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this is good advice but it’s also a double-edged sword. so often we hear that people “give up on their dreams” or “don’t work hard enough” or “stop when things get hard” and then live a “safe life always wondering why.” this really leaves people feeling like losers if they aren’t one of the ones who “tried the hardest” or whatever. it’s not true. the simple fact is that some people are more obsessed with (want something more than) other people, for various reasons. I don’t mean this in a bad way, but it’s an attribute that’s usually outside of your control. you can’t *make* yourself really really want something to the point where you give up your life to do it. so stop comparing yourself to people who have this magical stat that you don’t have - and importantly, *stop thinking that that’s a bad thing.* at the end of the day, just be honest with yourself. don’t live a lie in either direction. if you really really want to do something, full send it and stop pretending you can’t. if you don’t really want to do something and feel like you’re pursuing it because you are “supposed to” or else you’ll be a “loser,” that’s a recipe for misery. I know people who “gave up” who have amazing lives. I know people who “achieved their dream” and it wasn’t nearly as great as they thought. life doesn’t have a correct answer. just be honest with yourself about what you’re doing and what you really want.
I was once so "laser-focused" on building a business that I didn't quit when I should have. I lost my home, my car, my whole savings, and went bankrupt. In all honesty, I was lucky not to lose my wife and kids, and even my life. If I could go back and do the safe route instead, I would.
Your video is about to make me cry because as a 20-year-old drummer, I struggle to break into the "pro" environment. This video is one of the most reassuring things and such a great way to explain how it actually happened. Thank you men.
You're only 20. You have literally the entire world in front of you. Don't worry about where you're currently at - at all - just worry about where you want to go.
Agreed, I'm a 30 year old independent artist that sings, plays guitar and puts out their own music, and I found some value in this, and speaking of him telling us to let others know who we are, my name is Brandon Renegade and I have a new single coming May 31st! 🤘🏻
thankyou so much gabe, im 16, have ADHD and Autism and ive been a drummer for 4 years. my teacher quit after covid and i recently picked the sticks back up, then i realised i have to become a professional drummer because i have failed my exams in school and drumming is the only thing i can do without losing interest or becoming distracted. i wanted to just join a band straight away but this video seriously made me realise i need to focus on mastering every part of the kit before i try to do anything else. im going to become a professional drummer, i promise, and when i do, i will come back to this video.
Man you better stay in school. Unless you're on the level of Aric Improta or Mario from Gojira. Then I would sacrifice everything and go for drumming. Truth is is no a days you got people becoming producers and are great at at least 2 or 3 instruments and can put entire songs together. To at least demo form.
Better start gigging locally at the same time, there's so much to learn. Don't wait until you're perfect but push the different aspects at the same time, otherwise you'll never really get started. Good luck!
I don't know man, but y guess that what you have learned in your military career will get you there. Please come back to this comment and tell me 'you where right' when you are in your first tour with your band (I'm sure you will make it happen). My ego with be happy.
As an entrepreneur, not a musician, I assure you that everything in this video has application outside of music as well. This is just all around great advice for unorthodox careers, and it's exactly what I needed to hear right now. Thanks!
If I can give some advice here to the younger musicians. Decide what you TRULY want: a pro music career or a family. There is nothing wrong with either choice. But If you try to do both, you best have a partner who fully supports your goals as a musician and the sacrifices/time/work it will take. Because I can guarantee that if they're not fully onboard and encourage you with support... your goals will be derailed. I am living this and so have other friends of mine. Now I'm divorced, 45 y/o with 3 kids and my time between my job and my kids activities is extremely limited. I still play in church and have for years, but I tried starting up a band recently and the time commitment was burning me out and I had to step away. My responsibilities and priorities have shifted. To those of you who managed to make it work by being a pro musician AND a family man, congrats. Thankfully, I have my own home and my kit is set up in my living room and I can play whenever I want.
You don't have to do everything at once. As a guy, you can concentrate on your music career until your 35. If it worked out, awesome. If it didn't work out, you can still shift careers and start a familt either waty. As a girl its a kittle more difficult, but not impossible.
@@mallagallabumbum8209 exactly. The majority of bands I like have done both with no problems. As long as you start playing in a band as a teenager, you'll have plenty of time for the whole "famous band" experience AND becoming a family man when hitting the mid 30s. In fact Ben of Asking Alexandria just left this year to do exactly that, and they have had a wonderful and fulfilling career up to this point. Benjamin of Breaking Benjamin even brings his son to his shows and has him come out on stage these days, there's PLENTY of ways to make it work. It's usually the women musicians who retire for good or at least for much longer since a mother can't leave her newborn AT ALL. It took nearly 10 years for Evanescence to start going on tour again after she raised her kid/s.
I did some version of these steps from 2015-2020. Moved to Boston from my hometown because I was drinking myself to death while following a ‘normal’ career path. In Boston became a street musician (guitar, electric bass) and essentially ‘got paid to practice.’ Bought an upright bass and learned it on the street. Made friends with local musicians, found a mentor, formed a few bands, played gigs, and finally got to the point where I didn’t have to work rideshare or Amazon flex. Just 2-3 gigs a week and a handful of lessons covered my rent and discretionary spending. That was February 2020. Then it all ended during lockdowns. Some bandmates moved out of state, others had children, a few others sold their instruments and gave up. I haven’t really gigged more than 3-4 times since covid. Sad. But this video really inspired me. To get back on the horse. I’m 34 years old, I ain’t dead yet lol. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences 🙏
#2 hits me in the liver. I'm going to be lethargic for a few days, reorganizing my self. In this video you were like my conscience giving the one follow up or falling off advice to success. Can't be more thankful 🙏 to you Gabe, million thanks for always be. 🤘🏻🥁🤘🏻
There are many ways to be successful in music. It’s not always possible for us all to be playing to 50,000 people in stadiums. As a guitarist, i have played in bands, done sessions, played in orchestra pits for shows, lots of teaching etc. Thing is, i have not done anything else for 35 years. Music is my profession and my life. There are ways to be in and around music that diverse and varied. I found that acquiring a wealth of skils was the key to working constantly. Learn to read…..helps a lot for depping, shows, sessions. Be reliable and easy to work with; no ego. Skills around teaching and imparting knowledge help for day to day earning. Great video; thanks.
What a great day to post it, Gabe. I'm having a shit day, I was not thinking of giving up but dude... sometimes it is so frustrating that it makes me question why I have to like such a difficult profession to pursue.
I'm not a drummer (for the benefit of everyone involved lmao) but a guitarist (sometimes try myself at bass aswell) and I resonated _a lot_ with this video. I've been playing guitar more or less forever, but my actual _life_ never was really built towards the goal of playing music, being a musician. Now, after years of uni, doing something I don't like at all and just somewhat passing seemingly easy exams by forcing myself to do it and feeling myself die inside every single day I spend on this, I realized that I will probably never be happy in my life with anything else than playing music. It's hard to get started, I feel like I wasted so much time and potential already, but videos like yours make me not give up and fill me with renewed energy and motivation. Thank you!
"I will probably never be happy in my life with anything else than playing music. " Dude, I am 54 and just now realizing this. Props to you and keep heart!
Same, I play drums, guitar and a bit of bass. I played music for a bit in high school then moved to a new city and music took a park for a while. I picked it up again after having my first child, in this time played at a monthly amateur jam, trialled in two bands that didn't work out but now after having my second child and not having much time outside of that it makes it hard to play in a band. This video has really good advice and gives me motivation to work on the things I need to for when I have the time to take that step.
