records trio, McBride & The Ride. The band’s Top 10 singles included “Sacred Ground,” “Going Out Of My Mind,” “Just One Night” and “Love On The Loose, Heart On The Run.” Thomas’ songs have been recorded by McBride & The Ride, Gill, Dottie West, Little River Band, Ricochet, the Oak Ridge Boys and Andy Griggs, among others.

In this episode, Billy talks about:

* The current changes Nashville is experiencing

* The important role of the drummer

* Using technique as a vehicle for achieving a great feel

* Continuing to find joy in music after many years and experiences

* The importance of good health

* The willingness to be part of a team

* Touring and recording with Vince Gill for the better part of thirty years

* The Time Jumpers

* Singing and drumming

Billy endorses: Ludwig Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Pro-Mark Sticks, Evans Drumheads

179 – Dylan Wissing: A Living Library of Drum Sounds at Triple Colossal Studios Aug 02, 2018

Dylan Wissing has been quietly amassing a resume of A-list recording credits including Jay-Z, Eminem, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, and John Legend. He grew up in Bloomington, IN, studied with Kenny Aronoff and Shawn Pelton, and toured for 13 years with the band Johnny Socko. When the band had run its course, Dylan ended up in the New York area in 2003 and began touring and recording with a huge variety of artists. He had worked with producer Ken Lewis on Johnny Socko’s last record, and Lewis began hiring him for new projects. This relationship has been central to Dylan’s career and continues to this day. In 2008, Dylan opened Triple Colossal Studios in Hoboken, NJ where he has been a go-to for just about any drum groove or sound anyone can think of.

In this podcast, Dylan talks about

* The early influence of Shawn Pelton and Kenny Aronoff

* The 13 years he spent on the road with Johnny Socko

* Making the transition from touring to doing more session work

* How studio carpentry and selling drums on Ebay put him in the drum and music world, and how he developed skills that he uses as a session drummer and studio owner

* Listening to drums with your ears, not your eyes

* The three pillars of his business: An arsenal of drums, a huge set of technological skills, and a lifetime of listening to and absorbing music

* A few of the essential drum breaks in the hip hop lexicon

* The importance of knowing how to achieve a wide variety of snare sounds

* Trends in tone

* “Gear with a vibe”

* His marketing strategy – delegating to experts when it comes to graphic design, mixing, etc.

Dylan Wissing endorses GMS Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Promark Sticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and TnR Products.

178 – Jake Gammon: Touring with Phil Vassar, Performing with Confidence, Staying Busy on Nashville’s Lower Broadway Scene Jul 26, 2018

Jake Gammon is the touring drummer for accomplished singer/songwriter Phil Vassar. When not on the road with Phil, Jake keeps a full schedule performing many shows a week on Nashville’s legendary lower Broadway music scene.

Originally from Lexington Kentucky, Jake was learning the business side of music at an early age and by fourteen, he was a drummer for hire. His high school years were spent drumming for many Lexington based bands.

In October 2009, Jake made the long anticipated move to Nashville to continue his pursuit of a career in music. Jake has worked for Chase Bryant, Josh Gracin, Josh Adams, Lyndsey Highlander just to name a few. In the Summer of 2011 Jake completed an 11 city tour of Japan as the drummer for “Far from Idol”, that featured former American Idol finalists. The tour was part of an effort to support our Nations men and women serving in the military abroad.

In this episode, Jake talks about:

* Working with Phil Vassar

* Unique experience gained from working on lower Broadway in Nashville

* Recognizing the contributions of iconic Nashville drummers

* Balancing work and life

* Meeting Chad Cromwell as a 12 year old kid

* Spotify playlist: The Golden Age of Nashville

* Playing with confidence as an asset to those who employ you

* Finding inspiration in other players

Jake endorses Vater Sticks

177 – Isabelle De Leon: The DC Scene, A Journey Into and Out of Jazz, Gender Politics in Music Jul 19, 2018

Isabelle De Leon grew up in the Washington, DC area in a musical family. Her father instilled a love of music in all his daughters and for awhile, Isabelle and her siblings comprised the band Ivy Rose, which made an appearance on America’s Got Talent. She attended The University of Maryland where she delved into jazz for the first time, gravitating to the playing and energy of Tony Williams and his most famous protege, Cindy Blackman. Although she began her freshman year with no jazz training or knowledge whatsoever, she quickly rose through the ranks of the jazz department, and earned a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies. Her main gigs currently are with two synth-pop bands, Prinze George and Paperwhite, and with the DC-base funk/soul band Lionize. She also hosts a Sunday jam session at Pearl Street Warehouse in the popular District Wharf area of Washington.

In this podcast, Isabelle talks about:

* Her recent performance with an all-female drumline for “A Capitol Fourth“

* Ivy Rose’s appearance on America’s Got Talent, and the difficult criticisms that came from it

* DC’s music scene, “a working musician’s city,” and its musical identity and history from punk to go-go

* The central part music played in her family and Filipino culture

* Being the only female in a college jazz department, and the only one with no jazz training

* Finding her passion for jazz through passion for specific players

* The male-derived climate that women in music must negotiate, regardless of whether or not they are explicitly victimized

* Different musical circles’ attitudes towards women and competition

176 – Joe Crabtree: Drummer, Educator, Developer, Drumming For Wishbone Ash, Developing Apps (PolyNome), Creating Comprehensive Online Lessons Jul 12, 2018

Joe Crabtree played his first professional gig at 14 and was teaching by age 15.

After studying Physics at Durham University (where he spent the majority of his time playing with function bands, small jazz bands and the university big band) he returned to teaching and playing in the North of England for a few years before moving to London to embark on a career as a professional musician.

He played and recorded with a number of original bands before joining the David Cross (King Crimson) band in 2004. He played shows with David Cross in Japan, Italy, and the UK before leaving to join Pendragon.

After a couple of European tours with Pendragon including 2 DVD releases he joined classic rock legends Wishbone Ash in 2007 and remains their drummer to the present day.

His sense of rhythm and melody led to production and and co-writing credits with Elena, the David Cross Band, and Wishbone Ash. Joe co-wrote songs on Wishbone Ash’s “Elegant Stealth” and “Blue Horizon”which he also co-produced.

In his down time from touring Joe created an online music school – JoeCrabtree.com, as well as an extremely versatile and useful metronome app called the PolyNome.

He has also helped to redefine how we learn and understand complex odd time signatures with a revolutionary method called the Key Counting Method.

Discounts available for WDP listeners for Joe’s website and the Key Counting Method

To receive 10% off, enter the affiliate/discount code for KeyCounting.com : http://keycounting.com/workingdrummer

At http://www.JoeCrabtree.com/join, you can get 20% off an annual Gold Pass, or the lifetime Platinum Pass with the coupon code WORKINGDRUMMER

In this podcast, Joe talks about:

* Learning how to write code and developing the PolyNome app

* Facing and overcoming your fears

* The many useful features of the PolyNome

* Drumming for Wishbone Ash

* Creating content that you enjoy

* The “Key Counting Method” as a tool to understanding odd time signatures

* Drumming “vocabulary” as key

* Cultivating other interests outside of drumming

Joe endorses: Sonor Drums, Vic Firth Sticks, Zildjian Cymbals and Evans Drumheads

175 – Will Groth: Playing in Electric Avenue, Making Atlanta Home, Physical Sustainability Jul 05, 2018

Will Groth is the drummer for Electric Avenue among other Atlanta-based projects. Electric Avenue bills itself as “The 80s MTV Experience and plays theatres, clubs, and private events nationwide. Will grew up and got his start in Minneapolis, MN, and moved to Atlanta in 2005. He quickly secured himself on the scene working steadily with Mike Geier (a.k.a. Puddles The Clown) for five years, after which he has stayed busy with a variety of rock, blues, and cover projects.

In this podcast, Will talks about:

Keeping cover songs at their original tempos

The surprises and challenges in the drumming of 80s pop

How he and the band approach getting their sounds and tones right

Playing in an organ trio with Ike Stubblefield and Grant Green Jr.

How working his way into the Atlanta scene changed his perspective on music

Why he always has and always will play traditional grip, and the curiosities of drumming ergonomics

Finding ways of playing that will be physically sustainable as you age

174 – Arjuna “RJ” Contreras: Drumming for The Reverend Horton Heat, Grooving at Fast Tempos, WDP Documenting His First Year in Nashville Jun 28, 2018

Arjuna Contreras is a drummer/ percussionist based out of Dallas, TX with plans to relocate to Nashville, TN in the fall of 2018. He possesses the uncanny ability to sound equally at home in a wide variety of musical styles including Jazz, Country, R&B, Latin, Rock, and even “Nuclear Polka”! Arjuna is often noted for the energy, soul, and excitement he brings to music both as a performer and an educator.

As a performer, Arjuna’s experience is vast. He currently records and tours with the Reverend Horton Heat. He has toured nationally with the popular Texas Country band, Eleven Hundred Springs as well as Grammy Award-winners Brave Combo, Donna Summer, and Howard Scott (original lead singer and guitarist for WAR).

As an educator, Arjuna has taught at Colleyville Heritage High School and its surrounding middle schools since 1996. His duties have included teaching the high school drum line, coaching percussion ensembles, daily teaching of 6th grade percussion classes, as well as giving private lessons to students in 6th through 12th grades. Over the years, his students have garnered top honors at drum line competitions, solo and ensemble contests, and band competitions.

Arjuna’s drumming can be heard on Eleven Hundred Springs’ recording, Eight the Hard Way. Their song, This Ain’t the First Time, is currently in rotation on many Country music stations in Texas and beyond. He also appears on the song, Belgium Polka, off of RCA/Jive Recording Artists, Bowling for Soup’s latest album, Sorry for Partyin’. Other recent recordings of Arjuna’s include Brave Combo’s album, The Exotic Rocking Life, and Fingerprints’ latest release, Dream Life. Arjuna is also currently working on innovative instructional multimedia materials for drummers.

In this episode, Arjuna talks about:

Drumming for The Reverend Horton Heat

The styes covered and influences of psychobilly

Subconsciously preparing for future gigs and opportunities

Leaving a band on good terms

Redefining the term “chops” to include touch and feel

Creating a drum solo that entertains the audience

Keeping a solid feel and groove while performing at fast tempos

The importance of an online presents

And, WDP documenting his journey for his first year in Nashville

Arjuna endorses: Ludwig Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, and Vic Firth Sticks

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace

173 – Brian Hudson: Making a Record as a Leader, The Church Gig, Political Advocacy for Music Jun 21, 2018

Atlanta-based drummer and studio musician Brian Hudson has performed, toured and recorded a diverse mix of music for various artists for the past 20 years. Hudson grew up in Clearwater, Florida. After high school, he attended The University of South Florida School of Music and later transferred to the University of Georgia and the music town of Athens, Georgia, which provided him with a rich diversity of music opportunities.

In 2000 Hudson moved to Atlanta, Georgia and immediately started playing and touring with various acts covering a variety of styles from jazz to blues to rock to country. In 2001, he was invited to audition for Capricorn Recording Artist Memory Dean who had gained national success with the release of 6 studio albums. Hudson landed the gig and has performed with Memory Dean as a member of the band ever since. In addition to Memory Dean, Hudson has performed with a variety of other acts including soul/funk/blues band SOULHOUND, The Dave Mathews Cover Band (The DMCB), power pop singer Steve Baskin, smooth jazz artist MADOCA, country artist Thomas Tillman, R&B/Smooth Jazz band Momentum, Johnson Ferry Worship and many others.

In August 2017, Hudson released his debut jazz/fusion album, NEXT LEVEL, worldwide. The songs blend jazz, jazz/fusion, funk, and Latin with a contemporary jazz underpinning and feature some of the most talented musicians in the southeast. Since its release, NEXT LEVEL has gained attention from radio stations and listeners from all over the world. Brian currently leads his jazz/fusion band Next Level, is a member of former Capricorn Record Artist Memory Dean and performs with various other artists covering a diverse mix of music. In addition, he is an active studio musician in Atlanta and also tracks drums remotely for artists around the world. Brian is on the Advisory Board for Georgia Music Partners and is a voting member of The Recording Academy.

In this podcast, Brian talks about:

Wearing all the hats necessary to make a record: Drummer, composer/arranger, engineer, producer, etc.

Partnering with pianist and composer Randy Hoexter

The necessity of using promoters and bookers to get a project out into the world

Playing with Memory Dean

Setting up profiles on Airgigs and Soundbetter

His church gig

His political involvement with state and local government to build music business infrastructure in Georgia

Brian endorses Sakae Drums, Paiste Cymbals, Regal Tip Drumsticks and Headhunters Creations.

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace

172 – Harry Miree: Building a Successful YouTube Channel, Speaking Your Truth, Separating One’s Self-Worth from the Gig You Have Jun 14, 2018

Harry Miree is a drummer currently based in Nashville, TN and is the drummer for Ryan Follese of Hot Chelle Rae. Harry will touring the summer of 2018 with Warner Brothers artist Troy Cartwright and indie rock band, Sons Of Bill.

Harry has built a very entertaining YouTube channel where he covers many topics like The True Life of a Side Musician, Open Handed Techniques, alternatives to playing a Cajon and many other useful videos. Currently, Harry has close to 60,000 subscribers.

Harry was a founding member of the rock band Boom City, which used the internet as a platform for music and videos. Boom City signed with a major rock label, toured arenas with Panic! at the Disco, and then disbanded. Miree graduated Berklee College of Music and moved to Nashville, securing the spot as touring drummer for recording artist Whitney Wolanin.

In 2015 he toured with then-Capitol Records artist Joey Hyde, and in 2016 toured with Big Machine artist Levi Hummon. In 2017, Miree toured with LoCash (known for hit songs I Love This Lifeand I Know Somebody), and Clare Bowen, singer/actress known for her role as Scarlett O’Connor on the television show Nashville.

In this episode, Harry talks about:

What goes into making YouTube videos that resonate

Finding your own creative outlet

Building an audience on your YouTube channel

Speaking your truth

Making lifestyle choices to afford a life in music

Early influences

Coming through the other side of an attempted suicide

Trying to separate ones sense of self worth from the gig that you have

The lessons and strength gained from failures

Finding the joy and inspiration in music by listening to music!

Harry endorses: Vic Firth Sticks, Meinle Cymbals, Pearl Drums

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace

171 – Adam Bowman: The Toronto Scene, Playing for Modern Dance, Making Your Playing Emotional Jun 07, 2018

Drummer/percussionist Adam Bowman has been a mainstay in both the Canadian and international music scenes for nearly two decades. As a touring musician, Adam has been heard on stages across five continents with artists such as Juno-award winners Kellylee Evans and Carlos Morgan, Canadian independent music trail blazer Ember Swift, improvising guru VINX and country-folk songstress Dawn Langstroth, among many others.

In the studio, Adam has become the drummer of choice for producers and songwriters on dozens of recordings. 2015 saw Juno-nominations for Eccodek’s Singing in Tongues and Alysha Brilla’s Womyn albums. In 2018 Alysha’s Rooted album received another nod.

Currently, Adam can be heard playing with Elise LeGrow, Alysha Brilla, Jeff Eager and Jason Raso as well as providing accompaniment for modern and contemporary dance classes with IMAGEO artworks, Dancetheatre David Earle and Guelph Dance.

In this podcast, Adam talks about:

How saying yes to a seemingly insignificant offer determined the course of his professional and personal life

Dance concepts that translate to other art forms, and how modern dance principles have made him rethink his drumming approach

Cultivating long musical relationships with the same people and the same songs, and going deeper into each

Using the feeling of making music you believe in with people you love as a reference to recreate that emotion in situations where everything is less familiar

Accessing emotions in music, and letting them inform your musical decisions

The Toronto scene, and why he lives just outside the city

How easy it is to get “too comfortable” on a scene

Adam Bowman endorses Headhunters sticks and Murat Diril cymbals.

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace.

170 – Billy Ward: Creating & Nurturing Your Own Voice, “Practice Playing”, Learning to Judge Yourself Harshly May 31, 2018

Billy Ward is a Grammy awarded drummer, music educator, recording engineer and producer. Just a few of the people Billy’s Recorded and/or toured with include B. B. King, Robbie Robertson, Carly Simon, Richard Marx, The Knack, Yoko Ono, Joan Osborne, Ace Frehley, Glen Cambell, Art Garfunkel, David Crosby & Jimmy Webb just to name a few. Billy has recorded on more than 50 sound tracks for feature films including a musician’s favorite – That Thing You Do! , where Billy taught actor Tom Everett Scott to play the drums and was on the set as a consultant.

Two records have been released under Billy’s name. Two Hands Clapping, and The Billy Ward Trio – Out The Door. Billy has been engineering in his private studio, DrumPike, since 1990. Billy has produced numerous drum tracks for famous and not yet famous artists out of DrumPike.

As an educator, his two instructional DVDs, Big Time ( a Modern Drummers Readers Poll Award winner) and Voices In My Head have won raves from critics as well as fellow drummers. Billy occasionally travels anywhere in the world to play but he LOVES the close contact with students when performing Drum Clinics and Master Classes. His book, “Inside Out – The Mental Aspects of Drumming”, further demonstrates Billy’s ability to clearly explain the difficult challenges that working musicians face.

In this episode, Billy talks about:

Money, the arts, and the divide

The state of the music industry

His short time and experience in Nashville

Creating and nurturing your own voice

Billy’s book: Inside Out

His lesson with Elvin Jones at 17

Being concerned with how you are at your worst

“Practice Playing”

Giving back to the drumming community

His DVD’s: Big Time, Voices in My Head & Modern Drummer fest – 2000 & 2008

Learning to judge yourself harshly

Recording drums for movie sound tracks

Billy endorses: Zildjian Cymbals, DW Drums, ProMark sticks, Gator cases

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace

169 – Brandon Goodwin: Leading an Original Jazz Group, Workshopping with Delfeayo Marsalis, The Montreal Scene May 24, 2018

Brandon Goodwin has lived and worked in Montreal for 12 years. His group, B’s Bees, for which he serves triple duty as drummer, bandleader, and composer, recently released two albums: Dear Charlie, a tribute to the great jazz bassist Charlie Haden, and Kanata, a musical exploration of the history and identity of their home country of Canada. The group is currently touring Canada and the U.S. on the back of these releases.

Brandon grew up in Armstrong, CA, and chose Montreal as the base of operations for his music career because of its vibrant, art-loving culture, and because its cost of living is actually lower than Vancouver, Toronto, and many comparable American cities. From early in his career, he had a drive to write, perform, and record original music. Drumming is just one aspect of his musical life, as he is usually spending as much if not more time developing himself as a composer and doing the administrative legwork it takes to get an original jazz group in the studio and on the road.

In this podcast, Brandon talks about:

What Charlie Haden means to him and the jazz world in general

The drummers Haden was most associated with, especially Paul Motian, and the influence they had on Brandon

The subject matter of Kanata

Traveling to New Orleans to meet with Delfeayo Marsalis and workshop the compositions and recording/producing techniques for the record

Montreal culture

His early drumming influences, from Grohl to Bonham to Blakey

His experience at Concordia University in Montreal

His thoughts on accessibility vs. expression, as a drummer and composer

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace.

168 – Aaron Comess: Drumming for Spin Doctors & Joan Osborne, New Solo Record: “Sculptures”, Creating a Career that Fits Your Vision May 17, 2018

Originally from Dallas, Texas, Aaron Comess is an extremely versatile drummer with a wide range of influences and playing experiences including his ongoing work as a founding member of the Grammy-nominated funk-rock band Spin Doctors with a total of 10 million albums sold and over 1500 live shows under their belt and all four original members intact. 2018 marked their 30th year. Aaron has also spent a decade-plus in the touring band of Joan Osborne. In 2017, Aaron appeared on new releases by Joan Osborne, Rachael Yamagata, James Maddock, Willie Nile, Garland Jeffreys, Chris Bergson and German platinum-selling artist Marius Westerhagen to name a few. He has also worked with Bilal, Edie Bickell, Chris Whitley, Mark Cohen, Roswell Rudd, Ivan Nevil and a host of others.

Aaron has been active as a band leader since his 2006 debut recording “Catskills Cry”. This was followed up with “Beautiful Mistake”, “Blues for Use”, “Aaron Comess Quintet”, “Live 2016” and most recently “Sculptures”.

In this episode, Aaron talks about:

The current nature of touring and recording

The power of positive attitudes

Curating a career that fits your vision

Drumming for Joan Osborne

Learning through experience how to create a sonic landscape in the studio

His solo projects as well as his new record, “Sculptures”

The Spin Doctors

Learning to say “no” to some gigs

What to practice

Staying relaxed

Aaron endorses: Yamaha Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks and Remo Drumheads

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace

167 – Dafnis Prieto: Rhythmic Synchronicity, Musical Vocabulary, Composing and Recording a Big Band Album, May 10, 2018

From Santa Clara, Cuba, Dafnis Prieto’s revolutionary drumming techniques and compositions have had a powerful impact on the Latin and Jazz music scene, nationally and internationally. He is the leader of several groups including the Dafnis Prieto Sextet, The Proverb Trio, Si O Si Quartet, and the Dafnis Prieto Big Band, which just released an album of Prieto’s compositions entitled Back to the Sunset. He is also the author of the book A World of Rhythmic Possibilities.

Various awards include a 2011 MacArthur Fellowship, Up & Coming Musician of the Year from the Jazz Journalists Association in 2006, a GRAMMY nomination for Absolute Quintet as Best Latin Jazz Album, and a Latin GRAMMY nomination for Best New Artist in 2007. Also a gifted educator, Prieto has conducted master classes, clinics, and workshops throughout the world. He was a faculty member of Jazz Studies at NYU from 2005 to 2014, and in 2015 became a faculty member at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami.

In this podcast, Dafnis talks about:

The courses he teaches at The University of Miami Frost School of Music

Letting rhyhmic content and interpretation dictate pulse, not the other way around like we usually do

Fully exploring and exploiting your existing skills and knowledge to develop musical vocabulary

His upbringing and early musical education in Cuba

His experience working his way into the New York scene as a 25-year-old in the 1999

The gradual switch from gigs he had to play to gigs he wanted to play

Figuring out your “why”

Dafnis Prieto endorses Yamaha Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Latin Percussion, Evans Drumheads, and Vic Firth Sticks.

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace.

166 – Christian Paschall: Drummer & MD for Maren Morris, Taking Calculated Risks, Mixing & Producing May 03, 2018

Christian Paschall is a drummer, producer, engineer and mixer originally from Atlanta, GA, now based in Nashville, TN. With over 14 years of professional experience Christian has shared the stage and studio with such artists as Maren Morris, Kristian Bush (of Sugarland), Kelsea Ballerini, Alicia Keys, Amos Lee and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Chris Tomlin, and David Crowder among many others. Today Christian tours full time with Maren Morris as her drummer and musical director in addition to playing on sessions both locally and remotely.

Be it on stage in front of thousands of people, television, or an intimate recording session, Christian strives to bring fresh creativity and feel into everything he does.

In this episode, Christian talks about:

His shared studio

Playing what fits the song and not just doing what’s trendy

Moving from Crowder to Maren Morris

Honoring the original tracks of the artist your working for

Playing a one off with Amos Lee

Following your own path

Christian’s history with drums

Breaking down the wall between your creativity and your hands

Christian’s other skill of mixing

Taking calculated risks

Christian endorses Tama Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, and Vater Drumsticks

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace

165 – Bob Knight: The London Scene, Musical Awareness, Being a “Fixer” Apr 26, 2018

Bob Knight lives in London where he commands somewhat of a dual career, both as an in-demand drummer and a music agent or “fixer,” matching musicians with bands or artists who need backing. He graduated from the jazz program at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London and has gone on to work with some of the biggest names in pop music including Sting, Cee-Lo Green, Charlotte Church, and Jennifer Hudson. His company, BEK Music, has provided musicians for a huge variety of acts from Andrea Bocelli to Eminem.

In this podcast, Bob talks about:

How to tailor your sound to different types of performance spaces using instrumentation and amplification.

The difference between a beat and a groove

What he’s practicing, now that he has the time and space

His experience at the Royal Academy of Music, and its unique audition process

What jazz training taught him that translates to any other genre, and the one skill it all comes down to

How his early ambition was based on simply being able to support himself

Why he started his own booking agency

What he values in musicians as a fixer

Bob Knight endorses Yamaha drums, Vic Firth sticks, Remo heads, Zildjian cymbals, Protection Racket cases, and Porter & Davies thrones.

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace.

164 – Tracy Broussard: Drumming For Blake Shelton, Road Dawg Online, Family/Work Balance Apr 18, 2018

Born in South Louisiana, Tracy was influenced by a musical “jambalaya” of Cajun, Zydeco, Blues, Jazz, R&B, Funk and Country. His whole family played music and at an early age, Tracy was sneaking into his brothers’ rehearsals and gigs. At the age of ten, he was sitting in with local bands.

Tracy was a member of the marching, symphonic and concert bands at Acadiana High School in Scott, Louisiana, and was also a District Honor Band member. In his sophomore year at the University of Southwestern Louisiana, he joined a local band, City Limits. He earned his Liberal Arts degree in Public Relations and began touring regionally. The band was a national finalist in the True Value/Jimmy Dean Country Showdown in 1994. The finals took place at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and that’s when Tracy realized Nashville was the place to be. After a European tour with Grammy-nominated band Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys and a brief tour with the late Amie Comeaux, he took the next step in his career and moved to Nashville in August 1996. He was a member of the R&B Funk Dance band, The Groove Addiction, which was the house band for the Nashville Predators’ inaugural season in 1998-99.

Since then, Tracy has toured with Mila Mason, Shane Minor (opening for Shania Twain), Craig Morgan, Rebecca Lynn Howard and Doug Stone. His first Tonight Show appearance was with Cyndi Thomson in October 2001, and within four months, appeared again with Grammy-nominated artist, Jamie O’Neal. Tracy toured the rest of 2002 with Jamie O’Neal. That year also included a USO tour of Europe and the Mediterranean. Another highlight was a CMT appearance with Jamie O’Neal and Michael McDonald, performing a song from the Mel Gibson movie, “We Were Soldiers”.

Since 2003, Tracy has been touring with reigning CMA and ACM Male Vocalist of the year, Blake Shelton. Tracy’s television appearances with Blake include the CMA Awards, ACM Awards, “Blake Shelton Live: It’s All About Tonight” DVD and GAC Special, Dancing with The Stars, CMT’s Invitation Only Special, DirecTV’s The 101 Concert Special, CMA Music Festival: Country’s Night to Rock, Good Morning America, The Early Show, Fox and Friends, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Jimmy Kimmel Live and The Grand Ole Opry Live.

One of Tracy’s side-projects is Trypta-Phunk, a funk/fusion group that blends odd-time signatures with funky grooves. When not backing up Shelton, he is performing and recording with the group.

Tracy manages RoadDawg Online, a website all about touring drummers. RoadDawg Online is your all-access pass with interviews, roundtable discussions, product reviews, set-ups and columns from the pros.

In 2009, Tracy placed fifth in Modern Drummers’ Readers Poll in the Country category.

In his episode, Tracy talks about:

His website “Road Dawg Online”

How his role and responsibilities as drummer for Blake Shelton evolved or changed over time

Revelations in striking the family/work balance

Learning to keep a cool head on the road

Making yourself indispensable

How Tracy builds tracks for Blake’s show

Reading the artist

Being consistent from night to night

Not allowing one mistake to ruin your whole gig

Tracy’s original projet “Trypta-Funk”

Experiences performing on TV compared to a normal live shows

Tracy endorses: Aquarian drumheads, Pearl drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Promark sticks, Sennheiser,

163 – Kevin Winard: Playing with Steve Tyrell, Singers and Singing, The Intent and Spirit of Playing Apr 12, 2018

Kevin Winard has toured and recorded with singer Steve Tyrell for 12 years. Over his career, he’s gained a wealth of experience with a wide variety of gigs including Debbie Boone, Paul Anka, and Doc Severinsen. When he was just twenty years old he began backing up one of the most successful pop duos in musical history—The Captain & Tennille, touring and recording with them for over ten years. In the summer of 1988, Kevin traveled the United States with the pop group Times Two opening for Debbie Gibson on her Out Of The Blue tour. In 1991 Kevin was requested by French rock star David Hallyday for his European tour and live album. That same year he traveled the world playing with pop icon Paul Anka.

His latest endeavor is a project that features him singing jazz standards and is aptly named Kevin Winard Sings, produced by pianist, composer and arranger Peter Clark.

In this podcast, Kevin talks about:

Playing a “pop jazz” gig vs. hard-core bop

Playing drumset with a symphony orchestra

Lyman Medeiros, the bassist in the Tyrell band

His thoughts on singing and singers

Simplicity in big band drumming

What Steve Gadd had to say after seeing Kevin perform

How intent and joy on the bandstand translate to the audience

How to physically and mentally relax while playing

Why being in the music business is like being in a marriage

Kevin Winard endorses products by DW, LP, Zildjian, Remo, and Innovative Percussion.

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace.

162 – Richard Scott: Drumming for CCM Artist Matt Maher, From Industrial Design to Drums, Starting Drums Later in Life Apr 05, 2018

Richard Scott approaches drumming with intentionality; always conscious of how his sound fits into the big picture and filling space in ways that help make every song the fullest realization of itself. He has spent over a decade on the Nashville scene touring and recording with Matt Maher, Francesca Battistelli, Brandon Heath, Mac Powell, and many others. Richard has recorded in many of Nashville’s most well known rooms, and has more recently been tracking in his own home studio. For countless happy clients, Richard has used his unique curation of gear and techniques to build out the character of a song, add sometimes unexpected but always interesting components to the musical design, and help bring songwriters’ visions to life.

Richard graduated in 2008 from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee with bachelor in commercial music percussion with emphasis in music technology. While at Belmont, Richard Studied with Chester Thompson.

In this episode, Richard talks about:

Starting drums later in life and the lessons he’s learned

Working with CCM artist Matt Maher

The evolution of his set up – gong drums to samplers

From industrial design to drums

Working in the CCM industry

Chester Thompson teaching him to use your ear and your heart instead of your brain

What to play and what not to play

The importance of great communication when tracking drums online

Tracking at home and building up your set up over time

Creative ways to learn new grooves and parts with other players

Richard endorses: A&F Drums and Aquarian Drumheads

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace

161 – Peter Erskine Vol. 2: Educating in the Digital Age, Preserving Human Interaction, “Reading The Air” Mar 29, 2018

Peter Erskine is – well, you know who the hell Peter Erskine is. We were thrilled to have Matthew Crouse interview him for the first time on WDP in the summer of 2016, and even more thrilled when Peter graciously suggested doing a “volume 2” with co-host Zack Albetta. Peter’s latest endeavors include a new live record with The Dr. Um Band (releasing April 6th) and a new book, The Drummer’s Lifeline, a compilation of tips and tricks for the working drummer.

In this episode, Peter talks about:

Why the average level of his incoming students is higher than ever

The importance of interacting with people in daily life, not just staying in the bubble of screens and headphones

What it means to “read the air,” as they say in Japan

Adjusting to differences in touch from bassist to bassist

Raising your performance baseline

Acceptance and forgiveness in music

The recently departed and much beloved Ndugu Chancler

Peter Erskine endorses Tama drums, Remo heads, Zildjian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Meinl percussion, Roland V-Drums, Shure microphones, and the Zoom Q2HD recorder.

