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Vinnie Colaiuta






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Note: Some MD articles are only available in pdf format. Those articles do not appear in this list. Subscribers to Digital and All-Access can view every Modern Drummer issue in their available formats. Browse all MD issues from our archive here.
November 2021:
David Garfield Salutes Vinnie Colaiuta

Vinnie Colaiuta is considered by many in the international drumming community as one of the most accomplished drummers of all time. In his early years, however, after arriving in Los Angeles from the East Coast, there was surprisingly a bit of a struggle breaking into the studio scene. “When I …


March 2021:
Vinnie Colaiuta on Bromberg Plays Hendrix, Session Work, Retirement, and More
Vinny Colaiuta

Legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix passed away fifty years ago. This seems unimaginable, as his music, message, and influence are just as powerful and relevant today as they were during his few short years leading a musical revolution for freedom of expression for a young baby boomer generation. The Jimi Hendrix …


April 2020:
2020 Readers Poll Results

It’s that time of year again, when the drummers of the world show love for the most compelling players of the past twelve months. Find out how your favorites did.


October 2019:
Remembering Hal Blaine

He helped pave the way for every great studio musician who came out of L.A., and his influence extends to this very day.


May 1986:
Industry Insights: Armand Zildjian
Armand Zildjian

Armand Zildjian starts a lot of his sentences the same way: “I’ve got a cymbal that . . . ,” after which he describes the attributes of a particular cymbal in his private collection. His enthusiasm is evident as he expounds on whatever it is that makes the cymbal special …


August 2018:
Antonio Sanchez, McClenty Hunter Jr., and Duduka da Fonseca take the reins, a trio of albums featuring Vinnie Colaiuta, and more!

Following on the heels of his Grammy-nominated drums-meets-electronics tour de force, Bad Hombre, the amazing Antonio Sanchez takes a left turn into a big band setting. Early in his career, Sanchez toured with Dizzy Gillespie’s United Nations Orchestra, and always hoped to further explore that format. On this thrilling double …


January 1984:
L.A. Studio Drummers Roundtable, Part 1
L.A. Studio Roundtable

For a long time, a shroud of mystery covered the fact that our favorite groups on vinyl were not always the same individuals we saw in concert. Certainly the records never revealed anything to the contrary. But as the facts began to unravel, a new hero emerged: the studio drummer.


January 1984:
L.A. Studio Drummers Roundtable, Part 2
L.A. Studio Drummers Roundtable

For a long time, a shroud of mystery covered the fact that our favorite groups on vinyl were not always the same individuals we saw in concert. Certainly the records never revealed anything to the contrary. But as the facts began to unravel, a new hero emerged: the studio drummer.


March 2014:
The 50 Greatest Drummers of All Time
50 Greatest Drummers 1

Whose playing endures through the decades? Whose music do we reach for when we want new ideas? When we want to practice? When we want to laugh? Who inspires and delights us most?


March 2018:
Modern Drummer 2018 Readers Poll Winners!

We are excited to present the Modern Drummer 2018 Readers Poll winners!


February 2013:
Mark Egan
Mark Egan

Mark Egan is one of the most highly regarded bassists in the history of electric jazz. Performing and recording with many of the prominent drummers of our time—a short list would include Steve Gadd, Jack DeJohnette, Vinnie Colaiuta, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Steve Jordan, Billy Cobham, and Dave Weckl—he’s gained rare …


January 2013:
Vinnie Colaiuta – Just Being Himself
Vinnie Colaiuta

Heroes are hard to find. And they’re often tougher to pin down. Vinnie Colaiuta, for one, refuses to bend to expectations—and he doesn’t think you should either.


November 1982:
Vinnie Colaiuta

A producer once told Vinnie Colaiuta that if you threw Tony Williams and Steve Gadd into a blender, Vinnie would be the tasteful concoction. He laughs modestly while he shrugs off the compliment, but it is probably an accurate description. Justifiably, he is the talk of the town and drummers …


August September 1982:
Ed Mann – Expanding Percussion

What exactly is a “percussionist” anyway? It sounds rather imposing. To a lot of people, a percussionist is someone who plays in a symphony orchestra.


