Podcast

Nashville Drummers Podcast

Music, Music Interviews, Society & Culture

Meet the up-and-coming players within Nashville's diverse drumming community, plus interviews with special guests from music cities near and far. Hear their stories, be inspired, and share some laughs along the way.

Episodes
100
Releases
Every two weeks
Typical length
1 hr 47 min
On air since
2021
Latest episode
1 week ago

Episodes

100 episodes, newest first

  1. Armando Baeza: Drummer Turned Producer, Songwriting & Self-Promotion, Cuban Roots, Finding Community

    Season 1, Episode 95

    Show notes

    In episode 95, we dive right into the multifaceted career of Miami-born drummer, producer, and songwriter, Armando Baeza. From drumming at age 13 to recording friends in GarageBand, Armando moved to Nashville with an intent to learn, and an eagerness to make great music with great friends...and he's doing just that. We discuss why drummers often make the best producers, the challenges of producing and songwriting in Nashville, and how he manages engineering and producing, often from behind the drums. We cover Armando's personal artist project (Mandy), his Cuban heritage and Latin percussion influence, and Nashville's “10-year town” mindset of staying, working, and developing relationships. We break down creative content strategies and social media as a tool, nerd out on home studio mic setups, and compare favorite Nashville dive bars. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    2:01 Breakfast Routine Talk
    4:03 Habits and Creativity
    5:39 Cuban Roots, What's In a Name?
    10:26 Mandy Artist Project
    12:11 Moving to Nashville to Produce
    15:01 Challenges as a Producer
    19:56 Producing While Drumming
    25:54 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    26:36 Influences and Latin Percussion
    32:35 Percussion Layers and Overdubs
    33:58 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    34:58 Nashville Music Community
    37:27 10-Year Town
    42:26 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    43:08 Social Media & Content Creation
    50:13 Arts School
    55:44 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    56:47 Videos & Self-Promotion
    1:10:43 Future of Music & AI
    1:14:28 Buy Us A Coffee!
    1:15:23 Home Studio Mic Setups
    1:21:49 Non-Country In Nashville
    1:23:36 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:24:19 Rapid Fire Questions
    1:32:33 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Music City Audiology
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/

    Connect with Armando:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themandocombo/

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Automatic Jesus" - Mandy
    "Everybody Thinks That It's a Game" - Mandy
    "All Works Out" - Mandy

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 34 min
  2. Milo Simpson: On Tour w/ Ashley Anne, Relationships & Community, Serving the Artist, Vintage Kits, Horror Movies & Tattoos

    Season 1, Episode 94

    Show notes

    Welcome, Milo Simpson! Having recently made the move from northeast Iowa to Nashville in 2025, Milo has quickly made a name for himself as a trustworthy, go-to drummer for a variety of up-and-coming country singer-songwriters, most notably touring with 22-year-old Ashley Anne. Milo shares his path through the Visible Music College in Memphis, his early influences (like Twenty One Pilots), and his approach to learning songs quickly under pressure. He shares the story of eventually joining the Ashley Anne camp, from a last-minute stripped-down gig to playing his first arena in Norfolk opening for Zach Top. We chat touring hangs, favorite Nashville local spots, working odd jobs (including Chuck E. Cheese and a cemetery), vintage kits and Facebook Marketplace, and of course, horror movies and Tim Robinson. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    0:56 Nashville Chow Mein Debate
    2:03 Turning 24
    4:25 Moving to Music City
    5:03 Memphis Music College
    8:19 Relationships Open Doors
    9:39 Landing the Ashley Anne Gig
    15:21 Learning Songs Fast
    21:52 Tim Robinson
    23:39 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    24:20 Vintage Kits and Marketplace Trade
    28:08 Chuck E. Cheese Days
    31:06 Serving the Artist
    32:37 First Arena Show
    40:16 Country Music Roots
    41:24 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    42:21 Alt Rock Influences
    43:22 Tattoo Tour Stories
    50:02 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    50:43 Cemetery Job Tales
    57:35 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    58:39 Hobbies and Walking
    1:06:10 Waffle House Lore
    1:14:11 Meeting Drum Heroes
    1:18:24 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:19:06 Gigs w/ Brooke Lee
    1:31:13 Horror Movies and Tattoos
    1:32:18 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Music City Audiology
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com

    Connect with Milo:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milosimpson_

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "paloma" - Ashley Anne
    "I Won't" - Justin Schools

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 35 min
  3. Weston Blatz: From Canada to Nashville, On Tour w/ Emily Ann Roberts, Career Milestones, Burnout & Anxiety

