How Drum Sample Packs Are Created with Shawn Fields and Darrell Thorp
In this episode, Bart talks with Shawn Fields, founder of Drumatica, and Grammy-winning audio engineer Darrell Thorp (Radiohead, Beck, Foo Fighters) about the creation of the groundbreaking Black Oyster drum sample library. Shawn shares how his lifelong obsession with capturing the perfect drum sound evolved from sampling friends’ kits in the ’90s to launching Drumatica — a company dedicated to delivering “mix-ready” virtual drum instruments for musicians everywhere. He explains how years of experimentation, precision sampling, and collaboration with Sweetwater Studios led to the creation of this meticulously detailed collection. Darrell dives into the mixing philosophy behind the Black Oyster project — from mic placement and compression choices to balancing vintage warmth with modern punch. Together, they explore how Drumatica aims to empower musicians, producers, and songwriters with authentic acoustic drum sounds that inspire creativity right out of the box. The discussion also covers: The origins of the “automatic drummer” concept The painstaking process of recording and tuning hundreds of drum hits Collaborations with top engineers like Brendan Dekora The evolving role of AI in music creation and how Drumatica plans to use it Why capturing every nuance of a performance still matters in the digital age Whether you’re a drummer, producer, or recording enthusiast, this episode offers a fascinating look at the art, science, and obsession behind modern drum sampling. 🎵 Learn more at: www.Drumatica.com and www.darrellthorp.com/ Save 30% with code drumhistory30
4 Nov 1h 8min
A Look at the Gear of Steve Gadd (Part 1) with Paul Wells
In this episode of Drum History, we take an in-depth look at the legendary gear of Steve Gadd, one of the most recorded and influential drummers of all time. Our returning guest, Paul Wells (Juilliard jazz faculty, Curtis Stigers, Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks), joins host Bart van der Zee for another ultra-detailed “gear episode” exploring the drums that shaped Gadd’s sound across his incredible career. Part 1 covers from Childhood to 1989. From his early Gretsch and Rogers kits to the iconic Yamaha setup that became synonymous with his style, we trace how each era of his gear evolved — and how innovations like his tom configurations, hi-hat preferences, and snare choices influenced generations of drummers. Paul also shares insights from his exclusive interview with Steve Gadd, arranged with help from John DeChristopher (Live From My Drum Room), and stories from Artie Smith, Steve’s longtime drum tech. Links and resources: 📘 Steve Gadd: A Life in Time by Joe Bergamini (Hudson Music) https://amzn.to/3KvLSP9 🥁 Gaddiments – Steve’s book of modern rudimental exercises https://amzn.to/4h4rgd2 🎥 Ruben van Roon’s YouTube channel for rare Steve Gadd performances and breakdowns https://www.youtube.com/@RubenvanRoonDrumChannel and of course, Live from My Drum Room with John DeChristopher https://www.youtube.com/@livefrommydrumroom If you love deep gear history, detailed analysis, and legendary drumming stories, this is one you won’t want to miss. Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Steve Gadd overview 2:30 – Early Gretsch kits and childhood setup 10:00 – Rogers kits, The Hustle, and the disco era 20:00 – Army years & rare cymbal stories 28:00 – Yamaha era and gear innovations 45:00 – Interview with Steve Gadd preview 55:00 – Books, resources & legacy 🎙️ Hosted by Bart van der Zee 🎵 Guest: Paul Wells https://www.youtube.com/@paulwells2227
7 Okt 2h 10min
Your Mind’s Ear: Dave Elitch on Sound, Gear, and Playing Without Pain
Drummer and educator Dave Elitch (The Mars Volta, Weezer, Miley Cyrus) joins me to break down why so many drummers hit a ceiling—and how to fix it with better mechanics, smarter practice, and choices that actually translate to the kit. We dig into eliminating hidden tension, building sustainable speed and feel, practical tuning and muffling, and Dave’s new course Your Mind’s Ear on dialing in sound and gear (launching September 8, 2025). Highlights The #1 mistake: building speed on top of tension—and how to unwind it Meeting players where they are: playing “more you” without pain Social media vs. reality: flashy techniques that won’t hold up on a gig Practical tuning & muffling (heads, dampening, avoiding dead drums) Small daily habits that prevent injury and compound progress Find Dave Website/Courses: www.daveelitch.com Instagram: @daveelitch Follow Drum History Subscribe for more deep dives on drumming and music history.
