Steve Smith
This year marks the 45th anniversary of Steve Smith’s relationship with Sonor drums. Steve bought his first set of Sonor drums in 1977 while touring with jazz-fusion violinist, Jean-Luc Ponty. He played the same Sonor set touring with rock guitarist Ronnie Montrose. The Montrose gig led to his high-profile association …
Modern Drummer’s new series of LEGENDS books are a labor of love. They feature brand new interviews. Brand new transcriptions. Never before seen pictures. Digital downloads of rare recordings. Deep dives into equipment. And more… When else does a reader get to read interviews resulting from spending 30 hours (or …
Photos from the 2021 Modern Drummer Festival For the second year in a row, the global pandemic chased the Modern Drummer Festival to an online venue. But we were unbowed. Presented by the MD team and produced by Thom Mozloom’s crew at M Network, we were able to unleash one …
Ringo Starr Excerpted from his Change the World Press Conference Charlie Watts was a beautiful human being—a great guy and a lot of fun. He had a harder band than I did to keep together. He was like the quiet man. In the ’70s, I had parties, and you’ll never …
Some of the worlds greatest drummers and industry members share their memories of what Neil Peart has meant to them.
We are excited to present the Modern Drummer 2018 Readers Poll winners!
You can learn a lot just by listening to drummers talk about their own educational backgrounds. This month MD asks two Pro Panelists about their unique paths of instruction, the teachers who’ve been the most influential on them, and their personal philosophies of study. Rich Redmond My philosophy is …
Since the mid-’70s, Steve Smith’s drumming has enhanced a wide range of albums within the rock, jazz, and fusion genres. Classic hits, jazz-fusion escapades, and even Indian-influenced pursuits adorn the drummer’s discography with artists such as Journey, Jean-Luc Ponty, and Vital Information. We recently asked our social media followers for …
Last year he rejoined the band with which he wrote and recorded some of the most famous drum parts in history. And like every other musical situation he confronts, Journey’s drummer approached this one not as an excuse to relax into a familiar role but as a golden opportunity to …
Although Journey has been around for eight years, tremendous public acclaim has come for the band only recently, particularly gaining momentum within the last three years of existence.
The universally lauded multi-genre legend joins Hall of Fame, another contemporary giant sweeps three categories, and Neil Peart returns.
Let’s get it straight from the start: There’s no dabbling when it comes to incorporating Indian musical influences into your playing. It’s all just too deep. But for decades, Western drummers who’ve fallen under Indian music’s spell have gladly dedicated the hours, weeks, and years required to truly absorb its …
Catching Up With… Steve Smith Is there a harder-working man in the business? Following a world tour with tabla master Zakir Hussain, he’s got two new albums out and a third on its way. by Ken Micallef Featuring bassist Baron Browne, guitarist Vinny Valentino, alto saxophonist Andy Fusco, and keyboardist …
Modern Drummer recently popped in on Vital Information drummer and 2013 Pro Panelist Steve Smith to chat about one of his favorite albums, the Mahavishnu Orchestra’s Visions of the Emerald Beyond. The 1975 LP was the sophomore outing by Mahavishnu’s second lineup, which included drummer Billy Cobham’s replacement, Narada Michael …
Gather enough drummers together, and inevitably the conversation will turn toward the eternal question of whether vintage drums sound better than new ones. The pro-vintage crowd argues that twenty-plus-year-old wood has had time to settle into a reliable, consistent tone. The pro-modern group will counter that their drums are the …
The era known as the ’80s, roughly the period between the dawn of punk and rap in the late ’70s and the rise of indie rock and hair metal in the middle of the next decade, was a time of great change in pop culture.
The ’80s might not be anyone’s first reference point for the golden age of jazz, but a closer examination reveals wonders under the surface. Sure, traditional acoustic jazz was no longer in favor, though some of the established innovators of the ’60s and ’70s were still playing at a high …
Joey Jordison, Chris Coleman, Michael Carvin, Patrick Wilson, Nate Morton, Erin Tate, Steve Smith, John Weathers, Allison Miller, Richie Hayward, Joey Waronker, Matthew “Woody” Woodley
Brann Dailor, Ray Luzier, Eric Harland, Jimmy Paxson, Nicko McBrain, Dennis Diken, Tim Alexander, Matt Wilson, Ryan Hoyle, Karl Latham, Corey Pierce, Brian Delaney, Steve Smith, Zakir Hussain, Neil Peart, Rashied Ali
Mick Fleetwood, Benny Greb, Winston Watson, Eric McPherson, Max Roach, Roy Hanes, Elvin Jones, Dave King, Matt Cameron, Steve Smith, Louie Bellson, Ryan Van Poederooyen, Graham Hopkins, John “Drumbo” French, Dannie Richmond
Alex Van Halen, Alex González, John Humphrey, Marcus Gilmore, Brooks Wackerman, James “The Rev” Sullivan, Roger Taylor, Torry Castellano, Jim Bogios, Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, Carlos Vega, Steve Smith, James Gadson, Gavin Harrison, Carlos “Patato” Valdez
Josh Freese, Jeff Porcaro, James Gadson, Vinny Appice, Morgan Rose, Vicki Randle, Ryland Steen, Artimus Pyle, Stephen Flinn, Steve Smith, Abe Laboriel Jr., David Garibaldi
Chris Adler, Billy Kilson, Dennis Chambers, James “The Rev” Sullivan, Gary Chester, Patrick Hallahan, Mike Wengren, Timmy Biery, Chuck Burgi, Lee Crystal, Steve Smith, Michael Novak Jr., Dave Weckl, Dave Mattacks, Dick Shanahan, Walter “Clyde” Orange, Neil Peart, Morgan Rose, Joey Baron
Chad Smith, Jim Keltner, Hal Blaine, Bill Bruford, Earl Palmer, Steve Hass, Ian Wallace, Terri Lynn Carrington, Andrew Hurley, Phil Maturano, Sammy Siegler, Russ Moy, Steve Smith, Thomas Lang, Zoro
Neil Peart, Steve Smith, John Riley, Rod Morgenstein, Stanton Moore, Billy Ward, Ian Paice, Rob Zgaljic, Kofi Baker, Orri Pall Dyrason, Steve Davis, Aaron Spears, Jimmy Chamberlin, Scott Travis
Jon Farriss, Dafnis Prieto, John Humphrey, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Nate Morton, Matt McDonough, Brendan Canty, Jeff Sipe, Jim McCarty, Fred Young, Shannon Leto, Steve Smith, Chris Vrenna, Topper Headon
Ringo Starr, Danny Carey, Chad Smith, Ian Paice, Steve Smith, Paul John Jr. Stanton Moorse, Michael Travis, Jason Hann, Tony Allen, Adam Topol, Kevin March, Mark Guiliana, Des Kensel, Sean Rickman, Tris Imboden, Rick Marotta, Eddie Bayers
John Dolmayan, Steve Smith, Matt McDonough, Mike Portnoy, Billy Hart, Jeremy Colson, Nick Mason, Adrian Erlandsson, David Wagenschutz, Joe Cocuzzo, Chad Chapin, Rick “The Rev” Holeman, Mike Zeoli, Lloyd Knibb, Dan Caro, John Blackwell, Larry Bunker, Darrin Pfeiffer, Russ McKinnon
Ahmir “?uestlove” Thompson, Terry Bozzio, Chuck Comeau, Earl Palmer, Billy “Thunder” Mason, David Garibaldi, Rodney Green, Chris Vrenna, Rod Morgenstein, Joel Rosenblatt, Sebastian Thomson, Billy Ward, Chuck Morris, Roger Taylor, Ronnie Vannucci, Scott Rockenfield, Brad Morgan, Terry Bozzio, Steve Smith, Ian Paice
John Otto, Ron Spagnardi, Terry Bozzio, Bill Bruford, Simon Phillips, Carter Beauford, Chad Cromwell, Tim Alexander, Josh Freese, Steve Smith, Stephen Perkins, Gary Husband, Gordon Heckaman, Jason Bittner, Martin Atkins, Tony Thompson, Thomas Lang, Matt Sorum, Abe Laboriel Jr.
Travis Barker, Ed Shaughnessy, Chris Hesse, Lars Ulrich, Randy Jones, Danny Carey, Tommy Stewart, Kevin Miller, Robin Diaz, Larry Fratangelo, Steve Smith, Simon Phillips, Mike Mangini
Steve Smith, Terry Bozzio, Simon Phillips, Gregg Bissonette, Louie Bellson, Dave Weckl, John Dolmayan, Bill Bruford, Thomas Lang, Tommy Aldridge, Mike Mangini, Horacio Hernandez, David Garibaldi, Virgil Donati, Carl Palmer, Paul Doucette, Gavin Harrison, George Rebelo, Duduka Da Fonseca, Jim Keltner, Terry Santiel, Walfredo Reyes Jr.