    Season 1, Episode 93

    Show notes

    Welcome our first Canadian guest, Weston Blatz! Weston is the touring drummer for rising country artist Emily Ann Roberts. We dive into Weston's musical upbringing in Canada and the winding road that would eventually land him the gig with Emily, including a milestone-packed year performing at both the Ryman and the Grand Ole Opry. We discuss learning songs exactly like the record, memorizing without charts, plus the mental pressures of touring, and why being a good person and a good hang matters most. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:13 Welcome, Weston!
    4:16 Canada Day and Surviving the Dream
    7:55 Growing Up on Country and Rock
    12:04 Learn the Record
    15:08 Memorizing Without Charts
    18:04 Why Nashville
    22:05 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    22:46 Landing the Gig w/ Emily Ann Roberts
    23:11 Meeting Tracy Broussard
    25:49 Losing the Audition
    37:11 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    38:10 Broadway Grind
    47:18 Burnout and Anxiety
    57:13 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    57:55 Opry and Ryman Milestones
    1:06:55 Imposter Syndrome
    1:09:55 Goals and Self-Talk
    1:11:25 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    1:12:26 Being A Good Hang
    1:15:02 Confidence vs Ego
    1:16:07 Tracks and Ableton Setup
    1:20:43 K-WAT Drum Co. (Sponsor)
    1:21:31 Tour Cities and Hobbies
    1:24:25 First Drum Kit
    1:26:58 Gear and Endorsements
    1:37:31 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    K-WAT Drum Co.
    https://www.k-watdrumco.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Connect with Westson:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westonjblatzdrums
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westonjakeblatz

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Whipped" - Emily Ann Roberts

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 39 min
  4. Kyle Wilkerson: On Tour w/ Jordan Davis, Golf & Sports, Routines & Professionalism, Career Longevity & Family

    Season 1, Episode 92

    Show notes

    Welcome North Carolina native, Kyle Wilkerson! Kyle is the touring drummer for multi-platinum, award-winning country artist Jordan Davis. We dive straight into Kyle's career, discussing family life, golf-centered touring routines, and memorable courses and markets like Europe and Australia. Kyle recounts moving to Nashville in 2010 after Appalachian State, leaving education and classical percussion plans to focus on drum set, beginning his Nashville career through radio tour with Maddie & Tae, later joining Michael Ray, and subbing for Jordan Davis in 2020 before joining full-time in 2021. He shares pragmatic advice on evaluating gigs, professionalism, and relationships, plus views on Broadway, changing Nashville, and the importance of learning Ableton/playback. He outlines gear, endorsements, and emphasizes staying healthy, present as a parent, and taking action without waiting. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:06 Welcome, Kyle!
    1:17 Morning Routines
    2:41 Golf and Drumming
    5:02 Favorite Courses
    6:01 Move to Nashville in 2010
    7:46 Jordan Davis Early Years
    9:39 COVID-Era Gigs
    10:44 "Buy Dirt" Breakthrough
    12:19 Maddie & Tae Radio Tour
    19:53 Switching Gigs
    28:52 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    29:34 Touring Europe and Australia
    32:10 Linkin Park Night Off
    33:05 Band Life and Festival Season
    34:03 Playback, Tech, & Ableton
    45:24 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    46:05 Early Influences and Jazz
    51:11 Finding Your Passion
    54:21 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    55:18 Classical Percussion Carryover
    59:56 Nashville Then vs Now
    1:13:19 Family Doubts and Validation
    1:15:08 Raising a Family
    1:20:41 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    1:21:45 Career Milestones and Venues
    1:24:30 Relationships and Rates
    1:27:25 Keeping the Show Fresh
    1:31:42 Festival Sets & Country Covers
    1:34:51 Endorsements
    1:40:57 Career Longevity
    1:43:40 Rapid Fire Food Talk
    1:45:27 Spurs Fandom and Soccer
    1:47:29 IG Handle Story
    1:49:50 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Connect with Kyle:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flatbillionaire
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyle.wilkerson.395

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Tucson Too Late" - Jordan Davis & NEEDTOBREATHE (Live at CMT Crossroads)
    "Next Thing You Know" - Jordan Davis (Live at CMA Fest 2024)

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 51 min
  5. Mace Santa Maria: On Tour w/ 76th Street, Tornsey, Brooke Alexx, LGBTQ+ Community, Avoiding Burnout

    Season 1, Episode 91

    Show notes

    Welcome Arizona native, Mace Santa Maria! We cover Mace's move from Phoenix to Nashville four years ago, following a formative year at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts. She discusses learning the drums at age 10, major influences like the Jonas Brothers' drummer Jack Lawless (whom she recently met), and how Broadway demands fast adaptation through cues, band-specific arrangements, and on-the-fly decisions. Mace breaks down her unique Pelican-case rig, Nashville do's and don'ts, and opportunities for live streaming and subscription-based content. She details touring with indie-pop artists Brooke Alexx, 76th Street, and Tornsey, building Ableton show transitions, maintaining health and alone time on the road to avoid burnout, and the importance of LGBTQ+ community and representation in her career. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:53 Welcome, Mace!
    4:31 Broadway Connections
    6:48 What's for Breakfast?
    9:52 From Phoenix to Nashville
    12:48 Early Drumming Roots
    16:21 Meeting A Childhood Hero
    19:35 Broadway Survival Skills
    28:49 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    29:53 Broadway Rig Rundown
    37:35 TikTok vs Instagram
    42:07 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    42:49 Queer Pop Tour Scene
    53:50 Ableton Show Builds
    56:29 Staying Healthy On Tour
    1:01:24 Birthday Plans
    1:03:55 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    1:04:37 Pizza/Candy Debate
    1:10:54 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:11:52 Tour Highlights and Burnout
    1:16:57 Music City Audiology
    1:17:39 Charting and Music Education
    1:29:09 Groove MPL (Sponsor)
    1:30:20 Home Studio and Iron Maiden Mic
    1:35:05 Tattoos and Hobbies
    1:41:09 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Music City Audiology
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com

    Connect with Mace:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santamariuhhh
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@santamariuhhh
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@santamariuhhh

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "She's My Handsome" - 76th Street

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 42 min
  6. Music City Drum Show 2026 (LIVE Day 2)

    Show notes

    Attendee and exhibitor interviews from the 2026 Music City Drum Show, July 18-19 in Nashville, TN.

