Leaky Johnson
Senior Member
I'm just wondering about the percentages of gigging drummers who are 'in the band' and who are what I would call 'session' players. Let us clarify the terminology....
'In the band'= Drummers who mostly (but not exclusively) play in one band, and their playing revolves around the bands activities. Not only does the drummer drum but also participates in the business of the band, (ie bookings, posters, poster distribution, et al.). This individual will generally think of the band as a business and contribute whatever it takes (mostly) to make it happen. This set-up is generally seen by the band as a democratic system, where everyone's voice has (more or less) equal weight.
'Session'= Drummers who are essentially 'for hire'. They do not participate in the booking of gigs, posters, or any administrative duties within the band. A mercenary if you will. This drummer is of course interested in the bands continued popularity and gigging potential but plays little or no part except drumming accurately and showing up on time. This player will generally wait for the call from the band leader.
I know there are lots of grey areas between the two. Most of us fall somewhere in that area of grey. But which end of the spectrum would you characterize yourself?
If there has been a similar post in the past I apologize!
'In the band'= Drummers who mostly (but not exclusively) play in one band, and their playing revolves around the bands activities. Not only does the drummer drum but also participates in the business of the band, (ie bookings, posters, poster distribution, et al.). This individual will generally think of the band as a business and contribute whatever it takes (mostly) to make it happen. This set-up is generally seen by the band as a democratic system, where everyone's voice has (more or less) equal weight.
'Session'= Drummers who are essentially 'for hire'. They do not participate in the booking of gigs, posters, or any administrative duties within the band. A mercenary if you will. This drummer is of course interested in the bands continued popularity and gigging potential but plays little or no part except drumming accurately and showing up on time. This player will generally wait for the call from the band leader.
I know there are lots of grey areas between the two. Most of us fall somewhere in that area of grey. But which end of the spectrum would you characterize yourself?
If there has been a similar post in the past I apologize!