Man, this is just straight up good life advice, not just for pro musicians. Put yourself out there. Get outside your comfort zone. Look at failure as learning experiences, not failures. Stuff like that. And it applies to all musicians, not just drummers. I went to an "arts" school for high school and of course had the shitty garage band experience as a vocalist and guitar player. Some of my classmates went on to form a couple huge 90s/early 00s stadium bands I am sure people have heard of (and I won't mention). I admit 30 years later I sometimes daydream of what would happen if I didn't hang up my mic and guitars for the relative safety and security of a well paying, comfortable career that doesn't involve music. Now that my kids are grown and mostly off on their own, my wife has been encouraging me to explore getting back into the scene again. I admit it's tempting but at the same time I feel like it's a young man's game. So I don't know...
Go for it man, age shouldn't be the thing stopping you. There is music for all ages, all kinds of people and so many different genres. You've even got your wife's encouragement and not everybody has that. Get as clear as possible on what YOU would like to do with music, and then see what feasible steps you can take towards that in your current environment and life situation. And then build from there. The above video has all the information you need, and you don't need to go full-on pro and dedicate your entire life to it if you don't want to. I do it part-time myself, with no intention of ever going full-time, and I'm happy with it.
Thank you! I needed this video. I keep telling myself not to give up. But it feels like an endless journey of getting nowhere no matter how much I try. This gives me reassurance that I’m on the right path.
When I was 19 just graduated from high school and I never did any of this stuff, I didn’t have anyone in my corner to help me out. Now that I’m 34 years old, I play for my church in Newport News, Virginia and I am loving it. I do want to play in stage band still. Trying to get there now. I’m still learning alot about myself on drums.
Thank you. I find it truly amazing that musicians with your skill level. Actually take time out of their life to produce content such as this and try to give back so much you could easily go about your life. Be a rockstar continue to progress make money teaching, but you don’t you genuinely seem to care and try to help other people and to me that is more admirable than anything you could achieve professionally, so thank you. This was one of the most helpful videos I have ever seen.
I've been learning for about 6 months now. I'm in my 40's and have no plan on being in a band or anything like that. I just started playing for the fun of it. Now 2 things have happened. 1. I have a desire to become an amazing drummer. 2. I now realize to become that person takes a whole lot of practice and dedication. It's hard to find the time to put the work in on the kit when I'm super busy in life itself. I might not become that amazing drummer I want but everyday I get better. That's a win in life for me
Even if it never really goes anywhere, you are writing the karma for your next life. This is how people seem to be born with talent...you can be one too if you want to come back.
I learned how to play all the instruments i need and record it all myself. It sucks because i cant play live but it beats dealing with a band. Complete creative control.
If only I saw this video when I was 20yrs old I might have stuck at it and kept drumming! Now I’m in my 40s, relearning on DBO academy and hoping I can still achieve a small goal of playing in a band one day. Great video and gives me a lot to think about!
Same here but with the guitar. Now that I am retired and in my 40's, I find my self playing Rocksmith and remembering the old stuff I did when I was a teenager. Always wanted to front a metal band. After a lifetime of military, family and businesses....all I want to do now is front a metal band!
Another informative video. That takes us into your life as a drummer. And giving us all the best information to help us all do better in life. Make sure you all get on the list everyone. Gabe is an amazing teacher. And you have lots of help when needed. From the others in the program. And can make tons of cool friends. Hope to see you all there. DBO FOR LIFE.
As a guitarist I feel I've been really lucky. I started playing at age 12 and by age 20 I was playing out in cover bands every weekend and have been ever since. I think I did well because I could sing harmonies really and I learned 100s and 100s of songs... rock, metal, 70s, 80s, country... all the hits. I've found audiences usually respond well to the tired old classics "Mustang Sally" "Old Time Rock n Roll" "Keep Your Hands to Yourself" A lot of musicians would hate it but I don't mind. I just feel lucky to earn money playing. Basically I went the cover band weekend warrior route and it's been great. Not for everyone though.
Man this hits close to home. I started out drumming at the age of 10 in beginner band, marched druimline in high school, drummed on scholarship in college, and got undergrad and graduate degrees in business. I am basically the "insurance guy" you talk about. I have a great VP level job and am able to go do fun things like go on Shiprocked every year. What I love to do most, as I recently realized, is get behind my kit and work on songs, go to shows, and watch videos like you produce. Glad you stuck with it and are living your dream. You did it the right way. Keep these vids coming. They are awesome. Will see you guys from the pit in ATL on 7/31.
This is awesome! Was talking to my co worker who is a fellow musician, I’m going to be writing drums for a couple songs she’s working on. She’s been in the music scene way longer than me, she knows a list of musicians and friends along the road. She motivates me to keep going and get out of my comfort zone and vice versa. Gotta stay focused guys, be hard on yourself but don’t get down on yourself. I told myself I’d never quit, everyone who’s close to me knows how much this means to me ever since I picked up the sticks. Nothing is impossible, I can’t get down on myself for starting at 20 when others have been playing their whole life. That’s just motivation to keep pushing harder and work long hours(still got to be quality hours though lol)
Last night I had a graceful, hypothetical punch right in the face, rather, a wake up call. Playing live is well and good, but that is a portion of what is required to endeavour the journey of a pro drummer. This caused me to look up and research what I need to do other than perform. This video popped up on my RUclips feed this morning. Thanks Gabe 🙌
This is so true. I did everything exactly as you have laid out except... I quit and walked away, but only after success. The reason was simple: The party became the focus, the priority. The choice became, "Quit or Die." I'm still around and do not regret moving on.
This was so validating! I've been doing a lot of these steps already. I play bass in 4 bands and I've recorded singles or EPs with all of them. It's taken me 4 years of playing bass every day, networking, and gigging to get me here. It can be difficult and I have very little free time, but I know that if I stick with it and don't give up, it'll pay off in the end. Thank you for the encouragement, I needed it right now.
Man, this just happened across my feed. I remember jamming/serving with you in my Kensington days. Cool to see how far you’ve come. Well done, sir! 🤙🏻🙏🏻🙌🏻
I got to see you guys live about 7 years ago. You all stood outside the venue and talked to fans after the show, and that experience was so surreal for me. I was a 14 year old boy, and i thought muscians were like.... Some kinda of superior breed of human. But you all showed me that you were just normal dudes that had a fiery passion. And that ignited a fire inside of me. I told myself that if i couldn't be a musician and help people through their dark times with music, then i didn't want to be alive. So I've spent the past 7 years developing my skills on any instrument i can get my hands on. I want to sing. But ultimately, I just love the process of writing songs. And I hope and I pray that my songs will heal the world very soon. Watching you all grow as a band has been awesome. I hope I get to play with you all one day.
As a in home recording artist… Even if you dedicate your life from the age of seven to music and becoming a musician by definition alone without the success even when you’re doing it all by yourself, it revolves against you…. The writing process is more important than anything you’re ever going to learn… Story Boarding the entire auditorial illustration by hand and premeditating how the song will be constructed from beginning to end with everything you want in it so that all of the music caters to the theme and illustration is key… When I first started… My instrumentals were all over the place in different worlds and there was no sense of direction or a one way to do this every time deal…. It was easier for me to write a five page essay on a book report than to write a song. But, book reports were a strong point for me. So, I created a writing process centered around college papers. The idea came from Danny Elfman who composed many scores for Tim Burton films and as I watched his performance with these major motion pictures I had this idea. Why not write a motion picture to illustrate with audio and center all of the focus on illustrating an auditorial Painting meant to cater to the visual of it all… Every note, bend, hook, and sound would then cater to the theoretical music video…. Nothing would be out of place or out of key… Or out of time signature, bpm, etc. It would all fit the mood of the vision… And then create mumble tracks for the vocals that I would then replace with lyrics and vocals that too would cater to the story boards…. It took me 15 years to pull my head out of my butt to realize that… Even then…. Economy stands in my way, oral health problems stand in my way, social justice stands in my way, Americas baggage and personal problems stand in my way…. And it’s like… I have to wait until the stars to align for everything to get out of my way…. From a lymph node issue due to wisdom tooth removal… To arrogant people refusing me employment opportunities to fund my home studio… Luck seems to be a thing for those given permission from a higher power…. Luck seems to have a personal problem with me.