Buddy Rich, Nick D’Virgilio, Joe La Barbera, Steve Smith, Josh Freese, Panama Francis, Jeff Ocheltree, Abe Laboriel Jr., Allen Shellenberger, King Coffey, Richie Hayward, Glenn Kotche, Tommy Aldridge, Mike Heidorn, Slim Jim Phantom, Greg Upchurch, Gene Lake, Joe Morello
Jose Pasillas, Scott Travis, Billy Kilson, Claudio Slon, Paul Bostaph, Robin Goodridge, Johnny Morgan, Denise Fraser, Steve French, Mike Luce, Steve Smith, Mike Cosgrove, Steve Jocz, Gregg Bissonette, Gregg Field, Denny Carmassi, Gavin Harrison
Tré Cool, Wuv, Nicko McBrain, Dave Krusen, Phil Ehart, Trey Gray, Steve Gadd, Joe Morello, Rod Morgenstein, Peter Erskine, Neil Peart, Mel Lewis, Roy Burns, Mark Parsons, Rick Van Horn, Tony Williams, Buddy Rich, John Bonham, Tito Puente, Alan Dawson, Gary Chester, Eric Carr, Larrie Londin, Art Blakey, Philly Joe …
Charlie Watts, Jim Keltner, Steve Smith, Abe Cunningham, Elvin Jones, Richie “Gajate” Garcia, Gene Krupa, Phil Rudd, Billy Martin, Darrin Pfeiffer, Matt Walker, Brant Bjork, Gerry Hemingway, Danny Carey, Bill Bruford, John Riley
Jeff “Tain” Watts, Rodney Holmes, Brooks Wackerman, Art Blakey, Steve Ferrone, Jonathan Joseph, Ed Toth, Steven Drozd, Brett Chassen, Vinnie Colaiuta, Byron McMackin, Steve Smith, Graham Lear, Vinnie Paul, Ian Paice
Clyde Stubblefield, John “Jabo” Starks, Darren Jessee, Steve Alexander, Simon Kirke, Don Brewer, Bun E. Carlos, Phil Ehart, Abbey Rader, Todd Roper, Frankie “Kash” Waddy, Alex Cline JD Charlton, Morgan Rose, Jerry “J.I.” Allison, Steve Ferrone, Steve Smith, Carl Palmer, Ted Bonar, Ed Breckenfeld, Rich Rychel, John Riley, Harriett L. …
Gary Novak, Raymond Herrera, Marco Minnemann, Stanton Moore, Denise Fraser, Marty Richards, Butch, Peter Lockett, Louie Bellson, Simon Phillips, Steve Smith, Vinnie Paul
Matt Chamberlain, John Guerin, Armando Peraza, Vinne Amico, Bill Bruford, Carl Palmer, Jacob Slichter, Mark Zonder, Kim Zick, Steve Johns, Randy Castillo, Steve Smith, Dave Weckl
Jack Irons, Albert “Tootie” Heath, Ricky Lawson, Adrian Young, Steve Smith, Mike Palmer, Danny Gottlieb, Mario Calire, Ken Tondre, Marcus Miller, Brad Hargreaves, J.D. Blair, Steve Smith, Scott Amendola, Carl Allen , Jerry Marotta, Dennis Chambers, John ” JR” Robinson
Steve Smith, Gary Novak, Neil Peart, David Silveria, Joe Zawinul, Barrett Martin, Todd Sucherman, Frank Beard, Russel Simins, Terance Higgins, Kenny Aronoff, John Robinson
In this Issue: Stephen Perkins, Shane Evans, Zach Danziger, Jason Finn, Chad Gracey, Milton Cardona, Butch Vig, Willie Ornelas, Billy Exiner, Dave Mattacks, Rick Allen, Charlie Watts, Adrian Young, Herman Matthews, Tim “Herb” Alexander, Steve Smith,
In this Issue: Richie Hayward, Steve Smith, Peter Erskine, Stephen Perkins, Mike Portnoy, Gregg Bissonette, Kenwood Dennard, Rayford Griffin, Alan White, Fergal Lawler
In this Issue: Adam Nussbaum, Jimmy Chamberlin, Bill Bruford, Tony Williams, Steve Smith, Billy Cobham, Ed Shaughnessy, Danny Gottlieb, Cactus Moser, Louie Bellsom
In this Issue: Steve Smith, Ed Thigpen
In this Issue: Bill Bruford, Simon Wright, Carl Palmer, Harvey Mason, Dennis Chambers, Peter Erskin, Steve Smith
Vinnie Colaiuta, Stan Levey, Neil Peart, Buddy Rich, Eliot Zigmund, John F. Williams, Steve Smith, Phil Collins
Anton Fig, Connie Kay, Jerry Kroon, Neil Peart, Elvin Jones, Billy Cobham, Susan Evans, Steve Jordan, Kenny Washington, Buddy Williams, Barrett Deems, Gary Wallis, Butch Miles, Steve Smith
In this Issue: Steve Smith, Joe Franco, NYC Contractors, RAS Michael, & Bill Gibson
Ed Shaughnessy, Don Baldwin, Ted McKenna, Ray McKinley, Alan White, John Stacey, Pete Magadini, Philly Joe Jones, Jerome Cooper, Cliff Leeman, Billy Amendola, Louie Bellson, Steve Smith, Alan Gratzer, Gerry Brown
Tony Thompson, Nicko McBrain, Paul Wertico, Peter Erskine, Odie Payne Jr., Casey Jones, Morris Jennings, Jimmy Tillman, Kevan McKenzie, Philly Joe Jones, Papa Jo Jones, Vinnie Colaiuta, Mel Lewis, Steve Smith
Steve Jordan, Mickey Curry, Jerry Allison, Steve Smith, Mel Gaynor, Shelly Manne, Martin Drew, Wilby Fletcher, Peter Erskine, Paul T. Riddle, Rod Morgenstein
Mel Lewis, Mark Brzezicki, Nigel Olsson, George Marsh, Steve Gadd, Mick Avory, Aynsley Dunbar, Jim Keltner, Joe Franco, Danny Seraphine, Steve Smith
Terry Bozzio, Omar Hakim, Ian Paice, Buddy Rich, Tristan Fry, Rick Allen, Steve Smith, Gina Schock, Bobby Blotzer
Art Blakey, Carmine Appice, Arthur Press, Jonathan Moffett, Joey Franco, Alex Van Halen, Steve Smith, Simon Phillips, Eric Carr, Neil Peart
John Bonham, Phil Ehart, Rashied Ali, Louis Hayes, Mel Lewis, Simon Phillips, Carmine Appice, Frankie Banali, Steve Smith
Matt Frenette, Joey Kramer, Ronald Shannon Jackson, Art Taylor, Ed Shaughnessy, John Stacey, Murray Spivack, Fred Gruber, Jim Blackley, Peter Magadini, Keith Killgo, Dennis Wilson, Chad Wackerman, Steve Smith, Jack DeJohnette, Larrie Londin, Paul T. Riddle
Airto Moreira, Mark Herndon, Fran Christina, Bill Maxwell, Carl Palmer, Neil Peart, Steve Smith, Yogi Horton, Eric Carr, Ellie Mannette
Simon Phillips, Steve Smith, Collin Walcott, Carmine Appice, Roberto Petaccia, Charli Persip, David Samuels, John Robinson, Liberty DeVitto, Mel Brown
Posted: October 13, 2022
Drumming’s Biggest Names To Play LIVE Tribute to Their Big Band Heroes
Seven All-Star Drummers Including Peter Erskine, Dennis Chambers, Russ Miller and Steve Smith will Perform October 20 and 21 HITKOR (www.hitkor.com) today announced its first-ever charity event which will take place over two days in mid-October. “A Salute to the Big Band Greats” will feature performances from all-star drummers Peter …
Posted: August 17, 2022
Steve Smith will be performing at Birdland Jazz Club in New York City
Drummer Steve Smith will be performing at Birdland Jazz Club in New York City for an unprecedented five consecutive weeks with five different groups September 16 through October 16, 2022. Steve Smith is known for playing with Jean-Luc Ponty, Journey, Steps Ahead and his own group Steve Smith and Vital …
Posted: October 4, 2021
100 Drummers “Drum Together” for WhyHunger Campaign
The mission is simple, but critical: One Beat. One Mission. End Hunger. WhyHunger—a non-profit founded in 1975 by the late Harry Chapin and radio deejay Bill Ayres to “change systems, policies, and institutions that perpetuate hunger and poverty in our world”—enlisted more than 100 drummers and percussionists to perform a …
Posted: September 1, 2020
Modern Drummer Festival 2020
Modern Drummer is rebooting its world-famous Drum Festival on September 12 at 8 p.m. Eastern Standard Time with a live-streaming event honoring the late, great Rush drummer Neil Peart. Proceeds of ticket sales will benefit brain tumor research at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. The event, which will be produced and distributed …
Posted: May 24, 2020
Narada Michael Walden Joins Journey
Following the dismissal a while back of bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith over an alleged “coup attempt” within the corporate structure of the band, guitarist Neal Schon announced yesterday that Narada Michael Walden will be Journey’s new drummer. Schon also revealed that former Journey member — and American …
Posted: February 25, 2020
On The Beat with Nettie Baker: Shares Ginger Baker Tribute
A tribute to a drummer by a lead guitarist? Whoever heard of such a thing? But this was no ordinary lead guitarist and no ordinary drummer either—they were legends Eric Clapton and Ginger Baker.
