"Drumming for Life™"
With a major update of my book coming this year, (2008) along with a new Podcast series for drummers, I've decided to abandon the idea of producing a DVD at this time, and focus on those (free) projects. Later, when I can obtain a better video system, I'll come back to the DVD idea.
To download the latest version of the "Drumming For Life™" Book, (V 2.2, updated 07-02-06) click here (636K PDF, free)
Since 2000, I've offered "Drumming For Life™" as a free download, and I update it continuously. The main purpose of the book is to help working drummers solve a variety of problems that we all deal with, from time to time. I hope it gives young drummers something to think about, and old pros a few reminders. To sample some articles from the book, see the Hot Topics page. Never stop developing!
- Mike James
Reviews & Comments on "Drumming For Life™"
The comments below are very kind, and I'm happy to have them. But here's where I stand on my own playing. The downloadable tunes on this site will show you that I'm a good drummer, but not a great drummer. Since 1964, when I began playing, I have never played at the level I aspire to, but have worked hard on it constantly. I'm a good and appreciative listener too, but I lack the natural talent that might have helped me be a top "world-class" drummer. I genuinely love music and playing drums, and I'm getting better, which is why i haven't sold the drums yet. That's an honest self-appraisal.
So, my book attempts to share information and observations, but is not about me. I hope it will help some of you, and that's why it's free. I originally associated a "slogan" with this site and project, which was "For drummers who simply won't give up until they get it right". For those of us who aren't "natural geniuses", It's often much easier to "observe and understand" a skill than it is to execute it in reality. My book is my way of encouraging all of us to keep listening and keep developing. Have fun, and play more!
Duffy Jackson (a GREAT drummer, with Count Basie and many others)
"... Seriously though, you are a tremendous big band drummer and you pay tribute to Buddy's legacy with respect and dignity. You are on the right track as an educator to bring this understanding to your students.
... Playing brushes with intensity behind a soloist is a joy. The art of accompaniment is a life long dedication. I would truly like to assist you in anyway I can to share the musical truth with your fans and music students." (Visit Duffy Jackson's site, here.)
Ronald Spagnardi (Publisher/Editor In Chief ,"Modern Drummer" Magazine)
"...Looks quite interesting and most comprehensive. Good luck with it."
Sadly, we lost Ron in September of 2003. He was truly a visionary, promoting a drumming-oriented magazine when others would've considered it "too risky". He will be missed for his many contributions to drummers, via his publication of Modern Drummer. There has been a Berklee scholarship established in his name. See the link here.