March 2017:
Great 80s Drum Performances, Part 2: Jazz and Fusion

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 …


March 2009:
March 2009 – Volume 33 • Number 3

Earl Palmer, Ronnie Vannucci, Josh Freese, Vinnie Colaiuta, Franscisco Mela, Sean Reinert, Marco Minnemann, Jay Bellerose, Russ Kunkel, Jimmy DeGrasso, Benny Greb, Mickey Hart


March 2007:
March 2007 – Volume 31 • Number 3

Vinnie Colaiuta, Abe Cunningham, Nigel Olsson, John Mahon, Dave Buckner, Dominic Howard, Jim Brock, Steve Asheim, Raymond Pounds, Nate Morton, Marcus Randolph, Tim Alexander, Jack Irons, John Blackwell, Danny Carey, Louie Bellson


March 2006:
March 2006 – Volume 30 • Number 3

Terry Bozzio, Riley Breckenridge, Daniel Erlandsson, Alan Evans, Michael White, Raymond Herrera, Jim Bonfanti, Butch Miles, Frank Vincent, Ignacio Berroa, Vinnie Colaiuta, George Schwindt, Paul Doucette


January 2005:
January 2005 – Volume 29 • Number 1

John Blackwell, Prince, Jason Bittner, Vinnie Colaiuta, Gregg Bissonette, Glenn Kotche, Shelly Mane, Steve Barney, Jack Irons, Brooks Wackerman, Gregg Bendian, Michael Brueggen, Oliver Charles, Benjamin Weikel, Dennis Chambers, Adrian Erlandsson


February 2003:
February 2003 – Volume 27 • Number 2

Spüg, Carlos Vega, Rodney Green, Daniel Freedman, Karriem Riggins, Ali Jackson, Carter Beauford, Tico Torres, Patty Schemel, Derek Roddy, Tris Imboden, Darren Lyons, J.D. Blair, Vinnie Colaiuta, Virgil Donati, Scott Rockenfield


June 2001:
June 2001 – Volume 25 • Number 6

Danny Carey, sPaG, Grady Tate, James Bradley Jr., Mario Rubalcaba, Pierre Favre, Fredy Studer, Jeff Kathan, Oscar Seaton, Allison Miller, Michael McDonald, Vinnie Colaiuta, Tré Cool, Steve Gadd


January 2001:
January 2001 – Volume 25 • Number 1

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 …


December 2000:
December 2000 – Volume 24 • Number 12

Will Kennedy, Stefanie Eulinberg, Paul Doucette, Jeff Hamilton, Al 3, Dave Buckner, Richie Hayward, Tony Fagenson, Vinnie Amico, Cody Dickinson, Vinnie Colaiuta, Akira Jimbo, Ian Paice, Butch Trucks, Andrew Barr, Eric Kalb, Michael Travis, Joe Russo


October 2000:
October 2000 – Volume 24 • Number 10

Jon Fishman, Hal Blaine, Vinnie Paul, Paul Wertico, Tom Hambridge, Mike Joyce, Pat Torpey, Michael Cartellone, Bruce Guttridge, Vinnie Colaiuta, Jim Keltner, Adam Nussbaum


July 2000:
July 2000 – Volume 24 • Number 7

Jeff Ballard, Nana Vasconcelos, Mel Lewis, Ustad Allarakha, Peter Erskine, Ricky Lawson, Don Alias, Danny Reyes, Jeff Fowlkes, Tommy Perkins, Chris Pennie, Vinnie Colaiuta, Jeremy Taggart, Mike Portnoy, Eddie Bayers, Roy Hanes


November 1999:
November 1999 – Volume 23 • Number 11

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


October 1993:
October 1993 – Volume 17 • Number 10

In this Issue: Vinnie Colaiuta, Rob Affuso, Mickey Curry, Terry Bozzio, Louie Bellson, Dave Abbruzzese, Adam Nussbaum, Ginger Baker, Dennis Chambers


November 1990:
November 1990 – Volume 14 • Number 11

In this Issue: Vinnie Colaiuta, Jim Keltner, Jeff Porcaro, Harvey Mason, Mike Baird, Denny Fongheiser, Steve Schaeffer, Bobby Elliott


February 1990:
February 1990 – Volume 14 • Number 2

In this Issue: Charlie Watts, Frederick Waits, Deen Castronovo, Dave Weckl, Jack DeJohnette, Vinnie Colaiuta, Danny Gottlieb, Gregg Bissonette, Liberty DeVitto, Chad Wackerman, Michael Shrieve, David Beal, Carl Palmer


May 1987:
May 1987 – Volume 11 • Number 4

Vinnie Colaiuta, Stan Levey, Neil Peart, Buddy Rich, Eliot Zigmund, John F. Williams, Steve Smith, Phil Collins


December 1985:
December 1985 – Volume 9 • Number 12

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


July 1985:
July 1985 – Volume 9 • Number 7

Rod Morgenstein, Kenny Malone, Tommy Campbell, Adam Woods, Phil Collins, Johnny Blowers, Ed Shaughnessy, Vinnie Colaiuta, Kelly Keagy


