NEW To Studio Drumming: What is a Studio Drummer?

The short answer: A studio drummer is an experienced, highly proficient drummer that specializes in laying down tracks in a studio setting with great feel, expression and great meter (time) whether playing with a metronome or without. Great meter is key in recording sessions because all other instrument keep time with the drummer.

Better question: what is an experienced, highly proficient studio drummer? What are the skill sets? Great feel, a confident personal style and expression, great meter (time) whether playing with a metronome or without, tuning experience and knowledge, consistent stroke weight when required—which is most often—consistent stroke placement, efficient technique to produce the optimum tone and sound out of the drum, reading music (which is essential for high-end studio work), and fast adaptation to new tempos and style changes.

And equally important: the song always comes first! A great studio drummer plays for the song, not for himself. Be a people person—workable and amiable with others—lifting those around you up, open to constructive criticism and change when necessary. Always punctual, on time, ready for the downbeat.

Be a great person and a great player.