.. Not only for you. I posted one comment above resuming my experience. Talent, loads of creativity, enthusiasm, etc are very important but along the way there are myriads of sharp stones waiting for us. And like I use to say, it is not really difficult to "get there". The difficulty is "stay there".
I am an established pianist/organist/composer with 25 years of career on stage and in media. EVERYTHING you say here applies pretty much to ALL instruments, all starting musicians. Similarity is striking, and a path to professionalism is almost identical to not only mine, but pretty much every musician I know (including famously recognized ones). You explain a brutal truth to all aspiring artists, relevant anytime, but especially these days - 2024… Bravo !
I have no words man. Thank you so much its very reassuring. Ive spent the last 5 to 6 years practicing every day getting little to no gigs. I honestly think i was just resigning myself to bad luck with no local scene but honestly this video is showing me im not trying hard enough
This video is inspirational AF! For me the saying yes part brought me a gig that I would never though I would get. Totally out of my comfort zone, a genre I would never listen to and a musical context that was completely new to me. My first gig was 8 years ago and we're still going strong. I played all over Europe, made a lot of new contacts and some of them became one of my closest friends. Say yes, especially when you're afraid it might be a wrong fit. You never know what comes from it. And if it doesn't work you can always stop doing it, nothing's set in stone.
Based on your process I feel I am in Step 3 - Laser Focus. The most important advice you gave is that you have to prioritize your dream over EVERYTHING else. I was in a band that was doing very well, we were selling out 500 cap venues and releasing records regularly, but then multiple band members began prioritizing their careers, relationships, and buying real estate. It wasn't long before we broke up. Thank you for sharing your story and helping others find the same success you have!
Thanks man! You have no idea how much I seriously needed to see this video right now. I’ve played music my entire life, I used to lead worship for my church youth group but I struggled to have any of my music projects ever go anywhere. I even found a band at one point, that just needed a singer and we ended up being offered a deal from our demo we made. Unfortunately, those guys weren’t serious about putting in the work to write more songs. So once again I was involved in another project that never went anywhere. Now I’m here twenty years later trying to start everything over again by myself. I’m hoping the vocal covers I am working on will get some people interested to collaborate with me. Music has always been a huge part of my life and I love playing live. All I’ve ever wanted to do is be able to go around and sing my songs for people. I know it has to be one of the most amazing and fulfilling experiences you can have. I’ve seen many friends and plenty of acquaintances living this dream. Just like your friend I had given up on my dream. Well the “safety” of the job and family I was building evaporated, so now I once again am taking a leap of faith. Some days are harder than others to find the motivation to chase the dream when your support network is small. The fact that a touring artist will take time out of your life to do this for strangers on the internet is priceless. Sadly the person who got me to start playing drums as a kid puts this kind of stuff behind a paywall and you never hear from them anymore lol. Seriously much congratulations on achieving your dreams and I wish you the best in the future! 👊🏻💪🏻🙏🏻
I love that I have been following these steps without even realizing it. Keeping an open mind has opened some doors to just play. All I want to do is play play play and I wont stop. I really needed to watch this video and I am glad I did.
Dude I feel you.I have all the steps and points you've discussed in this video, and I can tell you that it feels like there are a lot of opportunities out there.When you stick to your purpose as you said, you are going to be great.
This video helped me realize that a band isn’t at all what I want. I want to be a solo artist, that’s what I’ve wanted from the moment I got into music
Guitarist/vocalist here….The “bad dream” thing resonates SOOOOO much. At one point I was that guy that had this really staunch view of what I thought I wanted to be musically, and would reject anything that wasn’t EXACTLY that. I see a LOT of guys falling into that same trap, except they don’t wise up about it. I learned that you need to be very open about writing original music. Don’t place yourself in an unnecessary box…simply get in a room with others and see what comes out. If it FEELS good to play, and it’s fun, you’re on the right track. And if it’s fun to the band, you’ll eventually find an audience for it. It’s this hardline view of wanting to be this or that that keeps a LOT of people from ever getting out of their bedrooms and getting onstage. Lighten up, stop trying to be the main character, take a fuckin chance, put your all into it, trust the process and have fun!
These lessons apply not only to Drummers but even Independent singer-songwriter musicians like myself, my go to will always be rock & Metal, but I am influenced by so much more.
I enjoyed hearing about your journey & the real story .. the undeniable hard work and the refusal to “ quit” makes you worthy of big success congratulations on your success !🥁 if those close to you are still there after their sacrifices congrats to them as well!
My goal in my teens was to compose and arrange music professionally. I can say with confidence that your advice/video is 100% applicable to success in that arena and probably most other instruments. You really summed it up in 15 minutes and I encourage any young player here to take your advice very seriously by adapting it to their own situation. Great job. PS: I am also a drummer.
This is very interesting to watch, because I’m a vocalist/guitarist in a band looking for a metal drummer as serious as me…..sometimes I feel like giving up and going solo, but being a solo artist will never replace that feeling of playing in a band. When I drop new covers and songs I’m going to spend the rest of this year finding this drummer!
It's fun to notice that literally everything you said applies to every other career. I have a pretty solid IT career and after 17 years coding, highs and lows here and there, I relate to every single step you mentioned at some point of my life. This is true gold career advice
Interesting timing coming across this video. I set up a week off of work to make an album last year. And in just a few days that week off is about to begin. Got my guitars, bass, drums and recording equipment ready. I'm super excited. I can never do this much in the apartments I live in.
I thought how cool it was to get insight without him selling anything and then bam the sales pitch at the end lol. Well done I listened to the whole thing.
As a pro musician who's been out of the game for the past few years and trying to break back into the scene, everything he is saying is invaluable. Such a good reminder on all these things I already knew- thanks for the push. Everyone take what he is saying in this video as gospel and you will make amazing progress
This is the best material I have seen in a long time. I was drumming from 2003 to 2014. I was dreaming of drumming semi pro, and finally 40+ gigs but never made it huge. Thanks to playing music I have wonderful memories and met many fantastic people. I think I lacked skills to climb into next level and was too scared to make an audition to better bands even though I had some opportunities - or to elevate bands that I was playing with. I was not training regularly. Later I realized that and learned to play with metronome, worked on the arrangements, but damn, you really have to excercise everyday and you need to know what to do. The band is as good as its drummer. The key for me is also to be easygoing, likeable person, because some musicians are douches, and you really need to get along with some of them :) I had some issues, and it was also my fault, so hide your ego.
It’s too late for me, but I just wanted to thank you on behalf of future musicians for taking the time to put this together. I wish I had seen it when I was 15-25.
