In hindsight, if I could go back in time and relay a message to my younger self, I would tell him to work on his time keeping, and that the job of a drummer is not to be the one that gets noticed the most on stage, or to be the fastest, or the loudest. Above all, it is to be the timekeeper.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of timekeeping over showmanship in drumming.
In this reflection, Taylor Hawkins shares his insights on the true role of a drummer, highlighting that the essence of drumming lies not in attracting attention or showcasing speed and volume, but rather in maintaining the rhythm and time for the entire band. This message serves as a metaphor for life, encouraging individuals to focus on their responsibilities and contributions rather than seeking the spotlight.
In practice
During a musical workshop, when discussing the importance of teamwork, this quote can inspire young drummers.
In the studio you can auto tune vocals, and with drums, you can put them on a grid and make them perfect. I hate that sound. When someone hands me a record and the drums are perfectly gridded and the vocals are perfectly auto tuned, I throw it out the window. I have no interest in rock music being like that.
I've worked hard, but this business can be tough, and I just consider myself incredibly lucky to have had the career that I have, and to still be having so much fun playing drums and making music.
Rock n' roll means so much more to people; it enriches the culture. Also, it inspires people; there's no half-feeling. When I first got into it, I was inspired by people who had come before me, and I found myself in the position of handing that on.
Silence ought also to be the core of each concert. Remember the anagram: listen = silent.
The bass is the link between harmony and rhythm. It is the foundation of a band. It is what all the other instruments stand upon, but it is rarely recognized as that.
A guitar is like an old friend that is there with me.
The guitar for me is a translation device. It's not a goal. And in some ways, jazz isn't a destination for me. For me, jazz is a vehicle that takes you to the true destination - a musical one that describes all kinds of stuff about the human condition and the way music works.
The future of rock belongs to women.
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