12 Aug 48min
How To Pronounce the Tough Drum Brand Names with Eric Leiderman
Ever wondered if you’ve been saying Tama, Paiste, or Sonor correctly? You’re not alone! In this episode, Late Night with Seth Meyers producer and friend to all drummer's, Eric Leiderman joins the show to settle the debate on how to pronounce some of the most commonly mispronounced drum brands. We break down the correct pronunciations of brands like Ludwig, Zildjian, Meinl, Sabian, Canopus, Trixon, Gretsch, and more, with recordings from the companies themselves.! Whether you’re a seasoned drummer or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen to make sure you’re saying these legendary names the right way. Tune in and never mispronounce Paiste again! Follow Eric on social media at @erx11
4 Feb 1h 4min
Drumming Insights: A look at "Drummers on Drumming" with Ben Hilzinger
We are joined by Ben Hilzinger, professional drummer and author of Drummers on Drumming, to explore the stories behind the records that shaped the legends of the drumming world. Ben shares his experiences performing with bands like Cannons and Eve 6, hosting his acclaimed podcast, and diving into the journeys of iconic and up-and-coming drummers through his book. Discover the challenges, inspirations, and unique philosophies that define what it means to be a drummer today. Whether you're a seasoned percussionist, an aspiring player, or just someone who loves great music, this interview is packed with insights to inspire your musical journey. Don't miss this engaging conversation with a creative force in the drumming community! 📖 Purchase Drummers on Drumming: https://amzn.to/4gYwZ2Y 🎧 Connect with Ben: https://benhilzinger.com/ or on social media @benhilzinger ** CHECK OUT MY GEAR ON SWEETWATER ** https://imp.i114863.net/yRYRGN ** 30 DAY FREE DRUMEO TRIAL ** https://drumeo.pxf.io/c/3607735/1268414/14652 **JOIN PATREON** https://www.patreon.com/drumhistorypodcast **I record interviews with Riverside.FM - I highly recommend it. Here is my affiliate link: https://riverside.fm/?via=bart-vanderzee
21 Jan 1h 3min
The History of How We Buy Drums with Gerry Porter
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating history and evolution of buying and selling drums with special guest Gerry Porter of Hazelshould.com. From the dapper beginnings of mom-and-pop drum shops in bustling cities to the rise of mail-order catalogs that revolutionized access to musical instruments, we trace the industry's transformation. We'll explore how massive retailers like Guitar Center and Sam Ash brought drums to the masses and discuss how platforms like eBay and Reverb.com shifted the marketplace entirely online. Gerry Porter brings his deep insights and expertise to this episode. Don’t miss his thoughtful takes on how these changes have shaped the way drummers find and sell gear today. Check out Gerry Porter's website for everything you could ever need or want for your drum set: www.hazelshould.com
24 Dec 20241h 12min
Finding a New Rhythm: Ryan Dusick on Life After Maroon 5
In this episode, we dive deep into the extraordinary journey of Ryan Dusick, the original drummer for Maroon 5. Ryan shares his experiences of rising to fame with one of the world’s most popular bands, the mental health and substance struggles that forced him to step away, and his remarkable path to recovery. We discuss how he rebuilt his life, found a new purpose as a therapist, and authored his powerful memoir Harder to Breathe. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and creating a new rhythm in life. Learn more about Ryan here: https://www.ryandusick.com/ Purchase "Harder to Breathe" here: https://amzn.to/3VwzsZE
10 Dec 202447min
A Deep Dive into Shakers with William Johnson
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of shakers, one of the most versatile and underrated percussive instruments! In this episode, we dive into the origins of shakers, their unique classifications, and a variety of playing techniques. Whether you’re a percussion enthusiast or a curious music lover, you’ll gain insights into how these simple instruments add rhythm and texture to music around the globe. Our special guest, William Johnson, brings his extensive expertise and passion for percussion to the conversation. With over 25 years of experience as a performer, composer, and educator, William has recorded on more than two dozen albums, collaborated with award-winning artists, and produced music featured on networks like TLC, Univision, and Discovery. A former Air Force member with a Master’s in Ethnomusicology, William draws inspiration from his Latin heritage and global travels to create and teach diverse musical styles. Discover the art and rhythm of shakers in this engaging discussion! Check out more about William here: Website: www.williamjohnsonmusic.com Social Media: @williamjohnsonmusic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WilliamJohnsonmusic
26 Nov 202452min
