Cream rises to the top David. I’m twice your age and play classical trumpet but I really enjoy your videos. You’ve got the chops, the work ethic and the right attitude. I’ve no doubt you will achieve your goals musically, personally and professionally. Keep up the great videos and I look forward to your lollapalooza vlog.
these are the best comments to receive. To make someone happy who doesn't play the instrument showcased. I found this quite encouraging, even on my end. Thanks for posting.
Thank you for keeping it REAL. As a "weekend warrior" (guy who plays in a cover band for fun) for many years, I appreciate you saying these things to all the younger kids who think they're going to be famous and be rich by getting an opening slot on some side stage at a local festival. My band is all musicians that have been doing it for years and we make good money doing casinos, weddings, larger clubs, etc. We are all in our 40's-50's and nobody is trying to be famous at this point in our lives with families/kids/9-5 jobs. Thanks for mentioning Church as well. I am also a Worship Leader at a local Church. Not only is is a little side money, but it's a good thing to use your talent to serve Him. I do however, always in the back of my head wonder what would have happened if I actually WORKED like you have been doing and taking the chances like you are taking back in my 20's. You are a top notch player and have a great head on your shoulders. I love your videos and am rooting for you, not to be famous, etc. But to be able to continue what you are doing and get the recognition AND $$ you deserve. Keep doing what you're doing and putting this content out there. I subscribed just so I can maybe help a little in your journey.
David, I wish I had made the career choice of being a drummer when I was 18. I am 48 now. Family, mortgage etc. I am happy, but boy-oh-boy you are in a great point in your life. Don't throw it away dude. Stick with it!
Do it as a hobby. I'm 75 and I restarted at 60 after a 30 year break. Learning more now than I did 50 years ago. Digital kits have solved the noise prob.
@@MikeNewland Wow Mike, I’m just turned 52, bought a Roland kit and restarted my drumming journey after a 30 year break! I’d like to get to the point where I’m playing weddings, pubs, clubs and who knows what else. Plenty of live music in Ireland! I’m just kicking myself for taking such a long break, but life, small apartments, kids and work got in the way. Good luck with your journey!
Congrats man! You're a true talent. So many less skilled drummers have made it huge, while well rounded, schooled, talented........drummers struggle. Your hookups from school will pay off. Hang in there!
Great video David. I’ve quickly become a huge fan. I am a 52 year old professional drummer. I do this for a living. The struggle is real and so is the HUSTLE. As you already well know, multiple revenue streams is the key!! I am late to the TH-cam, Instagram scene but thanks to guys like you, I’m learning. Keep up the great work!! You Da Man
You seem like such a nice genuine person. The kind of guy anyone would feel comfortable having a beer with. That's why your TH-cam channel is growing. I hope you stay that way once you hit the big time! Also, what are you doing to lose weight? I could use some pointers.
Alfonso Linguini haha I’m always down to have a drink 😂. Keep me in check if I get cocky. For my weight I’m really focused on what I eat and my calorie intake, and lots of cardio, haha.
Hi David, I graduated from Temple University back in 1983 with a classical guitar performance degree. I have been playing and making a living with music ever since. I just want to say that I wish you all the best and and the hope for a great future ahead. I have seen your past videos and have been very impressed not only by your playing but also your attitude and personality. My only advice would be to stay true to yourself and remember that you are a human being before you are a musician. The better you are as a human being- the better musician you will be. Good luck!
Homie thanks so much for just being real man!! I’m super pumped to see how everything turns out. Keep killing it homie and know your not alone in all of this!
You’re in the “paying your dues” phase of your career. It’s frustrating I know. Heck even the phrase “paying your dues” used to piss me off. I kept working and despite the setbacks along the way I’m just starting to really get where I want in my career. I’m 35 and just getting started with my own business. Keep fighting. Use your struggles and setbacks as a badge of honor and a motivational tool. Keep up the work and it will payoff in the end. Maybe in the way you might have thought but we are all on our own path.
Hey David! Just want to say that you have inspired me dude. I am a United States Marine currently in Okinawa, Japan. I love music, more specifically playing drums. I used to play a bit at church before I joined about 4 years ago. Ive always wanted to be an ELITE drummer just like you and I always knew about Berklee. I am thinking about going to Berklee and you have certainly helped guide me in that direction! Keep going man!
I would advise you to spend some money on a rehearsal space and lessons instead of throwing down for Berkley. It's an insane amount of money and if you have the drive you can learn all you need online and not be in debt for years
SUCCESS only comes before WORK when you’re looking in a dictionary. You gotta put that work in and you are doing that and then some. Your honesty is inspiring and more people need to talk about the reality of being a drummer with social media influence and how much actually goes on behind the camera lens..good and bad. I’m all about it and really enjoyed this insightful video. Keep it up, man. Stay positive! Stay healthy!