    Register for the 2027 Music City Drum Show
    https://www.musiccitydrumshow.com/

    Interviews
    0:00 Intro
    3:33 Kris Mazzarisi - Story Behind Big Fat Snare Drum
    17:15 Derek Lee (Beat Note) - "Combining Passions"
    24:48 Daniel Hegerle - "Favorite Event of the Year"
    28:27 Taylor Morgan - "One Year in Nashville"
    30:38 Alex Mortem - "Play Hard, Play Fast"
    34:36 Shawn Tracht - "The Great American Drum Shop Road Trip"
    57:26 Mace Santa Maria - "Girls Stick Together"
    1:03:43 Majo Herrera - "Enjoying the Process"
    1:06:17 Christian Gendics - "Welcome to Town"
    1:07:38 Ryan Whitt - "Keeping Things Rolling"
    1:10:02 Ed Bettinelli - Thumb Thang
    1:15:07 Ory Brochet - "Orybon Drums: Sound Different"
    1:21:24 Josh Blount - Lucky Drums
    1:24:00 Matt Bover - "Best Pizza in Nashville?"
    1:30:34 Greg Hersey - "Innovation in Percussion Setups"
    1:35:22 Jacob Robinson - "Learning by Doing"

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 45 min
  7. Music City Drum Show 2026 (LIVE Day 1) Bonus

    Show notes

    Attendee and exhibitor interviews from the 2026 Music City Drum Show, July 18-19 in Nashville, TN.

    Register for the 2027 Music City Drum Show
    https://www.musiccitydrumshow.com/

    Interviews
    0:00 Intro
    3:34 Tom Stanfill - "Drumming Community is Fantastic"
    5:49 Jacqueline Cloud - "Change, Content, & Fudge"
    11:04 Edgel Groves - "Music Tech & Business"
    15:04 Alexander Hubbard - "Talent Show Rockstar"
    16:15 Lleyton Brainard - "Identity & Lemurian People"
    20:32 Laurie Toscano - "Lobsters & Accordions"
    26:47 Fisher Wilkie - "Drums & Tortellini"
    30:53 Dorothea Taylor - "Rudiments & Stardom"
    35:32 Outro

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    37 min
  8. Luke Zajdel: On Tour w/ Walker Montgomery, Posture, Professionalism, & Peart

    Season 1, Episode 90

    Show notes

    Welcome Pittsburgh native, Luke Zajdel! Luke is currently the touring drummer for country artist Walker Montgomery. A lifelong Rush fan, Luke shares why Clockwork Angels is his favorite record, memories of seeing Neil Peart play 5x, and his emotional reaction to Rush’s return announcement. He explains adapting the note-for-note prog mindset to Nashville’s more flexible country and session culture, learning charting after a last-minute Whiskey Jam call, and developing stage presence by loosening up. Luke shares how important mentors and teachers have been in his development, specifically studying with Mark Poiesz, who has helped with stage presence, mindset, and meditation. We touch on other influences like David Garibaldi, Morgan Rose, and Danny Carey, touring routines, fitness, meditation, home recording, and of course, Luke's seemingly perfect posture behind the kit. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:17 Welcome, Luke!
    2:23 On Tour w/ Walker Montgomery
    5:39 PPG Arena Homecoming
    5:52 Rush Roots and Favorite Album
    12:23 Six Months To Obsess
    13:53 Garibaldi Rabbit Hole
    15:09 Rock Showmanship Chops
    17:24 Seeing Neil Peart Live
    18:25 Nashville Grind and Purpose
    26:38 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    27:38 Looking the Part 30:23 Move to Nashville
    31:52 Early Gigs and First Kit
    34:50 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    38:39 Rush to Country Mindsets
    44:29 Mentorship & Meditation
    49:24 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    50:06 Touring Habits and Fitness
    54:09 Perfect Posture
    59:58 Lesson Routine and Teachers
    1:00:38 Overqualified For The Gig
    1:03:34 Tour Culture and Temptations
    1:09:36 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:10:33 Home Recording Goals
    1:13:42 Rapid Fire Questions
    1:21:22 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Connect with Luke:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lzajdelmusic
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/2112rushfan1
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lzajdelmusic

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "All Night Long Left" - Walker Montgomery
    "Outlaws & Outsiders" - Cory Marks

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 23 min
  9. Wesley Bourque: On Tour w/ Logan Crosby, Industry Insights, Saturation & Storytelling, Noble & Cooley Drums