May 1985:
May 1985 – Volume 9 • Number 5

Alan Dawson, David Robinson, Steve Ferrone, D.J. Fontana, Barry Keane, Bev Bevan, Garry Peterson, Larrie Londin, Vinnie Colaiuta, Carmine Appice


February 1984:
February 1984 – Volume 8 • Number 2

Andy Newmark, Stan Lynch, Kenny Clarke, Carl Allen, Vinnie Colaiuta, Carl Palmer, Rick Marotta, Eric Carr, James Black


October 1983:
October 1983 – Volume 7 • Number 10

Alex Van Halen, Phillip Wilson, Frank Beard, Stomu Yamash’ta, Ronnie Verrell, Ivan Conti, Steve Negus, Aron Kaminski, Alex Riel, James Black, Vinnie Colaiuta, Bill Bruford, Paul Jamieson, Yogi Norton


January 1983:
January 1983 – Volume 7 • Number 1

Peter Erskine, Chester Thompson, Jim Gordon, Tony Williams, Dennis Elliot, Vic Mastrianni, Tommy Aldridge, Andy Newmark, Butch Miles, Chet McCracken, Ralph Cooper, Sue Hadjopoulos, Tris Imboden, Gene Dunlap, Mike Baird, Ed Tuduri, Bill Ward, Michael Botts, Vinnie Colaiuta, Jim Keltner, Emedin Rivera, Roland Vasquez, Don Murray, Mat Marucci, Don Moye, …


December 1982:
December 1982 – Volume 6 • Number 9

Elvin Jones, John Densmore, David Garibaldi, Neil Peart, Philly Joe Jones, Rod Morgenstein, David Samuels, Collin Walcott, Bobby Daniels, Roger Hawkins, Brent Brace, Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Summer, Darrell Sweet, Michael Shrieve, Rick Marotta, Craig Krampf, Terry Bozzio, Tris Imboden, Kenney Jones, Don Baldwin, Aynsley Dunbar, John Panozzo, Stix Hooper, Bill …


November 1982:
November 1982 – Volume 6 • Number 8

Vinnie Colaiuta, Barry Altschul, Liberty DeVitto, William F. Ludwig Jr., Peter Erskine, Max Weinberg, Steve Jordan, Arthur Press, John Panozzo, Terry Bozzio, Robert Williams, Jim Keltner



Posted: October 13, 2020

The Smashing Pumpkins
Category: News
Drummers on Record: Vinnie Colaiuta, Jimmy Chamberlin, Phil Rudd

Brian Bromberg Bromberg Plays Hendrix (Vinnie Colaiuta) Jazz bassist Brian Bromberg’s Bromberg Plays Hendrix is a remixed and remastered tribute album in honor of the great guitarist Jimi Hendrix. The album, which was originally released in 2012, was reissued digitally this past September 18 via Artistry Music/Mack Avenue Music Group …


Posted: September 28, 2020

Oz Noy Album
Category: News
Upcoming Oz Noy Album, Snapdragon, Will Feature Dave Weckl, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Dennis Chambers: Video

Guitarist Oz Noy’s upcoming album, Snapdragon, which comes out on November 6, will feature three of the greatest fusion drummers of all time: Dave Weckl, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Dennis Chambers. A slew of other recognizable names also appear: bassists John Patitucci, James Genus, and Will Lee; keyboardists Brian Charette, David …


Posted: September 1, 2020

Category: News
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: April 30, 2019

Mark Hudson Molly Tentarelli
Category: On the Beat
Producer Mark Hudson and Molly Tentarelli

The reason I’m here “On The Beat” is because I just finished producing a great singer/songwriter, Molly Tentarelli, and she has five of the greatest drummers in the biz on her record as well as one of the world’s best percussionists.


Posted: March 28, 2019

Dan Laverde
Category: On the Beat
Dan Laverde of Mick Blankenship

Hey, everybody! First, I want to thank Modern Drummer for inviting me to be featured here “On The Beat!” Hopefully it’s the first of many more to come.


Posted: August 14, 2018

Mike Reid
Category: Drummers, On the Beat
On The Beat with Mike Reid of Janet Jackson: Talks Motivation and Inspiration

Hello everyone! I would like to start off by giving a huge thanks to Modern Drummer for allowing me to share my experiences as a professional drummer.