This video = Frank and Fam...Frank and familiar conversation expressed openly, sincerely and effectively! Deepness leads to greatness. You earned and deserve all the great results David.🥁🎵✈
David I have been playing drums for Almost 50 yrs! Professionally for over 35 yrs, Performing and teaching. I like you attended music school in Canada and the USA. I’ve had so many ups and downs it’s insane! This pandemic killed my live playing/touring so I had to find news way to make $$ to survive as being a musician is all I e ever known. Thanks to guys like you I came to realize TH-cam is a viable way to make some bread and have fun teaching and playing. Thanks for your great videos. Keep the faith stay strong I completely understand your pain. I’ve played thousands of shows, every gig small bars, large bars, cruise ships, theatres, festivals you name it. Money can flow incredibly at times and tap shut off completely at other times. I’m with you bro as a lifetime 57 yr old pro. Stay strong 💪 thanks for being you!
I´ve never seen your content until now, David. I enjoyed a lot the information you share and the emotion you communicate through the video. Greetings from México!
Great video David and thanks for your honesty. LA is indeed very expensive, still have family living there. About the touring thing, when you’re on the road for a while all the little In town gigs will be taken by others and when you’re back you have to start from scratch. (Speaking out of experience). But if that’s what you want, good luck and have fun. Looking forward to your next video.
Thanks, David, I think. :-) You just brought back my early days of playing lead guitar in an original rock band -- recording, gigging bars, clubs, theaters and resorts, etc. It was literally the hardest experience of my life… yet somehow exhilarating and fun at the same time. Survival was the name of the game, especially when dealing with all the bandmate / booking / manager BS, low pay and travel. We were paid about $500 / 4-day week each, with paid expenses like food and lodging. It was just enough to keep us in the game but after the bar tab, kept us broke too. The main thing I remember (after a couple decades of it), was how fabulous it was on stage and being with the fans afterward, where you would try to keep up an air of coolness and energy so you didn’t come off boring… juxtaposed with abject poverty and some mild-to-heavy depression from feeling temporary, always in transit. It’s a super challenging business. But writing and recording / performing the music was what kept the pathway lit up. We were always running toward that bright promising star, never believing it was lightyears away. “Just one song could do it for us”. But it was always the promotion that counted. Being good simply wasn’t good enough if you were unwilling to promote yourself like a mad dog in heat! Thanks again, David, for bringing that all back for me. Waiting eagerly for your next awesome vid!! Long Live Band-Maid!!!
hey david im really inspired by your music and your videos. my dad is a professional musician and he has his own school and ever since i was about 4 i started playing piano and ive wanted to be a musician since, i also dribble in guitar and drums and i hope to make it someday as a professional musician. im i am 13 and im currently going in to grade 8. Keep up the great videos man. YOU'RE AWESOME!!!
Congrats dude!!! Love the videos and good luck with LA and building your music career!!! You got the right ideas and your smart about you outlook on everything. You also got chops!!! Your a Great drummer bro and you'll get a great touring gig soon enough. Wish you the best David!!!
Hey David! Appreciate the openness and honesty. Keep on going! There are not many people who can say they’re doing what they love for a living. You’re right about the process and making your way trough the stages. You’ll get to that end goal. It’ll just take perseverance, which you clearly have. One thing you might consider is setting SMART objectives. Instead of saying ‘my goal is to grow my TH-cam channel’, say ‘I want to reach 50k subscribers by November this year. It gives you that clear target to shoot for! Sincerely, all the best
Thank you for outlining the reality of being a drummer and trying to make ends meet. I've had to work all kinds of jobs to make things work as a drummer while attending school. So stoked for you though congrats on landing the Lolla gig!!
Hey Dave hope all is well, just want to say; keep going man!! You're an awesome musician!!!! We all enjoy your content and appreciate the honest update!
such a dope video man. super inspiring seeing someone go to school and then move to la to live out their dreams no matter what. I got my music school audition soon and its dope to see someone document their journey to be a professional drummer in la which is my ultimate goal too
David, thanks for sharing your struggles+successes! I can definitely relate! Currently going into my 3rd year of music school, and trying to make a living out of different revenue streams. Playing at 3 churches (most consistent gig ever!) , doing some video/photo gigs on the side, teaching lessons..etc. it’s really hard sometimes but at the end of the day it’s all worth it because we get to play music for a living! Keep up the great work and good content! Hope we’ll meet someday when you’re back in OH (I’m from Columbus 😏)
This friend of mine made a career of being a musician and playing the drums. Out of all of his ups and downs and there have been a lot of them he never regretted making the decision to do what he really loved.It sounds like you have the work ethic and the tools to make your dreams come true. So go for it David and do what you love doing: " you play the drums".