160 – Rob Mount: Drumming For Lou Gramm, Creating & Maintaining a Strong On-line Presence, Creating Drum Parts in Heavy Rock Mar 22, 2018

At the age of 7, Rob Mount started studying percussion at The Hochstein School of Music in his hometown of Rochester, NY. During his high school years Rob studied percussion at The Eastman School of Music, and continued his music education at Nazareth College. Through all of these years, Rob participated in various concert bands and percussion ensembles. While Rob is schooled in percussion, he is entirely self taught on the drumset.

Throughout the ‘90’s and 2000’s Rob was in high demand recording and performing live with various artists like Court Jester, Ramrod, Thick as Thieves and Metal Blade recording artist Lieglord.

Also during this time, Rob played 3 tracks on fellow Lou Gramm bandmate Michael Staertow’s CD, “Oxygen” – currently available on iTunes and Amazon.

Prior to joining Lou Gramm’s band officially, Rob had performed many drum duties for him, including recording drum tracks for several Foreigner songs to be used for promotional purposes, as well as filling for shows and practice when needed by Lou. These days Rob has been touring North America for some time now as Lou’s permanent drummer.

In this episode, Rob talks about:

How he got the gig with Lou Gramm

Replacing a drum machine on a recording

Creating drum parts in heavy rock

The fact that we never stop learning

New things from which to draw inspiration

Creating and maintaining a strong on-line presence

Playing for the song

Balancing your career and family

Maintaining chops during time off

Staying healthy

Rob endorses: KBrakes, Drumtacs, Regal Tip sticks, JH Audio

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

159 – Brian Stephens: Product Development, Social Media Concepts, Musical Entrepreneurship Mar 14, 2018

Brian Stephens is a drummer, audio engineer, producer, and studio owner who has spent most of his career in Atlanta. He has had most of the jobs a person can have in the music business and recently added “product developer” to the list. He’s always looking for gaps in the market and in the musical conversations being had, and thinking of ways to constructively fill them. What began as a project to design a pair of good-sounding but affordable in-ear monitors for himself turned into his new business, Session Ace. Boasting two types of hybrid driver IEM’s and a variety of other tools and accessories for working musicians, Brian launched the Session Ace brand in early 2018.

In this podcast, Brian Talks about:

Quality over quantity in social media interactions

How being hired by someone is a continuation of previous interactions you’ve had

“The currency of trust” – making your social media presence reflect your musical values, judgement, and trustworthiness

Keeping your taste more elevated than your status

Developing his own line of in-ear monitors and the other products under the Session Ace brand

Creating intersections in your drumming community

What networking really is

Brian endorses Paiste cymbals, Promark drumsticks, Planet Waves cables, and Waves plug-ins.

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

158 – Terence Clark: Drumming For Robert Cray, Steve Jordan as a Mentor, Networking Sincerely Mar 08, 2018

Terence Clark is a Memphis based drummer, producer and overall creative. Known for his impeccable and soulful performances, his professionalism and discipline of craft, Terence has traveled the world building relationships with and through music. As Terence finds inspiration in his travels and engaging other cultures, he always lends inspiration with his unique brand of performance, solid groove and musical knowledge and excellence. It’s always been more than “just about the music”, to Terence; it’s about creating the very best and discovering a community of artists with which to learn from and create with along the way.

Terence began to dream about making music at the age of two. His father, Marc Clark, an organist and pianist and grandfather Loyce F. Clark, a guitarist and legendary quartet vocalist, became his early mentors along with music producers, Kevin Paige and Niko Lyras. Terence developed the gritty elements of his style while playing with local bands on Beale Street. Those experiences stirred up his love for the city’s music legacy and heartbeat of all musical forms. His professional career has spanned from touring nationally and internationally as well as recording with an eclectic array of artists of many genres. He currently tours with the legendary, Robert Cray Band. A musical education and real-life experiences have refined his talents.

Terence is also a Producer and Co-Founder of The Undertone Collective, a production company that enables artists by providing a vast range of media and production services. He’s passionate about furthering the legendary music that Memphis has always heralded, while creating a support and resource system for new and experiences artists. Terence is currently mentored by David Porter, Tommy Sims, James Waddell, and Steve Jordan. His musical inspiration stems from the likes of Steve Jordan, Al Jackson Jr., Howard Grimes, Steve Gadd, Tony Williams, Dennis Chambers, William Kennedy, Dan Needham, Dave Weckl, Marvin McQuitty, and Austin Bradley.

Working with Terence means working with an artist whose creativity and versatility are only matched by his personal warmth and dedication to the project. His passion is not only for the art, but for the artist.

In this episode, Terence talks about:

Working with and creating music with Robert Cray

Playing with conviction

Playing for the purpose of the artist

Connecting with other players and the audience

Creating “sounds” like a foley artist

Having Steve Jordan as a mentor

Networking sincerely

Being selective about the work that you take

How he discovers music

The evolution of the drum set

Loving and being thankful for the “right now”

Terence endorses: Istanbul Agop Cymbals Vic Firth Mono Creators Roberts Drum Co Shy Baffles

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

157 – Johnny Rabb: Drumming for Collective Soul, Creating Loyalty, Excitement vs. Reality Feb 28, 2018

Johnny Rabb became a household name in the drumming community as a product developer and clinician. For years, he worked the clinic and convention circuit to great success, but he missed actually being in a band and playing shows. In 2012, a chance meeting at NAMM with Collective Soul‘s Will Turpin led to Johnny becoming the band’s new drummer, and he still tours and records with them today.

In this podcast, Johnny talks about:

Being a hired gun vs. being “the new guy” in a band vs. being a full-fledged member

How commitment to a group and prioritization of it result in job security

Diversifying income streams, musical and otherwise

Why he lives in Indianapolis

How excitement can sometimes blind you to potential red flags

Maintaining perspective and gratitude

Johnny Rabb endorses ProLogix, Remo heads, Meinl Cymbals and Percussion, Cympad, Audix Microphones, and of course, Johnny Rabb drumsticks.

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

156 – Doug Belote: Drumming for Dobro Master & 14-time Grammy Winner Jerry Douglas, New Orleans Documentary: “Street Beat – Drumming Below Sea Level”, Straddling New Orleans & Nashville Feb 21, 2018

South Louisiana native Doug Belote grew up in Cajun country, immersed in the sounds of jazz, rock, funk, R&B, Cajun, zydeco, Dixieland, gospel, Latin and New Orleans second line rhythms. He began playing the drums at age 12 and worked in clubs and at recording sessions while still in high school. After just a semester at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, he sold everything he owned including his drums and hit the road for The Drummers Collective in New York City, where he studied with Ricky Sebastian and Kim Plainfield and broadened his musical palette.

In his early 20s, Belote began touring Europe, Japan and the Caribbean with a variety of New Orleans-based jazz, blues and funk artists. He has recorded on more than 100 albums and his resume includes work with Mike Gordon, Jeff Coffin, George Porter Jr., Willie Nelson, Sonny Landreth, Henry Butler, Delfeayo Marsalis, Anders Osborne, Cyril Neville, Ivan Neville, Clarence Gatemouth Brown, Allen Toussaint, Fred Wesley, Steve Masakowski, Charlie Hunter, John Oats Shane Theriot, Derek Trucks, Susen Tedeschi as well as a 2010 performance with Eric Clapton at the Crossroads festival.

Doug currently lives in New Orleans and tours with 12-time Grammy winner Jerry Douglas.

In this episode, Doug talks about:

Recording in New Orleans for T.V. shows and commercials

Working with Jerry Douglas and the funny story of his “audition” for Jerry

His understanding of recording in Nashville

His documentary: Street Beat – Drumming Below Sea Level

Studying with Kim Plainfield at Drummers Collective

Playing with Sonny Landreth and Eric Clapton on the 2010 Crossroads concert

Living in flood prone New Orleans

Doug endorses: Yamaha drums,Zildjian cymbals, Shure in-ear monitors and Pro-Mark drumsticks

We’d like to recognize and thank listener James Osborne and his support of this podcast through Patreon. See and hear more about James at: jamesosborne.com.au

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

155 – Lemuel Hayes: Playing with Cindy Wilson, Recovering From a Serious Injury, Choosing Nashville Over L.A. Feb 14, 2018

Lemuel Hayes is the drummer for B52s founding member Cindy Wilson’s solo project. Originally from Gainesville, GA, he didn’t set his sights on a music career until age 22, after a few years as a mechanical engineering major at Georgia Tech. After playing and teaching around Gainesville, Atlanta, and Athens for a couple years, he decided to move to Nashville. But he then began to think LA would be a better fit and made plans to relocate. Weeks before he was supposed to move, a broken arm not only kept him in Nashville but put him on the sidelines of music for months. While working at Guitar Center and rehabbing his arm, Cindy Wilson’s project got going and he also caught on with some artists under Jack White’s Third Man Records.

In this podcast, Lemuel talks about:

Hosting a jazz radio show in college

What made him quit engineering school to focus on music

Flying out to LA to spend a day with Josh Freese

What first brought him to Nashville, and the freak accident that kept him there

The physical and psychological challenges of rehabbing his arm

Working at Guitar Center to stay afloat

The random gig in Athens, GA that connected him with Cindy Wilson

Teching for Sterling Campbell

How Cindy’s band is a band, not a solo artist with hired guns

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

154 – Drummers Resource / WDP Roundtable #2: Catching Up From Last Year’s Episode, Time Management, Ageism in the Music Business Feb 08, 2018

In this episode, Nick Ruffini, host and creator of The Drummers Resource sit down with Zack Albetta and Matt Crouse, the hosts of Working Drummer to catch up from last year’s episode. The idea behind this round table came from the fact that all three of us were going through major life changes that effected our music careers in one way or another. We decided to check back in close to a year later and discuss some of the many things that have transpired over that time.

In this episode Nick, Zack, and Matt talk about:

* Catching up from last year’s roundtable

* Opportunities in the music business outside of performing

* The “Gig Triangle” – the money, the music, the hang

* Allowing other things outside music to be a part of your identity

* How and what we practice

* Handling failures

* Time management and finding ways to be productive throughout each day

* Ageism in the music business

* Upcoming guests for Drummers Resource and WDP

* This weeks episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

153 – Rodd Bland: Drumming for his Dad Bobby Blue Bland and B.B. King, The Past and Present Memphis Scene, Life After Dad Jan 31, 2018

Rodd Bland was born and raised in Memphis, the son of Bobby “Blue” Bland and the godson of B.B. King. He began playing drums at age 3, and learning at the feet of legendary drummers like Tony Coleman, and Jabo Starks. The time soon came for Rodd to move into the drum chair for his dad’s band, and he remained for much of his career, until Bobby Bland’s death in 2013. Since then, Rodd has remained active with Memphis-based artists such as Rev. Shawn Amos, Brimstone Jones, and Otis Clay.

In this podcast, Rodd talks about:

Starting on percussion in his dad’s band as a high school student

The variety of sub-genres that culminated in his dad’s music and in the Memphis sound

Howard Grimes, Tony Coleman, and other Memphis drummers that have influenced him

His (and my) favorite Bobby Bland song

Jabo’s advice about cultivating your own sound

How to take different types of cues from singers and figure out what they need without asking

The history of Beale St.

Having to reintroduce himself to the Memphis scene as more than Bobby Bland’s son/drummer

His love of 90’s rock and grunge, and his relationships with Chad Smith and Matt Cameron

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

152 – Elton Charles: Touring with Thompson Square, Creating Great Drum Sounds Through Recording Experiences, Building Relationships in the Music Community Jan 24, 2018

Elton Charles is a Guyanese drummer/engineer based in Nashville. Originally from New Jersey, he started playing drums at the early age of five. Elton worked on learning the instrument over the years and, combined with a natural tenacity for playing, was accepted to study at Berklee college of music. After moving to Nashville in 2012, Elton’s experience has been a blur of touring, recording, and building his musical relationships within the music community. When not supporting up and coming artists and writers in music city, Elton is building upon studio clientele offering his talents as a drummer and producer. Elton is currently on the road with multi-award winning country duo Thompson Square.

In this episode, Elton talks about:

The challenges of running a home studio

Studying at Berklee and creating a learning experience for himself

Great drum sounds coming from the player

Working with a click when performing live

Translating programed drum parts to acoustic when performing live

Snare tuning and playing style

A better understanding of drum sounds from recording experiences

Attracting new business in creative ways

Elton endorses: Anchor Drums, Evans Drumheads, Promark Sticks, Puresound, Drumtacs, Paiste Cymbals, Porter and Davies, Sensaphonics in-ear monitors and Smokin Ace Cymbal Shields

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

151 – Seth Hendershot: Touring with Randall Bramblett and Kishibashi, Life in a Small Town, Owning/Operating a Venue Jan 17, 2018

For almost 20 years, Seth Hendershot has lived in the college town of Athens, GA. He has played in a variety of original and cover bands and for eight years has owned and operated Hendershot’s. What started as a simple coffee house has since become a beloved bar, restaurant, and live music venue. For a city its size, Athens boasts a vibrant and influential music scene, with a place in the origin stories of many bands including R.E.M., The B-52’s, and Drive-By Truckers.

Seth’s current playing activity is centered around two touring acts, multi-instrumentalist and singer Randall Bramblett and violinist Kishi Bashi. In addition to playing and running one of the city’s best and busiest venues, Seth is involved with The Athens Music Project in partnership with The University of Georgia to document and highlight the past, present and future of the city’s music, and is on the faculty for Camp Amped, a yearly rock camp for kids.

In this podcast, Seth talks about:

What brought him to Athens in the late 90’s

The pros and cons of Athens’ “bubble” nature

How he’s working to strengthen the ties between the Athens scene and the University of Georgia

Balancing his playing career with life as a business owner

Why he opened Hendershot’s, and what it has become since then

His current gigs with Randall Bramblett and Kishi Bashi

His involvement in Camp Amped and Nuci’s Space

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

150 – Matt Johnson: Touring with St. Vincent, Distilling Down Your Groove From Which to Build Upon, Creating Grooves with More Complexity & Less Density, Drumming on Jeff Buckley’s album Grace Jan 10, 2018

Matt Johnson has played on some of the most critically acclaimed records in almost everyone’s collections. He’s also performed on some of the more memorable tours from the early 90s on. From recording the seminal cult-creating album Grace with Jeff Buckley in 1993 at age 22, he’s worked with a wide spectrum of artists over the past two decades including Rufus Wainwright, Martha Wainwright, Elysian Fields, Australia’s Angus and Julia Stone, Beth Orton, Keren Ann, Duncan Sheik, and the beloved St. Vincent, the avant-garde guitarist, songwriter and performer who continues to astonish listeners and concertgoers everywhere with her ever-evolving musical statements.

In this episode, Matt talks about:

Learning how to adapt for a live performance based on a programed or highly produced rhythm track

Creating grooves that have more complexity with less density

Teaching yourself to feel the space between quarter notes in unique ways

Getting your brain to think differently by using a “role reversal” method with your limbs

Distilling down your groove to to it’s most basic place in order to build it into a solid performance

Failure seen as an experience on the way to some type of success that you could never have planned on

The value of “grit” and the power of will and dedication

Learning to utilize a double kick pedal

Incorporating electronics to an acoustic set up

Working with Rufus Wainwright

Matt endorses: Tama Drums, Istanbul Cymbals, Evans Drumheads, Vater Sticks

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

149 – Justin Boyd: His Career in Chicago, Going Back to School, Intentionally Diversifying His Experience Jan 03, 2018

With the exception of a few high school years, Justin Boyd has spent his entire life in Chicago. From the beginning of his career, he thought it important to be open to all of Chicago’s musical scenes instead of choosing one and staying in it. As a result, his experience there has been incredibly diverse. He disregarded the invisible barrier between North Side and South Side, and has managed to float smoothly between the many different genres and circles the city has to offer. He also put himself through two different educations – one in the professional world and one in academia, capped off recently by earning his master’s degree in composition from DePaul University.

In this podcast, Justin talks about:

Spending his high school years in South Carolina, and the influence it had on him as a musician

Returning to school to get his master’s degree

Racial dynamics in Chicago

Other Chicago drummers who have influenced him

How going back to school for his master’s filled some gaps in his “real world” education

The city’s jazz and blues scenes, and why he prefers not to go all in on either

His role as an educator in the Chicago Public Schools “All City” music program

His current projects, both as a leader and sideman

Justin Boyd endorses Humes & Berg Cases and Evans Drumheads.

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

148 – Rob Hammersmith: Drumming for Skid Row, Staying Positive & Open-Minded, Chemistry Among Band Members Dec 28, 2017

Rob Hammersmith’s musical journey began at an early age in a small town outside of Buffalo, NY. After a brief detour to California, Rob settled in Atlanta, GA, where his drumming quickly gained attention in the rock underground. Rob spent many years touring and recording with Atlanta rockers “Rockets to Ruin” and toured with “Gunfire 76” featuring “Murderdolls” frontman Wednesday 13. Rob also maintains a busy schedule of recording and working with many different bands and artists throughout the country.

In 2010, Rob was offered the drum position in the multi-platinum selling rock band Skid Row. When asked about working with the band Rob says “Having always been a fan, it is an honor to be asked to join the band. The band’s music and history holds a special place in both my life, and the lives of so many loyal fans. To be a part of that history is the chance of a lifetime.”

In this episode, Rob talks about:

Balancing family and touring

Chemistry among the band members of Skid Row

Staying positive and open minded

How he got the Skid Row gig

The mechanics of the live show

Warming up before hitting hard (pre-show routine)

Working in the studio with Skid Row

Rob’s 5 desert island records

Rob endorses: Sabian Cymbals, Aquarian Drumheads, Pearl Drums, Drumtacs, Vater Drumsticks

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

147 – Ganesh Giri Jaya Pt. 2: The Physicality of Yoga, Studying with Porcaro and Humphrey, Growing Up in New Orleans, Writing Effectively Dec 20, 2017

Ganesh Giri Jaya was born in New Orleans, moved to Atlanta at age 16, spent his early 20’s in L.A. and Portland, and ultimately returned to Atlanta where he has remained for the past 25 years. His career has usually found him drumming and/or singing in cover and tribute bands of various types. He was one of the original members of Yacht Rock Revue and for the past few years has been the singer, drummer, and leader of its overflow band, Yacht Rock Schooner. Those bands and a few others are under the umbrella of the entertainment company PleaseRock. In his mid 20s, he was introduced to yoga and soon delved deeper into it, beyond the physical practice most of us have done at least once, and into the spiritual, emotional and psychological lessons it has to offer.

In this podcast, Ganesh talks about:

How yoga has improved every aspect of his physicality, behind the drums and in daily life

The hallmarks of a good yoga teacher

Growing up in New Orleans

How singing and playing trumpet before taking up drums made him a more sensitive musician

His approaches to matched vs. traditional grip over the years

The aspects of New Orleans music that still inform his playing

Studying with Joe Porcaro and Ralph Humphrey at Musicians Institute, and his brief tenures in L.A. and Portland

Developing versatility vs. honing your strengths

His work as a copy editor for Drumhead Magazine, and the principles good writing and good music share

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

146 – Luis Espaillat: Pro Bass Player’s Perspective, Connecting with Drummers Live and in the Studio Dec 13, 2017

Luis Espaillat is a multi-faceted bassist and musician whose career has spanned many genres and taken him around the world. His unique sound can be heard in all forms of media from shows on network television such as Smallville and King Of The Hill, major motion pictures including S.W.A.T. and American Wedding and even video games including Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2 and Project Gotham Racing.

In the studio, Luis has recorded with country legends like Michael Martin Murphey to the Billboard Top 20 hard rock sounds of Eve To Adam. His sense and respect for the art of the song itself has made him in demand for many songwriters and producers not only in Nashville, but also Los Angeles and New York City. On the stage, Luis has performed with country stars Trace Adkins, Jamie O’Neal, Jimmy Wayne, Lindsay Ell, Jake Owen, Terri Clark, Pam Tillis, James Otto, Tanya Tucker and Doc Walker, rockers such as Tantric and Bo Bice, progressive instrumentalist like Johnny Hiland, and even artists that defy normal convention such as country rapper Colt Ford, just to name a few.

A graduate of Berklee College Of Music, Luis also conducts clinics and master classes on the world of studio recording, touring and of course, bass.

Luis resides in Nashville, TN with his wife, three children and three dogs.

In this episode, Luis talks about:

Working with Trace Adkins and balancing touring with sessions

Playing with a major label signed rock band

The challenge of making life changing decisions

The importance of real relationships

The power of positivity on stage

The roll he plays in the rhythm section

Note length from the bass & it’s effect on the groove

Connecting with drummers live and in the studio

Advice for young drummers

Advice for experienced drummers

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

145 – Ganesh Giri Jaya Pt. 1: Making His Living With Cover/Tribute Bands, Leading and Singing from the Drums, Yoga and Spiritual Practice Dec 06, 2017

Ganesh Giri Jaya was born in New Orleans, moved to Atlanta at age 16, spent his early 20’s in L.A. and Portland, and ultimately returned to Atlanta where he has remained for the past 25 years. His career has usually found him drumming and/or singing in cover and tribute bands of various types. He was one of the original members of Yacht Rock Revue and for the past few years has been the singer, drummer, and leader of its overflow band, Yacht Rock Schooner. Those bands and a few others are under the umbrella of the entertainment company PleaseRock. In his mid 20s, he was introduced to yoga and soon delved deeper into it, beyond the physical practice most of us have done at least once, and into the spiritual, emotional and psychological lessons it has to offer.

In this podcast, Ganesh talks about:

The origins of Yacht Rock Revue and Yacht Rock Schooner

The popularity of cover/tribute bands, and their market value vs. original artists

Social media marketing strategies

How over-preparing allows you to play through nerves

His process for learning songs

Our mutual admiration of Levon Helm

His yoga practice

Playing with bassist Khari Simmons

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

144 – Ray Luzier: Drumming for Korn, KXM, Army Of Anyone, David Lee Roth, Having a Back-Up for the Back-Up Nov 29, 2017

Ray Luzier was raised in West Newton, Pennsylvania, a small town an hour outside of Pittsburgh. He began playing drums at age five, and although basically self-taught, he participated in high school jazz, concert, and marching bands. After graduating in 1988, Luzier moved to Hollywood, California to pursue an education at the renowned Musicians Institute. He graduated in 1989 with a degree from MI’s Percussion Institute of Technology. Luzier later returned as an instructor at Musicians Institute (1992–2001), where he taught rock-style drumming classes and gave private lessons.

Luzier is well known for his work with David Lee Roth, whom he played drums for from 1997-2005. Luzier has also played with The Hideous Sun Demons, a progressive-rock/fusion trio formed with DLR bandmembers Toshi Hiketa (guitar) and James LoMenzo (bass). In 2004, Luzier released an instructional DVD. It features a wide variety of lessons, including double-bass technique, drum fills, motion exercises, and warm-ups. It was released through Hal Leonard Publishing Co.

In January 2006, Luzier appeared at the NAMM in Anaheim, California with Billy Sheehan and Toshi Hiketa. Robert DeLeo and Dean DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots appeared at the same NAMM venue as part of an impromptu band put together by Steve Ferrone. After seeing Luzier’s performance, the DeLeo brothers invited Luzier to join Army of Anyone, the band they were putting together with vocalist Richard Patrick of the band Filter.

In 2007, after original drummer David Silveria had left (in 2006), Korn hired many touring drummers including Joey Jordison of Slipknot. Jordison left due to preparation for the recording of Slipknot’s new album All Hope Is Gone. Consequently, Korn was then looking for a new drummer; and Luzier reportedly flew to Seattle to audition for Korn with Munky and Fieldy. When told to learn only five of their songs, Luzier learned 30. After an amazing audition, Ray was immediately invited to join Korn.

Luzier played his first show with Korn on January 13, 2008 in Dublin, Ireland and played with the band throughout 2008. Korn recorded their ninth studio album together with Ray and their original producer Ross Robinson. Korn frontman Jonathan Davis revealed that Luzier is now an official member of the band. Ray made “UltimateRockGods” Artist Of The Month for July.

Luzier also played live with Stone Temple Pilots for a couple of the band’s shows on their reunion tour in October filling in for drummer Eric Kretz, who took time off due to the death of his father. In November 2010, Ray played drums for the immensely popular Japanese band, Kat-Tun on their song ‘Change UR World’. It was Kat-Tun’s 13th number 1 single on the Oricon charts.

In 2013, the band KXM was formed with Ray and King’s X bassist/vocalist dUg Pinnick and Lynch Mob/ex-Dokken guitarist George Lynch. Their second record Scatterbrain came out in 2017.

In this episode, Ray talks about:

Moving from the Pittsburg area to L.A. to study at P.I.T.

Helping to create a rock curriculum at P.I.T. and teaching

The importance of “The Hang” in the studio and on the road

Working with David Lee Roth

Having a back up for the back up

Working and recording with Billy Sheehan

His audition for Korn

143 – Jake Reed: A Jazz Method Book with a New Approach, Studying Under Erskine and Von Ohlen, When Your Wife is Your Bandleader Nov 22, 2017

Jake Reed was born and raised in Kansas City and went on to study drumset under two of the great educators of our time: John Von Ohlen at University of Cincinnati and Peter Erskine at USC. While in grad school at USC, Jake gradually worked his way into the LA scene doing live dates and recording sessions with colleagues and mentors alike. He has performed or recorded with Bill Bolman, Johnny Mandel, Lisa Loeb, Bob Mintzer, and many others. His most active current project is drumming in TrioKait, led by his wife, pianist and composer Kait Dunton. The group has just recorded their second record. Jake has also just released his first book, “Jazz Drumset Etudes, Vol. I,” which takes a new approach to developing jazz vocabulary.

In this podcast, Jake talks about:

His early years in Kansas City

The differences in the teaching styles of Von Ohlen and Erskine

Learning to “pay attention” when listening and playing to absorb and convey more information quicker

A couple of the more unique projects he’s been part of, including Cow Bop and The Vibrometers

His new book, and how its approach differs from other jazz method books

Using melodies, not rudiments, to develop your drum language

Being married to a fellow musician who is also his boss

His relationship with TrioKait bassist Cooper Appelt

Jake Reed endorses Gretsch Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, and Remo Drumheads.

142 – Evan Hutchings: Full Time Session Drummer, Trends in Style & Tone in the Studio, Producing Nov 15, 2017

Evan Hutchings grew up in Ft. Smith, AR and is the son of a preacher. He started playing drums at age 2 and got his first drum set at age 8. It was through hours of watching other drummers play in church that he learned how to play for a song and try to convey a sense of emotion through the drums. After high school, Evan moved to Nashville to attend Middle Tennessee State University and studied with Lalo Davila and Tom Giampietro. Since leaving school in 2009, Evan has been touring extensively throughout the USA and abroad with various artists including Katie Herzig, Sugar and the Hi-Lows, Griffin House, Andy Gibson, Erin McCarley, and others.

Evan is currently an in-demand session drummer in Nashville and has worked in the studio with Nathan Chapman (Taylor Swift), Jamie Kenney (Erin McCarley, Marc Broussard), Neilson Hubbard (Kim Richey), and many others like Danielle Bradbery, Rascal Flatts and Kelsea Ballerini.

In this episode, Evan talks about:

Different drummers style to playing, soloing, clinics

Tuning drums live v.s. studio

Trends in style and tone in the studio

Developing his abilities

The idea of complex drumming (ie metric-modulation) as a way to reinforce a solid time feel

Our mutual crush on Steve Jordan

Playing other instruments for writing and producing

Learning to write and produce

Finding your people, like minded musicians

The direction of the music industry

Evan endorses Innovative percussion

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

141 – Gerald French: His Chapter in a New Orleans Family Legacy Nov 08, 2017

Gerald French was born and raised in New Orleans in one of the city’s most prominent musical families. Over his career, he has played with most of New Orleans musical royalty, including Harry Connick Jr., Charmagne Neville, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and Dr. John. In 2014, he became the leader of the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band. He is only the fifth person to lead the group in its 107-year history, and the third member of his family to do so, preceded by his uncle Bob French and his grandfather Albert “Papa” French.

In this podcast Gerald talks about:

His annual tours of Japan with Tom Fischer and the New Orleans All-Stars

Succeeding his uncle and grandfather as the leader of The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, and the long history of that group

Drumming and singing

Transitioning from sideman to leader

“Being a soldier”, not a star, in the music industry

His work as an educator with the Traditional New Orleans Jazz Camp

Teaching young musicians how to properly play traditional New Orleans music, and preventing that tradition from being lost or diluted

How New Orleans musicians have historically

His experience during and after Hurricane Katrina

His involvement in the Wild Magnolias Mardis Gras Indians

Gerald French endorses Taye Drums, Sabian Cymbals, and Innovative Percussion Sticks

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

140 – Pat Torpey: Drummer for Mr. Big, Nashville Drummer Jam Honoree, Fighting Parkinson’s Disease Nov 02, 2017

Pat Torpey was born in Cleveland, Ohio. At age 7, he first played the drums and in high school, Torpey immersed himself in all available music programs, concert, orchestra, marching and stage bands. In 1983, Torpey moved to Los Angeles and became a regular on the American Bandstand and Solid Gold TV shows performing with artists like Ben E. King, Mike + The Mechanics, Melissa Manchester and Bob Geldof. In 1985, Torpey auditioned for the British pop–rock singer John Parr, who was riding high on his #1 hit “St. Elmo’s Fire” and had landed the opening slot for Tina Turner on her Private Dancer tour. When that tour ended he became the drummer for Belinda Carlisle on her first solo tour, opening for Robert Palmer.

In 1987, Pat joined The Knack. Playing around Los Angeles with The Knack was the pathway to Mr. Big. Billy Sheehan and Paul Gilbert were starting a new band and were on the hunt for a drummer. They saw Pat playing with The Knack and were impressed with his energy and style.

Mr. Big secured a recording contract with Atlantic Records but before the band started work on the first CD Torpey was tapped to play drums with Robert Plant on his Now and Zen tour when Plant’s drummer Chris Blackwell was injured.

In 1992, Mr. Big’s international hit song “To Be With You” was no.1 in the U.S. and fifteen other countries and top five in many more. For fourteen years Mr. Big toured the world, headlining as well as opening for Aerosmith, Rush, Bryan Adams and The Scorpions to name a few, garnering a reputation for their world class musicianship and totally ‘live’ performances.

Pat has been noted as a great backing vocalist (with high vocal range) and he often sings some cover songs in the Mr. Big show during his encore. Also he sings some tunes from The Beatles during his drum solo. Because of Mr. Big’s popularity in Japan and Asia, Pat released two solo albums (as a singer) overseas, Odd Man Out and Y2K in 1998 and 1999.

He announced on July 25, 2014 that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and would be unable to perform all of his normal drumming duties on the band’s 2014-15 world tour in support of the album …The Stories We Could Tell. “I’ve been dealing with Parkinson’s symptoms for the past couple of years and only recently received a confirmed diagnosis as symptoms worsened,” Torpey said. “I intend to fight the disease with same intensity and tenacity that I drum and live my life by and will continue recording and performing, as always, to the best of my ability.”

Torpey recently acted as a “drum producer” on Mr. Big’s latest album, Defying Gravity, and still plays percussion on tour, though Matt Starr has taken over lead drummer duties

In this episode, Pat talks about:

Touring around the world over the years

The early days of Mr Big

Meeting Mitch Mitchell

Getting his start in L.A.