Posted: November 14, 2017

Category: Drummers, Multimedia, News and Events, On the Beat, Videos
A Lot Like Birds’ Joseph Arrington: Exclusive Drum Play-Through, and Thoughts on “The Box” and Improvising on the Road

I want to thank Modern Drummer for having me. What a cool community. My name is Joseph Arrington, and I play for A Lot Like Birds, Sianvar, Alone, and So Much Light, and I’ve toured with acts such as Chiodos and We Came As Romans. As I spend twenty-three hours …


Posted: October 10, 2017

Clif Magness
Category: Drummers, On the Beat
On The Beat with Grammy Winning Producer-Drummer-Guitarist-Songwriter Clif Magness

Hi MD. My love affair with drums began in my mother’s car. When I was around six years old, I was pounding away “Wipe Out” on the headrest when she decided then and there to rush me into drum lessons. A few years later, my parents bought me the Yamaha …


Posted: July 21, 2017

David Stanoch
Category: Drummers, On the Beat
On the Beat with David Stanoch: Where Old School Meets New—The Timeless Rhythm of Clyde Stubblefield

On Saturday, February 18, 2007, we lost a singularly unique artist, Mr. Clyde Stubblefield, known to musicians worldwide as “The Funky Drummer.” Check out the August 2017 print and digital versions of Modern Drummer for a look at Clyde’s life, career, and insights from the man himself, as well as …


Posted: March 31, 2017

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Featured
Jeff Friedl On Tour With A Perfect Circle

Devo, Puscifer, and Ashes Divide drummer Jeff Friedl is backing the hard rock supergroup A Perfect Circle on its first U.S. tour in six years, with dates booked through early May.


Posted: February 21, 2017

Category: Drummers, News, News and Events
Givin’ the Funky Drummer Some

Modern Drummer magazine’s September 1999 issue featured famed James Brown drummers Clyde Stubblefield and John “Jabo” Starks on the cover in a dual interview. We’ll be presenting Clyde’s half of the piece in an upcoming post; here we share quotes from three prominent drummers who went on record in that …


Posted: February 8, 2017

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Web Exclusive
Legendary Bassist Nathan East on His New Album Reverence

On Nathan East’s second solo album, Reverence, he once again steps into the spotlight as bandleader. Produced by East and Yamaha Entertainment Group of America founder Chris Gero, it’s no surprise that shortly after its debut (less than one month ago), the album hit the number-one spot on both the …


Posted: July 1, 2016

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Featured, Web Exclusive
Stephen Perkins on Jane’s Addiction’s Twenty-Fifth-Anniversary Ritual De Lo Habitual Shows

Modern Drummer Online caught up with Stephen Perkins while he was prepping for a clinic tour and some dates with Jane’s Addiction, commemorating the twenty-fifth anniversary of the group’s watershed album Ritual De Lo Habitual.


Posted: February 4, 2016

Category: Feature Stories, Multimedia, Spotify Playlists
Listen to the Drumming: Great Tracks From MD’s March 2016 Issue

Our latest Playlist includes tracks from cover artist Barry Kerch and Shinedown, Jellyfish, Spock’s Beard, Dixie Dregs, Aquarium Rescue Unit, Vinnie Colaiuta, Savages, Daughter, and more incredible artists featured throughout the pages of the March 2016 issue of Modern Drummer magazine. Listen below or in the Spotify app….


Posted: November 2, 2015

Category: Feature Stories
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: October 24, 2014

Category: Album/Song Reviews, Drummers, Reviews
Dewa Budjana
Surya Namaskar

Get yourself some primo Vinnie Colaiuta right here, folks!


Posted: October 16, 2014

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Drummer Blog: Cirque Du Soleil’s Amaluna’s Didi Negron on Living Your Dream

As a traveling musician in the traditional big top, I am able to implement my strong music theory background and improvisational skills while providing accompaniment and action on stage as my role of the “Goddess of Rhythm.???


Posted: October 14, 2014

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, News and Events
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 8, 2014

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Hena Habegger of Gotthard

After fifteen number-one albums in Switzerland, lots of chart successes, and releases in Europe, Russia, South America, and Asia, we are very proud to present to you our new album, Bang!


Posted: August 27, 2014

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Karl Latham

Hello, Modern Drummer readers! It’s been a while since I last checked in from “the North Woods.??? I see all is great in drum land—so many amazing new talents every day!


Posted: April 7, 2014

Category: Drummers, Jazz Drummers' Workshop, Lessons, Multimedia, Videos
VIDEO! Jazz Drummer’s Workshop: Shifting Sands (From the May 2014 Issue)

Click here to check out a video on rhythmic transitions by Jazz Drummer’s Workshop columnist Steve Fidyk….


