News
Keep up to date with the drum world via news items, interviews, lists, and more
Usher Halftime Show Features Empty Drum Set as Tribute to Aaron Spears
If you watched the halftime show during Super Bowl LVIII, you witnessed an energetic performance by mega-star Usher and a plethora of talented dancers. There were special appearances by Alicia Keys, Lil Jon, Ludacris and HER. The real treat for…
"Beatles on the Beach" Event with Cheap Trick, Gregg Bissonette All Star Band & More
Cheap Trick to headline the 2024 Beatles on The Beach Classic Rock Festival in Delray Beach, Florida January 24-28th. The event is a city-wide experience, with celebrity artist appearances at multiple participating venues that include clubs, restaurants, an amphitheater and…
Robby Ameen's Live From the Poster Museum Jazz Series
Drummer Robby Ameen, who was featured in the Modern Drummer March 2023 Issue, is kicking off his "Live From the Poster Museum Jazz Series" at The Poster Museum in Tribeca, NYC. The appearance commences today, January 11th, 2024, and will…
The Roots Spectacular Three-Night Run Across Oakland, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles
The Roots, a legendary hip-hop band formed in 1987, wrapped up the year 2023 with a triumphant series of three consecutive shows from December 28th to 30th. The tour spanned across iconic venues in Oakland, CA, Las Vegas, NV,…
KROQ's Almost Acoustic Evolution: Highlights from the Lineup and Beyond
Photo and Story by: Alex Kluft KROQ’s Almost Acoustic Christmas (AAC) began in 1990 and is annually held at the KIA Forum since 2014. KROQ has been Los Angeles’s premiere Alt-Rock station for over 30 years and at…
Darker Waves Festival Debut: A Melodic Odyssey featuring Legendary Acts Tears for Fears, The B-52’s, New Order, and More
The first ever Darker Waves festival unfolded on the shores of Huntington Beach on November 18th. Presented by C3 Presents, the same organization behind events like Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, When We Were Young, and Sick New World, the festival…
Devo's Electrifying 50 Years of De-evolution Tour: A Night of Music, Outfits, and Iconic Moments at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle
Devo, one of the most iconic bands to emerge during the 70s, played at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle, WA, as a stop on their 50 Years of De-evolution tour. The group was formed in 1973 in Akron, OH, with…
Los Angeles: Out Now - A Futuristic Drumming Collaboration by Lol Tolhurst, Budgie, and Jacknife Lee
An album that’s been in the works for over three years, finally sees the light of day today, and we here at Modern Drummer couldn’t be more excited that it’s finally out. It’s not often two iconic post punk drumming…
Drum Workshop Introduces DW Soundworks™ Virtual Drums Plugin
New Software Includes Authentic Library Of DW, Gretsch, and Slingerland Drum Sounds OXNARD, CA (November 1st, 2023) – Drum Workshop, Inc. (DW), a global leader in the design and manufacturing of acoustic drums, is proud to announce the launch…
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…