Thanks for sharing your real life and showing what it's actually like in the music industry, it was really interesting and was great just hearing you talk about all of this stuff! I agree that it may not be the best if you're not getting paid for the gig, but also, you don't know who may find you from that gig, and who may want to work with you in the future as they've seen you there! I'm a sound engineer, and a few years ago, I volunteered to help out as a stage hand at a gig locally. A year later, the band reached out to me and asked me to do a tour with them (paid more than double what I usually get for gigs). This really opened my eyes to how much it's about networking to be able to get to the money, you sometimes have to make sacrifices! Keep up the good work!
its been great watching the journey your on...i took the no schooling learning by ear and working as a weekend rock warrior for a long time.then i did do the whole pro thing for about 5 years and found all the same pitfalls as you did and more.......you have a great talent and im so impressed with your skills.Great job and keep it up :)
Hello David ... just discovered your videos ... like one of your previous commenters I am a 70 year old musician and am enjoying a peep into your thoughts ... seems to me you have a lot going for you; talent, preparation, a supportive family, youth, energy, a great persona in general ... even though the scene was quite different for those from my era it seems that one thing remains the same ... a lot of 'being in the right place at the right place at the right time' still applies when it comes to making it as a musician ... call it fate, luck, chance or whatever .. it is still a big part of the equation IMHO ... don't have any particular advice other than to say hang in there young brother and may you be one of the lucky ones who can make a decent living without being stuck on a cruise ship or in a classroom ... if so you will be among a very small percentage who, perhaps by chance more than anything else, were at the right place at the right time with the right stuff ... you never know when one of those low paying/no paying gigs will be the one that connects you to that big break ... so while you are young and can absorb the 'dues' more readily keep on truckin' my man !
Big fan man 💯...glad you made it away from the cruise gigs ..I’m currently playing on holland America ships now only Difference is we get our own guest cabins ..can’t wait to get home 😂😂💯
You are doing all the right things. Just keep going. Keep a good attitude and as long as you're satisfied with your performance, no matter how big or small it is perceived it's a job & a joy. That is what matters the most. Thanks
Hey man keep it lit I’m living your dream through mine, awe 26yrs playing self thought but my hands are not fast but I’ve been around Europe gigging consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity. I’m still trying to improve, love your vids love your playing keep up the great work, your an inspiration dude. Irish drummer.
Hi David, love your videos! I'm a 52-year-old drummer for hire in L.A. You are doing all the right things man and more! You are at the PERFECT age and GREAT player. I would love to use you as a sub someday for one of my south bay gigs ( the same money you were talking about in this video. haha). I know L.A. is your dream, but I totally see you someday living in Nashville where there seems to be a shit ton of tour work and recording work.....and MUCH cheaper to live! I also spin a LOT of plates so I can keep doing it. All the Best, Gregg
Thanks for commenting that you are working towards becoming a Professional Musician. A lot of local musicians think they're professional musicians because they get paid a small amount for playing a very low level gig or even getting a combo meal. It's ridiculous. And especially considering all that you have done and how hard you worked to get where you are at now.
You're a great inspiration for young musicians. Your work ethic is second to none and you are wise beyond your years. Now that you live in LA, you should reach out to Bob Reynolds. Your videos and ideals are very similar to his. Maybe you guys might gel well together.
David, you’re a huge inspiration! Thanks for sharing as I feel like I have the same struggles as you have mentioned in this video. You’re doing REALLY great so far, honestly. Just wanted to drop that I am heading out to LA next week for a trip but wanna reach out to you if you wanna hang at some point while I’m there. I’ve been using Ableton for more than 10 years and I can help you with running tracks, sending out timecode (for lights/videos) or midi program changes (for guitar pedals/amp modelers), etc. Anything you want to learn for the Lollapooza gig). Hit me up, dude. Your stuff is seriously awesome!
When you're just starting out, random and uncertain gigs are the way it goes. It can help if you put together a working cover band to pay the bills. The longer you stick with it the more you'll establish regular and predictable work. But, you're young enough, responsibility free enough, and have the chops to make it. Lots of people would love to be in your poor broke position :-)
Would love to take some instruction from you David..Hey when are we going to see your Berkeley auditions.. I did church gigs for 21 years . Got out of it around 2016..
Man, I feel you on a lot of this. I just graduated from school outside of NYC- it's a tough transition, but good things come from hard work! Thanks for the inspiration
Your best video ever. A talented young man that is putting in the work to be the best he can be. Excited to follow your journey to be a successful musician. Keep it up!
