Episodes
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This episode features my conversation with drummer, Mike Sleath.
Based out of Toronto, Mike is best know as the drummer for internationally acclaimed artist, Shawn Mendes. Developing his passion for music at a young age and led by his perseverance and positivity, Mike has navigated his own way through the music industry.
His energy and enthusiasm for his work is infectious and he has become highly sought after by numerous artists for both live and studio work.
In our conversation we talk about his passion for music, the obstacles he has encountered, and how he was able to pivot to overcome the roadblocks in his career path.
We also discuss why he finds the concept of visualization an essential tool and how it allows him to prepare for any situation.
Follow Mike:https://www.instagram.com/mikesleathdrums/https://www.facebook.com/MikeSleathDrum
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On this episode, I’d like to welcome back drummer Jon “Bermuda” Schwartz for his second appearance on my podcast.
Bermuda is best known as the drummer with the iconic "Weird Al" Yankovic, which is a position he has held for over 4 decades.
In between projects with Weird Al, he continues to play and record with other L.A. area artists and maintains an active online presence.In our conversation we discuss the concepts behind a series of articles he wrote for DRUM magazine entitled “Tips Of The Trade”, where he offers his advice and perspectives on establishing yourself in the music industry.We also talk about some of his creative processes when working with Weird Al, including his work on the recently released Polkamania medley and the band’s plan to go back on tour in the new year.
For those interested in learning more about Jon and his story, please check out episodes 10 & 11 of the podcast. Episode 10Episode 11Polkamania!Endorsement FAQNAMM FAQ
Follow Bermuda:https://www.bermudaschwartz.comhttps://www.facebook.com/bermudaschwartzhttps://www.instagram.com/thegreatbermuda/
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This episode features my conversation with drummer Chris McHugh.
Chris moved to Nashville from New Jersey in 1985 to start his professional career. Known for his rock solid grooves, he is highly regarded as one of Nashville’s most respected session drummers. His work can be found on multiple gold & platinum selling albums from artists such as Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Amy Grant, Toby Keith, Rascal Flats and many more.
I first became aware of Chris through with work with Keith Urban and was inspired by not only his powerful drumming on many of Keith’s most beloved songs, but also by his incredible stage presence in the live concert setting.In our conversation we talk about how he started to break into the Nashville studio scene. We discuss his perspectives on what it takes to establish yourself in the studio environment and why it’s important to remain true to who you are as an artist.
We also talk about why it’s invaluable to have mentors in your life, and how your definition of success begins to change as you reflect upon your own life experiences.Follow Chris:http://www.chrismchugh.comhttps://www.instagram.com/thechrismchugh/https://www.facebook.com/chris.mchugh.986
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This episode features my conversation with drummer, Josh Trager.
Originally from Montreal and currently based in Toronto, Josh is an accomplished musician who established a professional career after studying at the Berklee College of Music.
At the age of 20, he was personally selected by guitar legend Frank Marino to join the band Mahogany Rush and held that position until 2005. Josh is best known as the drummer for the platinum selling Sam Roberts Band and has continued to record and tour with the band for 2 decades.
In our conversation, we talk about how Josh discovered his passion for music and how his experiences at the Berklee College Of Music helped him adapt and establish his professional career.
We also talk about anxiety and how we can begin to change our mindset to overcome challenges we may be facing. Photo by Daniel D’SouzaFollow Josh:https://www.instagram.com/jtrager24/https://www.facebook.com/joshtrager
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This episode features my conversation with renowned drummer and educator, Bruce Becker.
Known for his long time affiliation with drum guru Freddie Gruber, Bruce is highly regarded as an expert in Freddie’s unique approach to understanding the principles of physical movement and its application to developing flow on the Drumset.
Bruce is also an accomplished musician and went on to establish a professional career as a session player for a variety of artists. He is probably best known for his work with the David Becker Tribune, which is a project he co-led with his brother for over 30 years. He is sought out as teacher by many of the most respected drummers in the industry and is also the author of the book Puzzles, Rhymes & Riddles and his most recent release The Ultimate Guide To Syncopation, which discusses his approach and applications when using Ted Reed’s classic method book.In our conversation, we talk about how he discovered his passion for music, his experiences working with Freddie Gruber and how he uses his own personal experiences to inspire, assist and educate others.Follow Bruce:https://brucebecker.comhttps://www.instagram.com/brucebeckerdrums/https://www.facebook.com/bruce.becker1https://hudsonmusic.com/instructors/bruce-becker/
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On this episode, I’d like to welcome back Ray LeVier for his second appearance on my podcast.