Posted: February 18, 2020
MD Subscriber Sees Aerosmith At The Park Theater In Las Vegas
MD subscriber tells us about seeing Aerosmith in Las Vegas after winning MD’s VIP contest.
Posted: November 14, 2019
Ron Wikso of Gregg Rolie
Hello Modern Drummer “On The Beat” readers! I’m just checking in with a little update and to say a quick hello to the most awesome drumming community in the world!
Posted: June 4, 2019
Josh Roossin of the Jacks
Josh Roossin here and I play drums in the LA-based rock n’ roll band the Jacks.
Posted: February 6, 2019
The first three Rock and Roll Fantasy Camps of 2019 are ready to make some noise.
The first three Rock and Roll Fantasy Camps of 2019 are ready to make some noise. Leading the riffs and grooves will be an incredible array of legends, platinum-selling artists, and certified rock stars.
Posted: January 24, 2019
Joe Corsello in On The Beat
I had done three world tours with Benny Goodman, a year with singer Peggy Lee, two world tours with the World’s Greatest Jazz Band,
Posted: December 18, 2018
Dennis Diken of the Smithereens in On The Beat
Hello MD! Greetings from our tour bus, which is rolling from St. Charles, Illinois to Youngstown, Ohio. I’m currently drumming on Ronnie Spector’s Best Christmas Party Ever! 2018 tour.
Posted: August 7, 2017
Warming Up With…Steve Smith
https://www.youtube.com/embed/pkY_Y5qOQFY Check out Steve’s drum solo from the Louisville, KY show! We had the opportunity to sit down with Modern Drummer’s September 2017 cover artist, Steve Smith, before his recent show with Journey in Louisville, Kentucky. From the serene confines of Steve’s dressing room—or “zen room,” as he likes to …
Posted: April 18, 2017
Steve Smith’s Acceptance Speech During Journey’s Induction Into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
At Journey’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, drummer Steve Smith took the opportunity to, as we say, give the drummers some.
Posted: February 7, 2017
On the Beat with Stephen Bidwell of Hard Proof: Talks New Album and Gear
Greetings drumming friends! I’m Stephen Bidwell, a drummer based in Austin, Texas and a sometime contributor to MD since 2008. The same year Mike Dawson first asked me to review some cymbals for MD I began assembling what started as an Afrobeat band. From humble beginnings learning Fela Kuti and …
Posted: January 27, 2017
Friday Nuggets: Joe Butler’s Cannons
Check out the drum production on this number-one hit by the Lovin’ Spoonful, from August, 1966. You didn’t often hear drums quite so prominently on a pop hit in the mid-’60s.
Posted: September 9, 2016
The October 2016 Modern Drummer Playlist
Listen to tracks from the October issue of Modern Drummer magazine, including cover star Shannon Forrest playing with the Dukes of September and Mindy Smith, New York hit maker Steven Wolf with Miley Cyrus
Posted: July 29, 2016
September 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer magazine featuring Snarky Puppy’s Robert “Sput" Searight, Larnell Lewis, and Jason "JT" Thomas
See what’s in, and where to order, the September 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer magazine featuring Snarky Puppy’s Robert “Sput??? Searight, Larnell Lewis, and Jason “JT??? Thomas
Posted: July 29, 2016
September 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer magazine featuring Snarky Puppy’s Robert “Sput” Searight, Larnell Lewis, and Jason “JT” Thomas
See what’s in, and where to order, the September 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer magazine featuring Snarky Puppy’s Robert “Sput??? Searight, Larnell Lewis, and Jason “JT??? Thomas
Posted: July 5, 2016
On the Beat With Lynn Coulter of Rita Coolidge: On the Road With the Delta Lady
Hello “On the Beat??? readers, Lynn Coulter here. I just got back from two weeks out with the fabulous Rita Coolidge doing dates in the New England area. Rita just released her memoir, Delta Lady.
Posted: June 30, 2016
August 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer magazine featuring Slipknot’s Jay Weinberg
(Available in print and digitally June 30, 2016) Print Copy ○ iTunes ○ Amazon ○ GooglePlay ○ Subscribe On the Cover Slipknot’s Jay Weinberg “They didn’t want a copycat, so I needed to play it in my own way. I can’t play it any other way.” Taking the place of …
Posted: June 30, 2016
August 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer magazine featuring Slipknot’s Jay Weinberg
(Available in print and digitally June 30, 2016) Print Copy ○ iTunes ○ Amazon ○ GooglePlay ○ Subscribe On the Cover Slipknot’s Jay Weinberg “They didn’t want a copycat, so I needed to play it in my own way. I can’t play it any other way.” Taking the place of …
Posted: March 31, 2016
May 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer featuring Andrés Forero of Hamilton
(Available digitally March 31, 2016; in print April 1, 2016) Print Copy ○ iTunes ○ Amazon ○ GooglePlay ○ Subscribe On the Cover Andrés Forero “Andrés Forero is one of the most creative and versatile players of our time, and his participation in Hamilton solidifies his stature as one of …
Posted: March 31, 2016
May 2016 Issue of Modern Drummer featuring Andrés Forero of Hamilton
(Available digitally March 31, 2016; in print April 1, 2016) Print Copy ○ iTunes ○ Amazon ○ GooglePlay ○ Subscribe On the Cover Andrés Forero “Andrés Forero is one of the most creative and versatile players of our time, and his participation in Hamilton solidifies his stature as one of …
Posted: January 29, 2016
Pete Lockett: The “Long-Term Student??? Clears Pathways to a Credible East-West Percussive Combination
Pete Lockett By Claudia Hansen by Mike Haid From Britain to Bombay, Pete Lockett is recognized as an international ambassador of world percussion. Lockett’s mastery of North and South Indian styles has earned him accolades and respect from the Indian masters of rhythm, and he’s collaborated with many …
Posted: December 16, 2015
Fifteen DVDs Every Drummer Should Own
In this installment of our 2015 holiday gift guide, we’re taking a look at fifteen DVDs that every drummer should own. These are the videos that drummers are going back to time and time again for inspiration and edification. Whether you’re looking for new creative ideas behind the kit, technical …
Posted: November 17, 2015
News: 18th-Annual Carlos Vega Memorial Birthday Concert on December 6
The 18th Annual Carlos Vega Memorial Birthday Concert will feature Will Lee (bass and vocals), Steve Ferrone (drums), Michael Thompson, Denny Dias (guitars), Lenny Castro (percussion), Larry Klimas, Jim Stevens (sax), Ron King (trumpet), Alex Ligertwood, Leslie Smith (vocals), and David Garfield (keys and MD)….
Posted: November 2, 2015
Dom Famularo’s Teachers List
Over the course of his forty-year career traveling the globe to teach, perform, and conduct clinics, Dom Famularo has interacted with some of the finest drummers and drum instructors in the world. The following list contains many of those names, organized by country/continent. If you’re looking for top-notch drum instruction, …
Posted: June 24, 2015
News: Journey, With Omar Hakim Coming in at the Eleventh Hour on Drums, Breaks Record at the Hollywood Bowl
The iconic concert venue the Hollywood Bowl launched its ninety-fourth season this past June 20 with an opening-night concert featuring classic-rock band Journey….
Posted: June 11, 2015
A Six-Pack of Jazz and Fusion
Half a dozen top-shelf 2015 jazz and fusion releases still in high rotation at Modern Drummer HQ.
Posted: June 8, 2015
On the Beat With Nelson’s Gunnar Nelson: A Drummer Who Happens to Sing and Play Guitar
Hello, Modern Drummers! I’m a drummer who happens to play guitar and sing. It has been said that drumming may be the first music man ever made. In my case it has been a source of who I am. I was born in the “summer of love” on September 20, …
Posted: June 1, 2015
On the Beat With Journey Guitarist Neal Schon and Drummer Steve Smith: Discussing Neal’s Latest Solo Album, Vortex
Neal tells Modern Drummer, “What can I say—it’s Steve Smith! He is bombastic and very inventive on all the tracks. I do usually have a certain groove in my head and will usually hum it out to explain what I’m hearing, that’s all he needs.???
Posted: June 1, 2015
On the Beat With Journey Guitarist Neal Schon and Drummer Steve Smith: Discussing Neal’s Latest Solo Album, Vortex
Neal tells Modern Drummer, “What can I say—it’s Steve Smith! He is bombastic and very inventive on all the tracks. I do usually have a certain groove in my head and will usually hum it out to explain what I’m hearing, that’s all he needs.???