But best of all you’re doing what you set out to do.. I’m finding out now that there are a lot of last minute gigs . I get called weekly in fact just got one yesterday for next week,one 60 minute and one 90 minute..
You should talk about how the people around you that love you are the ones who are pitching for rent, cars, and equipment you might need... I don’t see that part of the journey talked about enough...
It is unfortunate that there are far fewer opportunities for musicians like there was pre-Napster (pre 1990). For any musicians that want to contrast how things are now versus how they were, check out various documentaries of rock n roll groups like The Last Waltz (the Band) or Tom Petty's documentary (two dvd's or cd's) and more. Many musicians are not realistic about going where the money is like corporate party bands where there is some money and you can still play in another band playing whatever music you want to play (and not make anything). You've played all type of music in various settings so you obviously know. I think you'll make it.
57 years old and I still have to rely on other income, like I had done for 25 years in corporate america. And the plan is, tomorrow, I have yet another place to hit up for a gig. And so it goes.
My GF's son works at the Ace Hotel rooftop bar. I think they have bands there, try to get into the high paying rooftop bar band gig. He makes good money---as a bartender. Don't know what the band is paid but I bet it isnt too bad.
Hi David, im in a band that got started a year ago, we have got a single out entitled 'burning' by County Pilots. all of this should be exciting and I feel we should be able to make it but I am losing inspiration to play, practice and create. any advice on either continuing or leaving it all behind? I'm dreaming big but it feels so far away. Any advice at all, I'd really appreciate it, thanks...
As with most everything, some valuable keys to success include passion, persistence, prioritization, and time management. Work hard at prioritizing your activities, and focus on those things which are going to truly benefit you, not the things that are simply fun. In other words, be careful not to waste your time on frivolous stuff. If you're not already, I highly recommend that you listen to the Drummer's Resource, Working Drummer, and Modern Drummer podcasts. One great example is the latest episode of the Drummer's Resource podcast which features an interview with Jason Sutter. It contains a ton of tips and hard facts for anyone trying to make it in the music business. www.drummersresource.com/jason-sutter-interview2/
Thank so much for being transparent about your journey! I myself am a drummer/keys player living in Seattle but I also work a full time job at a school (so I get summers off). The cost of living is very close to the same as LA. But I’ve had a lot of friends recommend me to LA and a lot of things you said have been my positives and negatives of moving there. Any words of advice on that? Also the “friends and fam” slogan/design is nice. I myself am trying to grow my TH-cam channel too. Could you possibly give feedback on my channel as well?
Cream rises to the top David. I’m twice your age and play classical trumpet but I really enjoy your videos. You’ve got the chops, the work ethic and the right attitude. I’ve no doubt you will achieve your goals musically, personally and professionally. Keep up the great videos and I look forward to your lollapalooza vlog.
paxmaac1 I appreciate the kind words! I look forward to doing my best and going for it full fledge! Thanks for watching!
these are the best comments to receive. To make someone happy who doesn't play the instrument showcased. I found this quite encouraging, even on my end. Thanks for posting.
I'm a 70 year old musician from the 60s and I never miss your videos you are succeeding and will reach all your goals because you got talent
I started in the 50s. It's a lifelong interest eh.
Thank you for keeping it REAL. As a "weekend warrior" (guy who plays in a cover band for fun) for many years, I appreciate you saying these things to all the younger kids who think they're going to be famous and be rich by getting an opening slot on some side stage at a local festival. My band is all musicians that have been doing it for years and we make good money doing casinos, weddings, larger clubs, etc. We are all in our 40's-50's and nobody is trying to be famous at this point in our lives with families/kids/9-5 jobs. Thanks for mentioning Church as well. I am also a Worship Leader at a local Church. Not only is is a little side money, but it's a good thing to use your talent to serve Him. I do however, always in the back of my head wonder what would have happened if I actually WORKED like you have been doing and taking the chances like you are taking back in my 20's. You are a top notch player and have a great head on your shoulders. I love your videos and am rooting for you, not to be famous, etc. But to be able to continue what you are doing and get the recognition AND $$ you deserve. Keep doing what you're doing and putting this content out there. I subscribed just so I can maybe help a little in your journey.
David, I wish I had made the career choice of being a drummer when I was 18. I am 48 now. Family, mortgage etc. I am happy, but boy-oh-boy you are in a great point in your life. Don't throw it away dude. Stick with it!
Do it as a hobby. I'm 75 and I restarted at 60 after a 30 year break. Learning more now than I did 50 years ago. Digital kits have solved the noise prob.
@@BuddhaofBlackpool Can you elaborate?