Dude. This is a great video. I’m a singer, musician, SONG WRITER. Honestly… AI has got me down but I realize that they can’t quite replicate my personal experience….. at least for another couple years. Music can make the time disappear for me so I get it. It’s also a mind battle each day, wondering… is this really me???? Thing is… when you realize how jacked you get over it and nothing else makes you get lost like this does… it’s probably really you. Anyhow… I’m going to keep on going because it fulfills me more than anything in my life. Great video man. Keep on getting it!
I started taking my guitar playing a lot more seriously this year and started posting shorts of me playing and I don’t think I’m quite good enough for a band yet but I hope in a few years I might be able to start playing live shows.
I once went to an audition that i was totally unprepared for but when it came to sight reading, i was the only one who kept a beat and sounded good. It wasn't correct but it felt the best and i got the part. So i can tell you from experience that saying yes, showing up and doing the damn thing is always better than the alternative. This video is a masterpiece.
Though I'm semi-retired as a drummer now, like Gabe, I toured for around 12 years. To go along with Step 4 in Gabe's plan, the best piece of advice I ever got when starting out was from legendary country drummer, Chris McHugh. He said "Play with everyone and never turned down a gig."
The best thing to do if you're a musician without a band is do what I do. Write songs, make albums, learn the instruments you want in your songs at least to the point that you can play your own compositions and get stuff done. Without having to depend on 3-4-5 other people to care about the project as much as you do and having to depend on other people's reliability, it's crazy what you can get done. Screw finding a band, find a producer.
Hey Gabe, huge fan of both yourself & i prevail! Love the videos mate! Wanting to pickup Drumming on and off for a few years, always enjoyed tapping along to drums in songs "air drumming" almost. Your POV videos have inspired me to want to actually learn. What drum set(s) would you recommend for beginners, looking to play seriously.
to me the biggest takeaway here is having "good dreams". I was extremely specific too, and needless to say I failed. Now I'm applying to all kinds of bands I might like (I'm a singer / songwriter).
I played drums in a band I didn't even like for about 6 years. They were my friends of mine, they needed a drummer, I play drums. As a drummer, doesn't matter what the song is, you just gotta be versatile.
Fantastic video Gabe, very well said on so many levels...I'm old so my dream is NEVER to play professionally, my goal is to develop 4 way coordination and play enough kits to ultimately find the perfect sounding kit so I can thoroughly enjoy my own drumming!!! Next question is do I take lessons or keep learning at a slow rate when I can get away from work and life..
Another great place to start is an open mic, one day I was bored with just being at home and just packed up a small drum set and just offered to be a house drummer, after the first couple of songs, others were happy to keep me playing. Most of the songs I played I had never heard before so it helps you learn new music and pay attention to who you’re playing with. Be dynamic. Make room for vocals. Don’t be too flashy and everyone will want to play with you. I play multiple open mics with hundreds of different acts and 90% of them enjoyed playing with me or asked me to join their band or go in the studio. Have fun
One of the things you mentioned about the internet is so funny to me. Cos a fb group is exactly how I found my bands current bassist and one of the guitarists, I got tagged in a post they were looking for a band. And at the time I didn’t need them to join my band but I was happy to play music with a second group and get myself out there. Eventually, we had to part ways with two instrumentalists in my band, so I suggested a merger, and now they’re in a band with me and the remaining members of my other band. All about networking no matter what
Lots and lots of good points. Some people need a program. Mark Craney (Jethro Tull, Gino Vanelli, Tower of Power, jean Luc Ponty) said he didn't tell his students he never took lessons..
Because of this channel, my path is clearer now. Still in step 1 (and 3) but at least I know what to work on. Hard for me since I'm also a full-time college teacher. 😅
Just happen to come across your video clicked on it and watched. This is my story stated loving music at about 6 or 7 my Dad gave me a record player and listened to records each and every day. In 1964 saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan and a light went off in my head that was what I wanted to be. Formed a band in high school played drums. Played for free at birthdays or anywhere we could play. As time went on we got better and being lucky living in a small college town started playing at frat houses for parties got better and played on many colleges campuses. Time changes everything members left for real jobs some got married. Stayed with the dream and formed another band played festivals and opened for a few big named acts. Managed to get into a studio and laid down six tracks on our first album. Suddenly got my draft notice others in the band graduated from college and that ended us. After getting out of the military I got married and started a family became a police officer for 30 years but never forgot my dream. I still have my drums and the dream is still strong but I have reached the age I realize the dream is just not going to come true. I would not give up what I have or my family for any fame or fortune but the thought is always in the back of my mind.
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Is this a re-upload? I have seen this video before.
I clicked on the link, but its not functioning properly. The page that clicking 'apply' sends me to does not open. I would like to sign up. Is there another way.
11:49 “Failure is not something to avoid it’s something to expect”. Hell yeah Gabe. So true.
Exactly. You learn SSSOOOOoooooo much more from your failures.
this is good advice but it’s also a double-edged sword.
so often we hear that people “give up on their dreams” or “don’t work hard enough” or “stop when things get hard” and then live a “safe life always wondering why.”
this really leaves people feeling like losers if they aren’t one of the ones who “tried the hardest” or whatever. it’s not true. the simple fact is that some people are more obsessed with (want something more than) other people, for various reasons. I don’t mean this in a bad way, but it’s an attribute that’s usually outside of your control.
you can’t *make* yourself really really want something to the point where you give up your life to do it. so stop comparing yourself to people who have this magical stat that you don’t have - and importantly, *stop thinking that that’s a bad thing.*
at the end of the day, just be honest with yourself. don’t live a lie in either direction. if you really really want to do something, full send it and stop pretending you can’t. if you don’t really want to do something and feel like you’re pursuing it because you are “supposed to” or else you’ll be a “loser,” that’s a recipe for misery.
I know people who “gave up” who have amazing lives. I know people who “achieved their dream” and it wasn’t nearly as great as they thought. life doesn’t have a correct answer. just be honest with yourself about what you’re doing and what you really want.
Thank you, very great perspective
So true
I was once so "laser-focused" on building a business that I didn't quit when I should have. I lost my home, my car, my whole savings, and went bankrupt. In all honesty, I was lucky not to lose my wife and kids, and even my life. If I could go back and do the safe route instead, I would.
Great advice
This is fantastic advice and as a professional musician of 10-ish years, I couldn’t agree more.
Your video is about to make me cry because as a 20-year-old drummer, I struggle to break into the "pro" environment. This video is one of the most reassuring things and such a great way to explain how it actually happened. Thank you men.
it's truly my pleasure 🙏🏽
You're only 20. You have literally the entire world in front of you. Don't worry about where you're currently at - at all - just worry about where you want to go.
No tears please. It's a waste of good suffering!
@@DrumBeatsOnlineThanks a lot for your video and comment ! I'm gearing up to implement your advice on stage this weekend! :)
@alexandreguirous8035 good on ya dude. U got this!! 👊
this isnt only for drummers
Agreed, I'm a 30 year old independent artist that sings, plays guitar and puts out their own music, and I found some value in this, and speaking of him telling us to let others know who we are, my name is Brandon Renegade and I have a new single coming May 31st! 🤘🏻
@@Brandon_RenegadeI hope that your music doesn't go by Your name cause if so forget about it😂
@@commodore6430pretty fun to make fun of other people right?? 😄
@kas36spires I'm not making fun of him but if his music goes by his name, 0 people are gonna be checking it out
@commodore6430 at least hes doing somthing with his life?
As a sewer worker with a music degree..this is great advice. I see many bands who aren’t necessarily the most talented, they just never stopped.
