The Dynamic of Drummers: Brotherhood and Connectivity in Music
Why do many people believe that drummers are typically the most outgoing and friendly members of a band? While this perception is often true, it's not always the case. My personal experience has shown that the majority of drummers I have encountered are exceptionally talented, cool, and fun-loving individuals.
Patience and Tolerance: A Drummer's Role
It might be due to their inherent patience and willingness to tolerate the egos and challenges that come with other band members. Drummers often have to sit and wait while the rest of the band figures out the chords for a new song. They need to navigate around the egos of lead guitarists and vocalists, trying to diffuse potential conflicts between them. In essence, drummers have learned to keep their calm and maintain positive relationships, even when it's challenging.
A Personal Anecdote
One vivid memory of a drummer's generosity stands out. When I was just starting to learn the drums, I was using a homemade setup, including my mother's old frying pan as a makeshift cymbal. At a live performance, I was captivated by the drummer's performance, and after the gig, I approached him to talk. He was extremely friendly and after learning about my homemade drum kit, he remembered a similar experience. He not only shared a laugh but also handed me a 20-inch ride cymbal he hardly used. This humble act of generosity made a lasting impression on me and solidified my belief in the brotherhood among drummers.
The Drummer Podcast Phenomenon
Listening to drummer podcasts further reinforces this notion. Podcasts such as Drummer Magazine, featuring guests like Greg Bissonette, Kenny Aronoff, Steve Gadd, Jim Keltner, and Dave Weckl, provide insight into the tight-knit community that drummers share. These musicians often talk and laugh together, sharing their experiences and supporting one another. The camaraderie and the bonding over their shared passion for drumming highlight the friendly and outgoing nature of drummers.
Tight-Knit Brotherhood: Drummers United
Despite some potential negative experiences, the overall impression is overwhelmingly positive. Drummers are known to be a tight-knit group, often referred to as a brotherhood. This bond is evident in the way they interact and support each other. Whether it's sharing musical insights, exchanging equipment, or simply spending time together, drummers maintain strong connections that go beyond the typical dynamics of other musicians.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while drummers might not always seem to be the most outgoing and friendly band members from a general perspective, they definitely possess these qualities to a significant degree. Their shared experiences, mutual respect, and the intrinsic need to maintain harmony within a musical setup contribute to this perception. The tight-knit nature of the drummer community is a testament to the enduring bond and the supportive environment that exists among drummers.
For those interested in exploring more about the world of drummers and their unique dynamics, exploring online communities, podcasts, and interviews can provide invaluable insights. Drummers are indeed a standout group in the music industry, known for their generosity, camaraderie, and the distinctive brotherhood that unites them.