News
Keep up to date with the drum world via news items, interviews, lists, and more
Renowned Drummer Aaron Spears Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Rhythm and Inspiration
Aaron’s passing was confirmed by his family, who issued the following statement via Instagram: “It is with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness that I share the news of the passing of my beloved husband, Aaron Spears. Aaron was not…
When We Were Young Festival: A Nostalgic Journey with Pop-Punk Legends
What happens when you bring together over 50+ bands, featuring some of the biggest and most influential Pop-Punk & Punk-Rock artists from the '90s and early '00s, alongside today's emerging acts? You get the When We Were Young Festival, a…
When We Were Young Festival Pre-Show Extravaganza: Rocking Las Vegas!
Before and after the When We Were Young Festival in Las Vegas, NV, a series of pre- and after-shows added to the excitement. One of the standout events occurred at the Brooklyn Bowl on the evening prior to the festival's…
Dream Theater's Founding Drummer Mike Portnoy Rejoins the Band After a 13-Year Hiatus
Mike Portnoy Rejoins Dream Theater In a monumental move, Dream Theater has officially welcomed back their founding drummer, Mike Portnoy, after a remarkable 13-year absence from the iconic progressive metal band. This significant development coincides with the departure of his…
Red Hot Chili Peppers' Unforgettable Night at the Silverlake Conservatory of Music Benefit
For 40 years, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have been a significant part of the Los Angeles music scene. With the return of guitarist John Frusciante, the band released their first number one album, Unlimited Love, since 2006's Stadium Arcadium…
Peter Gabriel's "i/o" Tour: A Night of Iconic Music and Timeless Performances
A few words that come to mind when you think of Peter Gabriel are icon, legend, visionary, genius, and pioneer. Last Saturday night, on October 14th, Gabriel's "i/o" tour made a stop at the Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, CA.…
Ohana Festival 2023: Recap + Photo Gallery
Photo by Alex Kluft Eddie Vedder's annual Ohana Festival took place from September 29th to October 1st for the eighth time (2020 was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic) at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, CA. Past lineups…
Coldplay's Two-Night Takeover at Snapdragon Stadium: See Photos And Read Our Coverage
Since the release of Parachutes in 2000, Coldplay has become one of the biggest bands globally and in 2015 had the 3rd highest-grossing tour of all time with A Head Full of Dreams. After five years off the road and…
This Week in Drumming: October 6th
by Paolo Ragusa With a new issue of Modern Drummer out in the world, we're happy to be back — here's what went down in the drumming world this week. Modern Drummer's October 2023 Issue: Out Now! Our October 2023 issue is…
Russell Batiste Jr., New Orleans Drummer, Dies at 57
Russell Batiste Jr., the renowned drummer for The funky Meters and several other groups, died of a heart attack on Saturday, September 30th at his home in LaPlace, Louisiana at the age 57. Born David Russell Batiste Jr., he was…
Dom Famularo Honored with Modern Drummer, Neil Peart Lifetime Achievement Award
In a heartwarming tribute to the late Neil Peart, famed drummer and educator Dom Famularo has been posthumously awarded the Modern Drummer Neil Peart Lifetime Achievement Award for 2023. This prestigious award recognizes Famularo's profound contributions to the world of…
Drumming Legend, Dom Famularo Has Passed Away
In Memory of Dom Famularo August 26, 1953 - September 27, 2023 Today, the drumming world mourns the loss of a true legend. Dom Famularo, the heartbeat of our community, has passed away. With profound sadness, we reflect on the…
2023 Readers Poll: Kristina Rybalchenko Wins "Social Media / Streaming"
The winner of the "Social Media/Streaming" category in Modern Drummer's 2023 Readers Poll is... Kristina Rybalchenko! With 773k Instagram followers and 998k on TikTok, Rybalchenko significantly boosted her profile this year by consistently sharing her prowess behind the kit. She’s…
Readers Poll 2023: Paulina "Pau" Villarreal Vélez Wins "Up and Coming"
The winner of the "Up and Coming" category in Modern Drummer's 2023 Readers Poll is... Paulina "Pau" Villarreal Vélez! Villareal Vélez and her rock band The Warning made a major impression throughout the last year. With her sisters by her side,…
