What's the best drumming advice you've ever gotten? For me, the most impactful piece of advice came at a time when I needed it most – a time that could have spelled the end of my drumming career.

The Gig (Almost) Gone Wrong

We all experience moments that make us question our abilities. For me, it was my first professional gig. The thrill of the lights, the roar of the crowd – it was everything I'd dreamed of. But a dark secret gnawed at me: my skills simply weren't good enough.

The frustration on my bandmates' faces was undeniable. My sloppy fills, shaky timing – it was clear I wasn't cutting it.The whispers of a replacement drummer started swirling, and the fear of losing everything hit me hard.

The Turning Point: Enter Col

Fear can be a powerful motivator. I wasn't ready to give up on my drumming dreams. That's when I decided to take a leap of faith and seek professional help. Enter Col Gillies, a drumming legend and phenomenal teacher.

The Rude Awakening (and the Start of Something Great)

Now, I'd never had drum lessons before. Naive and a little cocky, I wasn't sure what to expect. But Col had other plans.He didn't waste time with pleasantries. He sat me down, sticks in hand, and told me to play something. What followed was a blunt but honest assessment: "You don't know s**t!"

Ouch. While confronting, it was exactly what I needed. That moment wasn't the end; it was the beginning of a great friendship and drumming mentorship that's spanned decades.

The Core: The Foundation of Great Drumming

Col's most valuable advice? Focus on building my core skills. He emphasized that a strong foundation would allow me to tackle any style of music, any tempo, any groove. Fast, slow, loud, soft, complex, or simple – it all came down to having the fundamentals nailed down.

The Advice That Keeps On Giving

Col's advice wasn't just about that first lesson; it's been a guiding principle throughout my drumming career. Strong core skills have allowed me to explore different genres, push my boundaries, and become a more versatile and well-rounded drummer.

What's Your Golden Drumming Tip?

Every drummer has received a piece of advice that changed their game. What's the golden nugget of wisdom that's made a difference in your drumming journey? Share your stories in the comments below! Let's create a treasure trove of drumming knowledge and keep this community grooving together.