Mr Big questions from David Parks

Pat being honored at the Nashville Drummer Jam

His diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease in 2014

Recording and touring with the help of drummer Matt Starr

Pat’s inspiration for his drum solo while singing

Pat endorses: Promark drum sticks,Remo drumheads, Tama drums, Zildjian cymbals

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

139 – Ian Chang: Making Technology Feel Organic, Drumming With Son Lux, Developing Sunhouse Sensory Percussion Oct 26, 2017

Ian Chang was born in Hong Kong and moved to New Jersey as a teenager to attend boarding school. He had studied classical piano and percussion in Hong Kong, but quickly became interested in all the other genres New York had to offer. He had begun a pre-college classical percussion program at Julliard, and was on track to attend there after high school, but decided against it at the last minute to focus on drumset, jazz, hip hop, and beyond. He is the drummer for Son Lux, an acclaimed trio whose compositions, recordings and performances are a mix of acoustic and electronic mediums. He was one of the beta testers for Sunhouse’s Sensory Percussion, a new electronic percussion system that gives the drummer an unprecedented range of sounds, sensitivity, customization, and improvisational possibilities.

In this podcast, Ian talks about:

The process of creating his new solo album “Spiritual Leader”

Making electronic music sound less “gridded.”

The development of Sunhouse Sensory Percussion, and what sets it apart from other electronic percussion

Ways to approach electronics that make them seem less daunting and lower the wall between electric and acoustic

How Sensory Percussion has changed his approach to coordination, speed, orchestration, etc.

Some musicians’ preoccupation with sound and timbre rather than groove and melody

His first exposure to music, an extremely regimented classical program in Hong Kong

Chinese attitudes toward a career in music, and current music trends in China

His first years in New York – catching the jazz bug and playing tons of hip hop gigs, and how those both contributed to the drummer he’s become

The origins of his band Son Lux, and their creative process

How music’s focus has shifted from melody, harmony and groove, to sound and timbre

Finding ways to use electronics that make the most sense and are the most inspiring to YOU.

Ian Chang endorses C&C Drums, Vic Firth Sticks, Istanbul Cymbals, Sunhouse Sensory Percussion, and Roots EQ

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

138 – Jeremy Roberson: Drumming for Chase Rice, Protege of John Blackwell, Deflecting Stereotypes Oct 18, 2017

For more than 24 years, Jeremy Roberson has been perfecting his precise, unpredictable, high-energy style of drumming. Using a combination of techniques, he has developed his own original style, which is as exciting to listen to as it is to watch. His ability to adapt to any genre of music while maintaining precision, timing, and his uniquely smooth style has earned him numerous accolades, and has led him to be known by musicians and fans alike as none other than “Mr. Finesse.” At the age of 3, Roberson, born in Columbia, SC, began honing his skills on the drum set, emulating the style of his older brother Tony, nine years his senior. Before long he began marching with the W.J. Keenan High School Band- at age 11. He continued marching with the band throughout his high school career, eventually gaining regional recognition and numerous awards. After high school he attended Johnson C. Smith University where he furthered his studies and marched on the University’s band. After college he rapidly began to merge into the local, regional, and nation scene, playing with acts such as Tony Terry, Wycliffe Gordon, Crossfade, Weaving The Fate, to name a few. Currently Roberson is touring with country artist Chase Rice.

In this episode, Jeremy talks about:

The importance of knowing how to running tracks and loops

His experience performing in Korea for the troops

Knowing John Blackwell growing up and the influence that he had

Touring with Chase Rice

His approach to soloing

Deflecting stereotypes

Being selfless on stage

The origin of his nickname – Jeremy “Finesse” Roberson

Getting the Chase Rice gig

Grooving with tracks

Jeremy endorses: Zildjian Cymbals, Vater Sticks, Tama Drums, Evans Drumheads, Gibraltar Hardware

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

137 – Kevin Kanner: Coming Up Under Jeff Hamilton, Playing with John Pizzarelli, Doubling Down on the Music He Loves Oct 11, 2017

In today’s music landscape, Kevin Kanner is a rare breed of drummer; focused intently and passionately on straight-ahead jazz. While many of his generation have looked for ways to widen the scope of the drumset and the role of the drummer, and cross breed jazz with other genres, Kevin’s musical ambition has remained simple and singular: to swing. Like his heroes, Philly Joe Jones, Mickey Roker, his fellow West Coast jazzer Shelly Manne, and his mentor Jeff Hamilton, Kevin brings a fiery but concentrated intensity to the music. This “dyed-in-the-wool” identity has become his calling card and is the reason he has been sought after by the likes of John Pizzarelli, Eric Reed, Walter Smith III, Terrell Stafford, Gerald Clayton, and many more of the best in the current jazz world.

Kevin is based in his hometown of Los Angeles, which has a rich jazz history of its own. What it has historically lacked in Kevin’s estimation, is a place for the straight-ahead, take-no-prisoners, small-group, instrumental jazz to which he has dedicated himself for so long. But Kevin and a few equally dedicated cohorts are on a mission to win a place at the L.A. table for the brand of swinging they love. He originated and continues to run a Monday nigh jam session at The Mint in L.A., a venue not otherwise known for jazz, but one that has proven a weekly home for the L.A. jazz community. After performing as a sideman for his entire career, Kevin is also venturing into leading his own sextet.

In this podcast, Kevin talk about:

Starting and continuing The Mint Jam

Forming a close relationship with Jeff Hamilton as a teenager that continues today

Learning jazz language through experiencing it in its whole form

What all the music he loves has in common

The two essential elements he feels jazz must not lose

Playing with John Pizzarelli

Why he left L.A. and why he returned

The strengths and weaknesses in jazz pedagogy

Recognizing the differences between different types of jazz, and giving each their due

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

136 – Jason Harrison Smith: Drumming for Albert Lee, Inspiring the Next Generation, Recording with Gary Husband Oct 04, 2017

Finding a drummer with the chops and knowledge necessary to recapture a wide range of various styles authentically, is no small task. To make you believe you’re hearing the original recording is even more rare. Jason Harrison Smith does this and so much more. Currently playing simultaneously with Blues legend Albert Lee and guitar virtuoso Carl Verheyen, Jason’s a busy guy and likes it that way. His past credits outline his versatility, including time spent with Enrique Iglesias, Five For Fighting, Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson, Mike Keneally (former Zappa guitarist), guitar legend John Jorgenson, Kelly Sweet, Julia Fordham, Buzz Feiten, Wings’ Denny Laine and many, many more. On his debut solo recording, “Think Like This”, he’s joined by bassist Dave Carpenter and keyboardist/drummer Gary Husband. The music showcases a precocious, updated and unconventional take on the standard Jazz trio format.

In this podcast Jason talks about:

The business of entertaining the masses

Advice for those balancing the day job and a music career

Taking time off the road

Recording with keyboardist/drummer Gary Husband

Inspiring the next generation

Jason’s inspirational teachers

Working with Mike Keneally (former Zappa guitarist) and learning so much

Jason endorses: Innovative Percussion, Aquarian Drumheads, Pork Pie Drums, Paiste Cymbals

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums

135 – Doug Auwarter: Mentoring Generations of Kansas City Drummers, Preaching the Brazilian Gospel, Drumming as You Age Sep 27, 2017

Doug Auwarter has spent most of his 40-year career in Kansas City and has been equally active as a performer and educator. He began his career playing across spectrum of American music – jazz, rock, funk, etc. In the 80’s he fell in love with Brazilian music and culture, and although he continues to play a wide variety of music, he is known and loved as Kansas City’s resident guru for all things Brazilian, from the proper Partido Alto feel to the proper Moqueca de Peixe (fish stew).

Doug is the cofounder and co-leader of the Sons of Brasil, an instrumental Brazilian jazz group currently in its third decade, and the long-time drummer for jazz vocalist Angela Hagenbach. He has taught drumset, percussion, latin combo, world music, and jazz history, and music appreciation at numerous colleges and universities in and around KC including University of Missouri-Kansas City, Missouri Western State University, Northwest Missouri State University, and Johnson County Community College, and is the author of two self-published books, “Essential Latin Styes for the Drumset” and “Essential Rock for the Drumset.”

In this podcast, Doug talks about:

How a bout with cancer and a stroke have affected his playing, and his outlook on aging as a musician

Discovering and digging into Brazilian music

Some of the common misconceptions about Brazilian music and Latin styles in general

Teaching, from private drum lessons to college world music classes

How listening, not physical exercises, is the focus with his advanced students

Doug endorses Paiste Cymbals.

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums.

134 – Evan Stone: Bandleading and Producing, Taking a Lesson with Vinnie Colaiuta, The Importance of Tempo Sep 21, 2017

Based in Los Angeles but originally from Long Island, New York, Evan Stone (Drummer/Producer/Bandleader) currently fronts his original project the Translucent Ham Sandwich Band who released their debut album in 2016 entitled: ‘Music From The Future’ which has received airtime on numerous radio and cable television stations around the world.

Evan Stone has toured the United States with trumpeter/bandleader Maynard Ferguson and traveled throughout Australia and New Zealand with pop artist Toni Childs. Evan formed the Progressive/New Thing Rock band Salty The Pocketknife which released their debut recording in 2003. When not leading his own bands throughout the west coast, Evan has toured in the past with the Greg Adams Band (Tower of Power) and pop artists Aly & AJ.

In addition, Evan Stone has played with Kei Akagi, John Beasley, Brian Bromberg, David Garfield, Gilbert Castellanos, Darek Oles, Bob Sheppard, Chuck Manning, Doug Webb, Steve Cardenas, Theo Saunders, Otmaro Ruiz, Luther Hughes, Bob Cooper, Dr. Art Davis, Llew Matthews, Rob Mullins, and Anthony Wilson. Fish.

* In this podcast, Evan talks about:

* The effect that world events and politics has on music and art

* His band The Translucent Hamsandwich

* Studying with Peter Erskine

* The click and the drummers relationship with it

* The influence of programing and drum machines to drummers

* Evan’s beginnings

* His lesson with Vinnie Colaiuta

Evan endorses: Vater Sticks, Murat Diril Cymbals, Aquarian Drumheads, Canopus Drums,

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums and their new Sublime Birch series

133 – Gintas Janusonis: Playing and Producing in New York, from Jazz to Hip Hop to “America’s Got Talent” Sep 13, 2017

Gintas Janusonis is the son of Lithuanian immigrants and grew up in Milwaukee. Berklee brought him to the East Coast and he soon made the jump to New York, where he has been active as a drummer and producer for most of his professional life. His list of credits ranges from jazz greats Branford Marsalis and Kurt Rosenwinkel, to hip hop royalty Wu Tang Clan and Kool G Rap, to singer/songwriter and America’s Got Talent semi-finalist Jonah Smith. At the top of his list of current projects is Bandit 65, a trio with Rosenwinkel and Tim Motzer, in which he gets to flex his producer chops, incorporating various types of electronics and sound manipulation. On the more analogue end of the musical spectrum, he has been part of countless acoustic jazz projects and leads The Revelations, a funk/soul band and production collective.

In this podcast, Gintas talks about:

Rockwood Music Hall, which has become a hub for live music in New York

The ways he incorporates electronics and effects with Bandit 65, and that group’s improvisational dynamic

The differences between “Free Jazz” and other types of improvised music, and how he and his bandmates craft improvised music with producers’ ears.

Managing his time so that none of the roles he plays suffer, and using “mental practicing.”

The aspect of the New York scene that has improved the most over the years

Getting exposed to high art at an early age

Playing on America’s Got Talent

His interest in Hip Hop, which dates back as far as his interest in jazz

Leading The Revelations

Gintas endorses Pearl Drums, Sabian Cymbals, and Vater Sticks

132 – Kent Slucher: 10 Years Drumming for Luke Bryan, Keeping Your Cool When Things Go Haywire, Playing With Power and Energy Sep 06, 2017

Kent Slucher was born in Louisville, Kentucky October 19, 1976. With an intensely musical ear he learned to appreciate music at a very young age. Some of the most influential bands for Kent growing up included; Led Zeppelin, KISS, Fleetwood Mac, Bad Company, and Journey. At 19, Kent got his first gig in his father’s band, Uncle Lijah. After that, he played in a top 40 house band hoping to be discovered.

In 2002, Kent got his first touring gig with singer/songwriter Anthony Smith. Since touring with Smith, Kent has had the opportunity to tour and record with Pam Tillis for five years as well as working with such artists as; Kelly Keagy(Night Ranger), Gatlin Brothers, Oak Ridge Boys, Suzy Boguss, James Otto, Bill Medley(Rightious Brothers), Mary Sue Englund, Reggie Vinson(Alice Cooper), Bobby Terry(producer/songwriter, Cowboy Crush and many more.

Kent currently plays with country music artist Luke Bryan. Luke has been fortunate enough to tour with artists such as; Kenny Chesney, Dierks Bentley, Jason Aldean, Sugarland, Rascal Flatts, Tim Mcgraw and headlined his own “Tailgates and Tanlines” tour in 2011. Luke has had many number ones and top ten hits including; “Do I”, “Rain is a Good Thing”, “Someone Else Calling You Baby”, “Country Girl Shake It” and “I Don’t Want This Night to End”. Kent performed with Luke on the CMA Awards, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Jimmy Kimmel Show, Ellen Degeneres, The Today Show, Regis and Kelly, and the CMT Awards.

With passion and determination to be the best player he can be, he has brought a uniqueness and energy to the bands he has played with. “I like to think of myself as a pocket player…groove oriented.” Although he started out “stealing licks from hundreds of influential drummers”, he feels he has developed a style of his own. Very technical and precise, he leaves no room for error. “When performing live, while staying true to the recorded version of the song, I try to make it my own.”

In this episode, Kent talks about:

Navigating the home recording thing

His responsibilities as the drummer for Luke Bryan

Keeping your cool when things go haywire

Becoming a full-time musician

His approach to clinics

Bus etiquette

His pre-show ritual of watching and finding inspiration from opening acts

How he spends his time off

Performing on T.V. (talk shows etc..)

Kent endorses: Ahead, Zildjian Cymbals, Ludwig Drums, Vic Firth Sticks

131 – Matt Jorgensen: Juggling Roles, Making Art for Art’s Sake, Playing and Writing Authentically Aug 30, 2017

Matt Jorgensen was born and raised in Seattle and caught the jazz bug in high school. It sent him to New York in 1992 to study at the recently formed New School, after which he worked around town until 2002 when he returned to his hometown. He has since maintained an active performance schedule as a leader and sideman, playing with many modern jazz greats including Peter Bernstein, Reggie Workman, and Sam Yahel. He is also the cofounder of Seattle-based Origin Records and The Ballard Jazz Festival, and composes for recording projects, commercials, web series, films, and theatrical productions.

In this podcast, Matt talks about:

The influence of experiencing other art forms

How to bring a signature approach and voice to many different styles and genres

His experience at The New School, and how his career is still built on the relationships he formed there

Spending his 20s playing anything and everything in New York

What brought him back to Seattle, and how he has gotten to do more of what he wants to do there since.

Living and working in Seattle, before and after the tech boom

Working with public and private sponsors to get new music heard

How time spent away from the drumset on other responsibilities can “reset” his drumming and ideas

Composing for solo drumset/percussion

How finding his voice as a composer is just like finding his voice as a drummer – identifying strengths, playing to them, and being authentic

https://youtu.be/J8YeXU7Zsl0

130 – Bob Breithaupt: Teaching at the University Level, Creating & Managing a Diverse Workload, Drawing From Experiences When Teaching Aug 23, 2017

Robert Breithaupt is a veteran of over 40 years in music, as a performer, arts administrator, educator, author, musical contractor, entrepreneur, and visionary in the arts.

Breithaupt has performed in diverse solo, small ensemble and orchestral settings and has appeared with a virtual “Who’s Who” of great jazz talents and scores of other noted artists. As drummer/percussionist for trumpet virtuoso Byron Stripling, Broadway star Sandy Duncan and other artists, he has performed with dozens of professional orchestras throughout the United States and abroad.

As Executive Director of the Jazz Arts Group of Columbus from 2001 until 2012, Breithaupt’s vision helped to shape the nation’s oldest not-for-profit jazz organization into a comprehensive, working model for performance, education, and community engagement. He developed the concept for the unique JAG Jazz Academy, a 5,000 square-foot facility dedicated to instruction of jazz and American music for all ages. In 2011, JAG received the Columbus Foundation Award as the top non-profit organization in Columbus, and the first performing arts organization to have ever received this distinction.

In 1981, Breithaupt was a co-founder of Columbus Pro Percussion, Inc., recognized today as one of the nation’s top comprehensive retail percussion outlets; he served as Vice-President until 2006. He is also Past-President of the Percussive Arts Society, the world’s largest percussion membership organization. He has been a musical contractor for over 20 years, and is the President of RBMusic, Inc.

Breithaupt is recognized internationally as one of today’s leaders in percussion education, and has conducted workshops and clinics throughout the world on the subject. He is Professor of Music and Department Chair of Performance Studies at Capital University, and since 1978 has built what is viewed as one of the nation’s top undergraduate percussion programs. Breithaupt is the author of The Complete Percussionist (Barnhouse), one of the standard textbooks in percussion education, and the instructional DVD Snare Drum Basics (Hudson).

The recipient of numerous honors and awards, Breithaupt received Bowling Green State University’s Outstanding Graduate Award, was a fellow in the Jefferson Academy for Leadership and Governance, participated in the Stanford Graduate School of Business’ Executive Program for Nonprofit Leaders in the Arts and was the founding chair of the Columbus Cultural Leadership Consortium (CCLC). He is currently a member of the board and executive committee of Experience Columbus, where he represents the viewpoint of the arts community in dialogue surrounding the role of arts and culture in economic development and civic value.

In this episode, Bob talks about:

Traveling to Beirut, Lebanon for a drum workshop

The way young students consume information

Recognizing the drum-set as a “folk instrument”

What lead to Bob teaching at Capital University in Columbus, Ohio

Creating and managing a diverse workload

Leveraging your skills into a lifetime career

How his teaching has evolved and changed over time

Drawing from your experiences when teaching

The love of teaching

Bob endorses: Yamaha Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Remo drum heads and Innovative Percussion sticks

129 – Steve Fidyk: Laying a Foundation with Soph & Morello, Wrapping Up a 26-Year Army career, Putting Family First Aug 16, 2017

Steve Fidyk’s career has been a balance between military service in the Army Field and Army Blues bands, civilian life as a member or leader of various creative projects, and academia as an author, clinician, and Artist in Residence at Temple University. The son of a weekend warrior sax player, Steve was encouraged to pursue music from an early age. He began sitting in with his dad’s band and by age 11, was getting called for gigs. He went on to study with Ed Soph and Joe Morello before winning the drum chair for the funk group in the Army Field Band and later the Army Blues big band. With Annapolis, MD as his home base, Steve has been able to maintain a presence in multiple east coast cities including Baltimore, Washington DC, Philadelphia and New York.

In this podcast, Steve talks about:

How orchestral training helped shape his drumset playing

Studying with Ed Soph and Joe Morello, who kept him focused on musical and technical development rather than professional ambition, and how their style of teaching lays the foundation for a student to pursue anything

Spending equal time developing mechanics and concept

Always viewing his music career through the lens of providing for his family

His career in the military, the single largest employer of musicians in the world

Working for an institution while avoiding an institutional mindset

How “staying current” outside his military gig kept him busy and motivated outside of it, and is making the transition away from it easier

Steve endorses Mapex drums, DW hardware and pedals, Zildjian cymbals, Remo drumheads, Vater sticks, and LP percussion.

128 – Seth Rausch: Drumming for Keith Urban, Recording with Little Big Town, Creating Unique Sounds in the Studio Aug 10, 2017

Originally from upstate New York, Seth began playing drums at the age of three. By age nine, he was sitting in with local bands and even backing up his elementary school choir. He’s been in the Nashville music scene for 15 years and is currently the touring drummer for Keith Urban.

Other artists Seth has worked for include Gary Allan, Joe Nichols, Phil Vassar, and Little Big Town. While with Little Big Town, Seth was given the opportunity to record on two records and work with producer Jay Joyce.

When Seth isn’t on the road, he is in the studio recording and collaborating with some of Nashville’s top writers, musicians, and producers.

In this episode, Seth talks about:

Working with Keith Urban and how the gig came about

Performing on “festival dates”

Getting let go from a gig and seeing it as an opportunity

Recording with Little Big Town and producer Jay Joyce

Creating unique sounds in the studio through non-traditional means

The influence of a musical family growing up

Studying with George Lawrence

Balancing family and touring

Seth endorses: Zildjian Cymbals, Innovative Percussion, Gibraltar Hardware and Gretsch Drums

127 – Justin Chesarek: Rustbelt Roots, Branching Out from Jazz, Leaving a Gig on Good Terms for the Future Aug 01, 2017

Justin Chesarek has lived in Atlanta for almost a decade, where he has played with various jazz artists including Gary Motley,Joe Gransden, and singer/songwriter Sam Burchfield. Justin also teaches at two area universities, Kennesaw State and Emory. He grew up near Pittsburgh which, despite its rustbelt identity, has always had a rich music scene and has recently evolved into a more cosmopolitan city. He stayed close to home for college, attending Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Grad school brought him to Atlanta in 2007 and he earned a master’s degree in jazz from Georgia State.

His recent trip to Alaska, and finding ways to put yourself in a good headspace to perform, especially while on the road

Creating jazz tunes with relatable titles and content

The early influence of The Beatles, and the first jazz records he listened to

His first performance experiences at age 12, sitting in with his teacher’s bands at bars on school nights

Notable jazzers from Pittsburgh including Art Blakey, Roger Humphries, Ahmad Jamal and Sean Jones

How the Atlanta scene, especially the drumming community, is very high level without being too competitive

Rediscovering his passion for rock drumming, and putting in the work to sound authentic on it

Transitioning out of a gig in a positive way when life moves in a certain direction

The differences between the two college programs he teaches in, and what each requires of him as an educator

His hobby of photography, and how it can further enrich the experience of traveling for music

Justin endorses Vic Firth Drumsticks

126 – Kyle Wilkerson: Touring with Maddie & Tae, Composing for T.V. Film, Creating Honest Relationships Jul 26, 2017

Kyle Wilkerson is a well-versed and highly versatile drummer/percussion and film composer based out of Nashville, Tennessee. He has played/toured/recorded with many national artists and bands such as Maddie and Tae, Joshua Scott Jones (of Steel Magnolia), Kristen Kelly, Jillette Johnson, Michael Alvarado (of the duo US), Justin Adams, Logan Mize, Adam Sanders, Jonathan Scales Fourchestra, The Lucky Few, North Carolina Dance Company, and many more. Kyle has toured all over the nation and has played the top music festivals in North America including Bonnaroo, CMAFest, and will appear in an upcoming episode of Bar Rescue on Spike TV. While home in Nashville, Kyle consistently works at the top live music venues and recording studios such as 3rd and Lindsley, 12th and Porter, Mercy Lounge, Darkhorse Studios, Blackbird Studios, Omni Sound, and Sound Emporium.

In addition to recording and performing, Kyle also composes and scores for film and video for the Bofars Production Company based out of Columbia, South Carolina. His music has been featured in the Nissan Innovation for Endurance campaign leading up to the 2012 Olympics and he will be scoring the full-legnth feature documentary, The 41st Day, about the top US Men’s Olympic Marathon runner Ryan Hall (www.ryanhallfilm.com).

Kyle also teaches, writes, and arranges for various high school marching bands in NC and TN. When he is not performing or composing, he is teaching/arranging percussion for the WGI Indoor Percussion Group Forza East Independent, based out of Greenville, North Carolina, which he is also the board of directors.

In this episode Kyle talks about:

Touring with Maddie and Tae

When to showcase your chops

What a radio tour is

How the Maddie and Tae gig happened

Creating real relationships

Writing music for film

Being prepared

T.V. performances

Answering a question from a listener

Kyle endorses: Gretsch, Zildjian Cymbals, Innovative Percussion, Evans Drumheads, Gibraltar hardware, and Big Fat Snare Drum

125 – Rafael Pereira: Playing with Janelle Monae, Bringing Brazil to Atlanta, Growing Up On Samba Tradition and Pop Records Jul 19, 2017

Rafael Pereira was born and raised in Sao Paolo, Brazil. As a kid he began playing piano, guitar and percussion, and along with his brother, fell in love with the traditional Samba and Choro music of Brazil. He first came to the U.S. as an exchange student in high school, and spent a year in Idaho. After he returned to Brazil, his father got a business opportunity in Atlanta and Rafa made the move with him. In addition to Atlanta’s Brazilian community of about 60,000, Rafael found immediate opportunities to play all sorts of gigs on drums and percussion. He played percussion alongside two of the city’s most famous local heroes, Sonny Emory and Lil’ John Roberts, which led to his name being thrown into the hat when Janel Monae was forming a new band in 2010. He’s been part of her team ever since, playing for multiple recordings and tours. He also stays active at home in Atlanta with multiple projects including The ATL Collective, a pool of Atlanta musicians that convenes once a month to perform a classic album in its entirety.

In this podcast, Rafael talks about:

He and his brother getting into the Samba artists of their parents’ and grandparents’ generations

The blurred line between percussion and drumset in Brazilian music

Why he views the percussionist’s role as that of a copilot, and why he loves it

The parallels between American and Brazilian folk/roots music

Taking stylistic and rhythmic cues from guitarists

His involvement in The ATL Collective

Rafael endorses Pearl Drums and Percussion, Remo Drumheads, Sabian Cymbals, Innovative Sticks and Mallets, Cooperman Frame Drums, and Ultimate Ears In-Ear Monitors.

124 – Brian Ferguson: Drumming for Texas Artist Cory Morrow, The Importance of Subtleties & Nuance, Clinic Touring for Dixon Drums Jul 12, 2017

Brian Ferguson is a studio and live Musician/Drummer/Producer based in Austin, Texas. He began playing drums and percussion at the age of 10 and has never looked back. A consummate student of the instrument and it’s significance to American Music, Brian can be found touring, recording and producing a wide variety of acts.

His deep knowledge of drumming and music allow him to contribute to any musical situation while inspiring the band to play their best. His light sense of humor and punctual professionalism make him an irreplaceable and key ingredient to a wide variety of musical projects.

Brian has performed/recorded/toured with a wide variety of artists including but not limited to: Robert Earl Keen, Pat Green, Jack Ingram, Cory Morrow, Aaron Watson, Stoney Larue, Eleven Hundred Springs, Hudson Moore, Zane Williams, Adam Hood, Jason Eady, Rob Baird, Curtis Salgado, Mike Morgan and the Crawl, Carter Beckworth and Bubba Hernandez.

Currently, Brian is drumming with Performing Artist/ Songwriter Cory Morrow, in addition to his own project The Harvey Kartel. THK is the creative outlet and side project of Brian and Steve Miller guitarist Jacob Petersen.

In this podcast, Brian talks about:

Touring with Texas artist Cory Morrow and dealing with a new born

Flying to China for a clinic tour for Dixon Drums

Trial by fire during his early years of touring

Defining the Texas country music scene and what makes it unique

Attitude!!!!!!

The importance of subtleties, nuance, touch and feel on the kit

Brian’s producing experience

Balancing artistic expression and being efficient in the studio

Knowing and developing your strengths

Brian proudly endorses Dixon Drums and Hardware, Paiste Cymbals, Western Audio Works Cases and Vic Firth Drum Sticks.

123 – Adam Goodhue: Following a Sound from Massachusetts to San Francisco to Atlanta, Exploring American Music’s Southern Roots Jul 06, 2017

Adam Goodhue has been busy on the Atlanta scene for the last four years. Before that, he spent 16 years in San Francisco where he played just about every type of music it had to offer. Adam grew up in Massachusetts where he was the beneficiary of a small but active high school music program. By his late teens, he was hooked on two things; drumming and snowboarding. For short time, he thought competitive snowboarding might be his focus, but a knee injury made that impossible, and he realized that snowboarding was a fun hobby, but drumming was what he really wanted to do for the rest of his life. He was in a band with some friends who made plans to move to San Francisco. He took advantage of the “in” and moved there in 1996. Although the band didn’t last very long after that, Adam had already fallen in love with the city and began getting work with other groups. He also got some formal training for free, when the University of California at Berkeley was in need of a drummer for their jazz program. Adam was allowed to play in some groups and audit classes without actually enrolling. By this time, he had also become obsessed with the music of New Orleans, discovered that it was a sister city to San Francisco, and found how much the two cities have in common musically.

Adam moved to Atlanta in 2013 where he has continued his love affair for the music of the South, performing with Col. Bruce Hampton, Grant Green Jr., Maria Muldaur, Tommy Talton and many others.

In this podcast, Adam talks about:

How his approach to teaching lessons has changed from the kind of lessons he took as a kid

The moment he got serious about pursuing music professionally

How discovering the music and drummers of New Orleans was a turning point for his playing

What brought him to the Bay Area, and the strong connections between San Francisco and New Orleans

Pursuing feel and tone rather than content

The Bay Area when he got there vs. when he left

What brought him to Atlanta, and what kept him there

Treating networking like a full time job when you’re new in town

His outlook as he pushes his career forward and makes plans to get married

122 – Sarah Tomek: Drumming with Steven Tyler, Defying Skeptics, Taking Chances, “Drum ID’s” Jun 26, 2017

There are drummers and there is Sarah Tomek. With the rumbling authority of a John Bonham and the razor precision of a Keith Carlock, she has become one of the most in demand drummers today. Currently playing for Steven Tyler, Gretchen Wilson and the fast rising Americana band Loving Mary, Sarah Tomek commands a front row seat in the new class of top tier musicians.

Born and raised in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Sarah found herself behind the kit at an early age. Her father, Joe Tomek, a formidable drummer in the New York 70’s rock scene, inspired and shaped her natural talents. By her early teens, she was a club staple at world famous venues throughout NYC and NJ. By the time she was 20, she began making her name as a session player. Her precocious ability to play a multitude of genres with effortless pocket and feel made her the easy choice for many producers; recording for Maggie Rose, Glen Burtnik, Gedeon Luke, Lance Larson and Jon Bon Jovi, to name a few.

Sarah has been featured in Modern Drummer magazine and currently uses Ludwig drums, Paiste Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks and Kelly Shu drum mounts.

In this podcast, Sarah talks about:

The many projects Sarah is involved with

The reason she moved to Nashville

The influence of her father’s drumming on her

The idea of “drum ID’s” and adopting them in your playing

Positive attitude

The joy of proving skeptics wrong who doubt the abilities of a female drummer

Touring with Steven Tyler and Gretchen Wilson

Staying healthy on the road

121 – Kevin Stevens: Playing for a Tribute Show, Running a Multi-Band Company, Making Family Time Count Jun 21, 2017

L.A. drummer Kevin Stevens recently completed two tours of Europe with David Brighton’s Space Oddity, a David Bowie tribute show. He is the drummer and bandleader for three groups (Rumproller Organ Trio, Brass Monkey Brass Band, and The Deep Cuts) under the umbrella of his company, Grits n’ Gravy Music. Kevin grew up in Denver, studied music at the University of Miami, cut his teeth as a pro on cruise ships and on the scene in San Francisco, and has lived in L.A. since 2003. He is also on the faculty at Musician’s Institute where he developed a 10-week course on the music, drumming, and drummers of New Orleans.

In this podcast, Kevin talks about:

First getting involved in Space Oddity ten years ago, being away from it for years, and being asked back three months before Bowie died.

His process of learning the songs, making charts for himself, and incorporating the tracks he’s responsible for running.

Instrumentation for the Oddity gig, on the road and at home

The psychological game of sharing a drum chair, and maintaining confidence in yourself and your relationships

How leading three separate bands led to leading a single company

His New Orleans Drumming course at Musicians Institute and his long love affair with New Orleans music of all kinds

The keys to successful marriage and family life as a musician

Kevin Stevens endorses Remo Drumheads, Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, and Protection Racket Cases.

120 – Kasey Todd: Touring with Tonic, Paying Your Dues, Growing Up Around the Music Business Jun 15, 2017

Kasey Todd is a professional drummer, percussionist, vocalist, and an all around musician and entertainer. Along with being a performer, he also has credits as a producer, arranger, and bandleader.

