The Personality Traits of a Drummer

For whatever reason, certain people and personality types are drawn to certain instruments. Not to generalise, but it’s fair to say that we think of guitarists, vocalists, bassists, keyboardists and drummers in a certain way - whether the clichés are accurate or not. In this article, we take a look at some of the characteristics that are associated with a quintessential drummer. Or a certain persona comes up in my mind when we think of one.

So what are these basic characteristics of a drummer? Let's find out!

Often overlooked by many fans and regularly the butt of jokes for their fellow musicians, being a drummer is a tough role play, making drummers some of the wackiest, outrageous and gifted musicians of the lot.

The Unnoticed yet Massively Talented One

Most often, these fine gifted and talented musicians go unnoticed in bands, which is really a shame. Throughout the history of rock and roll, we’ve often seen drummers singled out and the first member of a band to be replaced when something goes wrong. Most of the times he is the one to be blamed for everything that went wrong.

All the other members are going out, the quite 'unpopular' one in the band might be left behind. Have a press-conference, the drummer guy just keeps shut the whole time and sits in a corner. Be that as it may, the modern drummer’s character has emerged through rock evolution to become a unique individual.

The Dedication Level Never Lacks

    

Source: pixabay.com

It takes true dedication towards the instrument to become a drummer. Knowing that they will fill a position that more often than not will take them out off the limelight that many singers and lead guitarists will find while reaching popularity, a drummer may over-compensate with a ridiculous amount of drums and a canny knack for adding as many drum fills to a song as possible. Because they are out of the spotlight, some drummers will do whatever it takes to get their talent noticed!

A True Leader

Source: metallica.com

He keeps the band sane when other band mates try to kill each other. He is the referee in these arguments and with his natural ability to keep a good rhythm, can offer steady calming measures to keep the band on track. While setting behind the drum kits a drummer practically leads the band from the front not just by keeping the tempo right and collaborating with the bassist, he actually keep the tempo right off stage also. For example since the formation of the band Lars Ulrich has been keeping his hold strong on Metallica.

Unique Physical Appearance 

Source: wikipedia.org

Being the band member that exerts the most physical movement, it is often the case that you will find the ‘technician’ drummer fully decked out in wristbands, headbands, and the ubiquitous towel over the shoulder as well as the easy-grip gloves he actually needs to wear. With custom long hair, black tee and jeans this breed of drummer may look like a Tour de France contestant, but will do the job perfectly keeping the tempo right no matter what.

So even though the lead guitarist may try to confuse a drummer with a piece of sheet music every now and then, the drummer is a breed of musician that is unparalleled in determination and skill of beating things with sticks as any other musician can be judged on. With a list of famous drummers that took over their original bands to become some of the most famous musicians on the planet in their own right - band members should value their drummers and allow them a few ‘personality’ digressions before looking for a replacement.


If you think you have this level of dedication and passion for drumming what are you waiting for? Pay a visit to Drummers Paradise today to find the best suited drum set for you and get started!