Slingerland Drums - The Gambler

What really happened when one of Ozzy Osbourne’s most iconic drummers wasn’t on the guest list for his farewell gig? Legendary sticksman Tommy Aldridge recently opened up in a heartfelt video: “I wasn’t invited… and I’m not gonna crash someone else’s party.” No bitterness toward Ozzy, but plenty of questions from fans. We break down the “Back to the Beginning” event, why the focus stayed on Sabbath originals and later-era players like Tommy Clufetos, and the whispers about past tensions. Hear the full context of Aldridge’s words, revisit his killer work on Bark at the Moon and tours, and discuss if this was a missed opportunity for the ultimate Ozzy tribute. Heavy discussion for drummers and Sabbath/Ozzy diehards alike.

Alex Van Halen—the powerhouse drummer who anchored one of the most explosive bands in rock history while quietly shaping generations of players.Often overshadowed by his brother Eddie’s groundbreaking guitar wizardry, Alex Van Halen delivered a style that was equal parts raw power, impeccable groove, and musical intuition. Drawing from influences like John Bonham, Ginger Baker, and Buddy Rich, he blended big-band swing, behind-the-beat feel, and arena-rock bombast into something utterly unique. His playing didn’t just support the songs—it elevated them, turning Van Halen’s high-octane riffs into unstoppable anthems.

Dive into the century-long saga of one of America’s most iconic drum brands! What started as a Chicago banjo company—kicked off by founder H.H. Slingerland winning a music correspondence school in a legendary card game—exploded into the heartbeat of jazz, swing, and rock.

my take on drum why drum fills are so important.

This is how I teach the Purdy shuffle To my beginner to intermediate students. of course no one can teach it like the master: https://youtu.be/T1j1_aeK6WA

Snare sampling isn’t always the most popular choice these days, but I think it’s certainly a good choice for certain genres and songs. This is how I blended a snare sample on an R&B track.

The most influential Drummer. Roger Hawkins. https://youtu.be/9l-XZceLK2U. https://youtu.be/WIvenWN9TQE. https://youtu.be/2dMZ8vzbOFM

One of the most influential Big Band / Jazz drummers, Gene Krupa played his last gig on this day in 1973 with the Benny Goodman Quartet. Reach me at [email protected]. https://youtu.be/Nu1teeixmpw https://youtu.be/j9J5Zt2Obko

All to often we work on the flash. We watch you tube and work on a fill or chop and forget about the song.

A short tribute to the underrated Ricky Lawson. https://youtu.be/hXoJz78LN50 https://youtu.be/PXq2BbasjkQ.