@@BuddhaofBlackpool how so?
@@BuddhaofBlackpool Interesting take, thanks for sharing 👍
@@MikeNewland Wow Mike, I’m just turned 52, bought a Roland kit and restarted my drumming journey after a 30 year break! I’d like to get to the point where I’m playing weddings, pubs, clubs and who knows what else. Plenty of live music in Ireland! I’m just kicking myself for taking such a long break, but life, small apartments, kids and work got in the way. Good luck with your journey!
Congrats man! You're a true talent. So many less skilled drummers have made it huge, while well rounded, schooled, talented........drummers struggle. Your hookups from school will pay off. Hang in there!
Great video David. I’ve quickly become a huge fan.
I am a 52 year old professional drummer. I do this for a living. The struggle is real and so is the HUSTLE.
As you already well know, multiple revenue streams is the key!!
I am late to the TH-cam, Instagram scene but thanks to guys like you, I’m learning.
Keep up the great work!!
You Da Man
You seem like such a nice genuine person. The kind of guy anyone would feel comfortable having a beer with. That's why your TH-cam channel is growing. I hope you stay that way once you hit the big time! Also, what are you doing to lose weight? I could use some pointers.
Alfonso Linguini haha I’m always down to have a drink 😂. Keep me in check if I get cocky. For my weight I’m really focused on what I eat and my calorie intake, and lots of cardio, haha.
So honest and open. That's refreshing! Keep your head up, David! A lot of people are rooting for you!
Awesome update and point in life! Keep reaching buddy and I know you will achieve any goal that you can dream of!
Hi David, I graduated from Temple University back in 1983 with a classical guitar performance degree. I have been playing and making a living with music ever since. I just want to say that I wish you all the best and and the hope for a great future ahead. I have seen your past videos and have been very impressed not only by your playing but also your attitude and personality. My only advice would be to stay true to yourself and remember that you are a human being before you are a musician. The better you are as a human being- the better musician you will be. Good luck!
Homie thanks so much for just being real man!! I’m super pumped to see how everything turns out. Keep killing it homie and know your not alone in all of this!
You’re in the “paying your dues” phase of your career. It’s frustrating I know. Heck even the phrase “paying your dues” used to piss me off. I kept working and despite the setbacks along the way I’m just starting to really get where I want in my career. I’m 35 and just getting started with my own business.
Keep fighting. Use your struggles and setbacks as a badge of honor and a motivational tool.
Keep up the work and it will payoff in the end. Maybe in the way you might have thought but we are all on our own path.
Hey David!
Just want to say that you have inspired me dude. I am a United States Marine currently in Okinawa, Japan. I love music, more specifically playing drums. I used to play a bit at church before I joined about 4 years ago. Ive always wanted to be an ELITE drummer just like you and I always knew about Berklee. I am thinking about going to Berklee and you have certainly helped guide me in that direction! Keep going man!
I would advise you to spend some money on a rehearsal space and lessons instead of throwing down for Berkley. It's an insane amount of money and if you have the drive you can learn all you need online and not be in debt for years
It's refreshing to hear some candid conversation about these things - thanks for sharing. I enjoy your content - keep it up, David!
Good for you man! You're a good drummer, don't forget that.
SUCCESS only comes before WORK when you’re looking in a dictionary. You gotta put that work in and you are doing that and then some. Your honesty is inspiring and more people need to talk about the reality of being a drummer with social media influence and how much actually goes on behind the camera lens..good and bad. I’m all about it and really enjoyed this insightful video. Keep it up, man. Stay positive! Stay healthy!
This video = Frank and Fam...Frank and familiar conversation expressed openly, sincerely and effectively! Deepness leads to greatness. You earned and deserve all the great results David.🥁🎵✈
David I have been playing drums for Almost 50 yrs! Professionally for over 35 yrs, Performing and teaching. I like you attended music school in Canada and the USA. I’ve had so many ups and downs it’s insane! This pandemic killed my live playing/touring so I had to find news way to make $$ to survive as being a musician is all I e ever known. Thanks to guys like you I came to realize TH-cam is a viable way to make some bread and have fun teaching and playing. Thanks for your great videos. Keep the faith stay strong I completely understand your pain. I’ve played thousands of shows, every gig small bars, large bars, cruise ships, theatres, festivals you name it. Money can flow incredibly at times and tap shut off completely at other times. I’m with you bro as a lifetime 57 yr old pro. Stay strong 💪 thanks for being you!
This was awesome! Thank you for always sharing such good content
I´ve never seen your content until now, David. I enjoyed a lot the information you share and the emotion you communicate through the video. Greetings from México!
