Some people fall in love with a voice. Others, with a melody. But me? I fell in love with the drums. The heartbeat of music.
It started with moments. A friend drumming along on the steering wheel to Life in the Gladhouse by Modern English, like they just couldn’t help it. The electric pulse of the WVU drumline at tailgates, setting the tone for the whole day. The undeniable magic of each parade I’ve ever witnessed. Not the floats,not the candy, but every single marching band, pounding out rhythms that move you.
Then there were the inspired moments. Seeing Questlove spin Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam at PS1. Studying the drummer in every jazz band I’ve ever seen, keeping it cool and locked in while the rest of the band did their thing. Living with Gina Schock of the Go-Go’s for one year in San Francisco. Gina was my upstairs neighbor and greatest landlord I have ever had.
At some point, the love got personal. I started learning how to play, trying to crack the drum beats behind Everyday Struggle by Biggie Smalls and Like a Stone by Audioslave. It wasn’t about being great (I have been told I play “ham-fisted”)...it was about feeling the rhythm, being inside of it. Playing the instrument I have always admired.
In the store I have my first drum set as part of the decor, showcasing a part of my life-love. I never tire of customers asking about them. It’s so fun to share that I purchased them from my husband's lifelong friend, Fuzzy, back in the mid 90’s.
Drums are always there, in the background, keeping time. Whether it’s a jazz trio, a street parade, or a hip-hop beat, they remind me why I love music in the first place: It starts with rhythm. It starts with the heart.
Get yourself a pair of love, drumsticks and find your beat.
