David Dykstra on SoundBetter

Sick of drag and drop beats? Bring your song to life with custom drum tracks and drum programming like you've never experienced before!

Offering high-energy, genre-defying tracks infused with energetic beats and global influences, David Dykstra continually pushes the boundaries of modern pop, rock and country music. As a producer and master percussionist, David Dykstra brings a unique sound to every project, featuring intricate rhythmic layers, avant-garde sonic combinations, and magnetic beats that captivate audiences.

What does getting custom drum tracks look like?
- Live drum tracks recorded with top shelf analog mics and preamps.
- Price includes 2-3 fully edited takes
- Amazing programmed beats with custom samples
- Once tracks are recorded, Dave will send an MP3 for approval, then send the multitrack
- Bundle discounts available when contracting for multiple services
- Turn around time typically 1-2 weeks

Drums:
Ludwig Classic Maple
Yamaha Birch Custom Absolute
Numerous snare options
Zildjian K Custom, A Custom, Constantinople & more

Recording Gear:
Neve, SSL, Universal Audio, AEA, Grace Designs preamps
AEA R88 - Room
AKG 414 - overheads
Sm57 Snare top & Bottom
Royer R10 mono kit
Audix D2+D4 - toms
Solomon subkick - kick out
AKG D112 - kick in
Aventone CK1 - hi hat

Mixing and production services: Let's talk! Hit me up and let's discus bringing your song to the next level!

Additional services:
Latin Percussion
Drumline Percussion
Sound Design
World Percussion

Click the 'Contact' above to get in touch. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Credits

5 Reviews

Endorse David Dykstra

by Chuck Edson
I first met Dave when I was recording an album at Jeff Cook's (ALABAMA) studio in Fort Payne, they had brought Dave in to play on my songs. He laid down great drum lines and kept things moving along smoothly. My next project I used Dave as producer, arranger, and of course, drummer, what great sessions we had to do this project. Dave was well-prepared, having everything charted with copies for all of the musicians. It all went quickly and smoothly. He then spent his time at his home office mixing and mastering the tracks until they were just right. I continue to use his expertise.
by Michael Rinne Bass
I always enjoy working with Dave on every project we've done which has ranged from rising country stars that he is playing drums for and producing, or recording punk rock versions of hymns for television/film, Dave is the man and will take care of your drumming/mixing/producing needs with the highest level and skill and most professional attitude. I Highly recommend!
by Rick H.
I’ve worked with David for about a year and enjoyed every minute. He has mixed and mastered multiple songs for us, and even retract drums himself for one of the songs. David has the kind of personality that allows him to be professional, genuine, and kind all at the same time. He readily gives me recording tips, production suggestions, and mixing ideas without a second thought all with the goal of improving each subsequent recording. David knows that when an artist wins, he wins also. A rare gym in the music business.
by Anna Scott
Dave is such a versatile and creative person. He truly appreciates the music and will stop at nothing to give you the best product. He can do virtually everything in the industry and is very efficient. I would 1000% recommend him for any project, and you will not be disappointed with the results!
by Luke Moseley
Dave is not only a great human, but one of the hardest working guys I know! He's making music at a high level and will help bring your project to life!

Interview with David Dykstra

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Spend a lot of time in pre-production to really get to know your song and develop a creative vision. Results are much better when you have a clear idea of what you want the song to sound like in advance of diving into the recording process.
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: After college I spent 8 years touring as a drummer and have been doing studio work and production for the last 7 years. Time flies! Since diving into production I've produced over 800 songs for artists, songwriters, record labels, film/tv networks and advertising. This has led to custom projects for Amazon/MGM Studios, Netflix, American Idol, advertisements for Paramount+, the Grammy Awards, CNBC, American Express, and Progressive Insurance. With Warner Chappell Production Music, Megatrax, and others, he boasts over 2,000 film and TV placements, specializing in sports and network promos. His music has been featured by the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAA, along with network promos for CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, and many others.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: Energetic beats that not only sound and feel great, but really make a song stand out and come to life.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: I like to consult with the client to really learn their vision for the song and go over song references to ensure the creative direction is in place. Once recorded, I send a mp3 rough mix to clients to ensure the vibe is on track. Once the mp3 is approved, I will send multi-tracks of 2-3 takes fully edited. Oftentimes clients are in need of mixing services in addition to drum tracks, in which case I am happy to record drums, percussion and mix.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: My drum room has concrete floors and a 12 foot ceiling which allows for a fantastic live room sound, but still tight and punchy. I use industry standard mics (AEA, AKG, Shure, and more) and preamps (Neve, SSL, Grace, AEA) to provide the same quality tracks you will get from a large commercial studio. I love blending live drum sounds with custom samples, beats and percussion to create a one of a kind sound that simply put will bring your song to life!
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Rick Rubin, Max Martin, Dr. Luke, Josh Freese, Ian Kilpatrick, Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Gadd, Steve Jordan, Nate Smith
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: I love working with clients to bring their creative vision to life. This includes live drum tracks, beat production, track production and mixing.