Kasey grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and was involved in music at a very young age. His father is the Co-Owner and front man of 50’s and 60’s show band, The Van-Dells. This has allowed Kasey to be around the music business his whole life, gaining great first hand experiences into the industry.

Kasey moved to Nashville, Tennessee in the fall of 2011, and is working as a full time touring and studio drummer. Before moving to Nashville, Kasey graduated from Otterbein University, in Columbus, Ohio, with a Bachelors Degree in Music with a focus in Jazz Studies. At Otterbein, Kasey studied all styles of music and spent a lot of time on drumset, vibraphone, orchestral and hand percussion.

Kasey has toured the globe as bandleader with Canadian country artist Aaron Goodvin(Warner Bros.). The latest single ‘Woman In Love’ reached #7 on the Canadian country charts. Kasey also performs and records with singer-songwriter Jace Everett, best known for the theme song to HBO’s True Blood. Kasey can be heard on the new Jace record ‘Dust & Dirt’ (2017). Kasey still holds the drum chair live and in the studio with The Van-Dells. And, starting in the summer of 2017, Kasey has been touring with the band Tonic. Kasey keeps busy working with a wide range of Nashville artists, and is even an entertainer at the Big Bang Dueling Piano Bars where he can be found singing, playing piano, drums, and bass.

Kasey has been on stage performing since the age of two and has had the pleasure to play with many great artists and groups. Some of those include Tonic, Jace Everett, Josh Thompson, Aaron Goodvin, Sam Lewis, Morgan Frazier (NBC’s The Voice), The Van-Dells, Rick Brantley, Megan Ruger (NBC’s The Voice), Matty Monk, Andrew Varner, The Central Ohio Symphony Orchestra, The Otterbein College Faculty Jazz Ensemble, and The Westerville Symphony Orchestra just to name a few.

In this episode, Kasey talks about:

Starting to tour with the band Tonic

Growing up watching his fathers band, The Van Dells and then taking on the drum chair

Learning to play piano and bass

Studying at Otterbein University

Dealing with perception vs. reality in the music business

Working with singer/songwriter Jace Everett

Recording at Abby Road Studios

Endorsements

Paying your dues

Recording at home

Kasey endorses: Promark Sticks, Paiste Cymbals, Evans Drum Heads, Kelly Shu mic mounting system, Westone in-ears, Humes and Berg cases, Snare Weight, Vintage Logos and Swan Percussion

119 – Go-Go Ray: 25 years of Funk, Rock, Fusion, Blues, and Experimental Music in Kansas City Jun 07, 2017

Go-Go Ray has been a Kansas City fixture since he moved there in the early 90s. He grew up in Dallas where he played in every possible school ensemble from 4th grade on, and got his first professional experience in a local funk/R&B cover band. He studied music briefly at North Texas but was drawn to the rock, punk, and other music scenes that were happening outside of school. Mike Dillon‘s band Billy Goat needed a new drummer and the chair was offered to Go-Go, with the caveat that he had to move to Kansas City where the band was based. Go-Go made the move and hasn’t looked back, playing in a litany of groups including Mike Dillon’s Go-Go Jungle, Karma, The Brody Buster Band, and most recently with blues guitarist and singer Samantha Fish. In 1992, he won the Guitar Center Drum Off and in 2010, won the Roland V-Drum Competition. He has also been an educator for 20 years, maintaining a steady roster of private students to whom he is known not as the drum teacher or the drum instructor, but The Drum Counselor.

In this podcast, Go-Go talks about:

The musical culture of Texas when he was growing up there

Playing in various projects lead by Mike Dillon

The history of the blues scene in Kansas City

Making his playing more mainstream after playing experimental music

How advertising himself as The Drum Counselor started as a gimmick but quickly became an educational philosophy

The growth that comes from participating in competitions

His five-year tenure with Samantha Fish and why it was time to move on

Putting himself in a position to be patient and wait for the right project to come along, rather than taking whatever comes up next

Go-Go Ray endorses Yamaha Drums, Paiste Cymbals, Aquarian Drumheads, Promark Drumsticks, Humes & Berg Cases, Sweet Spots, Carmichael Thrones, BDM Mic Clips, Cympads, and 64 Audio.

118 – Milton Sledge: Studio Legend, Musician Hall of Fame Inductee, Recording with Garth Brooks, Paying it Forward May 31, 2017

Milton Sledge is a session drummer best known for a string of sessions in Muscle Shoals, Alabama as well as several albums with country super-star Garth Brooks. With Garth, Milton wrote and played drums on several key albums including the self-titled 1987 Capitol release, “No Fences,” “Ropin’ The Wind” and “The Chase.” Milton can be heard on many recordings including those of: John Anderson, Barbara Mandrell, Tracey Lawrence, Jo Dee Messina, Randy Travis, The Amazing Rhythmn Aces, Asleep at the Wheel, Mark Chesnutt, Paul Overstreet, Bryan White, Becky Hobbs, Crystal Gayle, Neal McCoy, Juice Newton, Eddie Rabbitt, The Statler Brothers, Gene Watson, Kathy Mattea, Emmylou Harris, George Jones, Alabama, Hal Ketchum, Shenendoah, Trisha Yearwood, Pam Tillis, Chris LeDoux, Vince Gill, Toby Keith and Garth Brooks, just to name a few. As a songwriter, Milton has written for Pat Alger and Bruce Bouton along with Garth Brooks. Milton has played drums on over 30 number 1 singles and the albums that he has played on have sold over 180 million copies.

In October of 2016, Milton along with the hand picked group of musicians dubbed “The G-Men” were inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame for their work and creative contributions to almost every Garth Brooks recording.

Originally from Decatur, Alabama, Milton grew up in the Clements community, west of Athens, AL, not far from Muscle Shoals, an area known for its wide variety of music. After graduation from high school and a stint in the Army Band, Milton returned to the Shoals area to attend college and study music at the University of North AL. While in college there, Milton started to pursue his dream of playing in the recording studios of Muscle Shoals. He worked his way through the ranks and worked regularly in the studios there for 4-5 years. Soon he began to receive more and more calls for recording sessions in Nashville. This prompted him to move there in 1984, where he has been a mainstay in the Nashville recording studios ever since.

In February of 2014, Milton moved back to his hometown of Athens to “give back” by offering his expertise/assistance to local musicians. He is once again an active part of the music scene in the Shoals area, as well as Nashville. Since his return, he has been writing with various songwriters and playing at local venues. As well as producing. He has also played with the Muscle Shoals All-Stars and recorded at Fame Studio, The Nutthouse, all in Muscle Shoals AL.

In this episode, Milton talks about:

Recording at the original Muscle Shoals Sound Studio at 3614 Jackson Highway

Tuning the kit for different rooms

The “Muscle Shoals sound”

Recording all the Garth Brooks records

Changes in the Nashville studio scene over the last 30 years

Giving back, paying it forward

Getting a good ear mix in the studio

117 – Evan Pazner: Touring with Lee Fields, Being a Lifelong New Yorker, Studying at the New School May 25, 2017

Evan Pazner is a native and life-long resident of New York City. For the last six years, he has been the touring drummer for Lee Fields & The Expressions, a truly old-school soul band. It’s not old school just because they got the right gear and the right sound, it’s old school because Lee Fields has been doing it for over four decades. Evan got into drums playing in bands with friends as a teenager, catching the tail end of a New York music scene in which some clubs allowed 15-year-olds to play there. After earning a liberal arts degree at NYU, he entered The New School for two years of intensive drum study with Jimmy Cobb, Joe Chambers, Billy Hart, Joey Baron, and others. Recently, when not traveling with Lee Fields, Evan has also been working on Broadway as a sub drummer for Cirque Du Soleil’s “Paramour.”

In this podcast, Evan talks about:

How he landed the gig with Lee Fields and what a straight-up soul band requires of the drummer, stylistically and technically

How growing up in New York City shaped him as a musician and as a person

His time at the New School, and why a degree wasn’t the point

The most valuable lesson he got from Jimmy Cobb

How there is no substitute for the confidence that comes from putting in the work and getting experience

What has changed about New York since he was a kid, and what will never change

How family life has made it easier to be in the moment, on stage and at home.

116 – Derrek Phillips: Drumming for Hank Williams Jr, Teaching at Two Universities, Master Classes with Tony Williams May 17, 2017

Since the age of three, Derrek C. Phillips has had a deep passion for music. From that time he has carved out an exciting musical career as a performer, educator, and composer

While attending high school, Phillips played snare drum for the Concord Blue Devils drum and bugle corps from 1990-93. In 1998, he received his bachelor’s degree in jazz studies at William Paterson University in Wayne, N.J. He studied privately with Horace Arnold, Yoron Israel, John Riley and Tony Williams.

As an educator, he has also worked with several school bands and drums corps as a percussion and marching instructor, jazz and drum set clinician, composer, marching drill designer, and private tutor. He is currently the presiding drum set and ensemble instructor at both Middle Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University.

In the spring of 2014, Derek became the touring drummer for Hank Williams Jr. His drumming is featured on Vanessa Williams’ recording The Real Thing and Michael McDonald’s This Christmas. He has also worked with Rachael Lampa, Jonny Lang, Charlie Peacock, Mike Farris, the McCrary Sisters, Seth Walker, James Otto, Charlie Hunter, Jimmy Hall, Tommy Sims, Delbert McClinton, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Greg Osby, Joshua Redman and Kurt Elling.

He has performed on the CBS Early Morning Show and A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor, BET (Black Entertainment Television) and throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe, as well as Brazil, Korea, South Africa, Turkey, India, Panama, the Caribbean, and Japan.

In this episode, Derek talks about:

Teaching at Middle Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University

Utilizing a curriculum when teaching

Getting into drum corp and joining The Concord Blue Devils

Master classes with Tony Williams

Working with Charlie Hunter

Touring with country legend Hank Williams Jr

Derek endorses: Spaun Drums, Istanbul Cymbals, Evans Drumheads and Vater Sticks.

115 – A Sit-Down with The Bosses: Equinox Orchestra’s Bandleader, Lead Singer, and Musical Director/Tour Manager on Getting a Band on the Road May 10, 2017

At the helm of The Equinox Orchestra are tenor saxophonist and bandleader Jeremy Davis, lead vocalist Clay Johnson, and trumpet player, musical director and tour manager Tommy Brinson. Their combined efforts have gotten the 11-piece group on the road for a 2 month, 18,000 mile U.S. tour, the most ambitious undertaking in the band’s 15-year history. The three talked with their drummer and Working Drummer Podcast co-host Zack Albetta about their individual roles, the drummer’s role, their perspective as leaders of a group and owners of an enterprise.

Equinox began as a traditional 18-piece instrumental big band playing performing whenever and wherever they could, but has evolved into a multi-faceted group with line-ups ranging from three to 25 playing everything from restaurants and bars to theatre shows and private events. Jeremy and Clay have recently sought to use Equinox for philanthropic causes in addition to their regular for-profit gigs.

In this podcast, the guys talk about

The types of gigs Equinox has played and what their goals are

How Tommy ascended the ranks from regular sideman to musical director and tour manager

Jeremy and Clay’s musical background leading up to Equinox

The outsized role and responsibility of the big band drummer

How bands and musicians can use their talents for causes they believe in

Jeremy’s strategy to keep the band working – the more leads you chase down, the more will pan out

How to create a band identity and monetize it, and how to attract multiple funding sources

How to eat well on the road

114 – Angela Lese: Drumming for The Dead Deads, Cultivating a Strong Fan Base, From “Regular Job” to Touring Musician May 03, 2017

Angie Lese always wanted to be a drummer since she could remember. Growing up in Fort Wayne Indiana, she took to music early and studied flute throughout high school. It wasn’t until her college years that Angie decided to follow her drumming passion, bought a kit and taught herself how to play. After graduating and starting a career in meteorology, Angie moved to Louisville Kentucky and heavily pursued music.

She played for a Sony recording artist, several cover bands, and was a session drummer as well. Her main band, CatFight (original pop/punk rock), received a strong local and regional following along with the support from Little Heart Records of Louisville, KY. In 2013 they released a self titles EP – CatFight. While that was taking off, Angie was offered a promotion in her meteorology career that prompted a move to Nashville Tennessee in 2012.

After immersing herself in the Nashville music scene, Angie joined forces with artist Leticia Wolf, fellow Catfight member Erica Sellers, and two other musicians to form The Dead Deads, a heavy, hard rock/pop band. Having just formed in late 2013, The Dead Deads have garnered quite a bit of attention from Page Hamilton of Helmet/David Bowie, Chuck Garric of Alice Cooper, Tom Petersson of Cheap Trick to Lzzy Hale of Halestorm. As a result of The Dead Deads’ quick rise, Angie and her band have been on several national tours with acts like Halestorm, P.O.D., Bush, Chevelle along with the Motorboat and the Shiprocked cruises. They have recorded two full-length albums, “Rainbeau” (2014) and “For Your Obliteration” (2016), produced by Page Hamilton.

In this podcast, Angela talks about:

Current news with the Dead Deads

Pros and cons of playing in an all girl band

Recording and writing for the new Dead Deads record

Transitioning from “regular jobs” to touring in a band

Cultivating a strong fan base

The benefits of an online presence

The challenges of an all girl band

Having hobbies and distractions in life to keep your headspace healthy

Angela endorses TAMA drums, Sabian cymbals, Evans heads, Promark drumsticks, and Humes and Berg cases.

113 – Jermal Watson: Born & Bred in New Orleans, Playing with The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Allowing the Traditional to Evolve Apr 26, 2017

Jermal Watson is a native of New Orleans and like so many musicians there, got his musical start playing in church. Growing up in New Orleans, he explains, young musicians learn songs and styles by ear and by the time you’re grown, all of the city’s musical languages – the swing feel of Preservation Hall, the street beats of the brass bands, the funk of The Meters and The Neville Brothers – are languages you just know. As a young drummer, Jermal was brought along on the scene by two of its elder statesmen, Russell Batiste and Gerald French and for decades now, he has been among The Crescent City’s first-call drummers. His resume includes The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Eddie Roberts, and many more. For the past two years, he has also headed a percussion program at Encore Academy, in which almost 90 elementary school students participate.

In this podcast, Jermal talks about:

His elementary school percussion program

Playing with the Dirty Dozen Brass Band

Why learning songs by ear on the fly is particularly common in New Orleans

How Russell Batiste and Gerald French helped him work his way onto the scene

How New Orleans changes the playing of drummers who move there

A project he was recently involved in called Attakid, a collaboration between New Orleans and San Francisco musicians

Playing with Big Sam’s Funky Nation

Where to go for live music in New Orleans (hint: it’s not Bourbon Street).

The New Orleans style of recording

Jermal Watson endorses Mapex Drums and Meinl Cymbals

112 – Joe Gansas & Around The Kit: Online Drum Talk Radio Show, Asking Important Questions Apr 19, 2017

Around The Kit with Joe Gansas

For close to a year and a half, Joe Gansas has been hosting an online radio show focused on drummers and all things drums. This show is called Around The Kit. Joe digs deep into the life, career and background of each guest whether it’s a well known drummer like Kenny Aronoff or a lesser known drummer with important and relatable storys to tell.

Joe has surrounded himself with a strong team that helps Joe create a thoughtful and consistent show week by week. A few highlights of Around The Kit include multiple guests every episode as well as tribute shows. Some of Joe’s guests include Simon Phillips, Dave Weckl and Cathy Rich. This show can be found www.aroundthekit.net. It airs 8-11:00pm eastern time every Sunday night

In this episode, Joe talks about:

His internet radio show – “Around The Kit”

Drug addiction in our community

Joe’s performance background and his influences

The importance of listening

The future of Around The Kit

Asking important questions

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

111 – Carter McLean: Drumming on Broadway, Playing Duo & Trio with Charlie Hunter, Running a Teaching Website Apr 12, 2017

Carter McLean has been a New Yorker for most of his adult life. From his home base in Brooklyn, he commands a multi-pronged career as the drummer for The Lion King on Broadway, playing regularly with 8-string guitarist Charlie Hunter, and running his own educational website, Four Hands Drumming.

In this podcast, Carter talks about:

His first experiences in NYC – working at Manny’s Music, driving 12 hours for a $100 gig, going to Jeff “Tain” Watts’ jam session.

His typical day, which almost always includes one or two Lion King shows

Fighting the complacency that comes from a steady paycheck

His educational website, Four Hands Drumming, and how the focus is practical musical concepts that everyone can apply

Basic gear and techniques drummers can use to improve the quality of their videos

His approach to micing drums and how using fewer mics gives the drummer more control and more responsibility to self-mix

Playing with Charlie Hunter

Carter McLean endorses Dunnett/George H. Way drums, Istanbul Agop Cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Remo heads, DW Hardware, Tackle Instruments, BigFatSnareDrum, Beyerdynamic mics, and BAE mic pres.

This episode is sponsored by Mapex.

110 – Russ Miller: Recording for Soundtracks, Touring With International Artists, Finding A Coach Apr 02, 2017

Russ Miller is internationally known as one of the top drummers of today. As a Multi-Platinum recording artist, he has played on multiple Grammy award winning recordings with combined sales of over 26 million copies. His musical versatility has led him to work with an incredible list of over 50 international artists from legends like Ray Charles, The Fifth Dimension, Natalie Cole, Tina Turner & Bobby Caldwell through modern stars, Nelly Furtado, The Psychedelic Furs, Hilary Duff, Steve Perry, Andrea Bocelli, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Daniel Bedingfield and Meredith Brooks. As a star of the Los Angeles studio scene, the Modern Drummer Magazine Readers Poll has repeatedly voted Russ in the top 5 Studio Drummers in the world, including the 2015 Poll, where he was voted the #3 Session drummer. He has performed on more than 300 albums (including many #1 Billboard hits like Nelly Furtado’s “Whoa Nelly” and Hilary Duff’s “Metamorphosis”). Russ has also recorded for many T.V. shows and over 60 international movies (such as #1 box office titles like “Chicken Little”, “Fracture”, “Lakeview Terrace”, “Resident Evil Apocalypse”, “Percy Jackson” and the “Boondock Saints” series of movies, just to name a few). Along with his many sideman recording credits, he has been a staple on T.V. “house bands”. Such as “American Idol”, for all of their “Mentoring Sessions”.

Russ also has four critically acclaimed solo albums, Cymbalism, Arrival and the Arrival Live concert DVD/CD and his latest “Chagada3” with the Arrival Trio. In addition, Russ performs educational clinics throughout the world. In October of 2014, Russ was awarded an “Honorary PHD” for “ sustained lifetime accomplishments that have benefited Drumming artistry and the Global Drumming community”, from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, in Shanghai, China. He also has authored two books: The Drum Set Crash Course and Transitions, along with his three videos, “Arrival-Behind The Glass” from Hudson Music, The Drum Set Crash Course and The Drum Set Crash Course Tuning Edition from Alfred Publications. A 7-time Modern Drummer readers poll winner, Russ’ solo projects were also voted the #1 educational books and videos in the world (2001-2004).

In this episode, Russ talks about:

Russ’s current gigs including Andrea Bocelli, India superstar Kavita Krishnamurthy and his band Arrival

Recording on TV and Movie sound tracks

Russ’s approach to world music

Being a life long student and finding a “coach”

The YouTube effect

Gig opportunities in technology

Creating your own voice

Russ Miller’s interest in product development

Explaining the Mapex Design Lab series

Russ endorses: Mapex Drums, Zildjian, Remo, Vic Firth, Porter & Davies Tactile monitoring, Hercules stands, May E/A Mics, Prologix, SKB cases, Arrel Audio Electronics, Puresound Snares, Korg and Meinl music instruments

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

109 – YonRico Scott: Playing in The Derek Trucks Band, The Musical Legacy of Detroit, Approaching the Drumset with a Percussionist’s Mind Mar 29, 2017

Yonrico Scott has been a fixture on the Atlanta scene and in Southern music in general for decades. He was born and raised in Detroit, where he began touring and recording as a teenager. His interest in percussion brought him to The University of Kentucky where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in classical music. After college, he moved to Atlanta and quickly felt like he was home. In the late 90’s he joined the band led by guitar prodigy Derek Trucks with whom he recorded several albums and toured extensively for a decade. He was also a member of Southern super group The Royal Southern Brotherhood, co-led by Devon Allman, Mike Zito and Cyril Neville. YonRico has just released Life of a Dreamer, his fifth album as a leader.

In this Podcast, Yonrico talks about

Recording “Life of a Dreamer” at ZAC Recording Studios in Atlanta with engineer Tony Terrabone

Recognizing when a unique drum part is called for vs. something more obvious

Playing congas and percussion in funk, R&B, and pop settings as opposed to Salsa, and the subliminal power of a shaker

How he was shaped by the musical culture and history of Detroit.

Studying percussion at Kentucky State University and the University of Kentucky, and approaching the drumset more like orchestral percussion.

His time in The Derek Trucks Band, and what he and Derek learned from each other.

Sentiments on his recently departed friend and Allman Brothers drummer, Butch Trucks.

Yonrico Scott endorses Pearl Drums, Ziljian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, and LP Percussion.

This episode is sponsored by Mapex.

108 – Rob Mitchell: Drumming and World Traveling with Sixpence None the Richer, Staying Mentally Healthy on the Road Mar 22, 2017

Rob Mitchell has built an impressive resume list of gigs throughout his decades in Nashville, Tennessee. Currently, Rob continues to hold down the drummers chair with the band, Sixpence None the Richer. Due to their light touring schedule, Rob finds time to work with singers like at James Otto, Chuck Wicks, Wes Cunningham and Chris Carmack from the TV show “Nashville”. Rob stays busy in Nashville’s vibrant studio scene recording everything from demos to independent projects.

Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Rob moved to Nashville in the mid 80’s to study music at Belmont University. During his time at the Belmont, Rob received the type of professional experience he needed to maintain steady work as a professional musician.

In this episode, Rob talks about:

Working with Sixpence None the Richer

World travel and playing shows around the world in places like Japan, Buenos Aires, and Jacarta, Indonesia

Receiving “real world experience” in college

Taking charge from the drum chair when needed

The challenges of promoting yourself online

Sharing a house with drummer Kevin Murphy!

Being prepared for what the music business offers

Staying mentally healthy on the road and dealing with “down time”

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

107 – Wayne Salzmann: Living and Drumming in Austin, Gigging Early and Often, Partnership Between College Program and Pro Scene, The Importance of “The Hang” Mar 16, 2017

Wayne Salzmann has been at the top of the Austin scene for nearly a decade. Even before graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a Master’s degree in jazz performance, he was working his way into the many musical circles Austin has to offer. He has since compiled a long list of performance credits including Steve Miller, Kris Kristofferson, Joe Satriani, Mike Stern, Joe Bonamassa, Bobby Mcferrin, Jeff Coffin, and Oz Noy. He also holds down regular gigs with his own trio and with Austin favorites Bob Schneider and Eric Johnson, and is a member of the adjunct jazz faculty at UT Austin.

In this episode, Wayne talks about:

Why Austin is the self-proclaimed “live music capital of the world,” and why it’s a destination for musicians from all regions and backgrounds

The small but mighty jazz program at UT Austin, and how he uses the Austin scene as a training ground for his students.

His early musical life in Stevens Point, WI, the town that was the basis for That 70’s Show

Creating a live music scene in his small college town where there wasn’t one before

Receiving a grant to travel to New York for an independent study project with Bill Stewart, Billy Martin, Joey Barron and Ari Hoenig.

His gigs with real-life guitar hero Eric Johnson, singer-songwriter Bob Schneider, and his own groups, The Wayne Salzmann Trio and Groove Society.

Wayne Salzmann endorses Zildjian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Evans heads, and DW Drums, pedals, and hardware.

This episode is sponsored by Mapex drums.

106 – Nick Ruffini from Drummer’s Resource & WDP Host’s Zack Albetta and Matthew Crouse: Drumming Podcast Host Roundtable, Adapting to Major Life Changes and Transitions Mar 08, 2017

In this episode Working Drummer hosts Zack Albetta and Matthew Crouse have a unique opportunity to join forces with Nick Ruffini from Drummer’s Resource to have a “host-full” conversation. We take a break from our normal interviews and spend some time to talk about ourselves and some major transitions all three of us are going through.

In this podcast, Nick, Zack and Matt talk about:

Adapting to major life changes and transitions

Changing the Narrative of what its like to be a working musician

Finding non-playing gigs in the music business

“Shedding the ego related badge of only playing for a living'”

Nick Ruffini’s anticipated transition to San Francisco

Zack Albetta’s transition to Atlanta after a year

Matt’s transition from life as a touring drummer to finding work closer to home in Nashville

Being selective about work

The pitfalls of comparing ourselves with other people

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

105 – Tony Austin: Playing with Kamasi Washington, The West Coast Get Down, Redefining West Coast Jazz Mar 01, 2017

Tony Austin was born and raised in Los Angeles. He is one of two drummers (the other being Ronald Bruner Jr.) who are part of The West Coast Get Down, a collective of LA musicians making their mark on the modern jazz scene. The collective’s flagship is saxophonist Kamasi Washington’s recent release, “The Epic,” a three disc set of compositions involving dozens of musicians and ranging from free jazz to soul to electronica, on which Tony played multiple roles as drummer, engineer and producer.

As a kid, Tony was part of the Big Brothers program and was mentored by Roger Linn, a pioneer inventor of electronic musical instruments including the MPC60 drum machine. He credits Roger with nurturing his interest in music and re e maintains that relationship to this day.

In this episode, Tony talks about:

Growing up in North Hollywood and learning about music, electronics, and recording from Roger Linn

The origins and mission of The West Coast Get Down

The unique, “co-op” approach to recording Kamasi Washington’s “The Epic”

Playing double drums with Ronald Bruner Jr.

His friendship, musical partnership, and current duo project with bassist Miles Mosley

Carving out creative and profitable projects for yourself, not just being at the mercy of the sideman hustle

The experiences he had as a kid under the mentorship or Roger Linn

Tour managing and playing with groups that performed on military bases in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Tony Austin endorses Tama drums, Zildjian cymbals, Vic Firth drumsticks, and Remo drumheads.

This episode is sponsored by Sonor.

104 – Black Drummers Of Nashville Round Table: Building Relationships Upon the Common Ground of Music, Creating a Support System Feb 22, 2017

In this episode we have the opportunity to share the unique perspective of a group of talented black musicians who make their living in Nashville, Tennessee. They share stories of resilience and realism in an unpredictable work environment.

Our guests include Keio Stroud, Derek Phillips, Jeremy Roberson, Marcus Finnie and Hubert Payne. Their respective artist gigs include Big and Rich, Chase Rice, Hank Williams Jr., Kirk Whalum, Little Big Town as well as other live and studio work that keeps these drummers busy.

In this podcast, this round table discusses:

Building relationships upon the common ground of music

Being the only black person at an arena gig

Influencing the culture on and off the kit

Learning how to develop thick skin

Being mistaken as the band’s security

The influence of urban music in country music

“Kanye Twitty”

“Don’t step on the money” – AKA the melody – Keb Mo

Hands = knowledge / Ears = wisdom

Driving the band

Creating a support system

This episode is sponsored by Sonor drums

103 – Andy Sanesi: From Avant Garde Jazz to Pop, Altering Your Cymbals, Making the Most of a Steady Feb 16, 2017

Andy Sanesi is a New York native who has spent the last decade in L.A. His time in New York was highlighted by playing with saxophonist John Zorn but the quality of life in L.A. and the opportunity to do better than just scrape by drew him west. He got busy soon after moving, thanks to a few friends in L.A.’s latin, jazz, fusion and rock scenes, and eventually landed the gig with Missing Persons, a drum chair originally occupied by Terry Bozzio.

In this podcast, Andy talks about:

Growing up with the jazz influence of his dad and the pop/rock influence of his older sisters

How a John Zorn tribute show in college led to actually playing with Zorn

Not being the best at any one thing, but really good at many things

How working his way onto the LA scene hinged on just a few key contacts

Playing in Missing Persons, and making that drum chair his own

The difference between being told what to play and told how to play

The tools and techniques he uses to alter the sound of his cymbals

His long-standing weekly steady with the Julian Coryell Trio at Trip in Santa Monica

His (and Zack’s) favorite cocktail

Andy Sanesi endorses DW drums, Aquarian drumheads, Sabian cymbals, Vic Firth drumsticks, and Humes & Berg cases.

This episode is sponsored by Sonor drums

102 – Wil Easterwood: Drumming for Trick Pony, Expecting the Best From Yourself, Singing While Drumming Feb 08, 2017

When not out touring with country duo Trick Pony, Wil Easterwood spends his time as a freelance drummer and vocalist for live performances and studio sessions in Nashville, Tennessee. He also has several years of experience as an audio engineer live/studio.

Originally from Cedartown, GA, Wil moved to Nashville in 2008 and quickly began working steadily as a drummer on lower Broadway. The exposure and experience on lower Broadway lead to many performance opportunities for Wil including his work with Trick Pony. At the age of 29, his musicality and approach to the instrument has a maturity that has been well-recognized by his peers of all ages and experience.

Before moving to Nashville, Wil played with Georgia based groups in both indie rock and country genres. While in Georgia, Wil worked for several Atlanta market FM and smaller “hometown” AM radio stations as an On-Air Personality. And, from 2005 to 2007, Wil served as the house engineer and assistant technical director for his hometown one thousand seat auditorium/theater.

Repairing, cleaning, tuning and general maintenence of drums has always been something Wil has had a love and talent for. Under the name, “Circus Bear Drum Services”, Wil is now offering this service to the drumming community.

In this episode, Wil talks about:

Singing while playing drums

Expecting the best from yourself

How the Trick Pony gig happened

In-Ears vs a wedge

Playing lower Broadway gigs in Nashville

Early small town musical influences

Wil’s engineering experience

Circus Bear Drum Services and its back story

Diversifying your workload

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums

101 – Gary Hobbs: Touring with Stan Kenton, Applying Jazz Training to All Music, Breaking Jazz Out of Its Own Box Feb 01, 2017

Gary Hobbs resides just outside Portland, OR, literally steps from the house he grew up in. His father and grandfather were both semi-pro drummers, but the drum bug didn’t bite Gary until his senior year in high school. He attended a Stan Kenton Jazz Camp where he studied with legendary jazz drummer and educator John Von Ohlen, who convinced him to pursue drumming professionally. After a stint in the army, Gary was invited to join the Kenton Band and toured with them almost non-stop for two and a half years. Since then, his hometown has been his home base from which he has commanded a successful career as a drummer and educator. In addition to playing all over the Pacific Northwest, Gary teaches at The University of Oregon. He has traveled the world as a sideman with jazz greats such as Randy Brecker, Anita O’Day, and Eddie Harris, and in his own right as an educator and clinician.

In this podcast, Gary talks about:

The influence of his mentor, John Von Ohlen

Having to turn down the first call he got from Stan Kenton

Networking and hanging – difference between being a presence and being a nuisance

The Kenton touring experience – two and a half years on a bus – and how there is no substitute for that kind of experience

How he keeps his students from developing short-sighted, condescending, or egotistical notions about being a pro musician

How live jazz can and should diversify away from jazz clubs

What “hippopotamus music” is

Gary Hobbs endorses Yamaha Drums and Sabian Crescent Cymbals

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums

100 – 100th Episode Special: A Very Non-Serious Nashville Drummer Round Table Jan 25, 2017

We are excited to share a special edition of our 100th episode by bringing you a fun round table discussion among a group of Nashville drummers, AKA “The Cocksmiths”. This round table should have some familiar names as many have been guests on this podcast. It includes: Kevin Murphy, Ben Sesar, Billy Freeman, Tucker Wilson, Kyle Wilkerson, Keio Stroud, Wil Easterwood, Rob Mitchell and Jeff Brown. Missing from the discussion were Russ Whitman & Zack Stewart.