Based out of New York, Ray is an in demand drummer who divides his time between session work, composing and teaching.
Ray recently completed work on his new book “Drumming In Flow” which is a guide to concentration, creativity and incorporating breathing techniques in drumming, which allows you to achieve consistent peak performance.
In this interview, we discuss how his motivation to write the book was to overcome some of his own obstacles. We discuss the value of meditation and breathing techniques to achieve relaxation and focus and why it’s essential that we don’t overlook the value of a relaxed and positive mindset. We also discuss the inspiration behind his latest single, Uncharted Destiny.
For those interested in learning more about Ray and his story, please check out episode 18 of the podcast. Episode 18 - Ray LeVier
Drumming In Flow - Hudson MusicUncharted DestinyFollow Ray:https://raylevier.comhttps://www.facebook.com/rlevierhttps://www.instagram.com/raylevier/
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This episode features my conversation with the legendary David Garibaldi.
Best known for his work with the iconic group Tower Of Power, David is one of the most influential drummers of our generation, and a renowned educator who inspires others to explore new concepts and embrace their own creative voice.
Follow David:https://www.facebook.com/davegaribaldihttps://www.instagram.com/davidgaribaldimusic/
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This episode features my conversation with drummer Aaron Spink.
Known for his versatility, Aaron is a freelance musician and educator based out of Ajax, Ontario.
After studying Jazz Performance at Humber College, Aaron embarked on a career that has seen him work with numerous artists in many genres in both live and studio environments. Aaron is also highly regarded as an educator and clinician and is currently on faculty at the Yamaha School Of Music.
In our conversation, we talk about his experiences and lessons learned through his post-secondary education. We also discuss his philosophies and perspectives as an educator and what he considers to be some of the fundamentals for success. Follow Aaron:https://www.facebook.com/aaron.spink.9https://www.instagram.com/spinko84/https://www.youtube.com/@AaronSpinkDrumshttps://www.tiktok.com/@spinko84
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This episode features my conversation with drummer Allison Miller.
Based out of New York, Allison is an award winning musician, composer and educator who is highly regarded for her jazz improvisational skills showcasing her versatility and dynamic approach to the drum set.
Allison was named as a Rising Star Drummer in Downbeat magazine's 67th Annual Critics Poll and Best Jazz Drummer in Jazz Times’s 2019 Critics Poll.She is also the first recipient of the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation’s Commissioning Grant. The product of this commission is her immersive multi-media project, Rivers In Our Veins, dedicated to celebrating America’s waterways. In our conversation, we talk about how sharing your own personal development can inspire others to overcome anxiety and embrace their own artistic voice. We also discuss her approach to composition and the creative process for “Rivers In Our Veins, and why it’s essential to follow your creative paths despite the life obstacles you may encounter.Follow Allison:https://www.allisonmiller.comhttps://www.instagram.com/alliboomboom/https://www.facebook.com/AllisonMillerBoomTicBoom
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This episode features my conversation with drummer Rob “ Beatdown “ Brown.
Based out of Toronto, Rob is a self taught musician who discovered his passion for drumming as a teenager and developed his skills by analyzing and playing along with the music that inspired him.
After leaving a full-time retail job to pursue a career in music back in 2012, Rob quickly circulated through the local scene performing and recording with a wide variety of artists in the R&B, jazz, contemporary Christian, and pop country scenes.
In 2017, Rob transitioned to full-time YouTube content creator. Since then, his educational drum channel has rapidly become one of the most recognized and popular channels on the platform with over 300,000 subscribers.
In our conversation, we talk about what it takes to develop and remain relevant to establish a successful presence on YouTube. We also discuss how sharing your own challenges and personal development can inspire others to embrace their own obstacles. Follow Rob:https://www.robbrownondrums.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@RobBeatdownBrownhttps://www.instagram.com/beatdownbrown7/https://www.facebook.com/RobBrownOnDrums
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This episode features my conversation with renowned drummer & educator Jim Riley.Originally growing up in Boston, Jim went on to study at the University of North Texas where he received his degree in Music Education.
In 1997, he moved to Nashville and established himself as one of the most respected and versatile drummers there. For 20 years, Jim was the drummer and bandleader for the multi-platinum group, Rascal Flatts and has worked with many established artists throughout his career. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Drumset Studies at Belmont University.