Then theres my band, which work life and family stopped before it started
I bet your music would be pretty shitty.😉🤘🏻
thankyou so much gabe, im 16, have ADHD and Autism and ive been a drummer for 4 years. my teacher quit after covid and i recently picked the sticks back up, then i realised i have to become a professional drummer because i have failed my exams in school and drumming is the only thing i can do without losing interest or becoming distracted. i wanted to just join a band straight away but this video seriously made me realise i need to focus on mastering every part of the kit before i try to do anything else. im going to become a professional drummer, i promise, and when i do, i will come back to this video.
you got it mate. We are both in the same boat
There is literally no point adding that you have ADHD and Autism to your comment
are we the same person?
Man you better stay in school. Unless you're on the level of Aric Improta or Mario from Gojira. Then I would sacrifice everything and go for drumming. Truth is is no a days you got people becoming producers and are great at at least 2 or 3 instruments and can put entire songs together. To at least demo form.
Better start gigging locally at the same time, there's so much to learn. Don't wait until you're perfect but push the different aspects at the same time, otherwise you'll never really get started. Good luck!
Retired military, now actively pursuing music. There are nuggets of truth in your video. Thank you.
Goodluck 👍🏻
I don't know man, but y guess that what you have learned in your military career will get you there. Please come back to this comment and tell me 'you where right' when you are in your first tour with your band (I'm sure you will make it happen). My ego with be happy.
As an entrepreneur, not a musician, I assure you that everything in this video has application outside of music as well. This is just all around great advice for unorthodox careers, and it's exactly what I needed to hear right now. Thanks!
If I can give some advice here to the younger musicians. Decide what you TRULY want: a pro music career or a family. There is nothing wrong with either choice. But If you try to do both, you best have a partner who fully supports your goals as a musician and the sacrifices/time/work it will take. Because I can guarantee that if they're not fully onboard and encourage you with support... your goals will be derailed. I am living this and so have other friends of mine. Now I'm divorced, 45 y/o with 3 kids and my time between my job and my kids activities is extremely limited. I still play in church and have for years, but I tried starting up a band recently and the time commitment was burning me out and I had to step away. My responsibilities and priorities have shifted. To those of you who managed to make it work by being a pro musician AND a family man, congrats. Thankfully, I have my own home and my kit is set up in my living room and I can play whenever I want.
You don't have to do everything at once. As a guy, you can concentrate on your music career until your 35. If it worked out, awesome. If it didn't work out, you can still shift careers and start a familt either waty. As a girl its a kittle more difficult, but not impossible.
Also, finding a partner who is equally invested in their career, what ever it is, is a good idea anyways. Driven people fit well together
@@mallagallabumbum8209 exactly. The majority of bands I like have done both with no problems. As long as you start playing in a band as a teenager, you'll have plenty of time for the whole "famous band" experience AND becoming a family man when hitting the mid 30s. In fact Ben of Asking Alexandria just left this year to do exactly that, and they have had a wonderful and fulfilling career up to this point. Benjamin of Breaking Benjamin even brings his son to his shows and has him come out on stage these days, there's PLENTY of ways to make it work.
It's usually the women musicians who retire for good or at least for much longer since a mother can't leave her newborn AT ALL. It took nearly 10 years for Evanescence to start going on tour again after she raised her kid/s.
Well, I guess Kory and John from Skillet did it - I guess it work when both are musicians in the same band. Though their guitarist is married also
Find a chick who wants to be in music too. Preferably a bass player. Most chicks can sing. Get a cheap RV hit the road. A 90s Toyota.
I did some version of these steps from 2015-2020. Moved to Boston from my hometown because I was drinking myself to death while following a ‘normal’ career path. In Boston became a street musician (guitar, electric bass) and essentially ‘got paid to practice.’ Bought an upright bass and learned it on the street. Made friends with local musicians, found a mentor, formed a few bands, played gigs, and finally got to the point where I didn’t have to work rideshare or Amazon flex. Just 2-3 gigs a week and a handful of lessons covered my rent and discretionary spending.
That was February 2020.
Then it all ended during lockdowns. Some bandmates moved out of state, others had children, a few others sold their instruments and gave up. I haven’t really gigged more than 3-4 times since covid. Sad.
But this video really inspired me. To get back on the horse. I’m 34 years old, I ain’t dead yet lol.
Thanks so much for sharing your experiences 🙏
man, your story is inspiring. i really hope you pick it up again
@@eduardoaugusto1549 thanks for the kind words, brother. I intend to.
I play music in the Boston area what type of stuff are into?
Man, you inspired ME! I'm also 34 y/o.
@@matao33 keep hope alive!
#2 hits me in the liver. I'm going to be lethargic for a few days, reorganizing my self. In this video you were like my conscience giving the one follow up or falling off advice to success. Can't be more thankful 🙏 to you Gabe, million thanks for always be.
🤘🏻🥁🤘🏻
❤️❤️
There are many ways to be successful in music. It’s not always possible for us all to be playing to 50,000 people in stadiums. As a guitarist, i have played in bands, done sessions, played in orchestra pits for shows, lots of teaching etc. Thing is, i have not done anything else for 35 years. Music is my profession and my life. There are ways to be in and around music that diverse and varied.
I found that acquiring a wealth of skils was the key to working constantly. Learn to read…..helps a lot for depping, shows, sessions. Be reliable and easy to work with; no ego. Skills around teaching and imparting knowledge help for day to day earning.
Great video; thanks.
What a great day to post it, Gabe. I'm having a shit day, I was not thinking of giving up but dude... sometimes it is so frustrating that it makes me question why I have to like such a difficult profession to pursue.
I've been there my friend. Keep pushing forward
I'm not a drummer (for the benefit of everyone involved lmao) but a guitarist (sometimes try myself at bass aswell) and I resonated _a lot_ with this video.
I've been playing guitar more or less forever, but my actual _life_ never was really built towards the goal of playing music, being a musician. Now, after years of uni, doing something I don't like at all and just somewhat passing seemingly easy exams by forcing myself to do it and feeling myself die inside every single day I spend on this, I realized that I will probably never be happy in my life with anything else than playing music.
It's hard to get started, I feel like I wasted so much time and potential already, but videos like yours make me not give up and fill me with renewed energy and motivation. Thank you!
"I will probably never be happy in my life with anything else than playing music. " Dude, I am 54 and just now realizing this. Props to you and keep heart!
we are the same person
@@Hilaire_Balrog 30 years younger and I'll try my best ^^
Same, I play drums, guitar and a bit of bass. I played music for a bit in high school then moved to a new city and music took a park for a while. I picked it up again after having my first child, in this time played at a monthly amateur jam, trialled in two bands that didn't work out but now after having my second child and not having much time outside of that it makes it hard to play in a band. This video has really good advice and gives me motivation to work on the things I need to for when I have the time to take that step.
Man, this is just straight up good life advice, not just for pro musicians. Put yourself out there. Get outside your comfort zone. Look at failure as learning experiences, not failures. Stuff like that. And it applies to all musicians, not just drummers.
I went to an "arts" school for high school and of course had the shitty garage band experience as a vocalist and guitar player. Some of my classmates went on to form a couple huge 90s/early 00s stadium bands I am sure people have heard of (and I won't mention). I admit 30 years later I sometimes daydream of what would happen if I didn't hang up my mic and guitars for the relative safety and security of a well paying, comfortable career that doesn't involve music. Now that my kids are grown and mostly off on their own, my wife has been encouraging me to explore getting back into the scene again. I admit it's tempting but at the same time I feel like it's a young man's game. So I don't know...