Covering a wide range of ages and music career experiences, this group of friends has evolved into a “support group” of drummers that utilizes its collective experiences as well as sick sense of humor to create a safe space for the members to hang, have fun and be there for each other.

In this podcast, the group talks about:

Playing Cards Against Humanity for drummers

The “origin story” of this group and why it exists

The intentional safe space they’ve created for each other to show support as well as give each other total shit

A group of honest friends, not a “networking” group

Favorite Spinal Tap line / scenario

Favorite Buddy Rich line ever

What would you do if you didn’t play drums

What we need more of / What we need less of

Taking honest advice from your buddies

This episode is sponsored Sonor drums

099 – Pete Cater: Building on Legends’ Legacies, Big Band Drumming 101, Going Beneath the Surface of Buddy Rich Jan 17, 2017

London-based drummer and bandleader Pete Cater has built on the traditions of Buddy Rich, Joe Morello, and many others to carve a niche for himself as the U.K.’s keeper of the big band flame. The son of a semi-pro drummer in Birmingham, Pete was gigging with his dad’s colleagues by the time he was in his early teens. Throughout his 20s, he had plenty of work locally in Birmingham and on resorts and cruise ships, but after awhile he felt the need to see what he could do in London. He moved there at age 30

In this podcast, Pete talks about:

His “apprenticeship” – sitting in with and eventually working with the bands his dad played in

How moving to London at the relatively late age of 30 was actually an asset, in that he went there with a lot of seasoning and experience that younger drummers there didn’t have

The integral role that arts funding from the British government played in getting his band going

Concepts of big band drumming, and how they translate to other styles

Playing with authority to gain the band’s trust

The ways in which Buddy Rich is misunderstood, and which lesser-known and sometimes maligned Buddy album is one of his favorites.

What he considers the best book about Buddy

How to emulate your idols in a way that fits your body and your playing

Pete Cater endorses Premier Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Evans Drumheads, and Vater Drumsticks

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums

098 – Hubert Payne: Drumming for Little Big Town, “Stepping Out On Faith”, Rising Above Great Adversity, Building a Simple But Effective Recording Rig Jan 11, 2017

Hubert Payne was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. Although, he was heavily influenced by his father who was a professional drummer, he was encouraged to focus on sports and higher education. During high school Hubert excelled at football and won two State Championships. His athletic skill landed him with a scholarship to play college football. While at Maryville College in Tennessee, he was voted captain by his teammates, and received All Conference honors.

Throughout his youth and into college, Hubert had always retained his love and interest in drumming. But it wasn’t until 2006 that he began working as a professional musician in Nashville. From 2006-2009, he was a member of the Tyrone Smith Revue Funk Band, and decided in ’09 to move to Los Angeles to hone his craft at the LA Music Academy.

In January of 2010, Hubert was tragically attacked by a stranger at a Nashville concert venue. He was stabbed multiple times in the hand and leg. Hubert underwent surgery on a severed hand tendon, and required a year of rehabilitation. Even after sustaining a permanent handicap in his left hand from the attack, Hubert applied the discipline he learned during his athletic career to his musical goals.

Since then, Hubert Payne has landed positions with many nationally-touring country artists including: Love & Theft, Jana Kramer, David Nail, Casey James, Josh Gracin, Danielle Peck, Joel Crouse, and currently (since January 2015) resides as the drummer for Little Big Town.

Hubert added a couple impressive recording credits in 2016 including Little Big Town and Pharrell Williams.

When he is not on tour with LBT, Hubert travels all over the country telling his story. His motivational speeches surround his message of how to “Prepare for the Performance Moment”, which is the routine that Hubert has perfected.

In this podcast, Hubert talks about:

Being a person of color, touring through middle America with a country act and the challenges and opportunities it presents

His gig with Little Big Town

Recording with Pharrell Williams

Creating a recording environment to practice and learn how to perform in the studio

Building a simple recording rig that works

The influence of his pro drumming father

Studying at the LA Music Acadamy

Getting stabbed in the hand and leg at a night club

“Stepping out on faith” and opening himself up to new opportunities

Hubert endorses: Sakae Drums, Vicfirth sticks, Zildjian cymbals, Cymbolt Percussion Dynamics

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums

097 – Billy Freeman: Drumming for Dustin Lynch, Facing Your Doubts and Fears, Discovering Drums from an Early Age Jan 04, 2017

A Native of Garland Texas, Billy Freeman grew up around local Opry houses and by the age of 12 took over the job as house drummer for the Garland Opry and performed every Saturday night till the age of 18. In addition to the Opry gig, Billy stayed involved in every music activity he could throughout high school. Beyond high school, his passion for drumming continued.

(From the on-line publication – Nashville Three-Sixty) – By age 20, he was a proven player attracting attention. He did session work and played some gigs with LeAnn’s (Rimes) band members and spent a decade in the Dallas music scene networking and freelancing a burgeoning career. At one time, he was juggling playing with ten different artists. He met a lot of players during his years playing the club circuit and focused on building real relationships from his associations. Billy wasn’t content to be a casual bystander in the Dallas music scene. His intent was to be as present and vital as a pulse in his community, creating a body of work to further and sustain his musical growth.

This experience put Billy on the fast track to becoming an extremely competent player and in 2012 beat out over 5000 other drummers to make the Guitar Center Drum-Off grand finals. This led to his touring gig for a year with country legend, Neal McCoy. In 2013 he moved to Nashville after successfully auditioning for singer Dustin Lynch and has been touring with him ever since.

In this podcast, Billy talks about:

Learning from others while on tour

Discovering the drums at a very early age

Understanding subtlety in musical drummers at an early age

The Dallas music scene

Responsibilities of a musical director

What lead to the Dustin Lynch gig

Preparing for a future off the road

Facing your doubts and fears

Maintaining your chops while on the road

His responsibilities with Dustin’s gig

Billy endorses: Ludwig drums, Zildjian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Kelly Shu mic mounts and 1964 in-ears

This episode is sponsored by Sonor drums

096 – Herman Matthews: Being a Feel Specialist, Giving Each Groove its Due, “Have Drums, Will Travel” Dec 28, 2016

Herman Matthews has been an L.A. fixture for almost three decades and his resume includes names such as Tom Jones, Kirk Whalum, Tower of Power, and Hugh Laurie. Between the big gigs, his “have drums, will travel” attitude has always kept him working with other acts, either on smaller tours or playing locally in L.A. He is currently the touring drummer for Timothy B. Schmidt of The Eagles.

Herman grew up in Houston, TX, and began playing drums in his uncle’s blues organ trio at age 11. He moved to L.A. in 1987, when he was offered the drum chair in saxophonist Kirk Whalum’s band.

In this podcast, Herman talks about:

The challenge of diversifying your playing in a market full of specialists, and avoiding being seen as a one-trick pony

The experience of getting fired, along with the rest of the band, from the Tom Jones gig

His approach to navigating songs and the group dynamic when taking over for another drummer

Trends in drumming, and incorporating only the ones that fit his character

Why he prefers bigger drums and cymbals, and finding the drum sounds that compliment your particular tendencies as a player

His favorite bassists to play with

Knowing how to negotiate to stay busy

Herman Matthews endorses DW Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Remo Drumheads and Innovative Percussion

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums.

095 – Garrett Goodwin: Drumming For Carrie Underwood, The Nashville Sampling Company, Less Than Conventional Set-up Dec 21, 2016

While Garrett Goodwin began his career playing in the backdrop of worship movements across the country (Zoegirl, Jeff Deyo of Sonicflood, Lindell Cooley, two-time Dove Award winner By The Tree), he has since transitioned fluidly through the musical world. Most recently, Garrett has spent the last decade as the drummer for Carrie Underwood. He’s also performed live with Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith; on Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Fallon, The Grammy Awards, The American Music Awards, The People’s Choice Awards, Billboard Awards, among others.

Garrett resides in Nashville, Tennessee, where you’ll see him co-leading KMLM.org, a non-profit organization with the mission of sending bags that give hope to children in need. For every bag purchased, another bag full of educational materials is sent to a child.

Throughout his career, Garrett has played for over 1 million people… for each tour he’s been on, and was named #1 up and coming drummer in Modern Drummer Magazine in 2013. Just this year, (2016) Garrett was nominated for Country Drummer of the Year.

Garret has also shared the stage with Little Big Town, keith urban, Hunter Hayes, Vince Gill, Randy Travis, Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert, Orianthi, Dolly Parton, Josh Turner, Craig Morgan, Billy Currington, David Cook, Bryan Adams, Sons of Sylvia.

Garrett has played at these notable places: Grand Ole Opry, Royal Albert Hall, Madison Square Garden, Hollywood Bowl, Sydney Opera House.

In this podcast, Garrett talks about:

Making good use of his downtime while on tour

What advice he gives to aspiring players

Using electronics on the Carrie gig

How the Carrie Underwood gig came about

His less than conventional set up

The Nashville Sampling Company

HIs Modern Drummer accolades

His non-profit organization – Know Me Love Me (KMLM.org)

What the future holds for Garrett

Garrett endorses: DW Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, Promark Sticks, DRUMTACS, BIG FAT SNARE DRUM

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums

094 – Larry Aberman: 13 Years with Zumanity on the Las Vegas Strip, Taking Direction, Navigating the Vegas Scene Dec 14, 2016

Larry Aberman was handpicked to be the drummer for Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity, a show specifically conceived to be featured in a 1,200 seat theatre at New York New York in Las Vegas beginning in 2003. Before that he spent time in LA and New York maintaining a busy touring and recording schedule, primarily with pianist Joe Sample. In 13 years with Zumanity, Larry has been involved in the show’s creative process, working with musical directors, composers and fellow musicians to help create and subsequently update the show.

In this podcast, Larry talks about

What it means to be a generous player

Working with different musical directors on Zumanity, navigating his role in the show, and knowing who is boss is

Networking in Las Vegas

Teaching at UNLV, and how the Las Vegas scene informs the curriculum there

How most auditions are designed to see how you perform under adversity

The trade-off of turning down work because of his commitment to Zumanity

His long-standing relationship with DW

The physical demands of playing ten shows a week in Vegas vs. five shows a week with a band on the road

Larry Aberman endorses DW Drums, Remo Drumheads, and Zildjian Cymbals & Drumsticks.

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums

093 – Steve Smith: Drum Legend, Touring Again with Journey, New Book: The Pathways Of Motion, Defining Drum Set Technique, Nashville Drummer Jam Tribute Dec 07, 2016

Steve Smith‘s drumming, while always decidedly modern, can best be described as a style that embodies the history of U.S. music. His command of jazz, from New Orleans music, swing, bebop, avant-garde to fusion, is applied with his powerful rock drumming sensibilities and allows him to push the boundaries of all styles to new heights.

Originally from Massachusetts, Smith began studying the drums at age nine, in 1963. After high school, Smith studied music at the Berklee College of Music in Boston from 1972-76. There he received valuable instruction from such renowned teachers as Gary Chaffee and Alan Dawson.

Smith’s professional career began in full at 19 years old and began touring and recording right away with jazz artists like violinist Jean-Luc Ponty and rocker Ronnie Montrose. In 1978, Smith was asked to join the popular rock band Journey which brought his playing to the attention of a rock audience. In 1985 Smith left Journey to pursue his original passion, jazz, and to continue his developing career as a session player.

Steve began leading his own fusion band, Vital Information while still a member of Journey. The group recorded their first album in 1983 and continue touring and recording to this day. He has also maintained an extensive touring and recording career, appearing with many jazz luminaries such as Mike Mainieri’s group Steps Ahead. Other high profile jazz touring and/or recording gigs that have filled Steve’s schedule include such artists as Ahmad Jamal, Michael Manring, Stanley Clarke, Randy Brecker, Zakir Hussain, George Brooks’ Summit and the Buddy Rich Big Band.

As a drummer, Steve has worked for, and with, the best. He is consistently pushing the boundaries of creative drumming and constantly expanding his strong musical voice at the top of the international drumming community. As an educator, Smith is both the eternal student and perpetual teacher of the drums with many books and DVD’s to his credit including his latest book/DVD combo: The Pathways of Motion.

In this podcast, Steve talks about:

His touring schedule in 2016 and the variety of styles he covers

Mixing yourself and creating balance on the kit

Using in-ears for the first time with Journey

Preparing for the Journey tour

Creating a center of balance on the kit

His new book “Pathways Of Motion”

Defining “Drumset technique”

His lessons with Freddie Gruber

Learning to play the instrument in the information age

His art project: The Fabric of Rhythm – stevesmithdrumart.com

Steve endorses: Zildjian Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, Sonor Drums, Vic Firth Sticks, Puresound Snares, Sure Microphones, Cympad, Hudson Music

This episode is sponsored by Sonor Drums

092 – Jamison Ross: Combining His Drumming and Singing Roots, Leading a Band from the Drums, The Importance of New Orleans’ Drumming Lineage Dec 01, 2016

Jamison Ross is doing what no drummer has ever done – drumming, singing, composing (music and lyrics), and bandleading, all from the front and center of the stage. He is the 2012 winner of the Thelonious Monk Jazz Competition. He won only as a drummer but at his showcase concert, he shocked the jazz world by singing as well. This set him on his current path bringing his unique concept to jazz which combines the influences of his church roots, his jazz drumming heroes, and the great voices of Soul and R&B.

Jamison grew up in Jacksonville, FL, graduated from Florida State with a degree in Jazz Studies, and went on to earn a master’s degree at the University of New Orleans. He has made his home in New Orleans since. Before entering the Monk Competition, he was already busy as a sideman with Ellis Marsalis, Carmen Lundy, Marcus Roberts and many others.

In this podcast, Jamison talks about:

Growing up in Jacksonville and being exposed to many different art forms from an early age

How the lineage of the drumset is tied to the lineage of jazz, and how funk, R&B, rock, and other styles can be traced back to jazz drumming

The experience of competing in and winning The Thelonious Monk Competition

His concept as a jazz artist and bandleader – bringing the blues and songwriting back to jazz

The intricacies of playing drums behind vocal jazz

The personal and musical factors that went into choosing his band

The importance of pre-BeBop jazz and jazz drumming, and of the New Orleans drumming lineage (Baby Dodds, Idris Muhammad, Zigaboo Modeliste, Smokey Johnson, Herlin Riley, etc.)

How he can lead his band from the drums in ways that other singers or instrumentalists can’t

Jamison Ross endorses Yamaha Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, and Vic Firth Drumsticks

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

091 – Pete Parada: Drumming for The Offspring, Working with Legends like Producer Bob Rock and Rob Halford of Judas Priest, Studying at M.I. in L.A. Nov 23, 2016

Shortly after high school, Pete Parada moved to the west coast to study at the Musicians Institute (MI) where he took classes with greats like Joe Porcaro, Ralph Humphrey, Chuck Flores and Efrain Toro. One teacher he clicked the most with happened to be Ray Luzier (drummer for Korn, David Lee Roth, Army of Anyone). They ended up being roommates for a few years and good friends.

Pete’s first big break came in 1998 when he was asked to join the punk rock group Face To Face. Over the next six years, he traveled the world and recorded four studio albums, three EP’s and a live record with the band.

During his tenure with Face To Face, Pete also had a four year run with Saves The Day, a highly influential band from the post-punk and hardcore scene. He spent two years juggling both group’s crazy schedules and at one point played seven shows in three days over one weekend in England. During his time with Saves the Day, Pete recorded two studio albums and an EP.

After Pete’s gig with Face To Face ended, a good friend recommended that he meet with The Offspring. In an instant they clicked both musically and personally. Pete says, “My passion for music was reignited and nearly a decade later I’m still just as excited. It has been a privilege to play the biggest stages in the world with them and record with legendary producer Bob Rock on the album “Days Go By” and the #1 rock single “Coming For You.” In addition to being a multi-platinum act, Dexter, Noodles and Greg K are three of the greatest guys I’ve ever known. I’m lucky to call them friends.”

Over the years, Pete also had the pleasure of working with a few of his all time favorite artists, including recording sessions with Rob Halford from Judas Priest, and Chris Shifflet from Foo Fighters, as well as tours with Devo, My Chemical Romance and Alkaline Trio.

In this podcast, Pete talks about:

Moving to Nashville and discovering the drumming community

The difference between L.A. and Nashville

Pete’s move to L.A. and his experience at M.I.

Touring experiences with The Offspring

Building his resume after M.I.

Getting the Face To Face

Juggling two road gigs

Dealing with aches and pains on the road

Filling in for Josh Freese (SP?) with Devo

Getting the gig with The Offspring

Working with producer Bob Rock in the studio

Pete endorses: Tama Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vater Sticks, Remo Drumheads, Yamaha Electronics, Latin Percussion, Sontronics Microphones

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

090 – Nick Mancini: Managing Creativity and Business in the 21st Century, What a Music College Should and Shouldn’t Do, Crafting Your Expression Nov 16, 2016

Vibraphonist Nick Mancini has lived in LA for a decade, and a decade in New York before that. Self-diagnosed with “musical A.D.D.,” he has constantly been involved in a huge number and a huge variety of groups. He never had any interest in being a hired gun for pop or commercial music, and has been at the forefront of creative projects on the LA jazz scene both as a leader and a sideman.

Nick is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music and was voted “Best Jazz Percussionist” by DRUM! Magazine in 2014. He has released nine albums as a leader and had a hand in dozens of others as a producer and sideman. He is also on the jazz faculty at two California State University campuses, Northridge and Long Beach.

In this podcast, Nick talks about:

His new record, “The Long Game” with Hammond B3 organist Ty Bailie and drummer Tina Raymond

His college experiences, from starting out at a small community college in Schenectady, NY, to grad school the Manhattan School of Music

What a collegiate music program should do for you, and what you should do for yourself

Why he thinks jazz training produces the best musicians

How the experience of daily life in New York informed his musical experience there, and why LA’s jazz scene suits him better than New York’s

The Jennifer Keith Sextet and how playing jazz for dancers differs from playing for listeners

Nick Mancini endorses Majestic Percussion and Innovative Percussion

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

089 – Michael Robinson: Vice President of Marketing for KHS America, Insight into the Retail and Production Side of the Music Industry, KHS’s Relationship with the Music Educator Community Nov 11, 2016

Michael Robinson is the Vice President of Marketing for KHS America. He leads the Branding, Marketing Communications, Product Management, Marketing Communications, and Creative teams at KHS America. Michael makes significant contributions to the success of KHS America in the areas of leadership and team development, and in the establishment of customer-centric marketing principles that continue to differentiate the KHS family of brands within the market. These brands include: Jupiter Wind Instruments, Mapex Drums, Sonor Drums, NFUZD Audio, Hohner Harmonicas, Hohner Accordions, Hohner Airboard, Hohner Melodicas and Recorders, Sonor Orff Instruments, H. Jimenez, Lanikai and Kohala Ukuleles, A+ Guitars and Bluegrass Instruments, Hohner Kids and Greentones (both musical toy brands), Hercules and Nomad Stands, Majestic Concert Percussion, XO Brass, and Altus and Azumi Flutes.

In this podcast, Michael talks about:

The roll that KHS America plays from the manufacturer to the customer?

Marketing to different personality trates – “Brand Essence”

The difference in Mapex and Sonor from a marketing stand point

The origin and philosophy of KHS

Michael’s musical and drumming background

Michael’s introduction to the music industry

Rising through the ranks at D’Addario from the production line to R & D to marketing.

Advice for those who are interested in the music industry

Responsibilities as Vice President of Marketing for KHS America

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

088 – Kent Aberle: Touring with Kristian Bush, Building Your Reputation in Cover Bands, Owning a Drum Shop Nov 02, 2016

Kent Aberle has been touring and recording with Kristian Bush for two years. He attended Eastern Illinois University as a Special Education major and began playing in cover bands on the weekends. He has made his home in Atlanta since 2001.

After working his way through several cover bands and retail gigs, he got the opportunity to audition for Kristian Bush and won the gig. He also gained a unique perspective on the drum business and the Atlanta drumming community during his time as part owner of the ATL Drum Collective.

In this podcast, Kent talks about:

How losing weight in his 20’s caused a physical and mental shift from survival mode to productive/creative mode

His college experience as a non-music major, and how it differed from his music major peers

The welcoming nature of the Atlanta music scene

How cover bands serve as a crucial training ground, help you build trust among your colleagues, develop your “song learning muscle,” and set you up to be part of original projects

How he got in with Kristian Bush, and his process for learning Kristian’s songs quickly

The time he spent as part owner of The ATL Drum Collective

Kent Aberle endorses Gretsch Drums, Dream Cymbals, Aquarian Drumheads, Gibraltar Hardware, Vic Firth Drumsticks, Latin Percussion, Gator Cases, Audio-Technica, Porter and Davies, Big Fat Snare Drum, KBrakes, Gig Gear LLC, and Booty Shakers.

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums.

087 – Russ Whitman: Drumming for Craig Morgan, DCI, Teaching and Performing Experience, East Coast Beach Music Oct 26, 2016

Russ Whitman began playing drums at the early age of 6 years old. From then on he always knew what he wanted to do with his life. Following in his father’s footsteps, he started off playing by ear in his grandfathers church. Russ continued his musical education thru his middle and high school years consistently placing first chair in almost every all-state ensemble from concert to jazz.

After high school he continued his education on the collegiate level and in the US Navy. Since then Russ was a member of Carolina Crown, Tarheel Sun, and Carolina Gold Drum and Bugle Corps. After many years marching and instructing numerous award winning high school and collegiate drum lines Russ turned his attention back to the kit.

Russ has had the honor of working with some of the finest musicians around including Steve Gatlin, The Lawrence Welk Show, The Swingtime Orchestra, Soul Power Posse, Painted Man, Eason, and with jazz group J360 where he shared the stage with Spyro Gyra, the Yellowjackets, Gato Barbieri, Kim Waters, and the late Jimmy Smith.

Before his move to Nashville, Russ toured with Craig Woolard and the Journey tribute band Frontiers. Since 2010, Russ has been drumming for Grand Ole Opry member Craig Morgan.

In this podcast, Russ talks about:

Working with a Journey tribute band – Frontiers

East Coast Beach Music

Working for Craig Morgan

Russ’s love of drum corp

Teaching drum corp to the YouTube generation

Using live recordings to understand groove

The audition process for the Navy

Not letting the drums alone define who he is

Touring in Afghanistan with Craig Morgan

Craig endorses: Pearl Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Evans drumheads, Innovative Percussion

This episode is sponsored by Mapex Drums

086 – Jan Faircloth: Being Part of a Tradition, Blues Innovators vs. Purists, An Audio Tour of Blues and Drumming in K.C. Oct 19, 2016

Jan Faircloth grew up in western Kansas and moved to Kansas City in his early 20s. There, he found ample opportunities to pursue his love of Blues and Country music and has since been the heartbeat of some of the most successful blues acts to come out of KC, including Trampled Underfoot, Levee Town, and the Danielle Nicole Band. He is a fixture on the local scene and tours nationally and internationally on the circuit of the world’s best blues clubs, festivals and cruises.

In this podcast, Jan talks about:

His approach on the drums as an original member of a band vs. joining an existing band

Why North Texas wasn’t for him

His relationship with the late great jazz pianist, composer and educator Frank Mantooth

The hallmarks of KC blues, and how it was informed by KC jazz

How musicians are more open to change than listeners

KC’s blues hub, Knuckleheads, and its drumming hub, Explorer’s Percussion

His number one objective, whether playing or teaching: FUN!

Jan Faircloth endorses Meinl Cymbals.

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums.

085 – Kevin Rapillo: Band Leading for Rodney Atkins, Building Careers on Relationships, Staying Focused on Musical Goals Oct 12, 2016

Kevin Rapillo was born in Trumbull, CT, just north of New York City. A combination of growing up just hours north of New York City and having a great uncle, Lou Vitale, that was a professional drummer were the things that helped nurture Kevin’s interest in music. After high school, he found himself at the Berklee College of music in Boston. After moderate success in the Boston area with bands in and out of label deals, Kevin moved to Nashville in late 1997 looking for a fresh start. Shortly after his move, Kevin met and stared working with country singer Rodney Adkins in the early stages of his career. After 14 years and six number ones, Rodney’s still going strong and keeps Kevin busy as a full-time touring drummer.

When not touring, kevin stays busy in Nashville playing often at the legendary Nashville club, The Family Wash. Kevin has worked with many other artists in Nashville including Will Kimbrough, Pat Buchanan and producer Tom Hambridge. Last year, Kevin’s trio recorded a record called The HiMM’s.

In this podcast, Kevin Talks about:

Touring with country singer Rodney Atkins

Auditioning a whole new band as the band leader

The influence of a great uncle who was a successful big band drummer

Staying focused on musical goals the face of overwhelming competition

Drumming for Tom Hambridge – songwriter, producer and drummer as well

Building your career around relationships

Kevin endorses Sakae Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Remo Drumheads

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums

084 – Ed Breckenfeld: Making a Career in Chicago, Longevity In a Changing Music Industry, Thinking Like the Greats Oct 05, 2016

Ed Breckenfeld was born and raised in Chicago and has lived and worked there all his life. He’s done it all, from devoting years of his life to a single band, to being the jack-of-all-trades hired gun, to being the first call for producers, artists and engineers for all kinds of session work. He is the author of “Off The Record,” a long-running transcription series for Modern Drummer Magazine in which he delved into many iconic drum parts across many genres. In addition to working with many local Chicago acts live and in the studio, Ed currently tours internationally with the rock band Pride of Lions.

In this podcast, Ed talks about:

Chicago…the city’s lifestyle, musical infrastructure, musical history, and drumming legacy

What he tells every student about the drums in their first lesson

The advice he gives students who want to pursue music in college

The insight that writing “Off the Record” gave him about how drum parts are created

How the types of gigs you’re in the hunt for change as you age, but don’t necessarily decrease

His experience as a member of a band trying to make its mark in the 1980s, and the nature of the music industry then vs. now

His love of original songs and records, and how he wants his drumming to contribute to those

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums.

083 – Rob McNelley: ACM Guitar Player of the Year, Everything You Wanted to Know About Sessions (But Were Afraid to Ask), Recording with Buddy Guy, Need to Know Advice for Drummers Sep 28, 2016

Rob McNelley is an accomplished session guitarist in Nashville who has landed a string of high-profile gigs and awards including “Guitarist of the Year” from the Academy of Country Music in 2014.

Rob’s father, Bobby Gene McNelley, was the lead singer of McGuffey Lane, a southern-rock band based out of Columbus in the 1980s. Rob spent much of his young life listening to his father’s band, and gradually picking up the guitar. Rob became a huge fan of the Rolling Stones, and an even bigger fan of the blues artists they covered including Jimmy Reed, Chuck Berry, Howlin’ Wolf and Muddy Waters.

Rob eventually moved to Nashville, where he landed a job as Delbert McClinton‘s guitarist and toured with the Grammy-winning blues musician for years, often doubling as McClinton’s opening act. As Delbert’s touring schedule was winding down, Rob was spending more time in the studio and groups like Lady Antebellum began hiring McNelley to play on their multi-platinum albums. Other artists followed, from Bob Seger to Buddy Guy, Kacey Musgraves and Rascal Flatts.

Rob performs with his own band, The Rob McNelley Band, AKA – RNB, regularly in Nashville.

In this podcast, Rob talks about:

Touring with Delbert McClinton

Demos vs. Master sessions in Nashville

Old and new ways of producing

Connecting with the drummer in the studio

Drummers that take a compositional approach and create signature parts

Checking your ego at the door

Advice for young drummers and experienced drummers

Growing up in a musical house

Recording with Buddy Guy

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums

082 – Lauren Kosty: Playing It All…From Percussion to Drumset, from Classical to Pop, from L.A. to London Sep 21, 2016

Lauren Kosty is a classically trained percussionist who has been upping her drumset game in recent years. She spent her entire life in L.A. until she moved to London in February of 2015, where she quickly won an open audition for the drumset/percussion chair with crossover artist Russell Watson. Watson combines operatic singing with various pop styles, making the gig the perfect culmination of Lauren’s many skills. She describes London as “maybe the best city in the world to be a musician in.”

Before moving there, she was commanding a busy schedule in L.A. involving orchestras, musicals, and pop acts, both live and in the studio. Her credits include John Williams, Sir Neville Marriner, Gustavo Dudamel, David Benoit, P. Diddy, Chris Botti, Bobby McFerrin, Brian McKnight, the L.A. Philharmonic, The Long Beach Opera, Dave Ricard Big Band, and the American Musical and Dramatic Academy.

In this podcast Lauren talks about:

How she moved to London knowing almost no one there

How her first few months in London gave her the opportunity to expand her drumset chops

The audition for Russell Watson, and her clever approach to the improvisation portion of it

How she bent a few rules at USC in order to get a greater diversity of playing experience

The rigors of preparing for orchestral auditions

How her interest in a wide variety of instruments and music has led to a wide variety of gigs

Her early impressions of the art and music culture of Europe vs. that of the U.S.

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums

081 – Wes Little: Backing Super Stars Like Sting, Stevie Wonder and Beyonce at Obama’s Inaugural Ball, Touring and Recording with Robben Ford, Building a Session Resume Sep 14, 2016

On a historic night in the Winter of 2009, drummer Wes Little proved beyond any doubt that he is the nimble, adaptable, professional musician he wanted to be even before he left his small Southern home town. The occasion: the inaugural ball for newly elected President Barack Obama. The job: to back a jaw-dropping lineup of legendary talent, including Stevie Wonder, Sting, Mary J. Blige, Faith Hill and Beyonce. Through a wild variety of styles, arrangements and temperaments, Wes Little held down the groove, satisfied the most demanding stars and made the whole event bolder, smoother and better.

Star-studded as it was, the Inaugural Ball was by no means the first validation of Little’s multi-faceted musicianship. For a decade in New York and recent years in Nashville, Little has been patiently taking his place among the elite session drummers, supporting major artists in rock, jazz, hip-hop and country.

Wes is from Wingate, North Carolina, a small college town southeast of Charlotte, where his parents were both educators. Lacking big city distractions, Wes was drawn to music. After seeing a picture of fusion great Billy Cobham seated behind one of the world’s biggest drum sets in a Tama catalogue, Wes knew that’s what he wanted to do.

Most drummers get on-the-job training only, but Little had his eyes on a jazz career, so he pursued formal studies in music, including a master’s degree in jazz drumming from the Manhattan School of Music. As a new professional in New York, there was certainly jazz around, but there was also a smorgasbord variety of styles and gigs. Little played in theater orchestras, sideman sessions and rock bands. He connected with hip-hop legend Chuck D and worked in several of his post-Public Enemy bands, including Confrontation Camp and Fine Arts Militia.

While in New York, Little met his future wife Britt Savage, who moved to Nashville ahead of him. Since 2004, Little has been based in Nashville where he’s earned respect in the Music City studio scene. That said, he’s frequently on the move for work back in New York or tours across the country and world with Robben Ford, Joe Nichols, Jo Dee Messina, Billy Dean and others. He has also expanded his work as a producer and songwriter.