Posted: May 22, 2015
Steve Smith and Vital Information NYC Edition U.S. Tour
Steve Smith and Vital Information NYC Edition are beginning a U.S. tour supporting the group’s Viewpoint album, which comes out next Tuesday, May 26. The band features, of course, Steve Smith on drums, as well as Andy Fusco on sax, Mark Soskin on keyboards, Baron Browne on bass, and Vinny …
Posted: May 8, 2015
Event: Sweetwater Presents GearFest 2015
Sweetwater, a top online retailer of music instruments and audio equipment in the US, is presenting GearFest 2015 on Friday, June 12, from 9 am to 6 pm, and Saturday, June 13, from 9 am to 5 pm, at the Sweetwater campus located at 5501 US Hwy 30 W in …
Posted: April 30, 2015
June 2015 issue of Modern Drummer featuring Benny Greb
See what’s in the pages of the June 2015 issue of Modern Drummer magazine and find out where to pick it up.
Posted: April 29, 2015
Drummer Blog: Billy McCarthy on the Documentary Ferocious Drummers
Hello Modern Drummer readers! My name is Billy McCarthy, and right now the trailer for my documentary film, Ferocious Drummers, is up at www.kickstarter.com. With this film, I am hoping to move drummers to a place they hardly visit on the actual stage—right up front and center….
Posted: April 29, 2015
Drummer Blog: Billy McCarthy on the Documentary Ferocious Drummers
Hello Modern Drummer readers! My name is Billy McCarthy, and right now the trailer for my documentary film, Ferocious Drummers, is up at www.kickstarter.com. With this film, I am hoping to move drummers to a place they hardly visit on the actual stage—right up front and center….
Posted: April 22, 2015
Drummer Blog: Salvador Placencia and Garrett Ray of Fool’s Gold
Greetings drummers of the modern age! We are Salvador Placencia and Garrett Ray, percussionist and drummer for the band Fool’s Gold from Los Angeles. We thought it would be fun to interview each other to give you a little insight on who we are and what we’ve been up to …
Posted: April 17, 2015
News: Vic’s Drum Shop to Host Drum Fantasy Camp at Music Garage, Chicago
Vic’s Drum Shop will host the Drum Fantasy Camp at its North Loomis Street location in the Music Garage, Chicago this August 7 through Tuesday, August 11.
Posted: March 26, 2015
News: Vic’s Drum Shop Wins 2014 Outstanding Retailer Award From Vic Firth Company
Vic’s Drum Shop in Chicago has been selected to receive the 2014 Outstanding Retailer Award from Vic Firth. The award was presented to drum shops across America that achieved double-digit sales growth last year with more than $25,000 in annual sell-through of Vic Firth products….
Posted: March 18, 2015
Drummer Blog: The Hooters’ David Uosikkinen Talks Thirty-Five Years of Drumming
Hi, everybody! David Uosikkinen here. I’m probably best known for my work with the Hooters, the band I’ve been playing music with for thirty-five years. It’s been a great ride and I’m grateful to have been on it….
Posted: February 19, 2015
News: 25th-Annual Chicago Drum Show to Take Place May 15–17, 2015
The 25th Annual Chicago Drum Show is shaping up to be another world-class percussion event. Organizer Rob Cook reports that every aspect of the show is on track to maintain the show’s status as a premier educational and entertainment event….
Posted: February 6, 2015
News: Vic’s Drum Shop in Chicago Selected as the First US Retailer for Sonor Vintage Series
Vic’s Drum Shop in Chicago, America’s largest independent drum retailer, has been chosen by the Sonor Drum Company to be the first store in the United States to sell its new Vintage series drums….
Posted: February 6, 2015
Showroom: Vic Firth Steve Smith Tala Wand Slats
The Steve Smith Tala Wand Slats feature a foam center surrounded with four flat bamboo slats and wrapped in thin PVC and is said to provide a variety of unique sounds with ideal rebound and feel….
Posted: February 4, 2015
Modern Drummer Education Team Weighs In On: Learning Other Styles
We asked the members of the Modern Drummer Education Team if they felt that it’s important for all drummers to study Latin music and other musical genres, even if they don’t intend to ever perform those styles. Here’s what they had to say….
Posted: January 29, 2015
March 2015 Issue of Modern Drummer featuring Animals as Leaders’ Matt Garstka
See what’s in the March 2015 Issue of Modern Drummer featuring Animals as Leaders’ Matt Garstka and where to get it!
Posted: December 10, 2014
News: Guitar Center’s 26th-Annual Drum-Off Finals Brings Together Legendary Drummers to Celebrate the Nation’s Best Undiscovered Talent
Five talented drummers from across the country have been chosen from over 5,000 drummers entered in more than 1,000 local competitions nationwide to compete as finalists in Guitar Center’s 26th Annual Drum-Off, the world’s premier drum competition….
Posted: November 26, 2014
NEWS: April 2014 Cover Artist, Mike Johnston, Celebrates 1,000th Live Lesson With Free Broadcast!
Today, November 26, 2014, mikeslessons.com founder and April 2014 cover artist, Mike Johnston, is giving his 1,000th live lesson. To celebrate the landmark, he is making the lesson free and open to the public….
Posted: October 14, 2014
The Essence of Progressive Drumming
What is the rhythmic essence of progressive music? What makes prog so different from other genres? Does it require a specific skill set on the drumkit, or does the nature of the music make it open to interpretation? MD posed these and other questions to the drummers in Spock’s Beard, …
Posted: September 10, 2014
Drumerica Announces 2014 Contest Winners!
The winners were selected by judging panels made up of world-famous drummers and drum educators, including Gorden Campbell, Tommy Igoe, Arin Ilejay, Cobus Potgieter, Johnny Rabb, Steve Smith, Bryan Hitt, Hannah Ford Welton, Jake Garland, John DeChristopher, Demian Arriaga, Dylan Taylor, Nia Lovelis, and Antoine Fadavi, plus the editors of …
Posted: August 27, 2014
Drumerica Announces 2014 Contest Finalists
Drumerica, the National Contest For Young Drummers, has announced the names of the 18 finalists in this year’s competition. They are:
Posted: August 19, 2014
Influences: Harvey Mason
Here, as a companion to our August 2014 Influences piece on Mason, we speak with the drummer about his new album, his early days, the drummers who inspired him, and more….
Posted: August 13, 2014
FREE EVENT! Mike Johnston to host CreativeLive class “Becoming a Music Teacher: The Art of Sharing Your Talent???
Mike Johnston, drummer, educator, and founder of the world’s largest educational website for drummers, Mikeslessons.com, will host a free CreativeLive class on August 14, beginning at 9 am PDT/12 pm EDT, titled “Becoming a Music Teacher: The Art of Sharing Your Talent.??? The seven-hour course covers everything from delivering information …
Posted: August 5, 2014
Influences: Blondie’s Clem Burke
A band’s fortieth anniversary might find the members in victory-lap, let’s-slow-it-down-a-notch mode. Not so with Blondie. To mark the big four-oh, the group is touring extensively and has released a double-disc package titled Blondie 4(0)-Ever, featuring a collection of new songs called Ghosts of Download along with the album Greatest …
Posted: August 4, 2014
Mike Johnston to host CreativeLive class “Becoming a Music Teacher: The Art of Sharing Your Talent???
Mike Johnston, drummer, educator, and founder of the world’s largest educational website for drummers, Mikeslessons.com, will host a CreativeLive class next month, “Becoming a Music Teacher: The Art of Sharing Your Talent.???…
Posted: July 31, 2014
Drumerica Entry Deadline Extended To 12:01 AM, Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Due to the high number of late submissions, the deadline to enter the Drumerica National Contest For Young Drummers has been extended to 12:01 AM, Wednesday, August 6, 2014.
Posted: July 10, 2014
VIDEO! Former Wings Drummer Steve Holley and the Smithereens’ Dennis Diken Pay Tribute to Ringo Starr
In our sixth tribute video to Ringo Star, filmed during the Fest for Beatles Fans Symposium, former Wings drummer Steve Holley discusses meeting Paul McCartney in 1977, through his neighbor Denny Laine, and joining the band a year later. Holley talks about Ringo’s sound and the Beatles drummer’s influence on …
Posted: July 7, 2014
Drumerica Is Open to All Young Jazz, Rock, Latin, Metal And R&B Drummers
No matter what style of music they play, aspiring drummers can show their talent, skill and personality by participating in the 2014 Drumerica drumming contest.
Posted: July 1, 2014
Drumerica Contest for Young Drummers Launches Today July 1!
With the start of the National Competition For Young Drummers less than thirty days away, Drumerica has announced the launch of the www.drumerica.us website….
Posted: June 13, 2014
Drumerica Website Goes Live With Free, Downloadable, Official Play-Along Tracks From Groove Essentials And DrumFun
Drumerica has announced the launch of the www.drumerica.us website.