Posted: March 26, 2014

Category: Drummers, Issues, News, News and Events
May 2014 Issue of Modern Drummer Featuring Jim Riley

See what’s in the May 2014 issue of Modern Drummer Magazine featuring drummer Jim Riley…


Posted: March 11, 2014

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Lessons, Multimedia, Rock 'N' Jazz Clinic, Videos
VIDEO! Rock & Jazz Clinic: Give the Audience Some! (From the March 2014 Issue)

Click here to check out a video lesson to accompany March 2014’s Rock & Jazz Clinic, “Give the Audience Some!???


Posted: October 1, 2013

Category: Feature Stories
Hidden Gems
Great Drum Performances Uncovered

The October 2013 issue of Modern Drummer magazine features an article in which seven MD Pro Panelists share some of their favorite “hidden gems.??? Here MD’s editorial staff weighs in on their personal favorites….


Posted: August 7, 2013

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Luke Roberts of “Let It Be??? Beatles Tribute

My name is Luke Roberts, and I’m a drummer, vocalist, and composer based in London. My current drumming post is performing as Ringo in the Broadway and West End show Let It Be.


Posted: June 28, 2013

Category: Feature Stories, News, News and Events
Modern Drummer’s 2013 Readers Poll Winners

The results are in for the longest-running, most prestigious drummer poll in the world. Without further ado, here are your winners for 2013….


Posted: June 11, 2013

Category: News, News and Events
Vic Firth Welcomes Vinnie Colaiuta

Drum stick company Vic Firth Welcomes Vinnie Colaiuta to their rosterVic Firth Company is proud to announce the signing of Vinnie Colaiuta to its family of artists….


Posted: April 30, 2013

Category: Drummers, Multimedia, Videos
Gerald Heyward at Guitar Center’s 2012 Drum-Off Grand Finals

Watch Gerald Heyward’s performance at the 2012 Guitar Center Drum-Off Grand Finals, which were held at Club Nokia in Los Angeles on January 19, 2013….


Posted: April 26, 2013

Category: Feature Stories, Lists
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: March 22, 2013

Category: Feature Stories, Lessons, MD Education Team
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: March 6, 2013

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Jonathan Joseph of Jeff Beck Band

It’s been quite some time since I posted anything here at MD, but I am very pleased to report on my new gig with guitar guru Jeff Beck.


Posted: February 27, 2013

Category: Drummers, Multimedia, News, News and Events, Videos
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

Category: Feature Stories, News, News and Events, The Showroom
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: January 3, 2013

Category: A Different View, Feature Stories
Mark Egan On…
The star bassist reflects on 15 world-class drummers

The February 2013 issue of Modern Drummer magazine features renowned bassist Mark Egan sharing some of the lessons he’s learned from working with drumming royalty. Here he focuses the discussion on the unique qualities and skills each of these players brings to the table….


Posted: December 19, 2012

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Keith Harrison of the Pineapple Thief

Question: What do you call a guy who hangs out with musicians? Answer: A drummer! With the prospect of being the butt of such drummer jokes, I have to ask myself the question, “Why did I choose to play drums????


Posted: December 17, 2012

Gerald Heyward
Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, On the Beat
MD Pro Panelist Gerald Heyward on Vinnie Colaiuta

Hi MD readers! I’m excited about the latest issue, and I want to let you know that Vinnie Colaiuta is one of my top-five favorite drummers!


Posted: December 17, 2012

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, On the Beat
MD Pro Panelist Gerald Heyward on Vinnie Colaiuta

Hi MD readers! I’m excited about the latest issue, and I want to let you know that Vinnie Colaiuta is one of my top-five favorite drummers!


Posted: December 4, 2012

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Dave King of the Bad Plus: Web-Exclusive Interview

An exclusive web-interview with Dave King of the Bad Plus.


Posted: December 3, 2012

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Drum Doctors’ Ross Garfield

Hi MD readers! This is my first ever blog, and I wanted to tell you how I got to work on the upcoming Superman soundtrack.


Posted: November 19, 2012

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Brit Turner of Blackberry Smoke

My name is Brit Turner, and I live in Atlanta, Georgia, with my wife, daughter, dog, two cats, one fish, and a snail. Great things have been happening for me lately.


Posted: September 21, 2012

Category: Drummers, Lessons, MD Education Team
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: July 23, 2012

Category: Feature Stories
20 CLASSIC PROG ALBUMS

Odd times, intergalactic themes, and more tom-toms. Rock drumming gets interesting….