    Season 1, Episode 89

    Show notes

    Welcome Massachusetts native, Wesley Bourque! Wes is currently the touring drummer for rising country singer/songwriter Logan Crosby. In addition to gigging and recording, he serves as Artist Relations for NY-based distributor/record label United Masters. In this wide-ranging conversation, Wes shares his journey from small-town New England to the move to Nashville in 2014. We dive into his early years working day jobs at well-known coffee shops, building relationships, and his thoughts on navigating perception and identity. He shares lessons from Broadway, prepping for fill-in gigs with and without charts, and high-stress playback realities including redundancy and backup plans. Wes dives into Noble & Cooley’s history and his personal connection to the company, plus touring highlights and challenges with Logan (including a van fire) and why story, narrative, and platform-specific content matter in today’s saturated music landscape. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:51 Welcome, Wes!
    2:17 Broadway Connections
    9:10 Ableton/Playback Stress
    18:24 Noble & Cooley Origins
    29:13 Unexpected Event Planning
    30:14 Full Circle Maddie & Tae
    33:03 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    34:07 Networking & Coffee Shops
    36:08 Breaking Out Of Labels
    39:31 Artist Relations and Marketing
    45:28 Saturation and Storytelling
    50:28 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    51:11 Marketing For Musicians
    55:46 Subbing Prep (Charts vs Memorization)
    1:00:37 Japan Fly-Date Story
    1:07:45 Iconic Fills and Pranks
    1:09:58 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    1:11:12 NAMM Lessons and Trade Shows
    1:24:04 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:25:06 Landing Logan Crosby Gig
    1:29:13 Tour Life and Van Fire
    1:37:31 Advice for Younger Drummers
    1:44:48 Whiskey Jam Wobble
    1:48:44 Platform Content Strategy
    2:00:20 Handling Mistakes During a Show
    2:03:34 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    2:04:25 Guitar Hero Drum Lore
    2:05:42 Rapid Fire Questions
    2:14:52 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com/

    Connect with Wes:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bourquechop/

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "So Damn Free" - Logan Crosby
    "A Parking Lot Far Away" - Logan Crosby

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    2 hr 16 min
  10. Aksel Coe: A Career in Home Recording, Gear Talk, Sample Packs, Avoiding Burnout, Springsteen Movie

    Season 1, Episode 88

    Show notes

    Welcome multi‑platinum Nashville session drummer, Aksel Coe! Since moving to Nashville in 2018, Aksel has quickly made a name for himself as one of the city's most sought-after session drummers, having recorded on many of today's top country, pop, and indie tracks. Recent recording credits include Ella Langley (ACM Song of the Year 'Choosin' Texas'), Role Model, Holly Humberstone, Zach Bryan, Sierra Ferrell, Willow Avalon, K. Flay, Margo Price, Orville Peck, Sasha Alex Sloan, Cody Jinks, Sam Barber, Wyatt Flores, and Joshua Bassett, among many others. We dive right into Aksel's diverse musical upbringing and his journey from the West Coast to Nashville. Aksel shares invaluable advice and perspective on the home recording process — from creating efficient workflows on and off the drums, when and when not to cheap out on gear, and how to create and effectively market your own sample or loop pack. We discuss avoiding burnout, Nashville's shifting studio landscape, and of course, his acting debut in the 2025 biopic 'Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.' We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:45 Welcome, Aksel!
    5:25 Breathwork For Drummers
    10:54 Engineer vs Drummer Hat
    14:07 Practice?
    16:55 Early Life and First Kit
    25:46 Buy Cheap Or Buy Twice
    27:52 Too Many Snares?
    28:44 Session Preset Workflow
    29:46 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    30:49 First Drum Kit
    33:23 Mentors and Vintage Pearls
    37:42 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    38:23 Vintage vs Modern Recording
    39:23 Recording Trends
    40:33 Burnout and Identity
    42:10 Tracking 537 Songs
    49:15 Live Band vs Studio Players
    55:32 Free Jazz Influence
    57:35 Recording As Improv
    1:07:53 Session Nightmares
    1:20:42 Splice Packs Strategy
    1:25:26 Sample Packs Explained
    1:34:15 Record Yourself More
    1:35:06 Flaws vs Tendencies
    1:40:40 Overdubbing Cymbals
    1:43:31 Session Communication Skills
    1:47:44 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    1:48:25 Home Studio vs Commercial Rooms
    1:55:19 Scarlett vs Apollo Debate
    2:02:47 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    2:03:44 Aksel's Acting Debut (Springsteen Movie)
    2:11:32 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    2:12:48 Rapid Fire Questions
    2:20:37 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com/

    Connect with Aksel:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akselcoedrums
    Website: https://www.akselcoe.com/

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    2 hr 22 min
  11. Aaron Paulsen: The Art of Content & Creativity, One-Man Band, Skillmaxxing, Social Media Trends