Posted: June 12, 2014
Steve Smith and Zakir Hussain Path of Rhythm Drum Camp
Steve Smith and Zakir Hussain are inviting drummers of all kinds to take part in a unique drum camp experience….
Posted: June 1, 2014
Drumerica Contest Adds Additional Sponsors And Celebrity Judges
Drumerica is proud to announce that leading online music retailer Musician’s Friend, the world-renowned music education program School Of Rock and the Percussive Arts Society (PAS), the world’s largest organization of drummers and percussionists, have joined with twenty other top drum, accessory and media companies to sponsor the online video …
Posted: May 29, 2014
Mark Schulman, Daniel Glass, and Bruce Becker Announce “Triple Threat??? LA Drum Camp
World-renowned drummers, educators, authors, and instructional DVD creators Mark Schulman (Pink/Foreigner), Daniel Glass (Brian Setzer/Bette Midler) and Bruce Becker (Mike Stern/Ron Carter) will a drum camp this July 18–20 at the Hilton Woodland Hills/Los Angeles, located at 6360 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills, CA….
Posted: April 30, 2014
Rachel Trachtenburg of the Prettiots and Larry & the Babes
The two bands I’m currently in are very different from each other. One is an all-girl indie-pop band called the Prettiots. The second band is Larry & the Babes. It’s a garage rock band—very raw and rocking….
Posted: April 30, 2014
Rachel Trachtenburg of the Prettiots and Larry & the Babes
The two bands I’m currently in are very different from each other. One is an all-girl indie-pop band called the Prettiots. The second band is Larry & the Babes. It’s a garage rock band—very raw and rocking….
Posted: April 17, 2014
RBH Drums Adds Industry Veteran Kip Williams as Director of Sales and Product Development
RBH Drums has added Kip Williams as director of sales and product development. Williams will be working directly with dealers across the country to help RBH develop its dealer programs and to create brand awareness through strategic marketing. “I have been in this business for a long time as a …
Posted: April 16, 2014
KoSA Percussion Workshops
The 2014 South Florida Percussion Workshop/KoSA Miami will take place…
Posted: April 1, 2014
Lee Ritenour Announces All-Star Judges For 4th Bi-Annual Six String Theory Competition
Legendary GRAMMY® winning guitarist/producer Lee Ritenour has announced the stellar list of musicians assembled as judges for the 4th Bi-Annual Six String Theory Competition.
Posted: February 26, 2014
VIDEO – Korn’s Ray Luzier and Special Guests Play “Sluggo’s Revenge??? at Guitar Center’s 2014 Drum-Off Finals
Watch Korn drummer Ray Luzier’s exclusive performance of “Sluggo’s Revenge??? from Guitar Center’s 2014 Drum-Off Finals, held this past January 18. Ray’s band featured Jeff Kollman on guitar, Billy Sheehan on bass, and DJ/producer Sluggo.
Posted: February 21, 2014
VIDEO – Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats With Steve Lukather Play “We All Swing the Tuna??? at Guitar Center’s 2014 Drum-Off Finals
Check out this video of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith leading his band the Bombastic Meatbats at Guitar Center’s 2014 Drum-Off Finals, held this past January 18. The band, which also consists of guitarist Jeff Kollman, keyboard player Ed Roth, and bassist Kevin Chown, was joined onstage by …
Posted: February 20, 2014
VIDEO – Steve Ferrone and Questlove Play “Pick Up the Pieces??? at Guitar Center’s 2014 Drum-Off Finals
Check out this video of longtime Tom Petty drummer Steve Ferrone and the Roots’ Questlove playing “Pick Up the Pieces,??? from Guitar Center’s 2014 Drum-Off Finals, which were held this past January 18. The song was the biggest hit for the Scottish funk group Average White Band, which Ferrone played …
Posted: January 29, 2014
Second World Vibes Congress Held at Malletech Factory
The World Vibes Congress was held at the Malletech factory in Neptune, NJ on January 4 and 5, 2014. By the time jazz legend Gary Burton took to the stage at the Dauphin Grille Saturday night, about sixty fellow vibraphonists had spent the day discussing ways to promote their instrument, …
Posted: January 21, 2014
Hard Rock Announces Call For Entries in Global Hard Rock Rising Competition
Hard Rock is on the search for rising rock stars to take the stage in the heart of the Roman Empire!
Posted: January 8, 2014
Drum Instructor Sam Ulano Passes
Sam Ulano, a beloved yet controversial player and instructor who Modern Drummer readers will recognize from the many ads he ran in the magazine over the years, passed away last week, at the age of ninety-three. MD published an interview with Ulano in the September 2011 issue, which we’ve reprinted …
Posted: December 20, 2013
Guitar Center’s Drum-Off Celebrates 25 Years With An All-Star Line-Up
Five finalists have been selected to go on to battle it out for the title of Guitar Center’s Drum-Off Champion and a prize package valued at nearly $50,000.
Posted: November 26, 2013
Taking the Reins
Recent albums by drummers Will Calhoun, Terence Higgins, and Camille Gainer-Jones remind the world that anything they can do we can do better—or at least just as well.
Posted: October 25, 2013
MD Writer “Pistol” Pete Kaufmann Conducts “Big Picture Drumming” Clinic
Musician and Modern Drummer writer “Pistol” Pete Kaufmann will be conducting his clinic on “Big Picture Drumming” at Warlock Drum studios in Downtown Jersey City, Saturday, November 9th, from 1 to 3pm. Big Picture Drumming is based on Pistol’s Modern Drummer Magazine educational piece and concepts will be geared towards …
Posted: October 9, 2013
Johnnie Bolin of Black Oak Arkansas
I’ve been the drummer for Jim Dandy and Black Oak Arkansas for the past twenty-five years. When I’m not on the road with BOA, I manage the music catalog of my late brother, guitarist Tommy Bolin….
Posted: September 25, 2013
Jason Hartless of Pistol Day Parade
Going back to April of 2012, my instructional DVD, Learn to Rock Drums With Jason Hartless and Friends, a product of Drumfun distributed by Hal Leonard, hit the shelves in Guitar Centers, Best Buy, and music stores nationwide. It features me along with some great drummers, such as Corky Laing …
Posted: August 28, 2013
October 2013 Issue of Modern Drummer Featuring Mike Portnoy
October 2013 Issue of Modern Drummer featuring Mike Portnoy Contents
Posted: August 1, 2013
Guitar Center Launches Its 25th Annual Drum-Off Competition
Guitar Center’s Drum-Off launches its 25th annual search for the next great undiscovered drummer.
Posted: June 27, 2013
August 2013 Issue of Modern Drummer Featuring Zigaboo Modeliste
See what’s in the August 2013 issue of Modern Drummer magazine, featuring Zigaboo Modeliste…
Posted: June 24, 2013
Corky Gainsford of Otherwise
I play drums for the band Otherwise, who is on Century Media Records. Our debut album, True Love Never Dies, was released in 2012 and landed at number two on Billboard’s Heatseekers chart….
Posted: June 5, 2013
Thomas Lang, Aaron Spears, Steve Smith, and Dave Weckl Appearing at Cleveland Drum Fantasy Camp
For the seventh consecutive year, Drum Fantasy Camp will allow drummers of all ages, playing levels, and musical genres to spend time in small classes with some of the world’s great drummers. This year’s camp will be held August 8 through 12 at the Hyatt Hotel in Cleveland, Ohio….
Posted: May 29, 2013
Bruce Becker
Greetings, fellow drummers. Bruce Becker here. I am currently residing in Los Angeles and have been recording and gigging with my brother David for thirty years. I am very involved in teaching as well….
Posted: May 16, 2013
Web Exclusive!
Mark Guiliana’s Beat Music
Mark Guiliana may be best known for his work as a sideman with jazz musicians such as Avishai Cohen and Brad Mehldau, but the drummer has been increasingly involved with his own solo project, Beat Music….
Posted: April 26, 2013
25 Timeless Drum Books
What makes a great drum book? There’s no single answer, as different books have been written to address a wide variety of styles and techniques. But judging by a recent poll in which Modern Drummer readers were asked to name their favorite volumes, a few characteristics stand out….
Posted: April 11, 2013
Former Red Hot Chili Peppers/Captain Beefheart Drummer Cliff Martinez Honored by BMI
The music-rights-management company BMI will present the Richard Kirk Award for outstanding career achievement to composer Cliff Martinez at the organization’s 2013 Film & Television Awards. The annual ceremony will be held Wednesday, May 15, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in California….
Posted: April 1, 2013
Brian Tichy
How did I get asked to be the drummer to play with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry at the John Varvatos–hosted 10th Annual Stuart House Benefit show? Well, I’ll tell you.
Posted: March 28, 2013
The May 2013 Issue of Modern Drummer magazine featuring Aerosmith’s Joey Kramer
See what’s in the May 2013 issue of Modern Drummer magazine….
Posted: March 22, 2013
MD Education Team Weighs In On: Ergonomics
Click here to check out what the MD Education Team members have to say about setting up your drumset for maximum results….