Go for it if that is what inspires you to be creative and it is healthy for you. Enjoying and being a part of music is for all ages.
Go for it man, age shouldn't be the thing stopping you. There is music for all ages, all kinds of people and so many different genres. You've even got your wife's encouragement and not everybody has that.
Get as clear as possible on what YOU would like to do with music, and then see what feasible steps you can take towards that in your current environment and life situation. And then build from there.
The above video has all the information you need, and you don't need to go full-on pro and dedicate your entire life to it if you don't want to. I do it part-time myself, with no intention of ever going full-time, and I'm happy with it.
This is some of the best wisdom and advice for musicians on the Internet.
Thanks Gabe!
Thank you! I needed this video. I keep telling myself not to give up. But it feels like an endless journey of getting nowhere no matter how much I try. This gives me reassurance that I’m on the right path.
When I was 19 just graduated from high school and I never did any of this stuff, I didn’t have anyone in my corner to help me out. Now that I’m 34 years old, I play for my church in Newport News, Virginia and I am loving it. I do want to play in stage band still. Trying to get there now. I’m still learning alot about myself on drums.
Thank you. I find it truly amazing that musicians with your skill level. Actually take time out of their life to produce content such as this and try to give back so much you could easily go about your life. Be a rockstar continue to progress make money teaching, but you don’t you genuinely seem to care and try to help other people and to me that is more admirable than anything you could achieve professionally, so thank you. This was one of the most helpful videos I have ever seen.
Lol, he's try to make money off youtube cuz being a pro musician ain't all it is cracked up to be.
I've been learning for about 6 months now. I'm in my 40's and have no plan on being in a band or anything like that. I just started playing for the fun of it. Now 2 things have happened. 1. I have a desire to become an amazing drummer. 2. I now realize to become that person takes a whole lot of practice and dedication. It's hard to find the time to put the work in on the kit when I'm super busy in life itself. I might not become that amazing drummer I want but everyday I get better. That's a win in life for me
Even if it never really goes anywhere, you are writing the karma for your next life.
This is how people seem to be born with talent...you can be one too if you want to come back.
wow, love this side of Gabe. truly authentic and clearly resonated with so many people. thanks dude
I learned how to play all the instruments i need and record it all myself. It sucks because i cant play live but it beats dealing with a band. Complete creative control.
If only I saw this video when I was 20yrs old I might have stuck at it and kept drumming! Now I’m in my 40s, relearning on DBO academy and hoping I can still achieve a small goal of playing in a band one day. Great video and gives me a lot to think about!
dont give up!
Same here
Same here but with the guitar. Now that I am retired and in my 40's, I find my self playing Rocksmith and remembering the old stuff I did when I was a teenager. Always wanted to front a metal band.
After a lifetime of military, family and businesses....all I want to do now is front a metal band!
I'm 43, and this just makes me want to start a band right now. I think I'm going to actually reach out. Thank you buddy!
@@Joshezellentrepreneur Hell, yeah!
I’m 14 years old, been playing for 3 years, and I want to start showing my talent into the world, so thank you Gabe for this advice
Finally I see a video the day it drops
Another informative video. That takes us into your life as a drummer. And giving us all the best information to help us all do better in life. Make sure you all get on the list everyone. Gabe is an amazing teacher. And you have lots of help when needed. From the others in the program. And can make tons of cool friends. Hope to see you all there. DBO FOR LIFE.
You're too kind ❤️
As a guitarist I feel I've been really lucky. I started playing at age 12 and by age 20 I was playing out in cover bands every weekend and have been ever since. I think I did well because I could sing harmonies really and I learned 100s and 100s of songs... rock, metal, 70s, 80s, country... all the hits. I've found audiences usually respond well to the tired old classics "Mustang Sally" "Old Time Rock n Roll" "Keep Your Hands to Yourself" A lot of musicians would hate it but I don't mind. I just feel lucky to earn money playing. Basically I went the cover band weekend warrior route and it's been great. Not for everyone though.
Man this hits close to home. I started out drumming at the age of 10 in beginner band, marched druimline in high school, drummed on scholarship in college, and got undergrad and graduate degrees in business. I am basically the "insurance guy" you talk about. I have a great VP level job and am able to go do fun things like go on Shiprocked every year. What I love to do most, as I recently realized, is get behind my kit and work on songs, go to shows, and watch videos like you produce. Glad you stuck with it and are living your dream. You did it the right way. Keep these vids coming. They are awesome. Will see you guys from the pit in ATL on 7/31.
This makes me so happy that I only ‘play’ as a hobby, pursuing music as a career seems miserable, however, I really really wish all of you make it❤
This is awesome! Was talking to my co worker who is a fellow musician, I’m going to be writing drums for a couple songs she’s working on. She’s been in the music scene way longer than me, she knows a list of musicians and friends along the road. She motivates me to keep going and get out of my comfort zone and vice versa. Gotta stay focused guys, be hard on yourself but don’t get down on yourself. I told myself I’d never quit, everyone who’s close to me knows how much this means to me ever since I picked up the sticks. Nothing is impossible, I can’t get down on myself for starting at 20 when others have been playing their whole life. That’s just motivation to keep pushing harder and work long hours(still got to be quality hours though lol)
Last night I had a graceful, hypothetical punch right in the face, rather, a wake up call. Playing live is well and good, but that is a portion of what is required to endeavour the journey of a pro drummer. This caused me to look up and research what I need to do other than perform. This video popped up on my RUclips feed this morning.
Thanks Gabe 🙌
This was really helpful, I realized Im much closer to the goal than I realized I just have to keep pushing and not give up
Possibly the most important video I’ve ever seen for someone looking to be a full time musician.
this was exactly what I needed to hear! very much appreciate the SOLID advice in your videos. 🤘🏼
This is so true. I did everything exactly as you have laid out except...
I quit and walked away, but only after success. The reason was simple:
The party became the focus, the priority. The choice became, "Quit or Die."
I'm still around and do not regret moving on.
Dude, hustle is the best way!!! I made 4 gigs in 2 month by hustling! Thank you!
This was so validating! I've been doing a lot of these steps already. I play bass in 4 bands and I've recorded singles or EPs with all of them. It's taken me 4 years of playing bass every day, networking, and gigging to get me here. It can be difficult and I have very little free time, but I know that if I stick with it and don't give up, it'll pay off in the end. Thank you for the encouragement, I needed it right now.
Man, this just happened across my feed. I remember jamming/serving with you in my Kensington days. Cool to see how far you’ve come. Well done, sir! 🤙🏻🙏🏻🙌🏻
Watching this has made me even more stoked and excited that come August I'll be able to play my drums for the first time in like 3-4 years
I got to see you guys live about 7 years ago.
You all stood outside the venue and talked to fans after the show, and that experience was so surreal for me.
I was a 14 year old boy, and i thought muscians were like.... Some kinda of superior breed of human.
But you all showed me that you were just normal dudes that had a fiery passion.
And that ignited a fire inside of me.
I told myself that if i couldn't be a musician and help people through their dark times with music, then i didn't want to be alive.
So I've spent the past 7 years developing my skills on any instrument i can get my hands on.
I want to sing. But ultimately, I just love the process of writing songs.
And I hope and I pray that my songs will heal the world very soon.
Watching you all grow as a band has been awesome.
I hope I get to play with you all one day.
thank you for this video, I'm glad you emphasize that living a fulfilling life is far more important than money
As a in home recording artist…
Even if you dedicate your life from the age of seven to music and becoming a musician by definition alone without the success even when you’re doing it all by yourself, it revolves against you….
