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The 2024 Drumeo Awards

Drumeo Team  /  Dec 15, 2024

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Voting is now open for the 2024 Drumeo Awards! Scroll down and vote for your favorite drummer in each category. Voting will close on December 22nd at 9:00pm PT. Mark your calendars to watch the 2024 Drumeo Awards live stream on Jan 30th at 5:00pm PT.

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Vote for your top drummers of 2024!

75 nominees. 15 categories. 7 days. You decide who takes home a trophy at this year’s Drumeo Awards.

And because it wouldn’t be fair to ask for your vote without telling you why we’ve nominated these amazing drummers, we’ve included a brief summary for each nominee with some of their 2024 accomplishments.

From award-winning studio musicians to TikTok creators, drummers spent hours (and weeks, and months) writing, recording, learning, entertaining, teaching, and performing all over the world. They released books and tutorials, slayed the stage, and brought the magic of drumming to the people.

It’s never easy to narrow down who deserves to be highlighted. In fact, it’s impossible to get it right 100% of the time. But we polled the drumming community and worked with an internal panel of pro drummers to create the best shortlist we could.

Now it’s up to you! Cast your votes below – voting is open until December 22 at 9:00pm PT, and we’ll announce the winners at the awards show live stream on the Drumeo YouTube channel on January 30, 2025 (set your reminders).



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Drummer Of The Year

This award will go to a drummer who checked all the boxes with recording projects, live/video events, online presence, and all-around excellence in their contributions to music.

Nominee DrummerOTY El Estepario1080x1920

El Estepario Siberiano

El Estepario Siberiano is a Spanish drummer known for his explosive drumming style and strong online presence. In 2024, he formed the band The Cost and released their debut single, “Not For Me.” El Estepario has also collaborated with notable artists like Serj Tankian and released several viral videos that highlight his exceptional skill.

Nominee DrummerOTY Eloy Casagrande1080x1920

Eloy Casagrande

Eloy Casagrande is a Brazilian drummer known for his remarkable power and speed. He became the drummer for Sepultura in 2011 and played with them until 2024 when he joined Slipknot. Eloy is also recognized for his work with Casagrande & Hanysz.

Nominee DrummerOTY Mike Portnoy1080x1920

Mike Portnoy

Mike Portnoy is an American drummer, best known as the co-founder of progressive metal band Dream Theater. He is acclaimed for his technical proficiency and complex drumming patterns. In 2024, Portnoy made a highly anticipated return to Dream Theater, recording a new album (yet to be released) and embarking on a worldwide tour in support of his comeback with the band.

Nominee DrummerOTY Tre Cool1080x1920

Tré Cool

Tré Cool is the drummer for the legendary punk rock band Green Day, having been with them since 1990. Known for his high-energy drumming and humor, he has contributed to all of the band’s major releases, including Dookie, American Idiot, and Revolution Radio. In 2024, Green Day released their new album Saviours and embarked on a world tour, continuing their influential presence in the punk rock scene.

Nominee DrummerOTY Aaron Sterling1080x1920

Aaron Sterling

Aaron Sterling is an acclaimed session and touring drummer known for his versatile and dynamic style. He has worked with high-profile artists like John Mayer, Taylor Swift, and Harry Styles. In 2024, Aaron played on albums by Post Malone, Keith Urban, Pedro Capó, and Jelly Roll, further showcasing his wide-ranging talents.


Rock Drummer Of The Year

The winner of this award will have had great year as a Rock Drummer – hard hitters that provide the energy for the most influential rock artists and bands.

Nominee Rock Brandon Pertzborn1080x1920

Brandon Pertzborn

Brandon Pertzborn is a 30-year-old drummer from Grapevine, Texas, recognized for his work with bands like Black Flag, Doyle, Marilyn Manson, and Suicidal Tendencies. Since 2023, he has been the drummer for punk rock icons The Offspring. In 2024, The Offspring released their album Supercharger, highlighting Brandon’s powerful and precise drumming style, which blends intensity with finesse.

Nominee Rock John Otto1080x1920

John Otto

John Otto is the drummer and founding member of the nu-metal band Limp Bizkit. A former jazz student at the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, Otto played in avant-garde bands before helping form Limp Bizkit. His drumming style fuses metal, jazz, and hip-hop influences, shaping the band’s signature sound. In 2024, Limp Bizkit’s original lineup made a notable return, with the band touring extensively throughout the year.

Nominee Rock Matt Cameron1080x1920

Matt Cameron

Matt Cameron is an American drummer known for his work with Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. He joined Soundgarden in 1986, contributing to the band’s success in the grunge movement, and continued with them until their breakup in 1997. Cameron became Pearl Jam’s drummer in 1998 and remains with the band. In 2024, Pearl Jam released Dark Matter, a critically acclaimed album built on Cameron’s signature groove and creativity.