Posted: February 27, 2013
Paiste Artist Vinnie Colaiuta Discusses the Formula 602 Modern Essentials Series
Check out this video featuring an in-depth interview with drumming legend Vinnie Colaiuta. Vinnie discusses how the new Formula 602 Modern Essentials line of cymbals came to be, and he demos each cymbal.
Posted: January 28, 2013
NAMM 2013 in Photos
It’s that time of year again, when the makers of dreams—or at least the equipment that helps them come true—show off the latest and greatest gear that will be available in the upcoming months. What’s the catch? Not everyone is invited! Never fear, the Modern Drummer editors have it covered. …
Posted: December 18, 2012
Guitar Center’s Drum-Off Finals To Feature Live Performances By Gadd, Blackwell, Carlock, Heyward, King and More!
Guitar Center’s nationwide search for the next great undiscovered drummer has chosen the 2012 grand finalists.
Posted: November 28, 2012
Billy McCarthy of Ferocious Drummers
As a drummer myself, I had a burning question, “Why is it we’ve never heard from the drummer’s personality and character on and off the stage????
Posted: October 15, 2012
The Drum Guru App’s Rob Wallis
A number of people have asked me, “What is Drum Guru, and how and why did you come up with it????
Posted: October 3, 2012
Remo Partners With Ford Motor Company’s Warriors in Pink Cancer-Awareness Campaign
Two thousand twelve marks the eighteenth year that the Ford Motor Company has been involved in the fight against breast cancer. In 2006 the carmaker took its activities to another level by founding Warriors in Pink. The campaign’s goal is to increase awareness of the disease—which can lead to earlier …
Posted: September 21, 2012
MD Education Team Weighs In On: Traditional Grip
Is traditional grip a useful technique that drum students should learn? We asked the members of the MD Education Team if they think traditional grip is relevant in today’s teachings. Here’s what they had to say.
Posted: September 13, 2012
Chris Heaton of Becoming the Archetype
Hey, everyone! I play in a heavy metal band called Becoming the Archetype. I’ve been a reader of Modern Drummer for a long time, so to get the chance to be a part of it is truly awesome!
Posted: August 17, 2012
Gregg Potter on the “You’re No Buddy??? Tour 2012
Hello, Modern Drummer readers. I last spoke to you in January. At that time, I was just beginning this Buddy Rich odyssey. We’re now getting ready to do our first extended tour, starting in mid-August.
Posted: August 10, 2012
Foghat’s Roger Earl To Be Inducted Into The Blues Hall Of Fame
Foghat’s contribution to classic rock will forever be great, as they penned such classic party anthems as “Slow Ride” and “Fool for the City,” both of which remain rock radio standards to this day….
Posted: July 11, 2012
NYC Independent Drummer Chad Elrod
I try to be as simple as possible in the decisions I make as a musician. But this isn’t simple at all! It’s actually really difficult….
Posted: June 15, 2012
Steve Smith and Vital Information Live Stream June 15th
Irdium Live will be streaming two performances by Steve Smith and Vital Information tonight, June 15th, 2012, at 8PM and 10PM. For more information and a link to the stream go to the Irdium Live website. For more Steve Smith and Vital Information dates click here.
Posted: June 12, 2012
Steve Smith Solo Dedicated to Vic Firth (Video)
Check out this recent solo by drumming great Steve Smith. “This solo is dedicated to Vic Firth, a master musician and an inspiration to me,??? says Steve. “I started with my timpani mallets, using motivic development, and I continued to follow the flow of ideas in a stream-of-consciousness improvisation.
Posted: June 11, 2012
“Rythym of A Rose??? Art Exhibition by Mick Fleetwood
Mouche Gallery spotlights the legendary Mick Fleetwood, and invites you to take a closer look of the beauty surrounding us, making the overlooked visible, giving breath to the life of a rose.
Posted: June 4, 2012
Steve Smith and Vital Information 30th Anniversary Tour
Their newest recording, LIVE! One Great Night captures Vital Information in their natural habitat: A packed club with an audience of music lovers and the band in high gear for the entire set.
Posted: May 24, 2012
Sneak Preview of Wrecking Crew Documentary at the Cutting Room NYC
There will be a sneak preview of the Wrecking Crew Documentary at the Cutting Room in NYC on June 13, 2012. (continue for details)
Posted: May 8, 2012
D’Arcus Curry, Angieszka Matusczak, and Karmi Santiago Announced as Winners of Hit Like A Girl 2012
The sponsors and supporters of “Hit Like A Girl 2012??? are proud to announce the winners of the first ever drumming contest for girls and women. (read more)
Posted: April 18, 2012
Shai Hulud’s Matt Covey
Hey guys, this is Matt Covey of Shai Hulud, the Suicide Dolls, and the Flaming Tsunamis. And the Hempsteadys. And the Franklin Brothers…and Young Pandas. About three and a half years ago, I was shocked to find myself on the road playing drums for a truly pioneering band….
Posted: March 27, 2012
Justin Peroff of Eight and a Half: Web Exclusive Interview
With Broken Social Scene going on indefinite hiatus at the end of last year, drummer Justin Peroff has found time to focus his energy on a new project with friends/label mates Dave Hamelin and Liam O’Neil of the Stills. MD caught up with Justin who is preparing for the release …
Posted: March 19, 2012
Tim Walsh of the Stepkids
I’m Tim Walsh of the Stepkids, and I’m excited to be on here and hope to add to the wealth of knowledge that is MD’s awesome thirty-five-year history…
Posted: March 9, 2012
BerkleeMusic.com Debuts New “Rock History” Course
First of its Kind Online Course from Berklee Launches April 2nd, 2012 from Renowned Author and Journalist Steve Morse.
Posted: March 7, 2012
Berkleemusic.com Launches Rock History Online Course
Berkleemusic.com, the online arm of the Berklee School of Music, has announced the launch of Rock History, taught by rock critic and writer Steve Morse. According to Berklee, the course is the most comprehensive of its kind, featuring never-before-seen interviews with artists, executives, and others who shaped rock history. The …
Posted: March 6, 2012
Evan Howard of Deadbeat Darling
My name is Evan Howard, and I play drums for the NYC band Deadbeat Darling. The group has been spending a lot of time in the U.K. since signing with Spearhavoc Records/William Morris U.K…
Posted: January 23, 2012
Jan Web Update News
Ringo Starr’s seventeenth solo studio record, Ringo 2012, will be released on January 31 in the United States and January 30 internationally. The album, which was produced by Starr, was recorded in L.A. and mixed in England by Ringo and Bruce Sugar. For more, visit www.ringostarr.com. Kenny Aronoff is still …
Posted: January 18, 2012
Three Events Announced at The Collective
Chris Coleman, Ignacio Berroa, and Steve Smith will be performing at the NYC music school the Collective.
Posted: January 17, 2012
Back Through The Stack
Teddy Campbell
This article originally ran in the September 2005 issue of Modern Drummer magazine.
Posted: December 1, 2011
Mike Watt: Pouncing on Opportunities
Mike Watt is a flesh-and-blood superhero to anyone who’s followed the do-it-yourself alternative music scene over the past twenty-five years. This interview originally ran in the December 2006 issue of Modern Drummer magazine.
Posted: November 22, 2011
November Web Update News
Drumming news for the month of November complied in one place.
Posted: November 21, 2011
Neil Peart: Taking Center Stage
In a Web-exclusive addendum to MD’s December 2011 cover story, we continue our conversation with Rush’s Neil Peart, discussing, among other topics, “drum solo week??? on Letterman, Neil’s surprise appearance at the KoSA Drum Camp, and the new Taking Center Stage DVD.
Posted: October 31, 2011
Freddie Gruber
Right up until his passing on October 11, Freddie Gruber was a source of deep and important knowledge for many top drummers.
Posted: September 1, 2011
Web Update News
The latest and greatest news from the drumming industry. This edition features updates on Chad Sexton, John Tempesta, Jon Wysocki, Will Hunt, Brian Young and more.
Posted: August 1, 2011
Guitar Center’s Drum-Off, World’s Largest Drumming Competition, Kicks-Off
Guitar Center has announced the launch of the 23rd annual Guitar Center’s Drum-Off the nationwide search for the next great undiscovered drummer.
Posted: July 1, 2011
MD Readers Poll 2011 Results
Welcome once again to the MD Readers Poll, where the greatest drummers on the planet are honored by the most educated drum fans around. Let’s get right to it: the envelope, please….