The writing process is more important than anything you’re ever going to learn…
Story Boarding the entire auditorial illustration by hand and premeditating how the song will be constructed from beginning to end with everything you want in it so that all of the music caters to the theme and illustration is key…
When I first started…
My instrumentals were all over the place in different worlds and there was no sense of direction or a one way to do this every time deal….
It was easier for me to write a five page essay on a book report than to write a song.
But, book reports were a strong point for me.
So,
I created a writing process centered around college papers.
The idea came from Danny Elfman who composed many scores for Tim Burton films and as I watched his performance with these major motion pictures I had this idea.
Why not write a motion picture to illustrate with audio and center all of the focus on illustrating an auditorial Painting meant to cater to the visual of it all…
Every note, bend, hook, and sound would then cater to the theoretical music video….
Nothing would be out of place or out of key…
Or out of time signature, bpm, etc.
It would all fit the mood of the vision…
And then create mumble tracks for the vocals that I would then replace with lyrics and vocals that too would cater to the story boards….
It took me 15 years to pull my head out of my butt to realize that…
Even then….
Economy stands in my way, oral health problems stand in my way, social justice stands in my way, Americas baggage and personal problems stand in my way….
And it’s like…
I have to wait until the stars to align for everything to get out of my way….
From a lymph node issue due to wisdom tooth removal…
To arrogant people refusing me employment opportunities to fund my home studio…
Luck seems to be a thing for those given permission from a higher power….
Luck seems to have a personal problem with me.
..
Not only for you. I posted one comment above resuming my experience. Talent, loads of creativity, enthusiasm, etc are very important but along the way there are myriads of sharp stones waiting for us. And like I use to say, it is not really difficult to "get there". The difficulty is "stay there".
I am an established pianist/organist/composer with 25 years of career on stage and in media.
EVERYTHING you say here applies pretty much to ALL instruments, all starting musicians. Similarity is striking, and a path to professionalism is almost identical to not only mine, but pretty much every musician I know (including famously recognized ones).
You explain a brutal truth to all aspiring artists, relevant anytime, but especially these days - 2024…
Bravo !
The amount of profound TRUTH in this video, NOT TO MENTION how succinctly it was phrased, is GOLD. Thank you for sharing this. And for the motivation.
I have no words man. Thank you so much its very reassuring. Ive spent the last 5 to 6 years practicing every day getting little to no gigs. I honestly think i was just resigning myself to bad luck with no local scene but honestly this video is showing me im not trying hard enough
This video is inspirational AF! For me the saying yes part brought me a gig that I would never though I would get. Totally out of my comfort zone, a genre I would never listen to and a musical context that was completely new to me. My first gig was 8 years ago and we're still going strong. I played all over Europe, made a lot of new contacts and some of them became one of my closest friends. Say yes, especially when you're afraid it might be a wrong fit. You never know what comes from it. And if it doesn't work you can always stop doing it, nothing's set in stone.
I am truly at a loss for words. Thank you! Oh my God thank you! I truly can’t say that enough!
If drumming didn’t work out then you could’ve easily been a motivational speaker. You resonate well with people and your charisma is incredible.
I’m a guitarist and this video is so helpful and applicable to all musicians trying to move forward down a professional career path
Based on your process I feel I am in Step 3 - Laser Focus. The most important advice you gave is that you have to prioritize your dream over EVERYTHING else. I was in a band that was doing very well, we were selling out 500 cap venues and releasing records regularly, but then multiple band members began prioritizing their careers, relationships, and buying real estate. It wasn't long before we broke up. Thank you for sharing your story and helping others find the same success you have!
I'm a guitarist, but the advice here is solid gold for every musician, it gave me the hope I needed to continue pursuing my goal of going pro
Digging the Alex Hormozi-esque title man! Fantastic video! Much love from an Inner Circle Lifetime member 🤘🏻
Thanks man! You have no idea how much I seriously needed to see this video right now.
I’ve played music my entire life, I used to lead worship for my church youth group but I struggled to have any of my music projects ever go anywhere. I even found a band at one point, that just needed a singer and we ended up being offered a deal from our demo we made. Unfortunately, those guys weren’t serious about putting in the work to write more songs. So once again I was involved in another project that never went anywhere.
Now I’m here twenty years later trying to start everything over again by myself. I’m hoping the vocal covers I am working on will get some people interested to collaborate with me. Music has always been a huge part of my life and I love playing live. All I’ve ever wanted to do is be able to go around and sing my songs for people. I know it has to be one of the most amazing and fulfilling experiences you can have. I’ve seen many friends and plenty of acquaintances living this dream.
Just like your friend I had given up on my dream. Well the “safety” of the job and family I was building evaporated, so now I once again am taking a leap of faith. Some days are harder than others to find the motivation to chase the dream when your support network is small. The fact that a touring artist will take time out of your life to do this for strangers on the internet is priceless. Sadly the person who got me to start playing drums as a kid puts this kind of stuff behind a paywall and you never hear from them anymore lol. Seriously much congratulations on achieving your dreams and I wish you the best in the future! 👊🏻💪🏻🙏🏻
I love that I have been following these steps without even realizing it. Keeping an open mind has opened some doors to just play. All I want to do is play play play and I wont stop. I really needed to watch this video and I am glad I did.
This is definitely one of, if not , the best vid youve done Gabe. Thank u 🍻
Even though I’m a guitarist, the path you describe is applicable to everything in life, thanks a lot for sharing !!!
These have become my favorite videos on the internet! 🙏 thank you!
Dude I feel you.I have all the steps and points you've discussed in this video, and I can tell you that it feels like there are a lot of opportunities out there.When you stick to your purpose as you said, you are going to be great.
This video helped me realize that a band isn’t at all what I want. I want to be a solo artist, that’s what I’ve wanted from the moment I got into music
4:52 The will to do everything for a goal, especially longer then its comfortable is the hardest thing to learn, but the most important
Nobody talks about this!!!!!! Thanks dude fellow drummer graduated musician’s institute!
Guitarist/vocalist here….The “bad dream” thing resonates SOOOOO much. At one point I was that guy that had this really staunch view of what I thought I wanted to be musically, and would reject anything that wasn’t EXACTLY that. I see a LOT of guys falling into that same trap, except they don’t wise up about it.
I learned that you need to be very open about writing original music. Don’t place yourself in an unnecessary box…simply get in a room with others and see what comes out. If it FEELS good to play, and it’s fun, you’re on the right track. And if it’s fun to the band, you’ll eventually find an audience for it. It’s this hardline view of wanting to be this or that that keeps a LOT of people from ever getting out of their bedrooms and getting onstage. Lighten up, stop trying to be the main character, take a fuckin chance, put your all into it, trust the process and have fun!
Thanks for the reminder to build a noise isolation platform. My Roland kit has been staring at me for months.
These lessons apply not only to Drummers but even Independent singer-songwriter musicians like myself, my go to will always be rock & Metal, but I am influenced by so much more.
I enjoyed hearing about your journey & the real story ..
the undeniable hard work and the refusal to “ quit” makes you worthy of big success congratulations on your success !🥁 if those close to you are still there after their sacrifices congrats to them as well!
This has inspired me to pick that one thing I want to make a living out of, and I can see it so clearly now thanks to this. Thanks A LOT!
My goal in my teens was to compose and arrange music professionally. I can say with confidence that your advice/video is 100% applicable to success in that arena and probably most other instruments. You really summed it up in 15 minutes and I encourage any young player here to take your advice very seriously by adapting it to their own situation. Great job. PS: I am also a drummer.