    Season 1, Episode 87

    Show notes

    Welcome Chicago drummer, musician, and entertainer, Aaron Paulsen! Amassing over 4.6 million followers across social media platforms, Aaron has taken his generation by storm with his unique video creations that blend extreme musicianship, storytelling, and undeniable humor. We dive into Aaron's upbringing as a classical percussionist from Chicago, dropping out of a percussion performance scholarship during COVID to pursue content full-time, and the eventual move to Nashville. Aaron breaks down the genesis of his one-man-band setup and other rhythmic gag videos, and his shift from short-form to long-form content. The conversation covers mental health and social media trends, martial arts training and other hobbies, skepticism around traditional industry endorsement models, how to be your most creative self, and fulfilling your true purpose. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:51 Welcome, Aaron!
    3:43 Chicago Roots
    8:16 One-Man Band Origins
    10:14 Musical Family and Influences
    14:53 Comedy Influences
    19:53 Martial Arts And Drumming
    31:48 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    33:03 Move To Nashville
    40:18 Nashville vs LA Culture
    49:11 Content Creator Breakdown
    52:19 Authenticity vs Polished Content
    1:05:45 Dropping Out, Mental Health
    1:08:44 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    1:09:36 Social Media Comparison
    1:15:09 Be the Trend
    1:16:15 Skillmaxxing
    1:21:03 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    1:26:14 Shorts to Long-form Content
    1:30:54 Building a Brand
    1:36:10 Defining Success and Purpose
    1:43:47 PASIC and Percussion Culture
    1:48:40 Navigating Endorsements as a Creator
    2:07:52 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    2:08:59 Advice for Young Creators
    2:13:22 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/

    Connect with Aaron:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaronpaulsendrums
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aaronpaulsen
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AaronPaulsen

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    ...from "The Great Lock In Mixtape" - Aaron Paulsen

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    2 hr 15 min
  12. Brian Czach: Building a Professional Career, Playing with Orchestras, Art of Adapting, Healthy Habits, Home Recording

    Season 1, Episode 86

    Show notes

    Welcome Brian Czach! Described by some as “Nashville’s greatest secret,” Brian moved to town in late 2015 and continues to find success as an in-demand freelance drummer, both live and in the studio. Known for his ability to adapt to a variety of musical settings at a high level, we dive into his musical upbringing in upstate New York, early influences (including Phil Collins), formal lessons, reading skills, and what led him to adopting traditional grip. He details warmup routines, fitness and hydration habits, and the value of recording gigs to improve feel and self-awareness. Brian explains how he began working with the Nashville Symphony and touring symphonic pops shows around the country, plus highlights like West Side Story and The Lion King. He covers his original Miles Davis tribute band MILEStones, how he built a pro-level home studio, the challenges of marketing and subscription platforms, Broadway logistics, and important mindsets for building a sustainable career. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:49 Welcome, Brian!
    4:56 Nashville Greatest Secret
    7:22 Early Drumming Roots
    8:40 First Kit and Phil Collins
    11:52 Healthy Habits and Warmups
    17:48 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    18:53 Influences and Formal Lessons
    23:49 Switch to Traditional Grip
    38:05 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    38:49 Getting Symphony Calls
    52:43 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    53:25 MILEStones (Miles Davis Tribute Band)
    58:33 Patreon Burnout
    1:03:26 Nashville Jazz Scene
    1:11:34 Building A Home Studio
    1:21:07 Singing While Drumming
    1:24:08 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:30:21 Social Media, Perception & Feedback
    1:41:40 Broadway Realities
    1:57:02 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:57:58 Rapid Fire Questions
    2:07:13 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/https://www.garden-groove.com/Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com/
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Brian:
    Website: https://www.brianczach.com
    Instagram: http://instagram.com/brianczach
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianczach
    YouTube: http://youtube.com/user/intherighttempo

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "It's Gonna Be Yesterday" - Gabrielle Lovelace
    "Long Days" - Jon Von Boehm

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    2 hr 9 min
  13. Jeffrey Adami: On Tour w/ Jordan Feliz, Burnout, Mental Health, Faith, and Identity Beyond Music

    Season 1, Episode 85

    Show notes

    Today is a special episode as we welcome back our first-ever featured guest on the show - Jeffrey Adami! We first got to know Jeffrey back in October 2021 (see Episode 3) at a time when he was 'foot on the gas' in his career, playing for multiple artists a week, networking, meeting new friends, and ultimately laying the groundwork for a successful future as a pro-level touring drummer. Fast-forward to 2026, and he has completed 8 tours with Dove Award-winning, RIAA Platinum-selling Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) pop Artist, Jordan Feliz. Reflecting on his six years in Nashville, Jeffrey describes shifting from intensive Broadway work to freelancing, and then landing the gig with Jordan after a 2023 audition. He opens up about therapy, diagnoses, and stress management, his take on social media as a “business card,” gratitude, and building an identity beyond music. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    2:05 Welcome back, Jeffrey!
    3:02 Couch Stories, Sleepers and Snorers
    7:35 First Guest Callback 9:48
    Jeffrey's Background
    13:17 On Tour w/ Jordan Feliz
    31:52 Faith and Serving the Song
    34:13 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    34:55 Burnout From Saying Yes
    37:51 Tim Robinson
    41:24 Burnout Hustle Year
    53:11 Identity Beyond Gigs
    56:31 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    57:12 Social Media Pressure
    58:03 Posting Like a Pro
    1:04:27 Trends and Authenticity
    1:07:04 Instagram vs Websites
    1:13:28 Inspiring Next Generation
    1:18:02 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:18:58 Therapy and Diagnosis
    1:24:14 Identity Beyond Gigs
    1:28:01 Gratitude and Present Joy
    1:32:11 Tour Life and Mental Health
    1:35:17 Road Hobbies and Future Plans
    1:38:13 Jeffrey's Mystery Bag
    1:42:22 Rapid Fire Questions
    1:45:59 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Jeffrey:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffreyadamidrums
    Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jeffreyadamidrums