In this podcast, Wes talks about:

Building studios / practice spaces

Evolution of the home studio

Studying at East Carolina University

Moving from New York to Nashville

Working with Chuck D and his band Confrontation Camp

Playing at Obama’s inauguration in 2009 with many artists including Sting, Beyonce, Stevie Wonder and Mary J. Blige

The difference between studio and live playing

Recording and touring with Robben Ford

Rhythm section master class at PASIC

Being married to a musician

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums

Wes Little endorses Pearl Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Vater Sticks, Evans Drumheads, Vintech Audio, Ableton Live, Presonus and Carmichael Thrones

His wife’s hilarious fake Craig’s List post:

Britt (AKA Joey) i don’t need floor tom. what would you charge. Do you have a snare?

I live in Lebanon and am working until 9. please get back to me right away cuz I’m looking at another drum set on friday. do you know if I can get a loud sound with these drums. My favorite drummer is Travis barker (blink 182) and John Dalmayan (System o...

080 – Darren Stanley: Playing with Colonel Bruce Hampton, Letting Art Reflect Life, The New Breed, Goals vs. Expectations Sep 07, 2016

Darren Stanley is one of the Atlanta area’s most established and well-liked drummers. His main gig is touring with Colonel Bruce Hampton, who is described by Wikipedia as a Blues Surrealist. Before that, he was the longest standing drummer for Delta Moon, with whom he toured and recorded for eight years. He is the house drummer for bassist Kevin Scott’s Tuesday night jam session in Atlanta, which is known both locally and by national musicians touring through town as a bastion for experimental music. He is also the percussion instructor for one of the biggest and best high school music programs in the state, Brookwood High School, where his wife is the band director.

In this podcast, Darren talks about:

Playing in Colonel Bruce’s band, and having to be open to almost anything, musically or otherwise

His experience as a student at The University of Georgia and as a musician in Athens

His technical foundation, from rudimental drumming to The New Breed and The New Breed 2

How his eight-year tenure in Delta Moon forced him to strip his playing down to the bare essentials

Being the house drummer for a jam session that is not genre-based and truly open

How losing his father changed his perspective on music

Teaching music to students who aren’t going to make it their careers, but whose musical experience will shape them as people

Why travelling is important for musical and personal development

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAL4tFM2SDY&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VJtqkQ8xII

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums

079 – Marcus Finnie: Drumming with Grammy Award Winning Kirk Whalum, Growing up Performing in the Church, Healthy Road Life Aug 31, 2016

A Memphis native, Marcus Finnie has toured and recorded several years with Grammy winner Kirk Whalum. He has also toured the world with Grammy winning artists such as Donna Summer, Larry Carlton, Earl Klugh, Lady Antebellum, Billy Preston, and BWB.

Marcus is featured on KirkWhalum’s fourth volume of The Gospel According to Jazz. This project also features Rick Braun, Norman Brown, Sheléa and several other artists. Marcus also performed with Sinbad, Keiko Matsui, Marc Antoine, Chuck Wicks, Gerald Veasely Christopher Cross.

While living in Nashville, Marcus has toured and performed with Keb Mo, India Arie, Tamir Hendleman, Monte Montgomery, Larry Goldings, Lalah Hathaway, Aaron Neville, CeCe Winans and several others.

Over the years he’s worked with Grammy winning producers Keb Mo, Shannon Sanders, Andrew Ramsey, Cedric and Victor Caldwell, Kelvin Wooten, John Stoddart, Robben Ford, Rodney Crowell, Darrel Brown, Tommy Simms, Ed Cash, and Desmond Child.

Marcus teaches at The Nashville Jazz Workshop and fronts his own band – The Marcus Finnie Band.

Marcus endorses: Sakae Drums, Vic Firth Sticks, Zildjian Cymbals, Meinl Percussion & Evans Drum Heads

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums

In this podcast, Marcus talks about:

Changing his set-up to accommodate the song/vibe in the studio

Working with studio engineers

Marcus’s early influences

Working with Grammy award winning Kirk Whalum

Click or no click in the studio

Nashville Jazz Workshop

The Marcus Finnie Group

The future of jazz in Nashville

Healthy road life

078 – Michael Duffy: Drum Corps Culture at North Texas, The Austin Scene, Gathering Info from Other Drummers, Making it Work in L.A. Aug 24, 2016

Michael Duffy is an L.A. native, and has spent most of his career splitting his time between drumset and Latin percussion. He marched corps with Velvet Knights and Blue Devils and attended North Texas. He left school early to start gigging full time, first in Dallas then in Austin, where there was a lot of session work at the time. He moved to L.A. in 2002 where he has toured and recorded with a long list of rock, pop and salsa acts including OzoMatli and Poncho Sanchez.

In this podcast, Michael talks about:

How marching in Blue Devils led him to North Texas, and how the drum corps mentality was helpful there.

His first touring gig after college with smooth jazz saxophonist Joseph Vincelli, and the nuts-and-bolts lessons he learned from the bassist in that band.

How playing Afro-Cuban, Brazilian and African percussion gave him educational and professional opportunities he wouldn’t have had on drumset.

The essence of Texas Blues.

How after 20 years of playing professionally, he is now beginning to delve seriously into jazz drumming.

His first touring gig after moving back to LA, with OzaMatli, a gig that required him to cop a variety of drummers and styles “authentically and inauthentically.”

His current projects, Jungle Fire and The White Blinds

His long-game approach to living and working in L.A.–it’s a choice.

Michael Duffy endorses Heuer Drums, Innovative Percussion Drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Latin Percussion.

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums.

077 – Al Wilson: “Owning It” when Performing, Leaving Taylor Swift’s Gig After 6 Years to Focus on Family, Orchestrating Loops Organically Aug 17, 2016

Originally from North Carolina, Al Wilson discovered his passion for drumming at the age of 18. Within a very short time, Al was learning “on the job” working as a full time drummer. While living in Colorado, this passion turned into a time of self-discovery and learning of all things drums and percussion.

In an effort to find more work, Al eventually moved to Nashville and began working immediately. After a short stint with singer Josh Gracin from American idol, Al was recommended for the Taylor Swift gig. Taylor was only 16 years old and at the beginning of her career. Things snowballed so fast that Al not only became the her touring drummer, he also acted as band leader, production manager and travel agent.

After six years of nonstop touring, Al decided to leave Taylor’s gig and redirect his attention towards his family.

Most recently, Al has been steadily building his workload back in Nashville with freelance work and teaching all the while maintaining a healthy balance between work and family.

In this podcast, Al talks about:

Looking for more creative outlets and songwriting

Discovering his love of drums at 18

Self-imposed crash course in learning to play

Strengthening the left hand through songo grooves

Putting the time into learning the gig – owning the material

Working with Taylor Swift

Creating loops as organically as possible

The reason for leaving Taylor’s gig

Al Endorses: Ludwig Drums, Vater Sticks

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums.

076 – Matt Hankle: Playing on Broadway, Acting Like You Belong, Going All In On the L.A. Rock Scene Aug 10, 2016

Matt Hankle grew up in New Jersey, the son of a classical flautist and a jazz trombonist. His first professional experience was at age 17 when he spent a summer touring with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. After three semesters at the University of Miami, he re-joined the circus full-time for two years. He then settled down in New York where he worked on Broadway for over a decade, playing everything from Chicago to Mama Mia to Blue Man Group. In 2013, he moved to L.A. and hasn’t looked back, catching on with L.A.-based acts such as Yeghikian and Mulholland Drive.

In this podcast, Matt talks about:

How the circus band encompassed the traditional “boom-chick” style, but also modern rock, pop and metal.

Full-time subbing on Broadway, i.e. learning multiple shows and playing a different one each night

Gaining trust on the LA scene, musically and socially

How breaking away from the New York theatre scene required him to break away from New York

Day-to-day life in New York vs. L.A.

The importance of accepting invitations to hang, sit in, etc.

The no-frills, old school metal approach of Yeghikian

Hitting hard and “putting weight behind the notes” without sacrificing groove, sound quality, or physical health

Matt Hankle endorses Vic Firth sticks, Remo heads, and Paiste cymbals

This episode is sponsored by Sakae drums

075 – Peter Erskine: Jazz Legend, The Importance of the Space Between the Notes, Learning from Bad Performances, Working and Playing Well with Others, Drumming for Seth MacFarlane, Dr. Um Aug 03, 2016

Peter Erskine has played the drums since the age of four and is known for his versatility and love of working in different musical contexts. He appears on over 600 albums and film scores, and has won two Grammy Awards, plus an Honorary Doctorate from the Berklee School of Music (1992).

Peter graduated from the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan and studied at Indiana University under George Gaber. In 1972 Peter commenced his pro career playing with the Stan Kenton Orchestra. Four years later, he joined Maynard Ferguson before working with Jaco Pastorius in Weather Report and moving to Los Angeles. Peter recorded five albums with the band. He won his first Grammy Award with their album ’8.30’. During this time in LA, he also worked with Freddie Hubbard, Joe Henderson, Chick Corea, Bobby Hutcherson, Joe Farrell and George Cables. Peter then moved to New York City where he worked for five years with such musicians as Michael Brecker, Mike Mainieri, Eddie Gomez and Eliane Elias in Steps Ahead, John Scofield, Bill Frisell and Marc Johnson in the legendary group Bass Desires, the John Abercrombie Trio plus Bob Mintzer’s Big Band.

He has also played with Steps Ahead, Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan, Diana Krall, Kenny Wheeler, Mary Chapin Carpenter, The Brecker Brothers, The Yellowjackets, Pat Metheny and Gary Burton, John Scofield, et al, and has appeared as a soloist with the London, Los Angeles, Chicago, Frankfurt Radio, Scottish Chamber, Ensemble Intercontemporain, Royal Opera House, BBC Symphony, Oslo and Berlin Philharmonic Orchestras. Peter premièred the double percussion concerto Fractured Lines, composed by Mark-Anthony Turnage, at the BBC Proms with Andrew Davis conducting, and has collaborated frequently with Sir Simon Rattle. He also premiered the Turnage opera “Anna Nicole” at the Royal Opera House in London. Turnage has composed a solo concerto for Peter titled “Erskine,” which received its world premiere in Bonn, Germany in 2013, with the US premiere scheduled for September 2014 at the Hollywood Bowl with the LA Philharmonic.

Peter has been voted ’Best Jazz Drummer of the Year’ ten times by the readers of Modern Drummer magazine. Fifty albums have been released under his own name or as co-leader.

Peter’s lived in LA since 1987 but has been travelling around the world all of that time, working with such artists as Diana Krall, Joni Mitchell, Vince Mendoza, Steely Dan, plus European musicians Jan Garbarek, Kenny Wheeler, Palle Danielsson, John Taylor, Kate Bush, Nguyen Lê, Rita Marcotulli, the Norrbotten Big Band in Sweden plus Sadao Watanabe in Japan. He won his second Grammy Award as the drummer of the WDR big band in Köln along with Michael Brecker, Randy Brecker, Vince Mendoza and others for the “Some Skunk Funk” album. Meanwhile, Peter keeps busy in LA with such artists as Alan Pasqua, Bob Sheppard and Bob Mintzer as well as playing in studios. Films where Peter’s drumming can be heard include Memoirs of a Geisha, the new Pink Panther films and all three of the Austin Powers movies, plus the title music of the Steven Spielberg/John Williams collaboration “The Adventures of Tintin.”

Peter produces jazz recordings for his record label, Fuzzy Music, and is an active author with several books to his credit; the latest titles include “No Beethoven (Autobiography & Chronicle of Weather Report),” “Time Awareness for All Musicians,” “Essential Drum Fills,” and “Everything I Know, A Work in Progress” (DVD). He is also authoring new iOS Play-Along apps suitable for all instruments.

Peter is Professor of Practice and Director of Drumset Studies at the Thornton School of Music, University of Southern California.

Many of the products that Peter endorses include: Tama Star Drums, Zildjian Cymbals,

074 – Todd Strait: Studying with Ed Soph & Joe Morello, Cutting His Teeth in New York, Playing Behind Singers, Splitting Time Between Portland and Kansas City Jul 27, 2016

Todd Strait was into jazz from the very start and has played with some of its biggest names over his a 35-year career. After studying with Ed Soph and Joe Morello, he made New York his home base and built an impressive resume there which included Marian McPartland and Woody Herman. In the 1990s, he relocated to Kansas City where he became the drummer for Eldar as well as two of the most celebrated vocalists in jazz, Kevin Mahogany and five-time Grammy nominee Karrin Allyson. For the past decade, he has split time between the local scenes of Kansas City and Portland, OR, and continued to record and tour internationally with Karrin Allyson.

In this podcast, Todd talks about

Creating a practice routine in high school that mirrored his dad’s 9 to 5 schedule.

Bad habits that Ed Soph helped him break

His short but educational tenure with the Woody Herman Band

The different types of legwork needed to get beyond a local scene

Playing behind vocalists vs. instrumental groups

Using volume, orchestration, tuning, and cymbal selection to mix and EQ your own sound as you play.

How family life brought him from New York to KC to Portland

Todd Strait endorses Yamaha drums, Sabian cymbals and Canopus snare wires.

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums.

073 – Zack Albetta: Establishing Yourself in a New Town, Connecting With Your Audience, Creating a Network of Colleagues, Hosting a Podcast Jul 20, 2016

Zack Albetta grew up in Santa Fe, NM, where he began drum lessons at age 8. Music was the focus of his high school years and he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Percussion Performance from Ball State University.

In 2003, Zack entered graduate school at The University of Missouri-Kansas City and in four years, Zack earned Master’s degrees in Percussion Performance and Jazz & Studio Performance. While at UMKC, Zack’s primary mentor was alto sax legend and Grammy nominee Bobby Watson. Zack also studied drumset with Doug Auwarter, a master of jazz, Brazilian and Afro-Cuban styles, who impressed upon Zack the importance of playing various styles authentically.

By the time he graduated in 2007, Zack was already in high demand on Kansas City’s rich and vibrant music scene. He spent the next three years playing with many of the area’s top artists and organizations including Bobby Watson, Shay Estes, Mark Lowrey, The Kansas City Symphony, the Kansas City Repertory Theatre, and the 18th & Vine Big Band, with whom he backed up legendary vocalists Karyn Allison, Mary Stallings and Ernie Andrews.

In 2010, he set his sights on Los Angeles in search of new performance opportunities and a bigger musical market. Soon after arriving, Zack won an open audition to become a member of Disneyland’s Five & Dime Band.

In 2014 he joined The Jennifer Keith Sextet, a retro-swing band led by Royal Crown Revue founder Mando Dorame. During Zack’s tenure, the group headlined at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, The Catalina JazzTrax Festival, and LA’s marquis venues including Cicada Club and The Edison. During five years in LA, Zack amassed a deep and varied list of performance credits including Grammy and Oscar winner Johnny Mandel, Grammy nominees Kim Richmond and Pete Christlieb, Jacques Lesure, Ty Bailie, Nick Mancini, Center Theatre Group, Musical Theatre West and 3D Theatricals.

Zack relocated to Atlanta in 2016 and hit the ground running. In just a few months, he has become a go-to for some of the best talent in the Southeast including Jacob Deaton, Kevin Scott, The Atlanta Funk Society, Louis Heriveaux, and The Emerald Empire Band.

In January, 2016, Zack began his contribution to this podcast as a co-host.

Zack endorses: UFIP cymbals, Aquarian drum heads, Vater Sticks

In this podcast, Zack talks about:

Studying at UMKC (Masters of Music (classical percussion) & Master of Arts (Jazz studies))

Teacher & Sax player Bobby Watson teaching him the value of “The Hug” – connecting with audience and having fun.

Chart reading skills

Moving to LA and starting over in a new scene

Working for Disney

Leaving your ego at the door an learning the gig

Creating a network of colleagues

Current gigs in Atlanta

Zack’s interest in writing

The value of effective writing

072 – Staff Sgt. Wes Anderson: L.A. & Disneyland as Stepping Stones, Stepping Up His Game with Eric Reed, Touring with The Army Jazz Ambassadors Jul 13, 2016

Wes Anderson recently became the drummer for the U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors, the military’s premier touring jazz ensemble. Born and raised in Phoenix, AZ, Wes graduated from Arizona State University and marched drum corps with The Arizona Academy. In 2012, he landed a gig at Disneyland and moved to L.A. A few months after moving, he joined pianist Eric Reed‘s trio, with whom he continues to perform in his off-duty time. His on-duty time with the Jazz Ambassadors involves performances all over the country, bringing the American art form to a wide variety of audiences in towns and venues big and small.

In this podcast, Wes talks about:

His Disneyland audition, and how the Disney gig facilitated establishing himself in L.A.

Matching Eric Reed’s intensity, focus, and musicality on the bandstand

How being too territorial about a gig can deprive you of other experiences

The audition process for the Army Jazz Ambassadors, and how his audition tape was basically a full-length, professionally produced album

What life in a military band is like, and the similarities and differences it bears to working for Disney.

Click here for the Army Jazz Ambassadors touring schedule.

071 – Dave Harrison: Touring & Recording with Edwin McCain, Managing Career Changes, Golf & Drums – The Parallels Jul 06, 2016

Dave Harrison is a graduate of West Virginia University School of Music. He performed with the world famous Percussion ’90 under the direction of Phil Faini where he served as arranger and featured performer.

Dave moved to Nashville in 1990 and started working in the studios. He joined the Edwin McCain Band in January 1996 and over the next 10 years, recorded 6 albums with the group, co-producing 2 of them. He played drums on the monster hit “I’ll Be”, which was in the top 40 for nearly a year, and which yielded a top 10 video.

Dave has also performed with Taylor Swift, Maia Sharp, Olivia Newton John, Hootie and the Blowfish, John Hiatt, Caroline Dawn Johnson, Rachel Proctor, Cyndie Thomsyn, and many others.

In this podcast, Dave talks about:

Changing careers

Tracking percussion in the studio

Drummers “creating magic in the studio, not math”

Moving to Nashville

Meeting and hanging with Larrie Londin

Getting the Edwin McCain gig

Touring and recording with Edwin McCain

Auditioning for Peter Frampton

Trying to get back to that original feeling of playing drums for the first time

The parallels between playing drums and playing golf

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Ep. 70 – Ryan Lee: Lessons from Bobby Watson, Cross-Genre Collaborations, Looking Beyond Your Local Scene Jun 29, 2016

Ryan Lee was born and raised in Kansas City, MO, and earned a bachelor’s degree in music from The Conservatory at The University of Missouri-Kansas City. New York, Nashville and LA are established as places from which to launch an international performing career, but Ryan has stayed in Kansas City and found many opportunities to perform around the world with artists including Jose James, Tony Tixier, and A Bu. He remains a fixture on the Kansas City scene, having established himself as a creative voice in many circles including jazz, hip-hop, funk, gospel, and the projects that often result from KC’s various musical camps joining forces and overlapping.

In this podcast, Ryan talks about:

How new skills, from bass to piano to Ableton and in-ear systems, help him conceptualize his creative projects

Studying with Bobby Watson, and how he’s just beginning to understand some of what Bobby taught

Recording Watson’s big band album, Gates BBQ Suite

His collaborations with KC trumpeter Hermon Mehari

How a huge opportunity came at the worst possible time, and the learning experience that ensued

Being part of a local scene while still exploring opportunities and experiences around the world.

069 – Scot Corey: Symphonic Percussionist, Keeping a Full Calendar as a Multi-Percussionist, Educator, Drumset and Steel Drum Player Jun 25, 2016

Scot Corey is a freelance drummer/percussionist who has performed as an ‘extra’ with the Nashville Symphony for over 17 years, including NSO’s Carnegie Hall Debut (2000), their Naxos recording of Piazzola’s Sinfonia Buenos Aires and their return to Carnegie Hall. He has served as adjunct percussion faculty at Trevecca Nazarene University since 2000 and is a founding member of the Matrix Percussion Trio which has provided free educational concerts to over 37,000 students in the greater Nashville area. He served as the percussion specialist at Freedom Intermediate and Middle schools (Franklin, TN) from 1997-99, and as percussion faculty at the Southeast Chamber Music Institute (grades 9-12) at Tennessee Tech University from 1998-2002.

Scot began his professional career in 1985 at the age of 17 as drummer/percussionist for musical theater. To date, he has played more than 50 different shows, including many at Cumberland County Playhouse and TPAC.

Scot’s training includes a BM (Performance) from the University of Illinois, where he studied with Frederick D. Fairchild and Thomas Siwe. He also received an MA (Education – Music) from Tennessee Technological University, where he studied with Joseph Rasmussen.

Since moving to Nashville, Scot has maintained a very active schedule as a freelance drummer/percussionist. Gigs range from percussion (Nashville Symphony, Nashville Opera – Principal Percussion, Nashville String Machine, Gateway Chamber Orchestra, Parthenon Chamber Orchestra – Principal Timpani, Miss Tennessee Pageant Orchestra, and Nashville Chamber Orchestra – including Bonnaroo 2004) – to Drumset/Loops/Percussion (various recording sessions/live gigs and Green Hill Church, Mt. Juliet) – to steel drums to ethnic percussion (Som Brasileiro – nine-piece Brazilian band).

Scot endoreses Pearl/Adams drums & percussion and Innovative Percussion sticks and mallets

In this podcast Scot talks about:

Teaching in the information age

Learning how to handle being “thrown into the fire” (learning on your feet)

Suplimenting drum set studies with multi-percussion studies

Balancing work and family

Taking chances early in life

Playing with The Nashville Symphony

Continuing to learn

Playing percussion in a symphonic recording session

Saying no to gigs with a “Red Flag”

068 – Jamey Tate: Tough Love from Erskine, Recovering from a Professional Setback, The Good/Bad/Ugly of Smooth Jazz Jun 15, 2016

L.A.based drummer Jamey Tate has been solidly busy for almost 15 years. He studied under Peter Erskine as a grad student at USC and has put Erskine’s lessons, musical and otherwise, to good use since then. He has made a name for himself touring and recording with two of the biggest names in smooth jazz, David Benoit and Mindi Abair, as well as being in demand for studio work around LA on creative and commercial projects alike. In recent years, he has also taken on other musical roles as a producer, composer/arranger, and musical director.

In this podcast, Jamey talks about:

How his first lesson with Peter Erskine set the course of his career, and one lesson he learned the hard way

His experiences in the world of smooth jazz, and what it has to offer drummers

How he bounced back professionally and psychologically after a major tour was cancelled with three days’ notice

Switching to Sakae Drums

Playing with bassist David Hughes

Expanding his career beyond just playing drums

Jamey Tate is an artist endorser for Sakae Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Evans Drumheads and Vic Firth Drumsticks.

067 – Eddie Bayers: Studio Legend, Drumming on Over 300 Gold & Platinum Records, ACM Drummer of the Year 14 Times Jun 08, 2016

Establishing himself in Nashville as one of the top studio drummers, Eddie Bayers has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Vince Gill, George Strait, Alan Jackson, Steve Winwood, Peter Frampton, Bob Seger, Trisha Yearwood, Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Uncle Kracker and the list goes on and on. Playing on hundreds of gold and platinum albums and numerous movie soundtracks, Eddie has received the Academy of Country Music Drummer of the Year Award 14 times (11 times in a row). He was put into the Honor Roll for Modern Drummer Magazine for winning the readers poll 5 years consecutively. DRUM Magazine named Eddie one of the Top Ten Session Drummers Of All Time.

Trained as a classical pianist, it was during his college years in California that his musical interests took a turn. Eddie began jamming with local musicians, including Jerry Garcia and Tom and John Fogerty (of Creedence Clearwater Revival fame) and through Tom he became involved with studio work. Soon, he began hearing good reports about the Nashville music community.

After moving to Nashville, he auditioned at a club as a piano player in 1973, and the drummer for the quartet was none other than the infamous Larrie Londin. Larrie inspired Eddie to play drums professionally.

Eddie is Nashville’s first-call session drummer and certainly one of the busiest musicians in the world. His calendar is booked months in advance to provide the beat behind country music’s biggest stars, as well as pop icons like Mark Knopfler, Lyle Lovett and Sting.

Eddie endorses these companies: Zildjian, Sakae drums, Remo, Peavey, Sure and Metro phones

In this Podcast, Eddie talks about:

Being on the “list”

Knowing your musical history, genres

Keying in to different instruments, not the click to determine feel

How songs get on the radio

Eddie transitioning from piano to drums

His many accolades and awards

Why he plays open handed

Recording in the age of triggering

Recording with John Fogerty

The power of major labels

Recording 6 songs in a 3 hour session

066 – Marlon Patton: Genre-hopping, Building a Home Studio, Searching for Sounds Jun 01, 2016

Marlon Patton was born and raised in the Atlanta area, attended college down the road at The University of Georgia in Athens, then returned home to Atlanta where he has lived and worked ever since. He is a true genre-hopper, in terms of the many types of music he plays and the many types of work he does. Any given day could find him mixing a jazz record in his studio, tracking a rock record in someone else’s, playing a live show in one of Atlanta’s many venues, or out on the road as a hired gun. Over the years his huge skill set, fine-tuned musical sensibilities, and affable humor have made him indispensable to artists and bands all over the region as a drummer and engineer.

In this podcast, Marlon talks about:

The long, gradual process of acquiring the gear and skills needed to run his home studio

Recording jazz vs. other genres

Attending The University of Georgia in Athens (home of R.E.M., The B-52’s, and many others) and the wide variety of playing opportunities he found there, in and out of school

How breaking his ankle led to one of his original projects, Weisshund

Playing with bassist Robby Handley in The ATL Collective and Kenosha Kid

Balancing local work with road work

Marlon Patton endorses C&C Drums.

065 – Rick Malkin: Photography and Drumming, Photographing Famous Drummers, Drumming in Musical Theater May 25, 2016

Rick Malkin has made a career for himself by combining his passion for drumming and photography. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Rick learned photography at an early age from his father who was a full time photographer. At the age of 10, Rick discovered the drums and at the age of 14 he was already playing drums in musical theater.

After meeting Eddie Bayers for a Modern Drummer cover shoot, Rick moved down to Nashville and worked as Eddie’s drum tech for 11 years.

Along with his continuing work in photography, Rick was the house drummer for 13 years at the Boiler Room Theater in Nashville and continues to stay involved in the theater community.

In this podcast, Rick talks about:

Playing drums in musical theater and learning to read from the record

Taking pictures of many famous drummers like Jeff Porcaro, Larry London, Steve Gadd and Alex Van Halen. And learning from the experience.

Balancing work as a drummer and photographer

Taking pictures of celebrities over the years including Buddy Rich and Prince

064 – Josh Heffernan: Freelancing vs. being in a band, making a live album, the balance between vintage and modern May 18, 2016

Josh Heffernan is the drummer for Dustbowl Revival, an eight-piece outfit based in LA. Their most recent album, With A Lampshade On is their biggest yet, and their touring schedule is keeping them busy all over North America and Europe, and most recently, China. Josh grew up in Seattle and got some of his first professional experience in an Army band before moving to LA. He attended the Los Angeles College of Music where he studied with Ralph Humphrey, and was a freelancer around LA until the Dustbowl drum chair became his full time job. Comprised of an acoustic rhythm section, two singers, trumpet, trombone, mandolin and fiddle, the band is a mashup of folk, rock, bluegrass, New Orleans swing, and whatever else they can come up with. No matter what musical or geographical territory they find themselves in, Josh is at the center of it finding ways to get people dancing.

In this podcast, Josh talks about:

Dustbowl Revival’s recent tour of China

His post-high school musical education first in an Army band, then at the Los Angeles College of Music

Being a “jack of all trades” vs. dedicating yourself to one style

Dustbowl Revival’s latest album, With A Lampshade On, and the unique way it was put together

The band’s stylistic development, from hitting a different style with each song to trying to blur the lines for a sound that is more homogenous and more their own

The hustle of freelancing vs. the hustle of being in a band

Blending the old and the new, both in his playing and his gear

This episode is sponsored by Aquarian Drumheads.

063 – Troy Luccketta: Tesla, Keith Emerson Tribute, A Song For Wellness May 11, 2016

Troy Luccketta entered his musical career at 17, and by the time he was 23 he was touring with The Eric Martin Band (lead singer for Mr. Big), and found himself on Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand.”

For more than 30 years, he has been the drummer for the multi-platinum rock band Tesla, with whom he still tours with to this day.

Troy started working with Marc Bonilla in 1991, and after playing drums on Marc’s first two solo records, the two continued to collaborate. As a result, the two formed the band Saville Row, and released their first album in 2014. Their music has already been featured on television dramas like NBC’s “Las Vegas” and Lifetime’s “Monarch Cove.”

Along with his wife, Troy has become passionately involved in the creation of a web-site and organization called “A Song For Wellness”. The goal is to simply provide all the information and resources you would need to live healthy and fight major diseases like cancer through the power of nutrition.

Most recently, Troy was poised to tour with the great Keith Emerson before his untimely death earlier this year. Troy will be one of the power house drummers at Keith Emerson tribute concert at the El Ray Theater in LA, May 28th, 2016.

Troy is endorsed by Tama Drums, Zildjian cymbals and Promark drumsticks.

In this podcast, Troy talks about:

A Song For Wellness – A nutrition guide website

Hanging out with Steve Smith in 1983

Preparing for Keith Emerson tribute show

The band Tesla

Auditioning for John Mellencamp

The challenge of promoting yourself

062 – Colin Agnew: Creating Coordination for Musicality, Incorporating Latin Sounds into Other Music, Finding the Right People in the Right Town May 04, 2016

Using ever-changing combinations of drumset and hand percussion, Colin Agnew has developed an earthy, organic signature sound that has made him indispensable to artists and producers of many stripes. He is the rare musician who can come up with creative ideas but use them judiciously in support of the music. Colin grew up in Savannah, GA, where he began studying classical percussion, piano and drumset in middle school. In high school and college, he got involved in several types of Latin music, performing as either drummer or percussionist, eventually developing ways to combine to two worlds. After graduating from Georgia State University, Colin stayed in the Atlanta area and has amassed a huge list of live and studio performance credits.

In this podcast, Colin talks about:

His recent first experience at South By Southwest with Cicada Rhythm

Using complex coordination and independence to combine drumset and percussion in musical ways

Studying drums and percussion with Kinah Boto

How Latin music and musicians served as his bridge between college and the pro scene

How playing and collaborating with singer/songwriter Adron has helped him expand his skill set

Playing and touring with Blair Crimmins & The Hookers

This episode is sponsored by Aquarian Drumheads

061 – Ben Jackson: Operating a Successful Home Studio, Drumming & Producing, Building Ableton Live Rigs for Major Tours Apr 27, 2016

Ben Jackson is a Nashville based drummer/producer, primarily working in Nashville’s top studios, as well as touring with a wide variety of artists and songwriters in the country, pop and indie genres.

A versatile musician, producer and engineer, Ben maintains a busy recording schedule, playing sessions in the studios of Music Row, as well as his own East End Studio.

As a producer, Ben can be found working with singer/songwriters, indie artist, and up and coming country acts, as well as producing a wide variety of music for television/film sync placement.

Ben has recorded/toured with many of Nashville’s top recording artists. Some of his past credits include: Sister Hazel, Joe Nichols, Frankie Ballard, Greg Bates, Aaron Tippon, Ty Herndon, Jana Kramer, Jimmy Wayne, Jon Pardi and Steve Azar

In this podcast, Ben talks about:

Knowing recording gear the way we know drum gear

Taking the time to experiment with your recording gear

Understanding touch and tone when recording drums

Blogging, sharing information, building trust and community

Using Ableton Live, creating backing tracks, building rigs for other drummers/artists

Make genuine friends, don’t “network”

060 – Dan Schnelle: Learning From Four Masters, Playing In the Moment, Practicing vs. Listening Apr 20, 2016

Dan Schnelle was born and raised in New York and came to LA to attend college at USC. While in school, he studied with an impressive succession of teachers; Ndugu Chancler, Aaron Serfaty, Peter Erskine and Terri Lyne Carrington, each of whom presented him with a boot camp of different concepts. After graduating, Dan stayed in LA where he has been one of the busiest drummers in town for over a decade. He has played with a host of world-renowned jazz artists, including Josh Nelson, Ambrose Akinmusire, Daniel Rosenboom, and Sara Gazarek. In this podcast, Dan talks about:

Growing up on Long Island and being into everything but jazz as a teenager

What each of his legendary college mentors brought out in his playing

Learning the language of jazz through transcribing the great drummers, but also through transcribing solos by the great horn players and pianists and playing them on the drums

Absorbing the more improvisational styles of drummers like Tony and Elvin, and the more groove-oriented jazz drummers like Al Foster and Billy Higgins.