Thanks Gabe. I am incredibley grateful for your videos.
My pleasure!
This is very interesting to watch, because I’m a vocalist/guitarist in a band looking for a metal drummer as serious as me…..sometimes I feel like giving up and going solo, but being a solo artist will never replace that feeling of playing in a band. When I drop new covers and songs I’m going to spend the rest of this year finding this drummer!
Thanks Gabe. Been watching you since you played in a closet and its honestly wild how far you've come. Needed the inspiration✊️
It's fun to notice that literally everything you said applies to every other career. I have a pretty solid IT career and after 17 years coding, highs and lows here and there, I relate to every single step you mentioned at some point of my life. This is true gold career advice
Interesting timing coming across this video.
I set up a week off of work to make an album last year. And in just a few days that week off is about to begin.
Got my guitars, bass, drums and recording equipment ready. I'm super excited. I can never do this much in the apartments I live in.
I thought how cool it was to get insight without him selling anything and then bam the sales pitch at the end lol. Well done I listened to the whole thing.
You are an absolute inspiration. Thank you so much. You helped lit back again so many dreams my man!
As a pro musician who's been out of the game for the past few years and trying to break back into the scene, everything he is saying is invaluable. Such a good reminder on all these things I already knew- thanks for the push. Everyone take what he is saying in this video as gospel and you will make amazing progress
The most important thing is don't wait on others, START YOUR OWN BAND AND WRITE YOUR OWN SONGS AND LEARN TO PRODUCE.
This is the best material I have seen in a long time. I was drumming from 2003 to 2014. I was dreaming of drumming semi pro, and finally 40+ gigs but never made it huge. Thanks to playing music I have wonderful memories and met many fantastic people. I think I lacked skills to climb into next level and was too scared to make an audition to better bands even though I had some opportunities - or to elevate bands that I was playing with. I was not training regularly. Later I realized that and learned to play with metronome, worked on the arrangements, but damn, you really have to excercise everyday and you need to know what to do. The band is as good as its drummer. The key for me is also to be easygoing, likeable person, because some musicians are douches, and you really need to get along with some of them :) I had some issues, and it was also my fault, so hide your ego.
It’s too late for me, but I just wanted to thank you on behalf of future musicians for taking the time to put this together. I wish I had seen it when I was 15-25.
Dude. This is a great video. I’m a singer, musician, SONG WRITER.
Honestly… AI has got me down but I realize that they can’t quite replicate my personal experience….. at least for another couple years. Music can make the time disappear for me so I get it. It’s also a mind battle each day, wondering… is this really me????
Thing is… when you realize how jacked you get over it and nothing else makes you get lost like this does… it’s probably really you. Anyhow… I’m going to keep on going because it fulfills me more than anything in my life. Great video man. Keep on getting it!
I started taking my guitar playing a lot more seriously this year and started posting shorts of me playing and I don’t think I’m quite good enough for a band yet but I hope in a few years I might be able to start playing live shows.
I once went to an audition that i was totally unprepared for but when it came to sight reading, i was the only one who kept a beat and sounded good. It wasn't correct but it felt the best and i got the part. So i can tell you from experience that saying yes, showing up and doing the damn thing is always better than the alternative.
This video is a masterpiece.
Though I'm semi-retired as a drummer now, like Gabe, I toured for around 12 years. To go along with Step 4 in Gabe's plan, the best piece of advice I ever got when starting out was from legendary country drummer, Chris McHugh. He said "Play with everyone and never turned down a gig."
The best thing to do if you're a musician without a band is do what I do. Write songs, make albums, learn the instruments you want in your songs at least to the point that you can play your own compositions and get stuff done. Without having to depend on 3-4-5 other people to care about the project as much as you do and having to depend on other people's reliability, it's crazy what you can get done. Screw finding a band, find a producer.
Find a producer make an album build your OWN band LATER, now that's an idea. It's worked for a few guys!
You deserve all of your success well done dude 👏
A worthwhile video for young players. Cheers.
Hey Gabe, huge fan of both yourself & i prevail! Love the videos mate! Wanting to pickup Drumming on and off for a few years, always enjoyed tapping along to drums in songs "air drumming" almost. Your POV videos have inspired me to want to actually learn. What drum set(s) would you recommend for beginners, looking to play seriously.
to me the biggest takeaway here is having "good dreams". I was extremely specific too, and needless to say I failed. Now I'm applying to all kinds of bands I might like (I'm a singer / songwriter).
Mad respect for posting this, many try to keep stuff as a secret. 🤟
I played drums in a band I didn't even like for about 6 years. They were my friends of mine, they needed a drummer, I play drums.
As a drummer, doesn't matter what the song is, you just gotta be versatile.
Fantastic video Gabe, very well said on so many levels...I'm old so my dream is NEVER to play professionally, my goal is to develop 4 way coordination and play enough kits to ultimately find the perfect sounding kit so I can thoroughly enjoy my own drumming!!! Next question is do I take lessons or keep learning at a slow rate when I can get away from work and life..
Another great place to start is an open mic, one day I was bored with just being at home and just packed up a small drum set and just offered to be a house drummer, after the first couple of songs, others were happy to keep me playing.
Most of the songs I played I had never heard before so it helps you learn new music and pay attention to who you’re playing with. Be dynamic. Make room for vocals. Don’t be too flashy and everyone will want to play with you. I play multiple open mics with hundreds of different acts and 90% of them enjoyed playing with me or asked me to join their band or go in the studio. Have fun
Have played open mic with a decent drummer. He made the show better....
Wish more musicians would responsibly document their journeys the way this guy does
Wow, awesome advice not just for musicians, but for anyone who has passions in life that they want to succeed in. Thank you.
One of the things you mentioned about the internet is so funny to me. Cos a fb group is exactly how I found my bands current bassist and one of the guitarists, I got tagged in a post they were looking for a band. And at the time I didn’t need them to join my band but I was happy to play music with a second group and get myself out there. Eventually, we had to part ways with two instrumentalists in my band, so I suggested a merger, and now they’re in a band with me and the remaining members of my other band. All about networking no matter what
Lots and lots of good points. Some people need a program. Mark Craney (Jethro Tull, Gino Vanelli, Tower of Power, jean Luc Ponty) said he didn't tell his students he never took lessons..
Because of this channel, my path is clearer now. Still in step 1 (and 3) but at least I know what to work on. Hard for me since I'm also a full-time college teacher. 😅
Something I've been looking for past 5 years , so grateful ❤
Yesturedays show was a banger in berlin Probably the best show that i visited
So glad you had fun!
@@DrumBeatsOnline i was glad to seen my drummer idol
Just happen to come across your video clicked on it and watched. This is my story stated loving music at about 6 or 7 my Dad gave me a record player and listened to records each and every day. In 1964 saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan and a light went off in my head that was what I wanted to be. Formed a band in high school played drums. Played for free at birthdays or anywhere we could play. As time went on we got better and being lucky living in a small college town started playing at frat houses for parties got better and played on many colleges campuses. Time changes everything members left for real jobs some got married. Stayed with the dream and formed another band played festivals and opened for a few big named acts. Managed to get into a studio and laid down six tracks on our first album. Suddenly got my draft notice others in the band graduated from college and that ended us. After getting out of the military I got married and started a family became a police officer for 30 years but never forgot my dream. I still have my drums and the dream is still strong but I have reached the age I realize the dream is just not going to come true. I would not give up what I have or my family for any fame or fortune but the thought is always in the back of my mind.