#generationunleashed

I’ve been a drummer for sixteen years now and I’ve loved every second of it. As I look back, I think I’ve experienced it all: Elementary school specials, middle school concerts, 50 yard line Drumline battles at high school football games (Thanks Nick Cannon), and who can forget, a wanna be rock star in multiple high school bands! The last ten years though, 100% of my drumming has been in the church scene. There can be a big difference between being a drummer, and being a worship drummer, and these are a few things I’ve learned about being a worship drummer…

It’s Not About You

When you walk on the stage for a worship service, you have to remember it’s not about you. It’s about Jesus, and every little bit of the attention belongs to Him. When you realize that the team you’re a part of, and the goal you’re trying to accomplish is so much bigger than yourself, it brings a sense of joy that’s hard to explain.

Less Is More

One of my favorite drummers, the late Marvin McQuitty always said “I never want to play anything in worship that will take somebody out of worship.” What a thought! If you have the privilege to be a worship drummer, be sensitive to what’s going on. It’s not just music. It’s so much more than that. That crazy drum fill you want to play, but have never practiced? Hold off on that one. That sick off-beat you know how to play but it doesn’t compliment the song in any way shape or form? Save it for another time. We should never show off our musical talents at the expense of what the Holy Spirit is trying to do in people’s lives. Doing so is not talent, it’s immaturity in musicianship and insensitivity to everything else going on around you. Ringo Starr, legendary drummer for the Beatles, proved you don’t have to do a lot to change the world. Less is always more. Stay in the pocket.

Stay Humble

If you’re a worship drummer, remember that you’re not in the position that you’re in because you got there on your own. God’s grace is an amazing thing. Remember what you’ve been saved from. Every time you pick up the sticks, play from a heart of complete thankfulness. Also, practice, and take what you’re a part of seriously! Don’t be afraid to learn. Any given week, I’ll find myself watching videos on YouTube (Free Lessons!) or joining a live stream from a different church to get ideas and stay fresh. Stay humble and keep working on your craft. As Steve Prefontaine used to say: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift!”

Here’s to more drumming,