Posted: June 28, 2011
Ezra Oklan with Nicole Atkins & the Black Sea
Hello, moderndrummer.com readers! My name is Ezra Oklan, and I’m a thirty-three-year-old drummer based out of Brooklyn, New York. I’ve been writing music, recording, and playing since I was eight years old. I studied at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in NYC. I’m versed in many different …
Posted: June 28, 2011
Ezra Oklan with Nicole Atkins & the Black Sea
Hello, moderndrummer.com readers! My name is Ezra Oklan, and I’m a thirty-three-year-old drummer based out of Brooklyn, New York. I’ve been writing music, recording, and playing since I was eight years old. I studied at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in NYC. I’m versed in many different …
Posted: February 16, 2011
Chris Coleman: Amazing Journey
More with the phenomenal drummer/educator, who was featured in the January 2011 issue of MD. His is one of the most closely observed careers in R&B, fusion, gospel, and pop drumming, with acts like Israel Houghton & New Breed, Chaka Khan, Christina Aguilera, Babyface, Patti LaBelle, Randy Brecker, and New …
Posted: February 16, 2011
John “JR” Robinson: Web Exclusive
Story by Billy AmendolaBetween his appearance on this year’s Grammys and his upcoming performance at the Oscars, JR continues his conversation with MD about what a typical day in the studio is like, his early influences, his upcoming DVD, drum solos, reading charts, and taking a break from the studio …
Posted: January 24, 2011
Tony “Thunder??? Smith: Lou Reed’s Sensitive Powerhouse
by Rich Mangicaro The longtime Lou Reed drummer’s fascinating musical journey. Tony “Thunder??? Smith is one happy guy. Ever since I first met him over twenty years ago, I’ve found that joy and excitement just emanate from him when he’s talking about music. He couldn’t hide it, even if he …
Posted: December 22, 2010
Gorden Campbell
Hey, MD readers! It’s your boy Gorden Campbell, and I’m back once again to give you an update on my travels around the globe! This has been a busy year for me. From the George Duke and American Idol tours, to recording my first instructional DVD, I’ve had a great …
Posted: September 29, 2010
Narada Michael Walden: Web Exclusive
by Billy Amendola More—way more—with the fusion and pop maestro. In a continuation of our interview with Narada Michael Walden from the November 2010 issue of Modern Drummer, the fusion and pop drumming/producing maestro reflects on his early days, teaching, spirituality, playing in odd time signatures, and coming full circle …
Posted: August 25, 2010
Steve Jordan: Web Exclusive
If you ask Steve Jordan who his favorite drummer is, be prepared to get hit with a never-ending list of influences, ranging from the obvious—like jazz greats Kenny Clarke and Philly Joe Jones and funk innovators David Garibaldi and Stephen Ferrone—to the more obscure, like Motown/disco session drummer Andrew Smith, …
Posted: July 22, 2010
Vinnie Colaiuta: Unlike Anybody Else
Ask fifty drummers about Vinnie Colaiuta, and you’re likely to get the same answer: “There’s Vinnie, and then there’s everyone else.???
Posted: June 23, 2010
Mike Clark Carnival Of Soul
A big shout-out to my MD fans, and thanks for stopping by. Last year’s Blueprints Of Jazz, Vol. I (Talking House Records) was honored by Downbeat as one of the best CDs of the decade. While that put a big smile on my face—it was a fantastic project, and the …
Posted: April 1, 2010
Drummer/Author Chris Peacock
Hey, Modern Drummer heads! My name is Chris Peacock and I’m addicted to drums. I’ve been playing for twenty-years and I started at the age of twelve. I’ve studied with Ralph Humphrey, Joe Porcaro, and Mike Shapiro and have worked in all sorts of musical situations including rock, pop, jazz, …
Posted: March 22, 2010
Eric Singer: Just Being Himself
For eighteen years, Kiss’s drummer has helped his world-famous band stay in our hearts and on the radio by doing what he does best—being himself. In this special online extra from his May 2010 MD cover story, we begin by asking Eric about…The Band’s Younger Fans. In 2004 we did …
Posted: March 16, 2010
Chris Johnson — Touring With Rihanna
Yo, what up, MD? This is ya boy Chris Johnson from Los Angeles, California. Like many others in this field, I started playing in church—my dad’s church, to be exact. So I was always there to play, practice, and everything. Needless to say, I was born in the church. Due …
Posted: February 22, 2010
Steve Smith: The Ultimate Multi-Dimensional Drummer
Over the past thirty years, Steve Smith has scaled the heights of pop-rock success with Journey, has been widely acknowledged as a true master of the instrument, and has performed with the greatest jazz artists of his generation—including in his own group, Vital Information. Since the age of nine, Smith …
Posted: February 22, 2010
Steven Drozd: Songwriting From A Drummer’s Perspective
Even though Steven Drozd originally joined the Flaming Lips in 1991 strictly to man the skins, it wasn’t long before the multi-talented musician’s “try anything??? twist on songwriting and arranging became as crucial to the band’s successes as his bombastic drumbeats. In addition to the various topics we covered with …
Posted: December 10, 2009
Max Roach: Setting Standards And Raising Bars
If you were to ask any jazz historian to name who they feel is most responsible for setting the standards in bebop drumming, 99.9% of the time you’re going to get one name: Max Roach.
Posted: December 7, 2009
Influencer: Alan Dawson
Alan Dawson was an outstanding jazz drummer and a legendary teacher. Alan was known for his ingenious use of rudiments, his melodic approach to drumming, and an extremely advanced level of hand and foot coordination.
Posted: September 2, 2009
Ken Weisbach of Flying Machines
Hello to all who have arrived here; nice to meet you. I play for a quartet called Flying Machines…
Posted: April 23, 2009
Steve Smith: Head, Hands, Feet, And “Shoulders???
Hudson Music has recently released Steve Smith’s DVD Standing On The Shoulders Of Giants, which Smith describes as “a detailed look at the drumming of some of the jazz giants who have helped create the vocabulary and concepts of drumming in general.???
Posted: January 23, 2009
Earl Palmer Remembered
In drumming, the terms legendary and innovator are thrown around far too often. Yet Earl Palmer deserves both of these titles.
Posted: January 12, 2009
Great Drum Parts = GENIUS
The March issue of MD (out now) features Billy Ward’s fascinating conversation with Simon Phillips, Doane Perry, Marco Minnemann, Thomas Lang, and Jerry Marotta about the grooves that inspired them to play drums early on, and that continue to today. It seemed to make perfect sense for MD’s editors to …
Posted: December 18, 2008
Derico Watson: Pocket, Chops, and Soul
For the past five years, Michigan native Derico Watson has held one of the most coveted chairs a drummer could imagine, touring regularly with pioneering bassist Victor Wooten.
Posted: November 1, 2008
Web Exclusive Interview: Jon Wysocki of Staind
Jon Wysocki has been laying down his tasteful, well thought–out grooves with the chart-topping band Staind for thirteen years. The group, which hails from Springfield, Massachusetts, also includes lead singer/guitarist Aaron Lewis, lead guitarist Mike Mushok, and bassist/vocalist Johnny April. They’ve recorded six studio albums and four number-one singles, and …
Posted: August 20, 2008
Styx’s Todd Sucherman
Modern Drummer interviews Todd Sucherman of Styx. “Anyone who has to honestly play Styx music will realize that there’s more here than meets the eye. I get to play a lot of drums in this band.??? (continue reading)
Posted: August 6, 2008
Bruce Burgess
I started off as a rock drummer, but over time I’ve evolved into classical, jazz, and world-music playing styles…
Posted: July 30, 2008
Donnie Yal of the Sammies
I, as you can read above, am Donnie Yale. I play drums in the NC band The Sammies. (NC is better b/c we are on top for all of you reading this in SC). Our sophomore album, Sandwich, is set for release on September 23….
Posted: June 27, 2008
Southside Johnny’s Joe Bellia
I'm a drummer/percussionist in the NJ/NY area and a member of New Jersey's Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes. This year I celebrated my tenth year with the band (with a year or two off for good behavior :-).
Posted: June 27, 2008
Southside Johnny's Joe Bellia
I'm a drummer/percussionist in the NJ/NY area and a member of New Jersey's Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes. This year I celebrated my tenth year with the band (with a year or two off for good behavior :-).
Posted: June 20, 2008
Deen Castronovo: The Journey Of A Decade, The Career Of A Lifetime
During the heyday of metal music in the ’80s, an underground subgenre known as “shred metal??? emerged.
Posted: April 27, 2008
John Chipman
I've been incredibly blessed in life. I've been playing drums for nearly thirty years, and like many of you out there, I started out playing at home as a child and was quickly hooked on playing the instrument….
Posted: April 17, 2008
Derek Ries of Push Play!
When I was younger I would judge a drummer by the size of his kit and the length of his solo, but didn't everyone?
Posted: April 5, 2008
Alejandro Vallejo of Vallejo
Hello, fellow skin bashers and drumming maniacs! My name is Alejandro “Alex” Vallejo, and I play drums in the Austin, Texas—based Latin rock band Vallejo….
Posted: February 4, 2008
Dom Famularo
2007 was another jammed year of traveling. Fifteen countries, and many of them more than once! Here are some highlights….