Keep crushing it, man. Absolutely killin' it! Bummed I moved out before you moved to LA, but one day we'll jam!
Great video David and thanks for your honesty. LA is indeed very expensive, still have family living there. About the touring thing, when you’re on the road for a while all the little In town gigs will be taken by others and when you’re back you have to start from scratch. (Speaking out of experience). But if that’s what you want, good luck and have fun. Looking forward to your next video.
Keep the faith David, you're an amazing drummer and I'm sure you'll land a serious paying gig sooner rather than later
Thanks, David, I think. :-) You just brought back my early days of playing lead guitar in an original rock band -- recording, gigging bars, clubs, theaters and resorts, etc. It was literally the hardest experience of my life… yet somehow exhilarating and fun at the same time. Survival was the name of the game, especially when dealing with all the bandmate / booking / manager BS, low pay and travel. We were paid about $500 / 4-day week each, with paid expenses like food and lodging. It was just enough to keep us in the game but after the bar tab, kept us broke too.
The main thing I remember (after a couple decades of it), was how fabulous it was on stage and being with the fans afterward, where you would try to keep up an air of coolness and energy so you didn’t come off boring… juxtaposed with abject poverty and some mild-to-heavy depression from feeling temporary, always in transit.
It’s a super challenging business. But writing and recording / performing the music was what kept the pathway lit up. We were always running toward that bright promising star, never believing it was lightyears away. “Just one song could do it for us”. But it was always the promotion that counted. Being good simply wasn’t good enough if you were unwilling to promote yourself like a mad dog in heat! Thanks again, David, for bringing that all back for me. Waiting eagerly for your next awesome vid!!
Long Live Band-Maid!!!
I am with you bro! Stay strong and keep pursuing what you know is real! You are talented and have a lot of potential. Keep moving forward, brother.
Move to Nashville, where you can afford to live, and you're a bigger fish.
hey david im really inspired by your music and your videos. my dad is a professional musician and he has his own school and ever since i was about 4 i started playing piano and ive wanted to be a musician since, i also dribble in guitar and drums and i hope to make it someday as a professional musician. im i am 13 and im currently going in to grade 8. Keep up the great videos man. YOU'RE AWESOME!!!
you are amazing dude. I admire you very much!
I feel this video man, a lot of what's happening in my journey right now is quite similar! big up for the honesty man !
I love your mindset David. Keep grinding!
You're honesty is very refreshing.
Thanks for your honesty, faith and enthusiasm. Very inspiring:-)
Love your vids, love the honesty, and prayers up for you bro! Can't wait to see what's to come 🤘🏾🙏🏾
thanks for sharing! wish you all the best
Congrats dude!!! Love the videos and good luck with LA and building your music career!!! You got the right ideas and your smart about you outlook on everything. You also got chops!!! Your a Great drummer bro and you'll get a great touring gig soon enough. Wish you the best David!!!
bro! thanks for the openness dude. i apreaciate the stories and the BTS stories and the real stuff that happened in between the gigs.
You are very inspiring and the discipline that it takes to go through with this is immense. I appreciate you taking the time to make these videos
Congratulations on making it to Lollapalooza! thanks for sharing with us your journey!! keep grinding
Hey David! Appreciate the openness and honesty. Keep on going! There are not many people who can say they’re doing what they love for a living.
You’re right about the process and making your way trough the stages. You’ll get to that end goal. It’ll just take perseverance, which you clearly have.
One thing you might consider is setting SMART objectives. Instead of saying ‘my goal is to grow my TH-cam channel’, say ‘I want to reach 50k subscribers by November this year. It gives you that clear target to shoot for!
Sincerely, all the best
Greatly appreciate the transparency, man! I appreciate your willingness and courage to share it all. Great attitude dude!
Thank you for outlining the reality of being a drummer and trying to make ends meet. I've had to work all kinds of jobs to make things work as a drummer while attending school. So stoked for you though congrats on landing the Lolla gig!!
Jäger thanks a ton! I appreciate it a lot.
Hey Dave hope all is well, just want to say; keep going man!! You're an awesome musician!!!! We all enjoy your content and appreciate the honest update!
such a dope video man. super inspiring seeing someone go to school and then move to la to live out their dreams no matter what. I got my music school audition soon and its dope to see someone document their journey to be a professional drummer in la which is my ultimate goal too
Love your channel! you've actually inspired me to start my own channel! keeping grinding!
18:01-18:02 😮🤭 David you are such an inspiring person and I love your videos. You'll be on top one day!
You’ll get there David!!!
