Mike Johnston

Modern Drummer is the world’s most widely read drum magazine, is dedicated entirely to the art of drumming and caters to the needs of amateur, semi-pro, and professional drummers.

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Podcast Episode 250: Highlight Show 4

In this fourth and final highlight episode, Mike and Mike cover a range of topics, including plywood shells, phrasing sextuplets with doubles, bass drum mics, the grid system, and how to practice improvisation. This episode is sponsored by Dream Cymbals…

Modern Drummer
Jul 22, 2020

Podcast Episode 249: Highlight Show 3

In this episode, Mike and Mike mine a handful of episodes from the end of 2017 to compile a highlight reel of main segments covering a range of topics, including linear drumming, three-note groupings, paradiddles, the Moeller technique, and backbeats…

Modern Drummer
Jul 14, 2020

Podcast Episode 248: Highlight Show 2

In this episode, Mike and Mike mine a handful of episodes from the second quarter of the show for a highlight reel of main segments covering a range of topics, including bass drum technique, seat height, dynamics, how to use…

Modern Drummer
Jun 30, 2020

Podcast Episode 247: Highlight Show 1

In this episode, Mike and Mike throw it all the way back to the beginning of the show with a highlight reel of the main segments of the first few episodes. Topics include chops versus groove, independence, creativity, drum shells,…

Modern Drummer
Jun 23, 2020

Podcast Episode 246: More Listener Questions

In this episode, Mike and Mike work through a pile of listener questions, covering everything from cymbal selection to defining precision in drumming. Show Notes Modern Drummer subscription MikesLessons.com subscription  Mike Dawson's Patreon page   Modern Drummer Podcast With Mike…

Modern Drummer
Jun 18, 2020
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Podcast Episode 245: Listener Questions Galore

In this episode, Mike and Mike work through a pile of listener questions, covering everything from music schools to affordable bop kit and how to practice playing quietly. As usual, the show concludes with picks of the week. This episode…

Modern Drummer
Jun 9, 2020

Podcast Episode 244: 5 Tips for Motivation, Jimmy Cobb Remembered, Welch Tuning Systems, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike celebrate the life and drumming of jazz great Jimmy Cobb. The education segment focuses on Johnston’s five tips to help you keep motivated during these challenging times. Up for review is an innovative new…

Modern Drummer
Jun 3, 2020

MD Podcast Episode 243: Favorite Studio Albums, Listener Questions, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike share four classic albums they wish they could have been in the studio at the time of the recording to witness the creative process from start to finish. After answering a few audio questions…

Modern Drummer
May 24, 2020

Podcast Episode 242: Adam Deitch, Offbeat Stickings, Sabian AAX Additions, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike feature contemporary funk/hip-hop/fusion drummer Adam Deitch, who recently released a new album, Resonate, with his band Lettuce. The education segment focuses on one of Johnston's favorite sticking exercises for strengthening awareness of offbeat 16th…

Modern Drummer
May 24, 2020

MD Podcast Episode 241: Drummer Scouting Reports, Doc Sweeney Pure Series Snares, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike share scouting reports on a couple legendary drummers: fusion great Lenny White and classic rock icon Charlie Watts. The education segment focuses on some things Johnston taught at his first virtual drum camp. Up…

Modern Drummer
May 5, 2020

Episode 240: How to Play Polyrhythms, Who’s the Greatest?, Evans UV2 Drumheads, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike discuss how to understand three-against-four and six-against-four polyrhythms. They also discuss who should be in contention for the unofficial title of the world’s greatest drummer. Next up, shares his experience comparing the new Evans…

Modern Drummer
Apr 23, 2020

MD Podcast Episode 239: Clave Variations, Hi-Hat Mic Shootout, Contest Announcement, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike discuss ways to create new rhythm motifs based on the son and rumba clave. They also introduce how to enter a new giveaway of a 22" Dream Gorilla ride. Next up, Mike and Mike…

Modern Drummer
Apr 18, 2020
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MD Podcast Episode 238: Bottom Head Tuning, More Current Influences, Doc Sweeney Classic Series snares, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike discuss more of their current influences and inspirations. The education segment focuses on how bottom head tuning affects the sound of toms and snare drums. In the gear section, Mike and Mike review a…

Modern Drummer
Apr 10, 2020

MD Podcast Episode 237: Live-Streaming Setups, Current Influences, Bucks County Prime Oak snares, and More

In this episode, Mike and Mike discuss their current influences and inspirations. The education segment focuses on various live-streaming setups using a few of Roland’s new products. In the gear section, Mike and Mike review a new 5.5x14 Prime Oak…

Modern Drummer
Apr 3, 2020
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