Posted: December 15, 2007
Jason Bonham
Jason Bonham was born on July 15, 1966, to parents Pat Phillips and John Henry Bonham. Most rock fans are familiar with the story of Jason’s father and the gargantuan impact he made on music and on drumming. But many are unfamiliar with Jason’s journey to rock stardom, from his …
Posted: December 1, 2007
Update: Roger Taylor
It shouldn’t be much of a surprise that Justin Timberlake, Timbaland, and Nate “Danja??? Hills signed on to co-produce Duran Duran’s latest CD, Red Carpet Massacre. After all, the band—keyboardist Nick Rhodes, singer Simon Le Bon, bassist John Taylor, and drummer Roger Taylor (guitarist Andy Taylor decided to bow out …
Posted: October 3, 2007
Jerome Deupree New England International Drum Expo Blog
I want to tell you about the New England International Drum Expo that was held in Manchester, New Hampshire a couple weekends ago. I was very honored to do a clinic on Sunday. The roster of players was formidable to say the least….
Posted: May 5, 2007
Tony Leone
When Tony Leone moved to New York City in 1998, his intent was to focus on straight-ahead jazz, and he started gigging with such jazz icons as Lou Donaldson and Illinois Jacquet, along with saxophonist Eric Alexander, trumpeter Jim Rotunde, and trombonist Steve Davis….
Posted: August 25, 2006
Steve Smith Update
There have been some major changes lately in Steve Smith’s two touring bands….
Posted: September 19, 2005
Mark Hudson
Mark Hudson has the coolest job in the world right now, because he gets to be in a band with a Beatle. The reason Mark became a musician [he started on drums] was because he wanted to be like his hero, Ringo Starr.
Posted: July 20, 2005
Tony Thompson
Not many drummers dictated the sound of the 80’s like Tony Thompson. That big, huge drum sound was everywhere: on classic recordings like Power Station’s “Some Like It Hot,” David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance,” Madonna’s “Like A Virgin,” Robert Palmer’s “Addicted To Love,” the list goes on.
Posted: July 19, 2005
Damien Fahey
Damien Fahey has a dilemma: These days he’s having a difficult time finding the time to play his drums. You see, Damien hosts one of MTV’s most popular shows, Total Request Live, which airs weekdays at 5:00 P.M. EST to an audience of 50 million viewers.
Posted: July 19, 2005
David Northrup
Growing up on a mix of R&B, pop, rock, and country, David Northrup, originally from Syracuse New York, moved south in the early ’90s playing sessions and gigging the Florida club scene. One of those gigs led him to meeting and working with ace session guitarist Les Dudek…
Posted: July 19, 2005
Tommy Lee
Tommy Lee is in a great mood, and he has every reason to be. His new CD, appropriately titled Never A Dull Moment, has just been released, and it’s off the hook! We recently caught up with Tommy while preparing for his upcoming tour.
Posted: May 19, 2005
Billy Ashbaugh
‘N Sync, a pop band backed by live musicians, have gained a reputation of spectacle and not-to-be-missed precision. MD Online recently caught up with rising drum star Billy Ashbaugh, the man who keeps it all together….
Posted: May 12, 2004
Lil’ John Roberts
Lil’ John Roberts’s name has been popping up more and more here at MD – in interviews with other artists, in conversations with people in the drum industry – and, most importantly, in mail from fans. It seems everyone is talking about Lil’ John. And after seeing him play, you’d …
Posted: May 12, 2004
Gene Hoglan: Furious Kick Drumming
In the midst of Strapping Young Lad’s otherworldly barrage of guitars, screams, bass rumble, and samples, Gene Hoglan’s kick drums blast through in furious, amazingly accurate 32nd-note flurries.
Posted: May 12, 2004
Sean “The Rick” Rickman
In viewing the Compositional Drumming DVD by Washington, DC born Sean Rickman, one is immediately taken aback by his advanced drumming skills. No question, he is in a league with fusion greats Dennis Chambers, Steve Smith, and Dave Weckl. Rickman, also a talented multi-instrumentalist, composed the complex music and played …
Posted: May 12, 2004
John Otto
Four years ago, when John Otto was first featured in Modern Drummer, the then twenty-three-year-old spoke with a wisdom and knowledge that belied his age….
Posted: May 12, 2004
Tommy Lee: Bigger Than Ever
Tommy Lee rushes into the rehearsal hall where Motley Crue is preparing for their year-long reunion tour, which begins in February, to support their new best-of album, Red, White & Crue.
Posted: May 12, 2004
Ralph MacDonald: Living The Island Life
The lyrics from one of Ralph MacDonald’s songs on his latest CD, Home Grown, start and end with words that sum up his life: “There is no better life than the island life. I love the island life, it makes my body free, it keeps my head together.”
Posted: May 12, 2004
Steven Drozd Interview
Like all the masters of psychedelic pop, The Flaming Lips blow your mind with the most ordinary of devices. These seem-to-be eccentrics, who’ve recently won a Grammy for the instrumental “Approaching Pavonis Mons By Balloon (Utopia Planitia),” are really just a bunch of hard-working regular guys, using modest tools: a …
Posted: May 12, 2004
Drum Nation: Top Drummers Unite On New Recording
You may have spotted the advertisement for a unique CD titled Drum Nation. It represents the music of drummers, created outside of the constraints of record labels. Terry Bozzio, Josh Freese, Bill Bruford, Steve Smith, and Stephen Perkins are just a few of the top players involved….
Posted: January 5, 2023
Holiday Special
A special Holiday episode of “Live From My Drum Room” with John’s old friends dropping by to spread some Holiday Cheer! Steve Gadd, David Garibaldi, Jack Bruno, Eddie Tuduri, Steve Smith, Todd Sucherman, Jeff Hamilton, Gregg Bissonette, Anton Fig, Joe Franco, Dave Mattacks, Rob Wallis and Robyn Flans all stopped …
Posted: November 10, 2022
John DeChristopher Live From My Drum Room With JR Robinson
John’s guest this week is legendary studio drummer John JR Robinson. In this episode, JR talks about attending Berklee College in Boston in the early/mid 1970s where his classmates included Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Smith, Casey Scheuerell and Kenwood Dennard, and studying with Alan Dawson and Gary Chaffee. Going on the …
Posted: September 1, 2022
Episode 86: Live From My Drum Room Remembering Charlie Watts – Part 2
Part 2 of John DeChristopher’s series Remembering Charlie Watts. A fabulous and often hilarious discussion with Steve Smith, Kenny Aronoff, Dave Mattacks, Chad Smith, Mickey Curry, Shawn Pelton, Clem Burke and Don McAulay. Please check out “Part 1” if you haven’t already and stay tuned for “Part 3”! Check out …
Posted: June 23, 2022
Episode 76: John DeChristopher Live From My Drum Room With Lorne Wheaton
John’s guest is Lorne Wheaton. Lorne is one of the most respected and sought after drum techs and stage managers in the business, and has worked for a who’s who of drummers and bands, including Steve Smith/Journey & Vital Information, Alex Van Halen/Van Halen, Mickey Curry/Bryan Adams, Keith Carlock/Steely Dan, …
Posted: May 5, 2022
Episode 69: John DeChristopher Live From My Drum Room With Steve Smith
In this episode, Steve Smith and John DeChristopher do a deep dive into Steve’s Modern Drummer Legend Series Book available now as a digital download and as a print book on May 20, 2022. All of Steve’s Modern Drummer Cover/Feature interviews are included in his Legend Series Book, starting in …
Posted: November 11, 2021
Special #TBT Veterans Day Podcast with Billy Amendola, Lauren Monroe, Rick Allen and friends. An extraordinary collection of music’s most influential & legendary drummers have joined Rick Allen of Def Leppard & Raven Drum Foundation in their mission to provide trauma recovery & healing for veterans and to help reduce the rate …
Posted: February 6, 2021
In this episode Billy Amendola & David Frangioni interview Dave Weckl & Rob Silverman from Drumology. Dave talks about his online drum school http://www.daveweckl.com and his upcoming record release in April on his new label – Autumn Hill Records. Rob discusses the Drumology album featuring drum duet tracks with Simon …
Posted: October 22, 2020
Episode 4: Andy Newmark, Jack Douglas, John Lennon’s Final Album, Rob Silverman’s Drumology release, Shop Talk – ddrum Dominion Birch. In this episode, MD CEO|Publisher David Frangioni & Editor at Large Billy Amendola talk with session and touring legend Andy Newmark about his career & records. Producer Jack Douglas, surprise …
Posted: July 28, 2017
Mike and Mike Podcast Episode 103: Steve Smith, Samba Basics, Love Custom Snare Drums, and More
Mike and Mike discuss Modern Drummer September 2017 cover artist Steve Smith, who rejoined arena-rock greats Journey in 2016. The education section focuses on samba rhythms and how they can be applied to the drumset.
Posted: July 7, 2017
Episode 100: Giveaway Winners Announced, Listener Questions, Most Frequently Mentioned Drummers, and More
In this special 100th episode, Mike and Mike take a humorous look back at the twenty-plus most frequently mentioned drummers on the show.