How the LA jazz scene compares to the New York jazz scene

Playing instrumental jazz vs. vocal jazz

His long-running musical partnership with pianist/composer Josh Nelson, and the unique recording process of Nelson’s last album

His process of preparation for the wide array of gigs he plays

059 – John Root: Understanding Styles, Diversifying Your Workload, Playing Lower Broadway Gigs in Nashville, Apr 13, 2016

John defines what it means to be a working drummer in Nashville Tennessee. Since his move to Nashville in 1993 from Connecticut, John has covered it all from international touring to studio work to maintaining a steady stream of work in Nashville’s lower broadway district.

John’s early influences include Neil Smith, Nigel Ollsen, Jim Keltner, Hal Blaine, Billy Cobham, Bill Bruford and all the Motown drummers.

Shortly after high school, John worked with a ten-piece band that played international dance music that covered every imaginable style and shared a bill with “Sun Ra and his Omniverse Arkestra”.

Within the first week of moving to Nashville in 1993, John got the gig as the Grand Ole Gospel Time staff drummer, which continued for three years of weekly Friday night live radio gigs at the Grand Ole Opry House. In the proceeding years, John’s experienced a range of international touring with artists that include Becky Hobbs, The Forrester Sisters, Rhonda Vincent and Hank Williams III, Highway 101, and Tammy Cochran. These tours at times coincided with national gigs with the Dukes of Hazard Reunion Tour, backing up Tom Wopat and John Schneider.

John’s studio work has covered many styles including Christian, Country, Gospel, Bluegrass, Rock and Peruvian Pan Flute.

Many of John’s live gigs are on “Lower Broadway” (the heart and soul of Nashville’s live music scene), which bring in an estimated 100,000 patrons monthly.

John pulls from his years of experience in creating full time work for himself as well as defining success on his own terms.

In this podcast, John talks about:

Diversifying your work load

Having a “conversation” in the studio

Playing on lower Broadway in Nashville

Getting paid as a tech in maintaining kits in 8 different clubs

Overcoming classic pitfalls

Getting used to house kits in the studio

Keeping your commitments – “sub-etiquette”

Understanding styles

Meeting Steve Gadd in a Mapco

John endorses Sonor drums, Paiste cymbals, Regal Tip sticks and Montineri drums

058 – Charles LaMont Garner: Growing Beyond his Gospel Roots, The Importance of Mentorship, Building a Career Through Good Relationships and Good Character Apr 06, 2016

“My father’s side was musicians, my mother’s side was singers and preachers.” This sums up Charles LaMont Garner’s musical pedigree. The Charleston, SC native lives in Atlanta where he works as a drummer and producer when he’s not on tour with India Arie. Gospel music was his gateway to drums, and presented him with his first opportunity to play professionally at age 15. Since then, he has played with a wide swath of bands and artists, picking up life lessons from each colleague and experience along the way.

In this podcast, Charles talks about:

Growing up and playing in church in Charleston, SC

His mentor, Quentin Baxter, and the many lessons Charles learned from him, musical and otherwise.

A trip to Switzerland at age 16 which cemented his desire to be a pro musician

How he learned different styles by playing each one exclusively, one at a time

His mixed feelings about gospel chops

His stint with a corporate band in Ethiopia (yes, Ethiopia).

How good character creates good relationships, and good relationships create a good career

The life he almost had as a singer in an R&B group, and how losing it was the best thing that could have happened.

Charles Lamont Garner endorses Pearl Drums, Vater Sticks and TRX Cymbals.

057 – Reggie Jackson: Drumming for Dr John, Exuding Joy While Performing, Applying Experience to the Gig Mar 30, 2016

Based in Columbus Ohio, drummer Reggie Jackson built a reputation from an early age as a powerful drummer who could cover many styles such as be-bop, latin, big band, fusion, pop and gospel.

Over the last two decades Reggie expanded his reach beyond the Columbus scene through world wide tours with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Dr John as well as the Grammy Award winner Diane Schuur.

Throughout these tours, Reggie has performed in many legendary jazz clubs such as The Blue Note and can be heard on Diane Schuur’s CD “Live in London” which was recorded at the famous Ronnie Scott’s jazz club.

Reggie continues to stay busy in Columbus balancing work in music and family. In Columbus alone, Reggie can be found working with many great players like Bobby Floyd and Derek DeCenzo. His work covers a wide variety of situations such as educational workshops, church gigs and weekly jazz jam sessions.

In this podcast, Reggie talks about:

Drumming is like being a “relationship counselor” in the band

Picking your battles in the studio

Playing and recording at legendary venues like Ronnie Scott’s and The Blue Note

Transmitting joy to the audience when performing

Working with a legend like Dr John

Supporting the music and fellow musicians on stage

056 – Kassandra Kocoshis: From Classical to Flamenco to Pop, A Percussionist’s Journey to A Busy L.A. Career Mar 23, 2016

As a freshman in high school, Kassandra Kocoshis was studying classical percussion in a collegiate program, and went on to DePaul University in Chicago to study with members of the Chicago Lyric Opera and Chicago Symphony. But while there, she got turned on to Chicago’s Flamenco scene, and became obsessed with hand percussion and world music. She pursued them further in graduate school at The California Arts Institute, and made a quick and smooth transition into a busy schedule of live and studio work in and around Los Angeles. Her performance credits range from guitarist Vahagni, who fuses Flamenco music with Armenian folk music, to L.A.-based soul band Beat Mosaic, to pop acts like Young the Giant and Kanye West.

In this podcast, Kassandra talks about:

The universal musical concepts she learned as a high school student studying classical percussion

How Flamenco was her gateway to other types of world music

Studying percussion traditions from around the world at Cal Arts

Her connection with hand percussion vs. sticks or mallets

Making connections in LA through school

The relationship between the drummer and the percussionist

The pros and cons of living and working in LA

Seeking out the music and musicians that inspire you, and letting that passion guide your career path.

This episode is sponsored by OnlineDrummer.com

Kassandra Kocoshis endorses Latin Percussion and Amplified Timber.

055 – Jack White: Drumming for Rick Springfield, Ike and Tina Turner, Facing Your Fears Head On Mar 16, 2016

Originally from Detroit, Jack White is best known for his work world wide with singer/songwriter Rick Springfield in 1976, 1980-84, and 1990-2002. In the 40 plus years that Jack has been playing drums, he has worked with many other artists including Mitch Ryder, Ike and Tina Turner, Sam The Sham, Rare Earth, Redbone, The Knack, Steppenwolf and Roger Miller just to name a few.

At the age of sixteen, a few events would help Jack set a standard for how he would live his life and find success in music. These include cold calling Mitch Ryder and demanding to be his drummer as well as hitch hiking to L.A. in 1971.

He is also known as an actor in several Disney movies and several tv shows including the last 2 episodes of the series “Sons of Anarchy” and the TV series “Nashville”. Jack is currently announcing for iheart radio.

In this podcast, Jack talks about:

Perseverance and determination

Cold calling Bob Seger Mitch Ryder when he was 16

Never taking “no” for an answer

Auditioning for Ike and Tina Turner

Drumming for Rick Springfield from the beginning

Taking on new challenges like acting and voice overs

Facing your fears

054 – Willie McNeil: From Punk to Reggae, from Salsa to Burlesque…Putting on a Show for 35 Years Mar 09, 2016

Willie McNeil came to LA barely out of high school in the early 1980s. He got busy quickly and hasn’t stopped since, playing with bands across the musical spectrum, sometimes as a sideman but more often as a leader. These days, he’s most widely known as the drummer and frontman for Big Willie’s Burlesque, a troupe of musicians and dancers that appears weekly at LA’s hottest clubs including No Vacancy and The Edison. In this podcast, Willie talks about:

How working in a clothing store kickstarted his music career in LA

His experience coming to LA in the 80s vs. a young drummer’s experience today

His gig in the house band at The Forty Deuce, where the LA Burlesque scene was born

Tricks of the Burlesque drumming trade, and incorporating different styles into the Burlesque genre

Some common mistakes American musicians make when playing Afro-Cuban styles

His “whatever works” approach to gear

The advantages of smaller cities over LA and New York, particularly in terms of live music scenes

This episode of Working Drummer Podcast is sponsored by OnlineDrummer.com

053 – Marshall Richardson: Touring with a “Legacy Artist”, Garnering Recording Tips from Pro Engineers, Taking Recommendations Seriously Mar 02, 2016

Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Marshall Richardson moved to Nashville in 2000 after graduating from the University of North Texas with a BA in Music.

As a sideman, Marshall has worked with a diverse list of artists, ranging from country legends to roots rockers, including Jo Dee Messina, Lorrie Morgan, Webb Wilder, Bernie Leadon, Joe Nichols, and Johnny Reid. His career in Nashville is a balance of recording sessions and live local, national, and international touring performances.

Marshall endorses Paiste cymbals, Vater percussion, Gretsch drums, and Gibraltar hardware.

In this podcast, Marshall talks about:

Delivering a great performance when recommended for gigs

Being comfortable playing with or without a click

Touring with a “Legacy Artist”

Getting advice from engineers about home recording

Explaining phase and polarity when recording

Balancing your kit

Considering note length when drumming

052 – Tina Raymond: Trusting Her Musical Instinct, Being a Woman in a Male-Dominated Field, The Power of Yoga Feb 24, 2016

The Los Angeles jazz scene has been coming on strong in recent years and Tina Raymond is right in the middle of it. She performs regularly in the city’s top jazz clubs as well as internationally, with artists ranging from relative newcomers like Cathlene Pineda and Jon Armstrong to long-established greats like Bobby Bradford and Vinnie Golia. She is a graduate of the California Institute of the Arts, better known as Cal Arts, where she studied with legendary jazz drummer and master teacher Joe LaBarbara. She teaches at several high schools and colleges in the LA area and is also a certified yoga instructor.

In this podcast, Tina talks about:

Two very different college experiences at two very different schools

How studying with Joe LaBarbara helped her use her intuition and develop her own voice

Being a woman in the male-dominated worlds of drumming and jazz

How yoga has affected her mentally and physically as a musician

051 – Chad Cromwell: Studio Legend, Drumming for Neil Young, Joe Walsh & Mark Knopfler, Creating the Perfect Part in the Studio Feb 17, 2016

Chad Cromwell is known as one of the most respected studio drummers in Nashville. Even before his move to Nashville, Chad had a strong history of live and recording experience with legends like Joe Walsh, Neil Young and Mark Knopfler.

Chad Started recording and touring with Joe Walsh in 1986. In 1987 as well as collaborating with songwriter Neil Young that lead to several recordings and tours with Neil. Chad appears on Neil Young albums such as Freedom (1989), Prairie Wind (2005) Living with War (2006) and Chrome Dreams II (2007). He has also appeared in Heart of Gold, a documentary capturing the debut of Neil Young’s album, Prairie Wind.

Cromwell is also known for his contributions to Mark Knopfler’s solo albums Golden Heart (1996), Sailing to Philadelphia (2000), The Ragpicker’s Dream(2002) and Shangri-La (2004). He was also part of Knopfler’s band during the tours of his first solo albums.

He has also worked with many other artists including Dave Stewart, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Lady Antebellum, Diana Krall, Willie Nelson, Jackson Browne, Boz Scaggs, Wynonna, Trisha Yearwood, Miranda Lambert, Bonnie Raitt, Peter Frampton, Allison Moorer, Chris Knight, Joss Stone, Rodney Crowell, Marty Stuart, and Stevie Nicks.

In this podcast, Chad talks about:

The impact that home studios have had on the music industry

050 – John Kizilarmut: The Pros & Cons of College Music, Removing Barriers Between Genres, Finding His Musical Home in Kansas City Feb 10, 2016

John Kizilarmut spent his formative years bouncing around the Midwest and Texas, eventually landed in Kansas City. He has become a first-call drummer, percussionist, vibraphonist and composer/arranger in KC’s vibrant music scene, playing with the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, Hermon Mehari, and many more of the area’s world-class talents. He has also maintained teaching duties as an adjunct faculty member at multiple colleges. In this interview, John talks about:
How his first year of college shaped his work ethic
His lesser-known but masterful and influential mentors including Al Sergel, Kevin Bobo and Doug Auwarter (read an article on Doug here).
His heavy focus on marimba and orchestral percussion in college, and how the college environment can blind musicians to the wider world of musical possibilities/opportunities.
The deep understanding of jazz and swing held by Kansas City musicians and audiences.
How Kansas City’s fierce pride in its rich musical history is balanced with its openness to all kinds of music, and its embrace of a younger generation of musicians creating new and original music.
Listen to John on Soundcloud!

049 – Paul Griffith: Being a Stylist, Managing Expectations, Dealing with Insecurities Feb 03, 2016

Paul Griffith is a freelance drummer and writer based in Nashville, TN. As a musician, his unique, left-of-center style (the result of a New Orleans upbringing) has made him a first call for artists looking to add a laid back groove to their records and live performances. Combining the visceral, dance-oriented feel of New Orleans legends like Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste and Earl Palmer with the meticulous experimentation of session great Jim Keltner, Paul has found a home among some of the world’s most creative singer-songwriters, including Sheryl Crow, k. d. Lang, John Prine, Todd Snider, Cerys Mathews (Catatonia), Greg Brown and Jack Ingram. He has been recognized as “Best Hired Hand” by Nashville Scene magazine and was nominated for a Nashville Music Award in the drummer/percussionist category.

In this podcast Paul talks about:

Being a “Stylist”

Caring about the gig but not worrying about it

Dealing with your insecurities

Dealing with peeks and valleys in the music business

Managing expectations and diversifying

Asking what the gig pays

The right conditions for taking a gig

Click here for pictures

048 – Giuliano Mingucci: Drum Mic’ing 101, Absorbing Styles, Playing to the Song, Working With a Producer Jan 27, 2016

Giuliano Mingucci was born in Brazil but has spent almost his entire life in Kansas City, MO. He started playing professionally in high school and since then has been a member of Kansas City’s most beloved bands including Bixby Lane, The Barclay Martin Ensemble, and David George & A Crooked Mile. He attended college at The University of Missouri-Kansas City, but chose to get a degree in audio engineering rather than music performance. He has since made a name for himself around the region as a go-to in either discipline, and sometimes both.

In this podcast, Giuliano talks about:

How the jazz of his hometown and the Brazilian music of his family heritage has shaped his playing

Being the house drummer in a cabaret bar

Playing in a band with broad stylistic influences

Giving a producer musical control of an album

How drum tuning, room acoustics and drum mic’ing should be connected

Relying solely on drumming vs. having mulitple sources of income

Click here for pictures

047 – Jim Reilley: Producer, The Influence of Ringo on Modern Drumming, Getting the Right Drum Sounds in the Studio Jan 20, 2016

Jim Reilley is a songwriter and producer in Nashville. Jim was also the co-founder of the late-lamented folk-rock “gangstas”, The New Dylans. Along with songwriting partner Reese Campbell, The New Dylans toured the country for 9 years sharing stages with The Band, Townes Van Zandt, Shawn Colvin, The Fleshtones, Superdrag, Syd Straw, The Silos, Steve Forbert along with old pals 10,000 Maniacs.

Reilley broke up The New Dylans and moved to Nashville in 1998, signing deal as a staff songwriter with Curb Publishing. In his 8 years at Curb, over 45 of Reilley’s songs were recorded by artists including Vince Gill, Hal Ketchum, Jack Ingram, Tim O’Brien, Sam Bush, Claudia Church, Joy Lynn White, Ronna Reeves, Cowboy Crush, Lisa Brokop, Ryan Tyler, Mustang Sally, Lauren Lucas, Susan Haynes, Amy Chappell and many others. In 2003, Reilley released his first solo album “The Return of Buddy Cruel” on Silent Planet Records.

Reilley recorded a second solo album (“Thank God I’m A Contrary Boy”) in 2004 with Grammy-winner Robert Reynolds (The Mavericks) co-producing and featuring a band consisting of Ken Coomer (Wilco/ Uncle Tupelo), Tom Petersson (Cheap Trick), Jen Gunderman (Jayhawks), Audley Freed (The Black Crowes), Al Perkins (Gram Parsons/Manassas), Paul Deakin (The Mavericks) and David Mead. In October 2012, Reilley signed a songwriting deal with Nashville based Rare Spark Media Group.

In April 2015, The New Dylans released “Meta”, their first new album in 18 years. The Tennessean, has documented the entire process of writing and recording of “Meta”.

In this podcast Jim talks about:

Producing

Producers and musicians working together to make the recording session happen

Using musical references to give direction

Ringo creating a musical landscape for pop music

Less recognized session drummers from the 50’s – 70’s

Audio examples of Keith Moon and Ringo Starr with the drums isolated

Getting the right drum sounds for recording

Click here for pictures

This interview was recorded January 3rd, 2016

046 – Matt Johnson: Committing to Your Vision, Teaching in the 21st Century, Focusing on Outcomes Jan 13, 2016

Matt Johnson is a native of Southern California, where he still lives, plays and teaches. He is the drummer for the Tony Guerrero Quintet, which is also the backing band for actress and singer Jane Lynch. He is the director of drumset studies at Fullerton College in Orange County, where he created the “Digital Drumset Lab”, the largest drumset classroom of its kind.

In this interview, Matt talks about:

Getting his professional start at Disneyland

Playing multiple styles within one show

Choosing the right gear for the gig

Being an entertainer

Developing and executing a specific vision for your projects

Tailoring his teaching to a student’s goals

How creating personal relationships leads to professional work

Click here for pictures

045 – Danny Young: From Broadway in New York to Nashville, Beyond The Gig, Touring with Nelson Jan 06, 2016

Drummer Danny Young is my first interview of 2016. After an amazing 11 months on the road with the national tour of ‘Queen’s ‘We Will Rock You‘, Danny recently relocated back to Nashville where he has jumped into a variety of session work, and has also started working with a number of new and established artists in and out of town.

Prior to ‘We Will Rock You’, Danny was the drummer and drum book composer on the new Broadway bound show, ‘The Nutty Professor’; working with Jerry Lewis, Rupert Holmes and the late, great Marvin Hamlish. He also toured on Green Day’s ‘American Idiot‘, Mel Brooks ‘Young Frankenstein the Musical’, with the 80’s hair band Nelson, country artist Katie Armiger, The Platters, Derryl Perry, has made back-line appearances on NBC’s SMASH!, was the debut drummer of ‘Chicago’ and ‘Hairspray on the worlds largest cruise ships Oasis and Allure of the Seas and has many drum students. Danny has also made one time appearances with Shania Twain, Liza Minnelli, Ann Hampton Callaway, Lorna Luft, The Drifters, The Four Tops, Maureen McGovern, Andrea Clearfield and many more…

In addition to touring, Danny has also started a seminar with fellow drummer and friend, Danny Taylor, called ‘Beyond the Gig‘. The program focuses on the business, networking and promotion side of the music industry. By touching on topics that go beyond just “playing”, it offers students the knowledge and direction they need to be one step ahead of the game.

In this interview, Danny talks about:

Auditioning for Queen musical in front of Roger Taylor and Brian May

Playing Green Day musical while band members were on stage

Writing the drum book for Broadway show The Nutty Professor

Learning the music from the recordings

Not relying on charts alone

Being a music supervisor on cruise ships

Teaching others how to market themselves with “Beyond The Gig”

Applying large musical skill set to create work beyond drumming

Click here for pictures

this interview was conducted January 2nd, 2016

044 – Chuck Tilley: Drumming on TV, Playing in “House Bands”, Being a Pro – Always Dec 16, 2015

Chuck Tilley has worked with many artists over the years including the great Felix Cavaliere from The Young Rascals, Richard Marx, Lee Greenwood and most recently the country super group Alabama as of five years ago. Chuck’s own band Six Wire, competed in a reality show called the next great American band back in 2007. The talent and the work ethic of the band was quickly recognized as an asset that the producers felt like they could use for future shows and projects. Some of these shows include “Nashville Star”, “Can You Duet”, “Next Superstar” as well as many live award shows. This is one of the many examples of Chuck’s experience as the drummer for a “house band”. Chuck also has a reoccurring role as the drummer for the character Rayna Jaymes played by actress Connie Britton in the hit TV series “Nashville”. Along with touring, Chuck rounds out his busy schedule by staying active in the Nashville recording scene.

In this podcast, Chuck Tilley talks about:

playing drums on live award shows

working in house bands

interpreting artists’ needs

juggling many gigs

Chuck uses:

Pearl drums

Zildjian cymbals

Evans drum heads

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This interview was conducted November 30th, 2015

043 – Travis McNabb / Part 2: Better Than Ezra, Sugarland, Taking Every Gig Seriously Dec 09, 2015

Tavis McNabb is perhaps best known as a longtime member of the band Better Than Ezra, although he has performed session and touring work with many acts during his career. Prior to joining Better Than Ezra in January 1996, McNabb toured with acts such as Vigilantes of Love, Beggars, and seminal Oregon-based punk rock band The Wipers.

In mid-2007, Travis became the full-time touring and recording drummer with Grammy-award winning Country/Bluegrass act Sugarland. After Sugarland decided to go on hiatus in 2012, Travis continued to stay busy touring and recording with many artists including Kristian Bush, Big and Rich, Gavin DeGraw most recently up and coming country artist Frankie Ballard.

Travis also runs his own home studio called Wood Hill Recording where he puts his years of recording and engineering experience to use. Travis is very comfortable in the studio and you can hear him on Jennifer Nettles‘ most recent single, “Sugar” that was produced by Dann Huff.

In this podcast, Travis talks about:

Watching Jim Keltner in the studio and learning

Leaving a good impression

Balancing and mixing yourself

Bring your vibe to the session

Tracking with producer Dann Huff

Taking every gig seriously

This interview was conducted November 24th, 2015

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042 – Travis McNabb / Part 1: Better Than Ezra, Sugarland, Mixing Yourself on the Kit Dec 02, 2015

Travis McNabb is perhaps best known as a longtime member of the band Better Than Ezra, although he has performed session and touring work with many acts during his career. Prior to joining Better Than Ezra in January 1996, McNabb toured with acts such as Vigilantes of Love, Beggars, and seminal Oregon-based punk rock band The Wipers.

In mid-2007, Travis became the full-time touring and recording drummer with Grammy-award winning Country/Bluegrass act Sugarland. After Sugarland decided to go on hiatus in 2012, Travis continued to stay busy touring and recording with many artists including Kristian Bush, Big and Rich, Gavin DeGraw most recently up and coming country artist Frankie Ballard.

Travis also runs his own home studio called Wood Hill Recording where he puts his years of recording and engineering experience to use. Travis is very comfortable in the studio and you can hear him on Jennifer Nettles‘ most recent single, “Sugar” that was produced by Dann Huff.

In this podcast, Travis talks about:

Long unique audition for Ezra

Being replaced in the studio and learning from it

Watching and learning from Kenny Aronoff in the studio

Bring your vibe to the session

The influence of New Orleans on his playing

Being prepared

Balancing and mixing yourself

This interview was conducted November 24th, 2015

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041 – Pat McDonald: Charlie Daniel’s Drummer, Fusion Chops in Country Music Nov 25, 2015

Pat McDonald is best known as the drummer the legendary Charlie Daniels and has been touring and recording with Charlie for over 16 years. With around a 105 dates a year and many Grand Ole Opry dates, Pat stays very busy with Charlie.

When Pat moved to Nashville in 1997, he was at the forefront of a budding community of rock/fusion drummers that were showcasing their style and ability to “fuse” multiple styles in country music. Pat’s reputation as a monster drummer that brought this dynamic to the country world served him well in opening up many doors for him during his time in Nashville.

Pat has worked with many artists including Tanya Tucker, Victor Wooten, Leon Russell, Reese Wynans, Jimmy Hall, Kip Winger, Jim Horn and many others.

After attending Georgia Southern College, Pat attended Boston’s Berkley College of Music and while there studied with the legendary Gary Chaffee.

Pat will be one of the performers at the Nashville Drummer’s Jam 7 at the Exit In in Nashville December 14th, 2015. This NDJ7 will be a tribute to Alex Van Halen.

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This interview was recorded November 12th, 2015

040 – Tucker Wilson: Finding His Own Voice in a Famous Musical Family, Knocking Out an Audition, Touring with Canaan Smith Nov 18, 2015

Tucker Wilson is a true native of Nashville. Not only was he born and raised in the music city, both of his grandfathers were regular performers on the Grand Ole Opry and at 3 days old Tucker made his first visit to the Opry. With Ricky Skaggs as an uncle and relatives in legendary country vocal group, The Whites, Tucker was surrounded by music from the beginning. At 1 1/2 years old, his interest in drums was so evident that a year later, his parents bought him his first kit and he’s never looked back.

In spite of his family ties to the music business, Tucker seeks success in the music business honestly and on his own. Just out of high school, Tucker found his first touring gig with a struggling Christian/Country band that lead to work with a renowned gospel singer Guy Penrod. These early experiences provided a wealth of experiences that gave Tucker the professional skills that has carried him on to the next phase of his young professional life.

Most recently, Tucker has been the touring drummer with Mercury Artist, Canaan Smith. What was supposed to be a five song set to audition with, Tucker was accidentally given a full hour of music to learn for the audition with Canaan. This turned into an opportunity that Tucker took full advantage of to prove his abilities as a solid player and worthy tour mate.

Tucker will be one of the performers at The Nashville Drummer’s Jam 7 at the Exit In in Nashville December 14th, 2015. This NDJ7 will be a tribute to Alex Van Halen.

Tucker’s NDJ7 video interview

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This interview was conducted November 3rd 2015

039 – Mark Poiesz: Personifying the Emotion of the Music, Being The New Guy on the Scene, Drumming for Tyler Farr Nov 12, 2015

Even though Mark Poiesz is still considered the “new guy” in the Nashville music scene, it hasn’t kept him from gaining significant ground in the business. In the first 12 months of moving to Nashville, Mark went from working with Chuck Wicks to Lindsey Ell and is currently the touring drummer for country singer Tyler Farr.

When Mark made the move to Nashville in 2013 he quickly won the trust of a handful of people that became instrumental in Mark’s current success. This includes drummers Tom Hurst and Rich Redmond, guitarist Chris Nix and Jason Aldean’s band leader/bass player, Tully Kennedy.

Before his move, Mark attended The University of Miami and in his final year he performed with the Grammy nominated Concert Jazz Band. After college, Mark’s time in south Florida was spent as a busy session and touring musician working with rockers Ghost of Gloria and touring with pop icon Jon Secada.

The philosophy behind Mark’s high energy performance is tapping into the emotional pulse of the artist and personifying the emotion of the music and tying it together with the other musicians on stage.

Mark will be participating in the Nashville Drummer’s Jam 7 December 14th in Nashville at the Exit In. This NDJ will be a tribute to Alex Van Halen.

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This interview was conducted October 29th, 2015

038 – Sean Fuller: Florida Georgia Line, Self Expression as a Sideman, Creating a Vibe Nov 05, 2015

Sean Fuller is best known as the drummer for the country pop duo Florida Georgia Line. This gig with FGL has been a great fit for the group and Sean as well. Sean is encouraged to express his style with FGL through his high energy playing as well as his massive Tommy Aldridge style kits. This complementary arrangement between artist and drummer helps to fulfill Sean’s desire to be much more than just a “sideman”.

Originally from Evansville Indiana, Sean made the move to Nashville in 1997 in search of greater musical opportunities. Even though he had almost zero contacts in town, Sean learned how to use networking skills to establish himself within the music community. The time that he put into pounding the pavement and creating a vibe eventually lead to impressive and long lasting road gigs with Luke Bryan and Justin Moore.

Most recently, Sean has started conducting drum clinics and it has become one of the ways Sean continues to find new ways of self expression.

You can also, catch Sean December 14th at the Exit In in Nashville as one of the many great drummers playing in the Nashville Drummer’s Jam 7. This NDJ7 is a tribute to Alex Van Halen.

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facebook.com/seanfullerrocks

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This interview was conducted October 28th, 2015

037 – Dr. Preston Wakefield: Treating Repetitive Stress Injuries in Drummers, Active Release Techniques, Proper Stretching Oct 29, 2015

Dr Preston Wakefield is a well known chiropractor in Nashville and is known throughout the music community as the go to guy for sound advice as well as quick and noticeable results when musicians are suffering from injuries associated with being professional player. Although most of his patients are athletes, around 20% of Preston’s patients are musicians.

Preston uses “Active Release Techniques” to help guitar players, bass players and drummers overcome repetitive stress injuries often associated with these instruments.

It’s not uncommon for Dr Wakefield to pull out a pair of sticks and a practice pad and observe your technique in order to help diagnose your issues. Preston stresses the benefits of proper posture, stretching and warming up.

Spend time with Dr Preston Wakefield and you’ll have a rudimentary understanding of things like “peripheral nerve entrapment”, “carpal tunnel” and “tendonitis”. He will teach you how recognize these issues and treat yourself so you can keep working.

Click here for pictures of the stretches that were discussed in this podcast

This interview was conducted October 24th 2015

036 – William Ellis: Touring with Montgomery Gentry, Drawing Inspiration from Multiple Styles Oct 22, 2015

William Ellis is an in-demand drummer based in Nashville, TN and for almost six years, has been the drummer for the country duo Montgomery Gentry. His extreme versatility within a myriad of styles has served him well whether touring or recording. Artists like Travis Tritt, Martina McBride, Hunter Hayes, and many others have relied on his drumming expertise and versatility.

William was also involved with two band projects: Blue Merle and EMP Project. In doing so, he was able to compose, co-produce, perform in the studio, and tour extensively opening for such artists and festivals as Counting Crows, Train, Dave Matthews Band, Bonnaroo, and Lollapalooza, etc.

William has become a regular part of the Nashville Drummer Jam and you can see him perform at the Nashville Drummer Jam 7 December 14th, 2015 at the Exit In in Nashville.

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This interview was conducted September 23rd, 2015

035 – Jeff Hartsough PAS Executive Director: PASIC 2015, Rhythm Discovery Center, Percussive Arts Society History Oct 14, 2015

Jeff Hartsough is the Executive Director of the Percussive Arts Society as well as the Rhythm Discovery Center in Indianapolis Indiana. Since it’s start in 1961, PAS has stayed true to its Mission to inspire, educate, and support percussionists and drummers throughout the world. PAS also maintains it’s Vision to be the global leader in percussion and drumming by providing unparalleled and interactive resources and experiences in percussion education, performance, and research.

The museum and interactive displays at the Rhythm Discovery Center shows the Society’s commitment to the preservation of percussion history as well as it’s cultural significance throughout human history.

November 11th – 14th in San Antonio Texas is the annual Percussive Arts Society International Convention, (or PASIC). This four day event is celebrating it’s 40th anniversary and continues to be a major highlight of the organization. Artists from all areas of the percussion world will be participating in the many events throughout the convention. Events that include clinics, classes and panel discussions will cover drumset, education, symphonic, electronics/technology, marching, world percussion, health and wellness, ensemble and keyboard as well as professional development.

