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

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

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

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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 Here's our Patreon Here's our Youtube Here's our Homepage

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

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"

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

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

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.

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"

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 

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

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.

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