Posted: May 21, 2012

Category: Drummers, News, News and Events
Vinnie Colaiuta Officially Joins Ludwig

The Ludwig Drum Company has announced the addition of Vinnie Colaiuta to its family of drum and hardware endorsers. (continue reading)


Posted: May 8, 2012

Category: News, News and Events
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 13, 2012

Category: Drummers, Multimedia, News, News and Events, Videos
Vinnie Colaiuta joins Paiste

Paiste has announced their endorsement of Vinnie Colaiut. Vinnie began officially playing Paiste on a recent tour with Sting, with a set of cymbals consisting mostly of Formula 602 models. Watch Vinnie give his official statement in this video.


Posted: February 22, 2012

Category: Clinics and Events, News, News and Events
Buddy Rich 25th Anniversary Memorial Concert

The Buddy Rich 25th Anniversary Memorial Concert takes place for the first time in the UK at the London Palladium on 2nd April 2012. The  lineup is confirmed as Dave Weckl,  John Blackwell and Gregg Potter from the USA and Ian Paice, Ginger Baker, Gavin Harrison and Elliott Henshaw from the UK. Singing supremo Tony Christie will also appear. One of Buddy Rich’s …


Posted: February 22, 2012

Category: News, News and Events
Feb Web Update News

Vinnie Colaiuta, Jeff Hamilton, and Karriem Riggins are on Paul McCartney’s latest, Kisses on the Bottom. Riggins performed with the former Beatle at the Grammys, as did McCartney regular Abe Laboriel. For more, visit www.paulmccartney.com. Speaking of the Grammys, Low Millions drummer/producer Erik Eldenius was in the house band again …


Posted: January 26, 2012

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Josh Freese: How to Promote Yourself, and Other Insights

This article originally ran in the December 2009 issue of Modern Drummer magazine.   1. Think marketing. I made my latest record [Since 1972] on my own dime. So I thought, How can I do something cool and interesting to make people aware of it? My last record sold so …


Posted: January 23, 2012

Category: News, News and Events
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 17, 2012

Category: Back Through the Stack, Drummers, Feature Stories
Back Through The Stack
Teddy Campbell

This article originally ran in the September 2005 issue of Modern Drummer magazine.


Posted: December 19, 2011

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Queen Extravaganza Finalist Zach Mullings

Hey, everyone! My name is Zach Mullings, and I’m from Miramar, Florida. I’m one of the four drummers who were picked to audition for the Queen Extravaganza in L.A. First off, let me say how thrilled I am to be featured on Modern Drummer’s website. I have been a big …


Posted: November 22, 2011

Category: News, News and Events
November Web Update News

Drumming news for the month of November complied in one place.


Posted: August 3, 2011

Category: News, News and Events
Web Update News 8/11

Find out what your favorite drummer is up to now (Web Update News 7/21/11).


Posted: July 1, 2011

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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 29, 2011

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Daniel Bédard of Sharcüt

Hi, drummers! My name is Daniel Bédard, and I’m a drummer from Montreal. I’ve been drumming now for around sixteen years, and I’ve played with a lot of different artists here in Québec. I’m writing to talk to you about my band Sharcüt, a trio composed of guitar, bass, and …


Posted: May 27, 2011

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Remembering “The Chapin Magic”

Modern Drummer’s 2011 Readers Poll Hall of Fame inductee is the late drummer/educator Jim Chapin, who passed away in 2009.


Posted: February 16, 2011

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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: September 29, 2010

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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 24, 2010

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Kevin Kane of Bad City

Hey, Modern Drummers! It’s a privilege to be asked to contribute to this website, as I’m a longtime subscriber—MD has afforded me a truly incalculable amount of inspiration. I still remember the issue where Joey Jordison said he ran like fifty miles every morning to get his calves in shape …


Posted: August 11, 2010

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Bell Gardens’ Charlie Woodburn

Hello, Modern Drummer readers! I’m Charlie Woodburn, and I am a session drummer in Los Angeles, California. First, I would like to say thank you to Modern Drummer for letting me add to the blog because I have been reading the magazine since I was fifteen years old. MD has …


Posted: July 28, 2010

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Kalle Mathiesen of Kalles World Tour

My name is Kalle Mathiesen, and I’m a Danish drummer. I have a one-man-show called Kalles World Tour. DPRP magazine wrote about my CD/DVD, ”Kalles World Tour comes across as a modern European version of Buddy Rich and Frank Zappa,” so I thought that my music could be of interest …


Posted: July 22, 2010

Category: Drummers, The Greats
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 10, 2010

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Keech Rainwater of Lonestar

Hey, everybody, my name is Keech Rainwater, and I’m from the country band Lonestar. I know, country music, right? Actually, we rock pretty hard and have been for the past eighteen years. I started out when I was about twelve years old and kind of already knew how to play …


Posted: May 26, 2010

Category: Drummers
The Drummers of Tortoise: John McEntire, John Herndon, Dan Bitney