Click here for pictures of the Rhythm Discovery Center

This interview was conducted September 22nd, 2015

034 – David Parks: Creating Opportunities, Nashville Drummers Jam, Turning Passion into Gigs Oct 08, 2015

David Parks is known as not only a versatile and in demand drummer, but has also grown his reputation as a creative visionary solely based on the success of the Nashville Drummer Jam and it’s growing popularity since it’s start in 2012. The Drummers Jam even caught the attention of Modern Drummer who featured a two page spread on the Jam. David is in the process of finalizing the details of the seventh installment of the Drummers Jam December 14th in Nashville Tennessee at The Exit In.

David’s drumming experience began at the age of 13 and is highlighted by his work with Van-Dells and a nine year run most recently with the group Locash Cowboys. Since leaving Locash, David has redefined himself as a freelance player tackling many new gigs including his most recent work touring with Casey James as well as tracking percussion for Kings X drummer, Jerry Gaskill’s solo record.

David’s love and passion for music and all things Drumming continues to drive him onto bigger and better things.

This interview was conducted September 20th 2015

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033 – Tom Hurst: Touring, Teaching, Organizing and Everything in Between Sep 28, 2015

Tom Hurst is known for so many projects that he is involved in that its hard to narrow it down to one that most would identify him with. The artists he’s worked with include The Backstreet Boys, Gary Allan, Wang Chung, Chuck Wicks, Tiffany, Joe Nichols, Sister Hazel, Peter Noon of Herman’s Hermits, James Otto and is currently touring with Tracy Lawrence.

On the educational front Tom is a University of Florida graduate with a Bachelors of Arts in Music specializing in Ethnomusicology. Tom has taught at every level of music education. Tom is the co-founder/owner, and financial manager of Infinity Percussion, and Infinity 2, two independent youth arts competitive percussion performance ensembles with over 90 members combined annually.

Throughout his career Tom has additionally undertaken multiple non-performance music business related endeavors including Tom Hurst Presents: Loud Jamz promotions company that includes a jam session at Douglas Corner the first monday of (almost) every month that features many of Nashville’s best musicians.

Along with guitarist Chris Nix, and drummer David Parks, Tom helps organize the increasingly popular Nashville Drummers Jam that showcases an iconic drummer with many of Nashville’s top drummers performing songs from the featured drummer. December 14th 2015 is the next performance.

Additionally Tom served as a Disney staff musician performing in numerous ensembles throughout his two decades plus career with the company.

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This interview was conducted September 11th, 2015

032 – David Northrup: Oak Ridge Boys, Travis Tritt, Sharing a Recording with Jeff Porcaro, Seeing Failure as a Blessing in Disguise Sep 23, 2015

After nine years working with Travis Tritt and making a name for himself, David has found a gig with The Oak Ridge Boys that has been the perfect fit for him and his family. David’s solid drumming abilities are a key component in maintaining the reputation that The Oak Ridge Boys have been known for for decades and the committed fans have come to expect. David embraces opportunities like this and has learned and grown from tough situations in the past that would have caused many to have given up.

Despite his busy road schedule with “The Oaks”, David keeps a foot in the session world as well as the clinic world averaging 12 drum clinics a year throughout the country.

At the age of 24, David’s drumming caught the ear of the legendary guitar player Les Dudeck that led to an opportunity for David to track drums on remaining songs that were left unfinished opposite drumming great Jeff Pocaro.

This interview was conducted September 10th, 2015

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031 – Josh Birkhimer: All Styles, Full Time Musician in Denver, Kid Rock Stand in Sep 10, 2015

Josh Birkhimer has a super diverse skill set that allows him to adapt to any situation and tackle any style of music. From latin and jazz to heavy rock, Josh continues to stay busy through employing many of these styles. His versatility and solid drumming led him to a career as one of the busiest musicians in Nashville for over 15 years. He has had the opportunity to work with Kid Rock, Sheryl Crow, Big & Rich, Jim Lauderdale, Raul Malo, Jo Dee Messina, Andy Griggs, Earl Thomas Conley, Eddy Raven, Mark Wills, Jo-El Sonnier, Lionel Cartwright and many others. Josh moved to Colorado Springs in 2011, and he is currently the Music Director for Lucci Music Studios. He is splitting his time between the premier horn band in Denver, The Tent Show Kings, the Springs loudest hard rock band, Savage Amusement, amazing jazz guitarist, Wayne Wilkinson, and he is also a member of the worship team at Red Rock Church. Josh is a trained facilitator of the Health Rhythms Protocol; which is a scientific based program that utilizes drumming and rhythm to improve physical, mental, emotional, and psychological health.

This interview was conducted September 5th 2015

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030 – Jason Sutter: Touring with Smash Mouth, Chris Cornell, Marilyn Manson, Foreigner Sep 02, 2015

Currently based in LA, Jason Sutter is known as a badass rock drummer who’s worked with so many strong rock acts like Marilyn Manson, Foreigner, Chris Cornell, Vertical Horizon and is currently on tour with Smash Mouth.

Jason started playing drums at the age of nine and with the support of nurturing parents a world class private teacher Jim Pietrzak, Jason played his first professional gig at the age of 13. With a masters degree in orchestral performance from the University of Miami, Jason is comfortable performing a wide range of music including classical, jazz, drum Corps and all styles of pop and rock. Jason’s undergraduate degree in music education from North Texas State makes him an effective and popular clinician. Jason play drums on all but two tracks for the 2009 Vertical Horizon record Burning The Days. The other two tracks were recorded by Neil Peart.

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This interview was conducted August 8th 2015

029 – Greg Morrow: ACM Drummer of the Year, Giving Engineers What They Want, Touring to Sessions, Head Combinations Aug 26, 2015

Greg Morrow has been an inspiration for many drummers including myself, not only for his superb drumming but for his humble demeanor.

Born in Ripley Tennessee and raised in Memphis, Greg was exposed to great music at an early age. During these formative years, this was one of the things that became a catalyst for Greg’s love of music, drums and making a career out of these things. At the young age of 11 years old, Greg’s band at the time performed on a local TV show, Swing Shift. He also had his first recording session during this time.

Touring and recording with Christian artists Degarmo and Key in the 1980’s lead to touring with Amy Grant that lead Greg to Nashville where his recording chops were quickly recognized. Since that move from Memphis to Nashville over two decades ago, Greg’s been a first call session drummer favorite among producers for his super solid pocket and musicality that elevates the performance of any track he’s on.

Some if the many recognizable artists he’s worked with include Joe Cocker, Amy Grant, The Dixie Chicks, Reba McEntire and John Oats. In just the last year, Greg’s recording credits range from new artists like Luke Bryan and Darius Rucker to classic artists like Jim Ed Brown and Alabama.

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This Interview was conducted August 7th, 2015

028 – Gary Forkum: Owner of Forks Drum Closet, Supporting the Nashville Drumming Community Aug 19, 2015

Gary Forkum is the owner of Forks Drum Closet in Nashville Tennessee.

What started as a closet full of cymbals and sticks in the back of a music store in 1982, has grown into the premier pro drum shop in music city. Customers have direct access a knowledgable staff and a showroom full of high end percussion that is unique to most retail experiences. The store also offers private lessons, gear rentals, repairs and they host an Ebay store.

From Students to seasoned pros, customer loyalty has been at the root of Fork’s success. For over three decades, this drum shop has been at the center of the Nashville drumming community.

Along with most of the staff, Gary is an active drummer juggling up to four different bands including The Midnight Riders, (an Allman Brothers tribute band) the World Famous Channel Cats and his original project, The Blues Apostles.

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This interview was conducted August 6th 2015

027 – Willie Cantu: Drumming for Buck Owens, Hanging w/ Tony Williams in NY, Scottish Pipe Drumming Aug 12, 2015

Originally from Corpus Christi Texas, one of the most defining moments in Willie Cantu’s music career was at the young age of 17 when he became an original member of the Buckaroos led by Buck Owens in the 1960’s. During the three and a half years Willie performed and recorded with Buck Owens, the band earned numerous awards that included Grammys and CMA’s. In 1966, Buck Owens and the Buckaroos were only the second country act to have appeared at Carnegie Hall.

Willie has always been an avid fan of jazz and jazz drumming. During a visit on tour with Buck, Willie had the rare privilege to meet and hang with the great Tony Williams as well as many other jazz greats.

After leaving Buck in late 1967, Willie married a canadian moved to Toronto were he got more involved in performing in jazz groups like the Pharoah Sanders Quartet. Shortly thereafter, Willie moved to San Francisco were he continued his education in all things percussion.

In 1983 Willie moved to Nashville were he began playing country again as well as Scottish Pipe Band Drumming. He started two Scottish Pipe Bands in Tennessee including the Tennessee Scot’s Pipe Band.

He became the house drummer at the Nashville Palace from 1989 to it’s closing in 2005. Willie continues to teach privately and perform locally in Nashville.

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026 – Trey Gray: Drumming for Faith Hill, Jewel, Brooks and Dunn, Pro Gigs and Huntington’s Disease Aug 06, 2015

Raised in South Bend Indiana, Trey Gray moved to Nashville in 1990. Trey has built a strong reputation in Nashville as a solid and dynamic drummer starting with his work in 1994 with Faith Hill. Later, Trey went on to work with Jewel, Brooks and Dunn, Reba McEntire as well as Ronnie Dunn as a solo artist.

In 2003, Trey was diagnosed with Huntington’s Disease. Despite the disease’s hallmark symptoms of uncontrolled movement of the upper body, Trey continues to work as a drummer for many of these artists as well as write and produce in his two recording studios in Nashville and Indiana.

With the help of some close friends, Trey started the Huntington’s Disease Foundation (HDFI) to help raise awareness of the disease as well as organize events that will generate income towards research for a cure.

Also, through help with Vanderbilt University, Trey has started the Trey Gray Fund.

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This interview was conducted July 30th 2015

025 – Tim Horsley: Drumming in a Multi-Media World, Working with Keith Urban in the Early Days, Sprinter Van Skeptic Jul 29, 2015

At four years old, Tim Horsley began playing drums and by the age of eight, he was playing live shows with his fathers gospel group in Southern Illinois. This early experience created a foundation for Tim to become the in-demand drummer he is today in Nashville. Starting in 1998, Tim has played drums with some of the best known country artists. After a short stint with Suzy Bogguss, Tim toured for close to five years with Keith Urban. His work with Keith helped establish Tim as a formative player that lead to many other artist gigs like Gary Allan, Deana Carter and Jamie O’Neal just to name a few.

Becoming an expert at recording the drums, is one of the many ways Tim continues to diversify his talents within the music industry. Dedicating his energy into getting the best drum sounds he can for tracking drums in his home studio has been an obsession that continues to pay off. You can easily access examples of these recordings on his web-site. From an educational angle, Tim utilizes his home recording experience and teaches others through the web-site homestudiocorner.com.

Along with maintaining a steady stream of recording clients, Tim is also the house drummer for a multi-media web-site called Digital Rodeo. Tim stays busy performing live with a variety of artists like Dean Alexander as well as performing in industry showcases for new artists.

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This interview was recorded July 27th 2015

024 – David Santos: Playing Bass for Billy Joel, John Fogerty, Sharing the Stage with Kenny Aronoff, Liberty Devitto, Cindy Blackman-Santana Jul 22, 2015

Bassist David Santos shares insight into music and drumming that only a bass player can give. David has toured and recorded with Billy Joel/Elton John, John Fogerty, Crosby Stills and Nash, The Neville Brothers, Billy Preston and many others.

As a consummate student of music, David has created opportunities to work with some of the greatest musicians of our time. This includes working with many amazing drummers. Some of the drummers we discuss in this podcast include Andy Newmark, Kenny Aronoff, Cindy Blackman-Santana and Liberty Devitto.

David continues his work in Nashville as a first-call session musician and runs his own world-class White Rock Studios. David is also a respected educator and songwriter/producer. He provides instruction on piano, guitar and bass.

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This interview was conducted July 21st 2015

023 - Kevin Murphy: Touring with Randy Houser & Tonic, the Drumming Style of DC, Defining His Peers with Honesty Jul 15, 2015

For the last five years, Kevin Murphy's been the power house drummer for country singer Randy Houser. Before his current road gig, Kevin toured for 11 years with the band Tonic. Growing up in the Northern Virginia/DC area, Kevin's exposure to music, like hardcore and "Go Go," became an undeniable influence on Kevin's playing and has served him well for the more than two decades he's spent as a full-time professional drummer.

Kevin plays an active role in the Nashville drumming community and constantly works at maintaining strong friendships among his peers. Most recently Kevin was one of the drummers mentioned in the August issue of Modern Drummer's feature on the "Nashville Drummer Jam" and their tribute to Neil Peart.

It's easy to hear an air of confidence in Kevin's voice but you can also hear it in his playing. His YouTube channel is well stocked with live footage of Kevin's dynamic playing.

Kevin has also taken on the role of producer and songwriter. Kevin's producing and songwriting skills can be heard on Josh Gracin's (former American Idol contestant) record "Redemption." Also, Kevin is a partner in a hot sauce called Mad Hatter Foods.

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022 - Brian Fullen: Tracking Drums at Home for Producers Overseas, Being an Educator but Always Learning, Balancing Music and Family Jul 08, 2015

Brian Fullen is a veteran drummer who's lived in Nashville for many years and worked for many artists including Shania Twain, Peter Frampton, Bob Carlisle, Allies, The Imperials, Vince Gilland Larry Carlton just to name a few. As a first call studio drummer, Brian's session work covers artist projects to movie sound tracks to music for TV commercials. Brian's been expanding his home studio work with sessions supporting chart topping Australian artists that have been at the forefront of an Australian country music renaissance. Some of these artists include Australian X-Factor finalists and Toyota Star Maker winners from 2013 and 2014.

Brian's family has deep musical roots and at the age of fifteen, he was working professionally as a drummer. Studying in Columbus Ohio at Capital University and later receiving a Masters of Art from the University of Memphis, Brian used his educational experience to become a respected educator himself. As well as teaching at Belmont University in Nashville for twelve years, Brian has authored three well received books, Bass Drum Essentials for the Drumset, Contemporary Country Styles for the Drummer and Bassist and Jazz Standards for Drumset.

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This interview was conducted June 19th 2015

021- Rich Redmond: Drumming for Jason Aldean, Producing, Writing, Acting, Playing Madison Square Garden Jun 24, 2015

Drummer Rich Redmond has so many plates spinning there wouldn't be enough room in the podcast show notes to list them all. Best known as the drummer for country super star Jason Aldean (touring and studio), Rich also produces other artist's music with his partners at New Voice Entertainment. As a speaker and author, many of Rich's pursuits encompass the combination of education and motivation. You may find Rich at a music store putting on a drum clinic for aspiring drummers while on tour with Aldean and the next week speaking in front of business professionals motivating them to reach the next level with his program C.R.A.S.H. Course For Success. Living by example, Rich is constantly dreaming up new and innovative ways to find success in music, drumming, the entertainment industry and many other areas of business. Based in Nashville and Los Angeles, Rich adds songwriting and most recently acting to his impressive resume.

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This interview was conducted June 18th, 2015

020 – Steve Bowman: Tracking Drums for Counting Crows Record – August and Everything After, Believing in the Music You Play, Working & Loving a “Real Job” Jun 17, 2015

Many people know Steve Bowman as a founding member and original drummer for the band Counting Crows. Born and raised in Oakland California, Steve had the good fortune of growing up in a town with a history of successful bands like The Counting Crows. Steve established a reputation as a solid musician with his original and creative drumming on the band's 1993 debut album August And Everything After. In Late 1994, Steve left the band and went on to play with artists like Third Eye Blind, John Wesley Harding, and Penelope Houston.

While on a trip to Nashville in 2006 to record with the band The Bittersweets, Steve discovered the charm of the music city and moved his family in 2007. Since that time, Steve stayed busy live and in the studio with artists like Big Kenny and many other songwriters.

The devastating Nashville flood in 2010 and the damage it did to Steve's property forced him to make many changes in his life. What started as a dark period has turned into an opportunity for Steve rediscover and reinvent many aspects of his life including how he makes music.

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019 – Jerry Roe: Leaving a Coveted Gig for an Original Project, Growing Up in a Famous Musical Family, Starting Drums at 1 1/2 Years Old Jun 10, 2015

Jerry Roe is the drummer and member of the band Friendship Commanders. Widely known as a prolific and naturally gifted drummer, Jerry's list of artists he's performed and/or recorded with is impressive. These include Rodney Crowell, Emmylou Harris, The Wreckers, Legendary Shack Shakers, KD Lang, WPA (Works Progress Administration) and Gretchen Wilson. As the grandson of singer, songwriter and actor Jerry Reed as well as son of Nashville bassist Dave Roe, it's no surprise to learn that Jerry began playing drums at 1 1/2 years old. During a few years living and working in Los Angeles, Jerry not only worked with L.A. based bands like the Useless Keys but his studio sessions included working with bass legend Leland Sklaras well as Leland's all bass player band, JoStLe. This interview was recorded May 13th 2015

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018 - Jeff Brown: Building Your Home Studio, Touring, Creating Opportunity Jun 03, 2015

Currently on the road with Casey James and guitar great Reeves Gabrels, Jeff Brown has been able to stay busy as a full time drummer for many years. In just the last decade, Jeff has worked with many artists live and in the studio including Dreaming In English, Jen Foster, Bucky Covington, Thomas Rhett and Steel Magnolia. Jeff's recording experience includes recording for movie sound tracks, television as well as many independent artists in Nashville and Los Angeles. An artist at heart and creative soul, Jeff started a video series called The Players Din that features an improvised musical performance with fellow musicians. Jeff also operates his own home studio called Shrug Sound Studio. Click here for pictures.

This interview was recorded May 12th, 2015

017 – Dan Sia: Working as a Cruise Ship Drummer May 27, 2015

Originally from Quesnel British Columbia, Dan Sia has just finished his 11th year as full time cruise ship drum set player and multi percussionist. What started as an audition over the phone 11 years ago, Dan's work on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines has tested his skills at adapting to almost every style of music imaginable. This includes drumming for musicals like Mama Mia, Chicago: The Musical and Hairspay as well as big band and combo playing. Not only is sight reading a must while backing up guest artists on the ships, Dan must be able to cover all the styles mentioned as well as Latin and pop styles. Most recently Dan was the featured drummer in a show called Sonic Odyssey with a 20 minute drum solo. Since our interview, Dan has moved back home to Las Vegas with the hope to put his many skills to the test in the Vegas strip. Click here for pictures.

This interview was conducted on April 23rd 2015

016 - Jamie Rogan: Ten Years on the Road with Billy Currington, Staying in Shape May 20, 2015

Jamie Rogan is a passionate drummer that for the last ten years has been working for country singer Billy Currington. But Jamie is so much more than that. After graduating from Auburn University with a degree in music education, he stayed in Alabama for two more years as a band director. In 2000 Jamie moved to Nashville. Jamie continues to juggle many things outside his full time road gig with teaching and session work. When not on the road, Jamie works with a Grateful Dead tribute band called The Stolen Faces. Click herefor pictures

This interview was recorded April 7th 2015

015 - Fred Eltringham: Drumming for The Wallflowers, Dixie Chicks, Sheryl Crow & Producer T Bone Burnett May 13, 2015

Fred Eltringham has had arguably some of the coolest gigs you could have throughout the years he's been playing. While touring with RCA artists Gigolo Aunts from the mid to late 90's, Fred established many working and personal relationships with the bands they were sharing the stage with. This included The Wallflowers which eventually became Fred's gig for eight years after leaving the Gigolo Aunts. While on a break from The Wallflowers, Fred was recommended for the Dixie Chicks gig where more Nashville connections were made. After multiple moves between LA and New York, Fred moved his young family to Nashville in 2006 where he has become steadily busier as a live drummer working with Sheryl Crow as well as an in demand session drummer recording with strong talent such as Kasey Musgraves, Allison Moorer, KD Lang as well as producer T Bone Burnett. Click here for pictures.

This interview was recorded April 6th 2015.

014 - Steve Ebe: Staying Busy "In-Town", Teaching Drums, Working in Tribute Bands May 06, 2015

Before moving to Nashville in 1991, Steve Ebe spent his formative years in Memphis working with such legends as Carl Perkins and Donald "Duck" Dunn. Now, Steve is known throughout the Nashville music community as one of the busiest drummers in town. Whether it's teaching close to 50 students a week, or working with several bands who's primary focus is paying tribute to classic albums by performing them in their entirety, (The Long Players). Steve has carved a niche for himself that is truly unique. He still finds the time to work with other local bands as well, including a Steely Dan tribute called 12 Against Natureand an 80's party band with a strong reputation called Guilty Pleasures. For a little over 15 years, Steve has also been a member of a dedicated original band called Human Radio. This interview was conducted April 1st 2015. Click here for pictures.

013 - Ed Toth: Drumming for The Doobie Brothers, Vertical Horizon, The Honest Truth About Endorsements Apr 29, 2015

Ed Toth has held down two power house gigs for close to 20 years. Between 1996 - 2005, Ed was the drummer and member of the band Vertical Horizon. Since 2005, Ed has been playing drums with the legendary Doobie Brothers. Ed shares with us the joys and challenges that he experienced as a member of Vertical Horizon from its humble beginnings to multi platinum status as well as what lead to his transition into the gig with the Doobie Brothers.

We also cover the strong influence his musician father had on Ed's early education as well as his introduction to the music of the Doobies as a kid.

Ed's drum tech, Jeremy Denton joined us for the interview and took some great pictures. All photos in Ed's gallery are Jeremy's. Here is what Ed had to say about Jeremy:

"Jeremy Denton (jdenton03@gmail.com) is a Nashville based photographer. He's also my drum tech so he knows his way around the kit and knows what looks best for drummers. If you need some shots for you or your band, I highly recommend you drop him a line!" - Ed Toth

This interview was recorded April 2nd 2015

012 - George Lawrence: Teaching Keith Carlock, LA in the 80's with Jeff Pocaro, Drumming for Poco Apr 15, 2015

Not only has George Lawrence been the drummer for Poco for over a decade, he's known throughout the Nashville drumming community as a natural mentor with years of experience performing live and in the studio. His reputation as an influential teacher includes a long list of successful alumni like drumming great Keith Carlock.

In the early eighties George maintained steady work as a session drummer in Los Angeles and later at Muscle Shoals in Alabama. Some of George's current and past endeavors include owning his own drum shop, running the magazine "Not So Modern Drummer" as well as running the annual Nashville Drum Show. See photos here.

011 - Ben Sesar (Part 2): Challenging Practice Techniques, Cymbal Placement, Touring with Brad Paisley Apr 08, 2015

For the last 15 years, Ben Sesar has been the live and studio drummer for Grammy award winning singer, songwriter and guitarist Brad Paisley. This gig has given Ben a perspective on the music industry that few drummers get to experience. Ben offers his insight and philosophy on the business and what obstacles up and coming drummers might face.

As a teacher, writer and professed life long student himself, Ben comes off as a true journey-man who is constantly looking for answers that plague his active drumming mind. And as a result of the depth of information we cover, we've decided to break this podcast into two parts.

In part 2, Ben gets into practice techniques that he's designed to challenge himself as well as his students. He also explains the reason and origin of his cymbal set up and why they are angled the way they are.

We have included the talents of photographer John Zocco in this podcast. You can check out all the great photographs from this interview on www.workingdrummer.net.

This interview was recorded February 10th, 2015

010 – Jim Riley: Music Director and Drummer for Rascal Flatts, Humble Beginnings in Nashville, Author Mar 18, 2015

For over 15 years Jim Riley has been the drummer for the hugely successful country group Rascal Flatts. After earning a degree in music education from North Texas, Jim found his way to Nashville in pursuit of higher musical goals. In pursuit of these goals, Jim shares with us his story of determination and perseverance. After establishing his drumming skills among his peers in Nashville, Jim quickly found himself with his first artist gig working with Mark Chestnut. As the group Rascal Flatts was beginning to take shape, Jim was asked to be the drummer. In spite of the newness of the group and its ground breaking pop style, Jim saw it as great opportunity and a risk worth taking. Within the first two years, Jim found himself in the position of musical director for Rascal Flatts and continues to maintain that position in the group. Jim discusses his role as "MD" and how it's responsibilities has evolved over years as the band's success has grown. Jim is also a dedicated educator. Sharing real world performance experiences with his students is at the core of Jim's teaching style. Jim is preparing to release his comprehensive book, Survival Guide For The Modern Drummer. Jim has also participated in many clinics across the country both large and small that have included Drum Daze in Columbus Ohio and Modern Drummer fest. Jim has defined success based on his own terms. He has found balance between performing with a successful band, teaching, writing music and writing about music as well as raising a family. See photos here.

009 – Ben Sesar (Part 1): Sad Changes in the Music Industry, Drumming for Brad Paisley Mar 11, 2015

For the last 15 years, Ben Sesar has been both live and studio drummer for the Grammy award winning singer, songwriter and guitarist Brad Paisley. This gig has given Ben a perspective on the music industry that few drummers get to experience. Ben offers his insight and philosophy on the business and which obstacles up and coming drummers might face. As a teacher, writer and professed life long student, Ben comes off as a true journey-man who is constantly looking for answers that plague his active drumming mind. Due to the depth of information we cover, we've decided to break this podcast into two parts. Ben discusses the trials of the music business in this first part as well as his decision to reinvent himself by converting to traditional grip after playing match grip most of his life. He also explains how he divides drumming into the "what we play" and "how we play", and the benefits of understanding the difference. We have included the talents of photographer John Zocco in this podcast. You can check out all the great pictures from this interview on www.workingdrummer.net. This interview was recorded February 10th, 2015

008 - Lee Kelley: Taking Chances, Pro Playing Without Formal Training, Carolina Beach Music Mar 04, 2015

Lee Kelley has learned to adapt his drumming style to fit whatever gig has come his way. Lee's range of gigs have included backing up many artists in Nashville including Gary Allan, Mark Chestnut, Heidi Newfield as well as alt-country singer Chris Knight. Originally from the Charlotte North Carolina area, Lee learned drumming from his neighbor at an early age and continued his informal education working with and learning from popular local bands such as Sugar Creek and Too Much Sylvia. Encouraged by Eddie Bayers to move, Lee hit the streets of Nashville in 1996. After embracing the drumming style of classic country music, Lee quickly found himself working with country artist Gary Allan. Lee talks about the many artist gigs that followed and how he has continued to stay busy in the Nashville music scene. This interview was recorded February 3rd 2015. See photos here.

007 - Matt Iceman: Taking Every Gig Seriously, Getting Along WIth Your Tour Mates, What Would Shannon Forest Do? Feb 25, 2015

Matt Iceman is our featured drummer for our 7th podcast. Matt is a relatively young drummer who's been steadily making a name for himself in the Nashville scene since his move in the early 2000's. At the time of our interview, Matt was just finishing two busy years touring with singer/songwriter Eric Paslay. We discuss his role as band leader as well as life on the road. While on tour, Matt was able to watch other drummers perform with the artists that were sharing the stage. Since our interview, he has moved on and will be the touring drummer with country singer David Nail.

Matt's early influences in music, drums and music education lead him to the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and eventually to Nashville. We discuss Matt's perspective on the music industry and the role of the modern drummer as his inspiration to invest in his own home studio. Pictures of his studio and the building process can be found at www.workingdrummer.net. Our interview was recorded December 18th, 2014.

006 - Keio Stroud: Juggling a Thousand Gigs, Drumming on a Grammy Nominated Record, Spray Painting Your Tour Kit Feb 18, 2015

Keio Stroud is the featured drummer for the 6th podcast. 2014 was very busy for Keio, touring with Rodney Crowelland Big & Rich. Openings in his 2014 schedule were quickly filled with other gigs as a sub that included Jake Owen, Chad Warrix and Stoney LaRue. Keio grew up in a family of musicians and spent his formative years performing as the second drummer (double drums) in his dad's band. Keio's interest in drumming emerged from his desire to be involved in anything that had to do with drums. Though he questioned his abilities as a young player, Keio was strongly encouraged by many to pursue performance. Even blues artist Keb' Mo' recognized Keio's talents and included him in his 2014 Grammy nominated album, "BLUESAmericana" playing tracks along with Steve Jordan. Keio's interview was recorded December 17th, 2014. See photos here.

005 – Mark Beckett: Growing up in the Studio with Dad Barry Beckett, Sharing the Job as House Drummer for the Grand ole Opry, First Drumset from Eddie Bayers Feb 11, 2015

Mark Beckett is an accomplished session and live drummer in Nashville. When not in the studio, Mark's live gigs include touring with Olivia Newton-John as well as sharing the job of "house drummer" at the Grand Ole Opry opposite Nashville drumming legend Eddie Bayers. Eddie played an important role throughout Mark's life as a mentor and teacher. Son of Barry Beckett, renowned session keyboardist and record producer, Mark was exposed to music and the music business at a young age. This experience became uniquely beneficial to Mark in learning practical performance and recording techniques. Mark's Interview was recorded December 17th, 2015. See photos here.

004 - Gregg Lohman: Drumming for Kellie Pickler, Surviving a Major Car Crash to Play Drums Again, Positive Role Models Feb 03, 2015

Gregg Lohman has been the touring drummer for Kellie Pickler for the last eight years. At the time of our interview, Gregg had just returned from one of Kellie's many USO tours and was preparing for the Neil Peart tribute show with the Nashville Drummers Jam. Gregg's talents keep him very busy in the ever changing music scene of Nashville. Throughout his life, Gregg has had many positive role models that have given him the tools he's needed to navigate through all that life has thrown at him. After surviving a horrific car crash in 2013 the drumming community in Nashville and beyond rallied around Gregg and showed unparalleled support during his time of recovery. Gregg's podcast interview was recorded December 16th, 2014. See photos here.

003 - Brice Williams: Studying with Chester Thompson, Earning the Respect of Your Peers, Recording with Lady Antebellum, Mark Wills, Maintaining Endorsement Relationships Jan 28, 2015

Professional drummer Brice Williams is our third podcast interview. Brice is currently touring and recording with Mark Wills. Brice has gained an amazing amount of experience in the relatively short time he's been in Nashville. From an early age he showed great promise as a drummer while playing in his fathers band. In college, Brice studied with one of his biggest influences, Chester Thompson at Belmont University in Nashville. His professional life was was propelled forward through his experience performing and recording with Lady Antebellum early in their career. Learn how Brice embraced those experiences and how they fueled his progress as a drummer, teacher and musician. See photos here.

002 - Nick Buda: Recording for Taylor Swift, Advice from Vinnie Colaiuta, Escaping Apartheid South Africa as a Kid Jan 21, 2015

Nick Buda is the featured artist on the second Working Drummer podcast. Before moving to the United States, Nick grew up in South Africa. Nick tells about his move to the U.S. as a young teen and, what led him to a career playing drums. While Nick was in high school, he had a chance meeting with Vinnie Colaiuta, who advised him to attend Berkeley to study.

His early career was spent touring extensively with a host of artists including Colonel Bruce Hampton. Later shifting his energies, Nick decided to become a full time session drummer. He talks about the transition and the lessons learned along the way, including recording with Taylor Swift and being true to yourself as a player. Click hereto see photos of Nick in action and more.

001 - David Black: Singing and Drumming, Touring and Being a Family Man, Playing with Taste and Confidence Jan 08, 2015

For the first Working Drummer Podcast, we talk with David Black. David is the touring drummer with Easton Corbin. We start from David’s early influences to growing up in a musical family and making the big move to Nashville. David talks about the challenges of raising a young family while touring and shares some of the experiences that lead up to his current gig with Easton.

Recorded November 2014, in David’s comfortable home! For photos click here.

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