Jim is internationally recognized as a clinician and educator and in 2007, he established his Drum Dojo school where he inspires and teaches students of all levels to develop their skills and passion for music. He is also the author of 3 books including the award winning method The Survival Guide For The Modern Drummer.
In our conversation, we talk about why it’s important to believe in your potential and not be afraid to face challenges. We also discuss the value of a well rounded education and what the definition of success means to him. Follow Jim:https://jimrileymusic.comhttps://www.facebook.com/jimrileythedrummerhttps://www.instagram.com/jimrileymusic/
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This episode features my conversation with drummer Davide DiRenzo.
Based out of Toronto, Davide is highly regarded as one of Canada’s most versatile and in-demand drummers. He has performed and recorded around the world with a wide range of artists including Cassandra Wilson, jackSoul, Tom Cochrane, Tomi Swick, Holly Cole, David Wilcox, Molly Johnson and many more.
In addition to his extensive studio experience working with some of the world’s top artists, Davide also works out of his home studio, where he records and sends drum tracks to artists and producers all over the globe.
In our conversation, we talk about the role positive studio etiquette plays assuring that each session runs effectively. We also discuss why it’s essential to maintain a growth mindset and explore each new learning opportunity to let go of our own self doubt and embrace our potential.
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This episode features part two of my conversation with drummer Nate Morton.
On this episode, we continue our discussion about his experiences on The Voice and Rockstar series. We also talk about his perspectives around finding success in the music industry and working to find balance in your life.
If you haven’t had the opportunity yet, be sure to go back and check out episode 39 which features part one of our interview.Follow Nate:https://natemorton.comhttps://www.facebook.com/natemortondrumshttps://www.instagram.com/n8drumz/
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This episode features part one of my two part conversation with drummer Nate Morton.
Based out of Los Angeles, he is the highly regarded drummer for the house band on NBC’s The Voice. Previously, Nate was the drummer for the reality series Rockstar:INXS & Rockstar: Supernova, and was also part of the house band for the Bonnie Hunt Show.
Nate has also worked with such diverse artists as Paul Stanley, Cher, Vanessa Carlson, Natalie Cole, Miley Cyrus, Madonna and many others.
As a graduate of the Berklee College Of Music in Boston, he has become a respected educator and loves to inspire others to find joy in the pursuit of music.
In our conversation, we discuss how he found his passion for music early in life and how his determination to become a professional musician has lead him along different paths that allowed him to establish a successful music career.
We also talk about why it’s essential to value and find joy in the opportunities that are available to you.
Follow Nate:https://natemorton.comhttps://www.facebook.com/natemortondrumshttps://www.instagram.com/n8drumz/
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This episode features my conversation with drummer David Abbruzzese.
Growing up in Texas, David discovered his passion for music early on and began to develop his skills as a drummer through his work with many local bands.
In 1991, through a recommendation from drummer Matt Chamberlain, David went to Seattle to audition for Pearl Jam, who were just getting ready to release their debut album.
He became a member of the band and held that position from 1991-1994, during which time, he recorded the iconic albums VS and Vitalogy.
After working with Pearl Jam, David continued to establish himself as a freelance drummer and has gone on to work with multiple artists showcasing his creative and versatile approach to the drums.
In our conversation, we talk about his early inspirations and how his passion for music helped to develop his creative approach.
We discuss the process of recording the VS and Vitalogy albums and what it was like working with renowned producer Brendan O’Brien.
We also talk about what he’s been up to since Pearl Jam and why it’s essential to appreciate all the opportunities that are presented to you.
Follow David:https://www.facebook.com/david.abbruzzese
https://www.instagram.com/daveabbruzzese/
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This episode features my conversation with drummer Dave Patel.
Actively involved in the Toronto music scene for over 30 years as a professional drummer, Dave has played on over seventy albums, many jingles, and has worked extensively with numerous artists in different genres demonstrating his ability to adapt to any musical situation.
He was a student at both York University and Humber College, and studied privately with Jim Blackley, Paul DeLong, Vito Rezza among others.
Dave is also an in demand educator who has taught privately in the Toronto area for over 20 years. Currently, he is a faculty member at the renowned Metalworks Institute where he is actively involved in their Music Performance & Technology Program.