David, thanks for sharing your struggles+successes! I can definitely relate! Currently going into my 3rd year of music school, and trying to make a living out of different revenue streams. Playing at 3 churches (most consistent gig ever!) , doing some video/photo gigs on the side, teaching lessons..etc. it’s really hard sometimes but at the end of the day it’s all worth it because we get to play music for a living! Keep up the great work and good content! Hope we’ll meet someday when you’re back in OH (I’m from Columbus 😏)
Congrats on playing in Chicago David, very proud and happy happy for you 👌🏼💯 your going to kill it
This friend of mine made a career of being a musician and playing the drums. Out of all of his ups and downs and there have been a lot of them he never regretted making the decision to do what he really loved.It sounds like you have the work ethic and the tools to make your dreams come true. So go for it David and do what you love doing: " you play the drums".
Thanks for sharing your real life and showing what it's actually like in the music industry, it was really interesting and was great just hearing you talk about all of this stuff! I agree that it may not be the best if you're not getting paid for the gig, but also, you don't know who may find you from that gig, and who may want to work with you in the future as they've seen you there! I'm a sound engineer, and a few years ago, I volunteered to help out as a stage hand at a gig locally. A year later, the band reached out to me and asked me to do a tour with them (paid more than double what I usually get for gigs). This really opened my eyes to how much it's about networking to be able to get to the money, you sometimes have to make sacrifices! Keep up the good work!
You are very inspiring. Thank you for your honesty and openess. I write annual goal lists, too. They work.
Crushing your goals bro that's fantastic!
its been great watching the journey your on...i took the no schooling learning by ear and working as a weekend rock warrior for a long time.then i did do the whole pro thing for about 5 years and found all the same pitfalls as you did and more.......you have a great talent and im so impressed with your skills.Great job and keep it up :)
Follow the dream, brother! Never give up.
Hello David ... just discovered your videos ... like one of your previous commenters I am a 70 year old musician and am enjoying a peep into your thoughts ... seems to me you have a lot going for you; talent, preparation, a supportive family, youth, energy, a great persona in general ... even though the scene was quite different for those from my era it seems that one thing remains the same ... a lot of 'being in the right place at the right place at the right time' still applies when it comes to making it as a musician ... call it fate, luck, chance or whatever .. it is still a big part of the equation IMHO ... don't have any particular advice other than to say hang in there young brother and may you be one of the lucky ones who can make a decent living without being stuck on a cruise ship or in a classroom ... if so you will be among a very small percentage who, perhaps by chance more than anything else, were at the right place at the right time with the right stuff ... you never know when one of those low paying/no paying gigs will be the one that connects you to that big break ... so while you are young and can absorb the 'dues' more readily keep on truckin' my man !
Hey David thank you
In summary "Its difficult" haha keep it up man, it's no coincidence that 23k people are waiting to see your videos all of the time :)
Big fan man 💯...glad you made it away from the cruise gigs ..I’m currently playing on holland America ships now only Difference is we get our own guest cabins ..can’t wait to get home 😂😂💯
You're a great drummer and an Awesome guy. You're gonna make it big. Just remember this:"A drummer is a muscians best friend".
You are doing all the right things. Just keep going. Keep a good attitude and as long as you're satisfied with your performance, no matter how big or small it is perceived it's a job & a joy. That is what matters the most. Thanks
Hi David. Thanks for sharing. I think this is very practical info for anyone trying to pursue a music career anywhere. Enjoy Lollapolooza! 🎈
Hey man keep it lit I’m living your dream through mine, awe 26yrs playing self thought but my hands are not fast but I’ve been around Europe gigging consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity. I’m still trying to improve, love your vids love your playing keep up the great work, your an inspiration dude. Irish drummer.
Hi David, love your videos! I'm a 52-year-old drummer for hire in L.A. You are doing all the right things man and more! You are at the PERFECT age and GREAT player. I would love to use you as a sub someday for one of my south bay gigs ( the same money you were talking about in this video. haha). I know L.A. is your dream, but I totally see you someday living in Nashville where there seems to be a shit ton of tour work and recording work.....and MUCH cheaper to live! I also spin a LOT of plates so I can keep doing it. All the Best, Gregg
I feel a lot of positivity here!
I enjoy your videos and vlogs. I'm an old guy that likes good stuff like you post.
Yea brotha ! Get into the wedding and bar miztva sene for money 🤘🏽
feel ya. hang in there, u got this!
Thanks for commenting that you are working towards becoming a Professional Musician. A lot of local musicians think they're professional musicians because they get paid a small amount for playing a very low level gig or even getting a combo meal. It's ridiculous. And especially considering all that you have done and how hard you worked to get where you are at now.
You're a great inspiration for young musicians. Your work ethic is second to none and you are wise beyond your years. Now that you live in LA, you should reach out to Bob Reynolds. Your videos and ideals are very similar to his. Maybe you guys might gel well together.
