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Chop City

Over this past weekend I had an opportunity to meet with a musician that I have a tremendous amount of respect for. Although we’ve had several conversations in the past, it was the first time we’d met in person. It was a highly anticipated meeting for me because he also happens to be a kick ass drummer. knowing there was a lot to gain from this meeting, I anxiously went in with an open mind and a willingness to learn. I was blown away by the experience. Although I didn’t play a single note on the kit, that in itself represented the bigger picture. We talked about drums, but more importantly we talked about music. That’s what it’s really all about, music. As drummers, or musicians it’s easy to get lost in our instrument. Playing our instrument for “self gratification”, which is fine. It’s important to never lose sight of the bigger picture. What is the bigger picture as a musician? It’s actually being a “Musician”. Listening, feeling, creating something unique with others, that’s what it’s all about. Your instrument, which in my case happens to be drums. The vessel to carry that message across from somewhere deep inside you. As our conversation continued, I realized that message in a way has been lost. It’s crazy to see the constant saturation of “chops” or “lick” videos on youtube that get thousands of views, yet lessons that are more important as musicians only get a handful. There was a lot of knowledge I gained from our meeting. One of which was answered in this question. How can one make a living as a musician? It involves a lot of things, but one things for sure. It doesn’t involve playing a ridiculous amount of chops or Licks. That’s NOT how you get the gig. Since he’s been able to make a solid living as a drummer since the late 80’s, I’m definitely willing to take his word on it. Hope this helps my fellow drummers out there 🙂