X8 Drums Blog

As the protest in New York City and across the country continues, the controversy over the drumming and drummers continues to serve as a focal point for the entire movement. This protest, almost two months strong, has garnered the attention of people across the globe, including politicians, athletes, musicians and celebrities. Many see the drummers and rhythm as a symbol of the momentum of the movement, while others believe that the protest is little more than a chance for …

Snowboy shows how embracing your own musical talent can lead to success. You don't have to be the fastest or most technically skilled drummer to make a mark. It is more about understanding your groove and creating music that is unique to that. Latin American roots are not a requirement for becoming a Latin Jazz star. And Mark Cotgrove, better known as Snowboy, is proof. This DJ turned drummer made way for Latin Jazz in the United Kingdom and has become one of the UK's to …

There you are, minding your own business, when you notice flashing blue lights in your rear view mirror. You think to yourself, “Was I speeding? Why am I being pulled over?” and then go through the hundreds of possible traffic violations you may have committed while innocently driving down the road. Once you are safely pulled off to the side of the road, the officer approaches and asks if you’ve been drinking. “No, sir, I don’t drink and drive,” is a likely response to the officer’s q …

It takes passion to keep with something in the face of tremendous obstacles, and it takes class to keep going with style. That sums up Roberto Quintero in a nutshell. Quintero comes from a family of musicians; he doesn't sit idly on their coat tails to reach success as a Drummer. Roberto has pushed his way up through the music industry on his own merits working through adversity along the way. Bringing authentic Venezuelan beats, he represents the next generation of talented h …

In a world of sampling and synthesizers, there are some that might ask the question: do we still need percussionists? These people haven’t met Manuel Corao. Corao, best known by his stage name Papayo, is rapper Pitbull’s resident percussionist. Pitbull’s band has a full time drummer allowing Papayo the freedom to really explore what the other members of the percussion family can offer this hip-hop crew. But to call him a hip-hop performer would not do justice to this drummer. Pa …

In addition to the different rhythms that make the music world go ‘round, there is always an element of creativity and style in any performance, drum jam or drum circle that reflects the personality of the drummer. For those who have experienced the mastery of drumming rudiments, there is a noticeable difference between the connection a drummer has to his or her instrument while practicing the basics, versus when that same drummer is performing or in the mix of the drum circle vibe. But, d …

The rhythm swells as the orchestra’s frenzy reaches top impact, and you find yourself utterly entranced by the pounding of the timpani drums, the crash of the cymbals and the entire experience of being embraced by music. There is music, there is good music, and then there is music that is life-changing, and much of that experience is derived from the rhythm. As we begin to look toward National Music Day on June 21, the most important question we can think to ask any drummer or percussionis …

Djembe drums are some of the most culturally significant and versatile hand drums available today. Whether as a hobby, or for professional playing, the Djembe creates a sound that reflects the artist’s individual style as well as the entire culture of modern and original Djembe players. Considered a feminine essence, the Djembe has a special place in the ceremonies and celebrations of West African cultures that blends beautifully within modern, world music, as well as a …

After the monumental success of 1994’s The Lion King, Disney looked to Broadway to keep the magic alive. The producers turned to director Julie Taymor whose vision for the musical took the majesty of the movie and then exploded it out into a stunning experience that engulfs the entire theatre. The story of The Lion King takes place on the African savannah and the original creative team for the film did extensive research into the area and included many cultural and natural e …

Recently, I started participating in a local drum circle at the YMCA. I had participated before in drum circles, but hadn't been able to lately. I asked my Mom if she wanted to go and she was hooked. I think the main benefit I get from drumming at drum circles is stress relief. I have a high stress job and when I get to go to the drum circle once a month, it puts my mind at ease for a few hours. I feel like I am in a trance and all my worries float away. My favorite part of the drum jam is …