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Be Near" - WNDRS Worship
    "Familia (Live) - Jordan Feliz

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 47 min
  14. Dango Cellan: On Tour w/ Hawthorne Heights, Career in Versatility, Home Studio, Content, Branding, & Keeping Endorsements

    Season 1, Episode 84

    Show notes

    Welcome Dango Cellan! A professional drummer for over 20 years, Dango is currently on tour with Emo legends Hawthorne Heights. We dive right into Dango's extensive and versatile career as a touring drummer, studio musician, educator, and family man. He reflects on saying yes early, not letting one gig define you, and the juggling act of balancing your time, money, career values, and family priorities. Dango shares upcoming Hawthorne Heights 20th-anniversary touring plans, his Warp Tour nostalgia with Amber Pacific, and how his approach to playing has matured toward professionalism and consistency. He recounts growing up as a pastor’s kid in Wisconsin, knee and heart health challenges that redirected him to Belmont, mentorship from Chester Thompson and Brian Fullen, and the importance of community. We also cover the building of his 'Beat Lab' home drum studio out of an Airbnb, the importance of mental health, therapy, rest, and fitness, and his proactive approach to landing and keeping endorsements. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:18 Welcome, Dango!
    2:21 Typical Week as a Working Drummer
    7:57 Choosing Gigs Wisely
    11:38 Skills from Broadway
    15:32 Warped Tour (Full Circle)
    22:20 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    23:24 Early Years & Church
    26:03 Sports Injuries, Attending Belmont
    32:34 Teaching and Community
    36:47 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    37:29 Mental Health, Burnout, and Rest
    40:17 Post-Pandemic Studio Build
    43:18 Fitness and Longevity
    45:03 Punk Influences
    52:29 Dango's Beat Lab
    1:01:29 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    1:02:10 Content That Converts
    1:08:52 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:09:51 Endorsement Playbook
    1:14:09 Loyalty Over Deals, Learn Your Gear
    1:21:20 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:22:59 Practice Goals and Technique
    1:25:39 Recording and Mic Choices
    1:32:50 Social Media Era for Drummers
    1:35:46 Touring and Family Balance
    1:40:24 Rapid Fire
    1:47:35 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/https://www.garden-groove.com/Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com/
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Dango:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dangoempire
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dangocellanempire

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Sink Or Swim" - Amber Specific
    "The Conqueror" - Amber Specific

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 49 min
  15. Andrew Bone: Crossroads of Life, High-Level Touring, Know Your Worth, Building a Home Studio

    Season 1, Episode 83

    Show notes

    Welcome Kansas City-native Andrew Bone! Andrew opens up about the changing chapters of life and his shift in career focus. Recently married, he discusses the intentionality of stepping back from the grind of 6–7 days a week on Broadway, while aiming to get back to higher-level touring and more fulfilling gigs. We discuss the realities of post-COVID pay, knowing your worth, professionalism and reliability as a sub, and handling playback/Ableton, IEMs, and onstage failures. We delve into charting vs memorization, learning large volumes of material, working respectfully with a crew, using AI tools for admin and career planning, building a home studio identity, and early influences from KISS to music academia. Andrew also reflects on moving from Kansas City, his brief experience at Berklee, and why relationships, preparation, and good conduct matter more than chops. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:44 Welcome, Andrew!
    3:08 Life Crossroads and Marriage
    3:56 Broadway Grind
    9:49 Pay Reality Post-COVID
    11:42 Subbing w/ Nate Smith
    16:20 Ableton and Show Design
    19:32 Charts vs Memorizing
    32:10 Kids, Sticks, and Joy
    41:09 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    42:10 Broadway Burnout Plan
    43:46 ChatGPT Career Reset
    51:04 Coffee & Hands Crew
    54:58 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    55:59 Playing Stadiums
    1:03:34 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    1:04:40 Gear Fail Lessons
    1:09:05 Audio Nerd to Drum Pro
    1:20:18 Home Studio
    1:32:04 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:33:01 Kansas City Roots and KISS
    1:39:17 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:43:31 Time at Berklee
    1:48:24 Move to Nashville
    2:00:11 Broadway Material
    2:08:05 Rapid Fire Questions
    2:12:00 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/https://www.garden-groove.com/Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com/
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Andrew:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewbonedrums

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Drink Along" - Josh Gallagher

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    2 hr 13 min
  16. NDP PANEL: Breaking into Broadway (2/16/26) Bonus

    Season 1

    Show notes

    Ever wondered what it really takes to play Lower Broadway in Nashville? This live roundtable discussion pulls back the curtain on one of the most competitive and fast-paced live music scenes in the country.

    Featuring Nashville’s most in-demand drummers — both in-town and out on tour — join us for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about breaking into the Broadway scene and building a sustainable career.