Tortoise’s three drummers—John McEntire, John Herndon, and Dan Bitney—continue to push sonic boundaries and rhythmic inventiveness…


Posted: March 22, 2010

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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 15, 2010

Category: Drummers, The Greats
The Greats: Hal Blaine

Blaine came to define the drum beat of Top-40 radio…


Posted: December 7, 2009

Category: Drummers, The Greats
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: November 24, 2009

Category: Feature Stories
On Tour And On Stage: 9 Lives (+9, +9 More)

On Tour And On Stage: 9 Lives (+9, +9 More). MD’s editors just can’t keep a list of their favorite albums short–even in service of a can’t-resist pun. Twenty-seven live albums you gotta have.


Posted: October 20, 2009

Category: Feature Stories
Drumming On TV

In celebration of the great, sometimes groundbreaking drumming performances of TV’s golden age, we present to you highlights along the illustrious Drumming On TV timeline…


Posted: August 20, 2009

Category: Drummers, The Greats
Remembering Jim Chapin

The venerable drum teacher passed away this July 4, leaving behind thousands of acolytes–and a million great stories. In this companion to the In Memoriam in the October issue of MD, we hear from some of Chapin’s many friends and drumming disciples.


Posted: July 7, 2009

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Fall of Envy’s Brandt Frenchman

I am Brandt Frenchman, and I’ve been a drummer for most of my life. I love all types and styles of music, although I’ve always gravitated toward the heavier rock side of things.


Posted: June 18, 2009

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
Stephen Perkins: Jane’s Addiction

Talking with Perkins, you get the vibe that the L.A.–based rocker’s life is way more than hitting the skins for the duration of a show or recording session….


Posted: May 25, 2009

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Steve Holmes: Angular House Of Drumming

Los Angeles–based drummer Steve Holmes started the Vinnie Colaiuta/Dave Weckl fan site HouseOfDrumming.com several years ago because, as he puts it, “They’ve shown me what it sounds like to obtain freedom on the instrument.”


Posted: April 26, 2009

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Josh Trager of The Sam Roberts Band

I'm Josh Trager from Montreal, and I play drums in the Sam Roberts Band. We just came off a pretty solid eight months of touring our new record, “Love At The End Of The World.”


Posted: March 1, 2009

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Web Exclusive Interview: Britney Spears’ Chris Bailey

Chris Bailey was born in Sheffield, England, on January 5, 1974, and has been surrounded by music his whole life. His dad played guitar and his mom sang, and early on Chris discovered he had an uncanny talent for the drums. At age eight he was already playing in his …


Posted: November 20, 2008

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Gavin Harrison: The Rhythmic Illusionist Is Now Elevating Two Bands, Porcupine Tree And King Crimson

“I stopped focusing on the muscles in my arms and started focusing on the big fat muscle in my head. That’s where the good stuff comes from.???


Posted: September 27, 2008

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
Brian Frasier-Moore: Born to Play

Aaliyah, Ginuwine, Ciara, Janet Jackson, Patti LaBelle, Babyface, Justin Timberlake, Backstreet Boys, Christina Aguilera, Usher, and now Madonna–no doubt about it, Brian Frasier-Moore has carved out an amazing career…


Posted: August 20, 2008

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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 13, 2008

Category: Drummers, On the Beat
Nico Hartikainen of Danger Radio

I've been playing for about twelve years now. I started when I lived in Helsinki, Finland.


Posted: July 18, 2008

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
Thomas Pridgen: Turning Bedlam Into Beats

Twenty-four year old Thomas Pridgen unleashes the most rabid drumming in recent memory on The Mars Volta’s The Bedlam In Goliath. Of course, the band’s fans have come to expect madness and mastery from the innovative Long Beach, California group…


Posted: January 16, 2008

Category: Feature Stories
Best Of ’07

I’m convinced that, ten years from now, we’re going to look back at 2007 as an unusually fertile time in music and in drumming.


Posted: January 15, 2008

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Alex “El Animal??? González: A Passion For Drumming

Maná is a true rags-to-riches story. Fueled by an intense passion for music and a belief that music can transcend the boundaries of language, the Mexican rock band has sold more than twenty-two million records and collected eight Grammy Awards….


Posted: November 15, 2007

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Jojo Mayer: Revealing the Secret

For years, Jojo Mayer has been regarded as a drumming shaman, a man of mystery, a technical guru existing on the outer reaches of traditional drumming logic….


Posted: September 25, 2007

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
Craig Macintyre

Drummer Craig Macintyre is in the middle of a two-year tour with Josh Groban, promoting the star vocalist’s latest album, ‘Awake’….


