Drumming for an Album, Live Performance, or Cover Video

A drumming cartoon made the rounds on the Internet and had an impact on me. In the first panel, a bandleader watches a drummer’s blazing display of chops and says, “You’re amazing.” In the second panel, the drummer plays a simple kick and snare groove, and the bandleader says, “You’re hired.” I’ve always taken the second image to heart by focusing on groove, feel, tone, creativity, and the recording process.