The Importance of Individuality

A few weeks ago, I was surfing the Internet for live videos of Jim Keltner playing drums. The band I perform in regularly plays some Steely Dan and I wanted to delve into Jim's elusive playing style and feel. In addition to finding some performance videos, I found a real gem of a clip where Jim discusses the importance of developing individual style. Too many of us focus solely on technique or have the goal of being the best or the fastest. Jim poignantly states that developing one's individual style on the instrument is far more important than striving to be the best in the world. Roy Burns once told me to strive to be the best "I can be." In the Old West, there was always a faster gun around the corner. Rather than set unrealistic expectations, have this goal: Be the best YOU can be. Jim points out that each of us are individuals and can bring something no other drummer can bring to the table. Does this mean we should stop practicing technique? No it means practicing technique should be a means to an end. The end goal is to be the best WE can be.

My last blog had some great advice from Roy Burns on developing successful relationships with other drummers. I believe Jim's advice fits hand in glove to Roy's. If we realize that we're all different and at different levels in our development as drummers, there's really no need to criticize, judge, or feel inferior to our fellow drummers.