Posted: July 16, 2007

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Josh Freese: Time Bandit

Time. Feel. Groove. Pulse. For many, these are illusive concepts with multiple meanings. Does a heavy metal drummer “feel??? the pulse in the same way as a pop drummer?…


Posted: April 17, 2007

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Marco Minnemann: Beyond Chops

A new breed of drummer has emerged over the past decade. This elite group of international super-drummers has changed the face of drumming and raised the bar on speed, ambidextrous technique, soloing, stick tricks, multi-pedal coordination, and independence to levels that seem unimaginable to most drummers….


Posted: March 1, 2006

Category: Drummers
A Few Minutes With Rick Marotta

Rick Marotta is no stranger to MD readers. And he’s certainly familiar to anyone who’s had the pleasure to see him play or crack jokes while hosting Yamaha’s Groove All Star show….


Posted: July 20, 2005

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
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: May 19, 2005

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
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 19, 2005

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Caroline Corr of The Corrs

MD Online caught up with drummer Caroline Corr while the band was in Dublin doing some pre-show promotion before heading out on tour. This time around, the road trip will be a completely different experience for Caroline, who will now be singing and playing percussion….


Posted: May 19, 2005

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Daniel Reyes

In between those gigs he’ll squeeze in a performance with Ricky Martin, Stevie Nicks, or Jennifer Lopez, among other top acts. But Danny’s brain is always thinking: How do I make my playing better? Equally important to him these days: How do I make the instruments I play better? Enter …


Posted: May 12, 2004

Category: Feature Stories, Lessons
In The Loop With The Pros

With all of the samplers, prerecorded loops, and programmers in the studio, how much of what we hear today from a drummer is actual acoustic drums or electronics? MD asked some of the best “hired guns” in the business to comment on their current role and gear requirements in the …


Posted: May 12, 2004

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories
Prince’s John Blackwell: An Interview

John Blackwell always listened to his dad’s advice, and it’s paid off, big time. “Growing up, my dad used to tell me, ‘If you want to make any money in this business, play in the pocket.'”…


Posted: May 12, 2004

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
Josh Freese

Looking at Josh Freese across a Starbucks table, it’s hard to believe I’ve known him since he was eleven years old. Suddenly it struck me that he was then the same age that my son is now, and the comparison was mind-blowing. At eleven years old, Josh was already fiercely …


Posted: May 12, 2004

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
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

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
Tommy Perkins: Charting His Past, Present, And Future

For more than fifty years, Tommy Perkins has devoted himself to performing as a full-time working drummer. At age fifteen he made his first recording as a Texas Playboy. That was the 1950 hit single “Faded Love” by Bob Wills.


Posted: December 1, 2002

Category: Drummers, Feature Stories, Update
Abe Laboriel, Jr.: Riding A Wave Of Success

When you meet with Abe Laboriel Jr., you can’t help but smile the entire time. It’s not just hearing about his success stories, it’s that his presence exudes a glow and inner kindness that is both spiritual and contagious…



Posted: November 10, 2022

Category: The Modern Drummer Podcast
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 15, 2022

Category: The Modern Drummer Podcast
Episode 88: Live From My Drum Room Remembering Charlie Watts – Part 4

Part 4 of John DeChristopher’s series Remembering Charlie Watts. John’s guests were Jim Keltner, Vinnie Colaiuta, Charley Drayton, Pete Thomas, Anton Fig and Aaron Comess. They shared some beautiful stories about Charlie and even turned to Ringo, as drummers often do. Hold on to your hats because this is one …


Posted: August 11, 2022

Category: The Modern Drummer Podcast
Episode 83: Remembering Jeff Porcaro

In this episode, John remembers the great Jeff Porcaro whom we lost August 5, 1992. Joining John is a legendary group of Jeff’s friends and contemporaries and a literal “who’s who” of the drumming community, including Jim Keltner, Vinnie Colaiuta, John Robinson, Rick Marotta, Stan Lynch, Gregg Bissonette, Gary Mallaber, …


Posted: July 7, 2017

The Modern Drummer Podcast with Mike and Mike
Category: Mike and Mike Podcast, Multimedia, Podcasts
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.


Posted: March 4, 2016

Category: Mike and Mike Podcast, Multimedia, Podcasts
Episode 31: Favorite Drum Albums, Cliff Almond, the Zildjian Low Volume LV380 Cymbal Pack, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike field listener questions before geeking out on their favorite drum albums. The featured artist up for discussion is NYC-based drummer Cliff Almond, who’s featured in the April 2016 issue of Modern Drummer. In the gear review section, Dawson shares his experience with the new …