If I could go back in time, I think I would tell my 14-year old self to spend a lot more time focusing on “tone” and “groove.” Those are two subtle concepts that are difficult for a young student to keep in mind. As up-and-coming drummers, we are overwhelmed with the tasks of “improving our chops” and “learning new styles.” That is all very important, but “tone” and “groove” are things that make drummers sound “next-level” professional.

I would also sit my young self down and go over a bit of the business of music. Not too much (because ignorance is bliss), but a little bit of awareness would have helped me navigate some tough situations along the way.

There is not much that I would have done differently with a second chance. However, I might have worked more on my piano, bass, and guitar playing, and I would have started earlier studying composition, production, and engineering. There are never enough hours in the day!