Thank you for sharing!!
By the way, I really like you and your videos.
And you are an extremely good musician!
David, you’re a huge inspiration! Thanks for sharing as I feel like I have the same struggles as you have mentioned in this video. You’re doing REALLY great so far, honestly.
Just wanted to drop that I am heading out to LA next week for a trip but wanna reach out to you if you wanna hang at some point while I’m there. I’ve been using Ableton for more than 10 years and I can help you with running tracks, sending out timecode (for lights/videos) or midi program changes (for guitar pedals/amp modelers), etc. Anything you want to learn for the Lollapooza gig).
Hit me up, dude. Your stuff is seriously awesome!
Hah...just saw your story. I don’t keep up with festival dates. Have fun right now dude!!!
Stay the course!
When you're just starting out, random and uncertain gigs are the way it goes. It can help if you put together a working cover band to pay the bills. The longer you stick with it the more you'll establish regular and predictable work. But, you're young enough, responsibility free enough, and have the chops to make it. Lots of people would love to be in your poor broke position :-)
Would love to take some instruction from you David..Hey when are we going to see your Berkeley auditions.. I did church gigs for 21 years . Got out of it around 2016..
If I was a drummer I would definitely get lessons from you
Ever think of moving to Nashville? You can do the same things but much much cheaper 🤷🏽♂️
Man, I feel you on a lot of this. I just graduated from school outside of NYC- it's a tough transition, but good things come from hard work! Thanks for the inspiration
This is the Fun Part !
Fortune favours the brave brother.
Maybe you'll get an offer because of your playing lollapalooza. Why not? You're world class.
Web development might be something to look into!
thanks for this video - awesome
Great advice man!
"Bossa Nova standard brunch gig" 😂.
I was in LA last week . we should’ve chilled 🤙🏽
That’s crazy, I know Rhett! Small world!
Your best video ever. A talented young man that is putting in the work to be the best he can be. Excited to follow your journey to be a successful musician. Keep it up!
But best of all you’re doing what you set out to do.. I’m finding out now that there are a lot of last minute gigs . I get called weekly in fact just got one yesterday for next week,one 60 minute and one 90 minute..
Congrats David. Everyone (especially musicians) should have a side hustle, right?
You should talk about how the people around you that love you are the ones who are pitching for rent, cars, and equipment you might need... I don’t see that part of the journey talked about enough...
It is unfortunate that there are far fewer opportunities for musicians like there was pre-Napster (pre 1990). For any musicians that want to contrast how things are now versus how they were, check out various documentaries of rock n roll groups like The Last Waltz (the Band) or Tom Petty's documentary (two dvd's or cd's) and more. Many musicians are not realistic about going where the money is like corporate party bands where there is some money and you can still play in another band playing whatever music you want to play (and not make anything). You've played all type of music in various settings so you obviously know. I think you'll make it.
57 years old and I still have to rely on other income, like I had done for 25 years in corporate america.
And the plan is, tomorrow, I have yet another place to hit up for a gig. And so it goes.
My GF's son works at the Ace Hotel rooftop bar. I think they have bands there, try to get into the high paying rooftop bar band gig. He makes good money---as a bartender. Don't know what the band is paid but I bet it isnt too bad.
Hi David, im in a band that got started a year ago, we have got a single out entitled 'burning' by County Pilots. all of this should be exciting and I feel we should be able to make it but I am losing inspiration to play, practice and create. any advice on either continuing or leaving it all behind? I'm dreaming big but it feels so far away. Any advice at all, I'd really appreciate it, thanks...
see you there
As with most everything, some valuable keys to success include passion, persistence, prioritization, and time management. Work hard at prioritizing your activities, and focus on those things which are going to truly benefit you, not the things that are simply fun. In other words, be careful not to waste your time on frivolous stuff. If you're not already, I highly recommend that you listen to the Drummer's Resource, Working Drummer, and Modern Drummer podcasts. One great example is the latest episode of the Drummer's Resource podcast which features an interview with Jason Sutter. It contains a ton of tips and hard facts for anyone trying to make it in the music business. www.drummersresource.com/jason-sutter-interview2/
you are professional
Dude, you’re already a professional
Thank so much for being transparent about your journey! I myself am a drummer/keys player living in Seattle but I also work a full time job at a school (so I get summers off). The cost of living is very close to the same as LA. But I’ve had a lot of friends recommend me to LA and a lot of things you said have been my positives and negatives of moving there. Any words of advice on that? Also the “friends and fam” slogan/design is nice. I myself am trying to grow my TH-cam channel too. Could you possibly give feedback on my channel as well?