    Moderated by NDP Co-Hosts Dan Ainspan and Nate Sletner, this interactive session gives attendees the chance to ask questions in real time and learn directly from the players who have been there, done that, and still doing it…

    Panelists:
    Nico Medina (Ep. 7)
    Ethan Harb (Ep. 5)
    Molly Rose (Ep. 53)
    Kevin Keith (Ep. 20)
    Kyle Law (Ep. 59)

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com

    WFL III Drums
    https://wfliiidrums.com

    Groove MPL
    https://www.groovempl.com

    Music City Audiology
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro & Welcome
    0:21 Meet the Panelists
    4:25 First Broadway Shift Stories
    20:42 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    21:24 What Makes a Drummer Broadway Ready?
    23:37 Charting vs Memorizing
    30:25 Playing Like the Record
    33:06 WFL III (Sponsor)
    34:03 How to Get Gigs
    35:25 What Not To Do
    39:19 Respecting The Gig
    45:07 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    45:49 A Day In The Life
    48:29 The Gear You Need
    50:31 Get A Cart
    1:00:56 Play The Room
    1:04:44 Avoiding Burnout
    1:08:10 Gig Triangle Mindset
    1:13:08 Skills On Tour
    1:19:04 Sub Out the Right Way
    1:26:00 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:26:42 Recording Gigs For Content
    1:31:33 Wild Broadway Stories
    1:39:19 From Covers To Originals
    1:42:46 Broadway Pay Reality
    1:44:53 Requests vs Setlists
    1:47:15 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    1:48:17 Q&A
    1:48:24 Breaking into the Scene
    1:50:15 Broadway Circuits Explained
    1:51:37 Cajon Gigs and Auditions
    1:53:48 The Future of Broadway
    2:01:50 Singing Drummer Advantage
    2:05:44 Clicks and Open Mics
    2:12:47 Arranging Modern Tracks
    2:16:38 Wrap Up and Thanks
    2:17:48 Outro

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Beef Stew" - Too Hot For Leather

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
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    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    2 hr 19 min
  17. Tom Kinka: Persistence & Idiocy, On Tour w/ Lecade, Stick Trick Mastery, Drum Lessons & Mentors

    Season 1, Episode 82

    Show notes

    Welcome Philly-native Tom Kinka! Tom is currently the touring drummer for up-and-coming country artist Lecade. Growing up in a music-heavy family shaped by Rock Band, Blink-182, and country music in his mom’s car, Tom's passion for music and the drums was developed at an early age. Tom shares how a serious car accident and coma at 17 sharpened his focus on music, leading to a fearless, “persistence and idiocy” approach. He discusses leaving a jazz program at Temple for media production, navigating Philly’s DIY pop-punk scene, moving to Nashville during COVID, learning country on the fly for Broadway, seeking lessons directly from his heroes like Josh Manuel and Luke Holland, and landing the Lecade gig—plus touring highlights, onstage gear fails, evolving drum setups, and his obsession with stick tricks and community. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:09 Welcome, Tom!
    4:34 Music Family Roots
    10:57 Blink-182 and Green Day Obsession
    12:29 Near-Death Accident
    17:27 Broadway Rookie Mistakes
    18:15 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    19:18 Quitting Jazz at Temple
    20:44 Philly DIY Pop-Punk Scene
    23:57 The Move to Nashville
    30:46 Studying w/ Luke Holland
    32:32 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    33:13 Broadway vs Touring Life
    36:58 Meeting Lecade
    50:00 Rig Rundown and Gear Changes
    53:27 Stage Style and Band Vibes
    57:32 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    58:14 Moments from Tour
    1:03:36 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:04:35 Mastering Stick Tricks
    1:15:19 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:16:01 Nashville Drum Community
    1:25:47 Rapid Fire Questions
    1:30:10 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com/

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/https://www.garden-groove.com/Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com/
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Tom:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tom_kinka

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Blind" - Lecade
    "LET U GO" - JaxsonFree

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 32 min
  18. Billy Joe Freeman: On Tour w/ Dustin Lynch, Professional Sideman, Texas Roots, Gig Triangle, Home Recording

    Season 1, Episode 81

    Show notes

    Welcome Billy Joe Freeman! Billy is the touring drummer and music director for country artist Dustin Lynch. A Garland, Texas native, Billy began his professional career at just 12 years old, playing in Texas' longest-running Opry House. In 2012, he landed a spot at the Guitar Center Drum Off grand finals, leading to a tour with country legend Neil McCoy. Billy moved to Nashville in 2013, and has been with Dustin Lynch ever since. In this candid conversation, Billy discusses professionalism on and off stage, how to best serve the song and the artist, the value of expanding your setup, the 'gig triangle' - when to say yes or no to a gig, how to balance home recording with live performance, and the ever-changing Nashville music scene. Billy also shares some fascinating stories and insights from his career, including his encounter with Virgil Donati at PASIC. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    2:15 Welcome, Billy!
    6:31 Is Nashville Still a 10-Year Town?
    18:49 The Evolution of Touring
    24:23 Growing Up in the Texas Opry Scene
    34:28 Rezo Custom Drum Heads (Sponsor)
    36:38 Expanding the Kit, Industry Trends
    47:42 The Role of Electronics in Live Shows
    51:05 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    51:57 Becoming MD for Dustin Lynch
    56:43 Value of Taking Broadway Gigs
    1:00:57 Social Media's Impact on Musicians
    1:01:22 Early Career and Influences
    1:23:23 The Dallas Music Scene and Snarky Puppy
    1:33:14 Home Recording
    1:37:44 Balancing Family and Music
    1:43:46 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    1:51:18 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:52:18 Career Highlights and GC Drum-Off
    1:58:04 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:58:47 Career Outlook
    2:06:08 Bacon, BBQ, & Coffee
    2:14:00 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Rezo Custom Drum Heads
    https://rezoheads.com

