Professional Studio Drummer

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I get to play the drums as a career.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Have the tracks done to the best of your ability as far as mix goes. Also, please play to a click so that I can lock in with the tracks.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: Over 30 years since I picked up the sticks. My original goal was to be the touring rockstar, but I found studio work and education to be my real passion as I got older.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Funky-Rockin-Groove-a-licious-Hoedown

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: I'd have to say 311. My all time favs! Why? Cuz they are my all time favs!

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Come into the studio prepared and rehearsed. That is not the place nor time to be working out the parts!

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: All kinds! I'm in an alternative band, a country band, a drum and bass duo,...you name it!

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: I play for the song. What compliments the song. I know exactly what to play and what not to play. I'm proud of that fact.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: Pocket, Tone, Flavor, Compliments, Suggestions, The best damn drum track you can get! ;)

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: When I'm tracking for other artists, I usually have them send over their tracks, I give them a listen, record some takes, and we send them back and forth until we come up with a take we like. Other artists that I am recording full lengths with, I will spend more time in the rehearsal space with them, crafting the songs.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Well, I have a few different options when it comes to studios. My home set up is pretty basic. I have several kits to choose from depending on the sound I'm looking for. I have a few different DAW's I work with when tracking. Mainly been using Ableton Live at the moment. The studios I use outside of my home vary. I have access to a Neve Console though which is pretty sweet!!! It all depends what the artist is looking for, and can afford.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: I'm an educator as well, so seeing guys like Mike Johnston, the gang at Drumeo, etc..really inspire me to go after the online market. I've recently been putting alot of youtube videos up to create a buzz.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: I get calls all the time from artists who need drum tracks for their album, ep, or even just a single. I've been in this game a long time, and have earned the reputation as the "go to" when a drummer is needed because I do my homework. I save folks alot of time, and money by getting in and getting it done.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: Kick, Snare, Hihat, Ride, Floor Tom.