In our conversation, we talk about the importance of experiencing live music situations because you never know where that inspiration will take you. We also discuss his approaches to teaching and why it’s essential to not get caught up in self deprecation, and to remain committed to following your desired path.Follow Dave:
https://www.instagram.com/davepateldrums/
https://www.facebook.com/david.patel.794
https://www.youtube.com/@davepateldrums9781
https://metalworksinstitute.com/faculty/dave-patel/
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This episode features my conversation with renowned Canadian drummer Ted Warren.
Born and raised in Saskatchewan and now currently residing in Southern Ontario, Ted discovered his passion for music at a young age. In addition to becoming inspired by the music of his generation, he also discovered an interest in Jazz. Ted went on to study Music at Montreal’s Mcgill University, and received a certificate in Jazz Studies from St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia.
As an active member of Canada’s jazz scene and the recipient of The Jazz Report’s “Drummer of the year” award in 1996, Ted has built a solid reputation as a versatile drummer performing and recording with the who’s who of the Canadian Jazz scene including the legendary Rob McConnell and The Boss Brass big band.
He is also a composer and fronts his own quartet, Ted’s Warren Commission, which released their debut CD, First Time Caller, to critical acclaim in 2004 and followed that up with the albums Songs For Doug and 2016’s The Great Regina Pizza Debate.
Ted is a highly regarded teacher, clinician and adjudicator and has taught in the Jazz Studies programs at both Humber College in Toronto and Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario.
In our conversation, we talk about the importance of embracing your musical ideas and not allowing your own self doubt to get in your way. We also discuss his approaches to teaching and why the pursuit of learning and exploring new concepts is essential in order to find joy in your own creative endeavours.Follow Ted here:
https://www.facebook.com/ted.warren1
https://www.instagram.com/warren.ted/
https://www.patreon.com/drumjoy
https://www.youtube.com/@twarren24
http://trapdted.blogspot.com
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This episode features my conversation with drummer/educator Dave Stark.
Born and raised in New York and now residing in Florida, Dave is an in demand freelance drummer, educator and clinician.
He began playing drums at the age of 7 then went on to study with legendary teachers such as Dom Famularo, Jim Chapin, Gary Chaffee and many more.
After attending Berklee College of Music in Boston on a scholarship, Dave established his career back in New York where he became a first call session artist. He also began a very successful teaching career and has built a worldwide reputation as a highly sought after educator.
Currently, Dave is the President of the Florida Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society and also serves internationally as a board member on the Education Committee.
In our conversation, we talk about how the most profound lessons learned from a mentor are the life lessons and experiences shared. We also discuss the importance of building genuine relationships and how we each can define success in this industry. Follow Dave here:
https://davestarkdrumminglab.com
https://www.facebook.com/DaveStarkDrums
https://www.instagram.com/davestarkdrums/
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This episode features my conversation with drummer and educator, Dave Lewitt.
Growing up on Long Island, NY, Dave found his inspiration from listening to the music of the fusion and progressive rock era in the 1970’s where he discovered his passion to become a drummer.
He pursued his studies at The Conservatory of Music at Purchase College in New York. After graduation, he went on to establish a professional career as a freelance drummer and educator.
Currently, in addition to maintaining a steady roster of students, he is also on staff at Purchase College’s Conservatory Of Dance program where he is actively involved in working with the modern dance program as an accompanist.
Dave is also the author of 3 drum method books including his most recent, The Odd Time Drumming book.
In our conversation, we talk about his work in the Conservatory Of Dance program and how it involves a creative approach and adaptation to the challenges presented. We also discuss his experiences as a freelance musician and why he has chosen to focus on education at this stage of his career.Follow Dave at: https://www.facebook.com/dave.lewitt
https://www.youtube.com/user/davelewitt
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On this episode, I welcome back drummer Jamie Wollam for his second appearance on my podcast.
Best know as the drummer for the iconic band, Tears For Fears, a position he has held since 2010, Jamie is highly regarded for his impeccable and passionate live performances and creativity as an in demand session musician.
I first had the opportunity to interview Jamie last year as he was preparing to head out on the highly succesful Tears For Fears summer tour.
It was a pleasure to reconnect for a follow up conversation to reflect back on those experiences and find out what he’s been up to since the tour finished.
In this interview, we talk about his personal journey through the different phases of his career. We also discuss the importance of maintaining a creative voice as a sideman, while respecting the creative processes of the artists you work with. We also get into our perspectives on education and why it’s essential to maintain humility in order to establish and define your place in this industry.
Photo by Emily Rath Orzabal
Follow Jamie here:https://www.facebook.com/jamie.wollam https://www.instagram.com/jameswollam/
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