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/https://www.garden-groove.com/Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com/
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Billy:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billyjoefreeman

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Red Alert" - Billy Freeman, Doug Bossi, David Garfield, John Pena

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    2 hr 15 min
  19. Jordan Carter: From Cleveland to Nashville, Embracing Musical Growth, the Power of Community, Role of a Music Director

    Season 1, Episode 80

    Show notes

    Welcome Cleveland-native Jordan Carter! A conversation full of laughter, good hangs, and true words of wisdom, join us for Ep. 80 as we dive deep into Jordan's unique journey to Nashville as a professional drummer and music director. Hailing from small-town Cleveland, Jordan followed his passion for the drums from a young age, pursuing higher education at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he would live and work for the next 12 years playing with artists such as Oompa, Sing, Lisa Bello, Louie Bello, Marcela Cruz, among others. Jordan moved to Nashville in 2022 and currently plays for artists such as Kaylee Rose, Slim Gambill, and Aveva. Jordan reminisces about influential figures from his time at Berklee and discusses the importance of community, patience, and self-discovery. Jordan offers insights into the role of a music director, the importance of effective communication, and the challenges of adapting to Nashville's diverse and talented pool of musicians. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    1:13 Welcome, Jordan!
    2:46 From Cleveland to Nashville
    3:26 Relearning the Drums: Challenges and Growth
    23:11 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    23:53 Boston Days at Berklee
    40:15 Discovering Nashville's Music Scene
    57:08 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    57:53 Finding the Right Gig
    1:03:43 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    1:04:43 Memorable Shows and Venues
    1:12:16 Drumming Influences
    1:24:08 The Role of a Music Director
    1:33:32 Therapy and Self-Improvement
    1:40:19 Music City Audiology (Sponsor)
    1:41:02 Madden, Harry Potter, Closing Questions
    1:51:23 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/https://www.garden-groove.com/Music City Audiology
    http://musiccityaudiology.com
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Jordan:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordancarter.music
    Website: https://www.jordancartermusic.com
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JordanCarter

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Sade" - Sing
    "Joy Back" - Oompa

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 53 min
  20. Collin Dobbs: On Tour w/ The Bellamy Brothers, Preparing for the Big Gig, AI & Social Media, Landing Endorsements

    Season 1, Episode 79

    Show notes

    Welcome Georgia-native Collin Dobbs! Collin is the touring drummer for legendary country duo, The Bellamy Brothers. We delve into Collin's fascinating journey to Nashville - starting from his Georgia roots and Florida upbringing, Collin shares his quick rise in the music industry, the importance of being prepared and professional, tips on tuning and technique, and the value of networking and social media in landing a dream gig. The episode touches on the importance of diversifying skills, embracing various music genres, staying humble, and using AI to your benefit. We hope you enjoy!

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    2:37 Welcome, Collin!
    11:44 Early Life and Musical Beginnings
    23:08 How to Prepare Like a Pro
    27:06 Drum Box (Sponsor)
    27:48 Love Your Sound Engineers
    34:33 Tuning Techniques and Tips
    40:18 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor)
    41:00 Joining the Bellamy Brothers
    43:15 Influences and Early Inspirations
    48:35 Mountain Biking 51:07 Gig Security
    55:03 Drum Supply (Sponsor)
    56:02 Drumming Identity
    59:03 Social Media & Content Creation
    1:09:17 Lucky Drums (Sponsor)
    1:10:16 Endorsements and Gear
    1:15:38 Using AI to Your Benefit
    1:18:18 Groove MPL (Sponsor)
    1:19:29 Closing Questions
    1:24:27 Memorable Gigs and Touring Experiences
    1:27:11 Outro

    Thank you to our Episode Sponsors:https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Lucky Drums
    https://www.instagram.com/luckydrumsco

    Drum Box
    https://drumbox.space/

    Drum Supply
    https://www.drumsupply.com/

    Low Boy Beaters
    https://lowboybeaters.com/https://www.garden-groove.com/Groove MPL
    https://www.groovempl.com/
    https://www.musiccityaudiology.com/
    Connect with Collin:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collindobbsdrums
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/collindobbsdrums
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@collindobbsdrums
    Website: https://www.collindobbs.com

    Music Featured in this Episode:
    "Redneck Girl" - The Bellamy Brothers
    "Let Your Love Flow" - The Bellamy Brothers

    Support the show

    Connect with us:
    Website
    Instagram
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Facebook

    Recorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TN
    Podcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART

    ⓒ 2026 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

    1 hr 29 min