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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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...

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

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

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.

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.

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

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,

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.

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

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.

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 .

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.

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”

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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, Zildjiancymbals 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

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

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”

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

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

“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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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