Nominee Rock Shannon Leto1080x1920

Shannon Leto

Shannon Leto is the Louisiana-born drummer and co-founder of Thirty Seconds to Mars, formed in 1998 with his brother Jared. Starting drumming at age eight, Shannon developed a distinct, aggressive style that has played a pivotal role in the band’s sound. He has also worked as a record producer and collaborated with artists like Antoine Becks, The Wondergirls, and Street Drum Corps. His contributions have extended beyond his band, making him a prominent figure in rock and production.

Nominee Rock Zac Farro1080x1920

Zac Farro

Zac Farro is a founding member and drummer of Paramore, known for his dynamic drumming style and creativity. He has also released music under his solo project, HalfNoise. In 2024, Paramore had a successful year, opening for Taylor Swift on part of her Eras tour. Farro’s contributions continue to shape Paramore’s sound, blending various styles and adding a unique identity to the band’s music.


Metal Drummer Of The Year

Metal drumming requires equal portions of precision, stamina and brute force. This year’s nominees all have had successful years recording and touring with their bands

Nominee Metal Baard Kolstad1080x1920 1

Baard Kolstad

Baard Kolstad is a Norwegian drummer known for his precision and power. He gained fame through street drumming and winning the Roland V-Drums World Championship in 2012. His creative and dynamic drumming has earned him recognition with bands like Leprous, Rendezvous Point, and Fight the Fight. In 2024, he released new music with these bands, showcasing his technical chops and versatility in metal drumming. Kolstad continues to be a driving force in the progressive metal scene.

Nominee Metal Charlie Benante1080x1920

Charlie Benante

Charlie Benante is an American drummer best known for his long-standing role in the thrash metal band Anthrax and his involvement in Pantera’s 2022 reunion lineup. He is recognized as one of the pioneers of double bass drumming and has made significant contributions to the metal genre, including popularizing the blast beat technique. Benante has been a member of Anthrax since 1983 and is celebrated for his technical proficiency and creative drumming.

Nominee Metal Dan Searle1080x1920 1

Dan Searle

Dan Searle is the drummer and a founding member of the British metalcore band Architects. Known for his technical skill and creativity, he plays a key role in shaping the band’s distinctive sound. Searle has also been integral to the band’s songwriting and production processes.

Nominee metal Eloy Casagrande1080x1920

Eloy Casagrande

Eloy Casagrande is a Brazilian drummer known for his remarkable power and speed. He became the drummer for Sepultura in 2011 and played with them until 2024 when he joined Slipknot. Eloy is also recognized for his work with Casagrande & Hanysz.

Nominee Metal Greyson Nekrutman1080x1920

Greyson Nekrutman

Greyson Nekrutman is an American drummer known for his technical skill and virtuosity. He gained attention through his impressive drumming performances and videos. In 2024, Greyson started the year touring with Suicidal Tendencies. Later, he was selected by Sepultura to replace Eloy Casagrande for their farewell tour.


Progressive Drummer Of The Year

Progressive drummers play on the edge of what’s possible on the instrument. Layered Polyrhytms, advanced indepenence and strong musicianship sets these drummers apart.

Nominee Progressive Chris Allison1080x1920

Chris Allison

Chris Allison is a versatile session drummer from Sydney, Australia, known for his adaptable approach to music. Since joining Plini in 2017, he has contributed to the band’s distinctive sound. In 2024, Chris toured with Plini to promote their latest album, Mirage, showcasing his dynamic drumming style.

Nominee Progressive Brann Dailor1080x1920

Brann Dailor

Brann Dailor is an American drummer best known for his work with the progressive metal band Mastodon, where his drumming is recognized for its complex patterns and technical proficiency. A key member since the band’s formation in 2000, Brann and Mastodon spent much of 2024 touring and working on new material for an upcoming album.

Nominee Progressive Matt Gartska1080x1920

Matt Gartska

Matt Garstka is a highly skilled drummer, best known for his work with progressive metal band Animals as Leaders. Renowned for his technical ability and innovative drumming techniques, Garstka is considered one of the leading drummers of his generation. In 2024, he toured with Animals as Leaders and released an album with “Victoria,” a progressive duo formed by Garstka and Joshua De La Victoria.

Nominee Progressive Mike Portnoy1080x1920

Mike Portnoy

Mike Portnoy is an American drummer, best known as the co-founder of progressive metal band Dream Theater. He is acclaimed for his technical proficiency and complex drumming patterns. In 2024, Portnoy made a highly anticipated return to Dream Theater, recording a new album (yet to be released) and embarking on a worldwide tour in support of his comeback with the band.

Nominee Progressive Nathan Bulla1080x1920

Nathan Bulla

Nathan Bulla is the drummer for progressive metal band Intervals, recognized for his exceptional technical skill and powerful groove. His playing blends intricate rhythms, odd time signatures, and dynamic shifts, contributing to the band’s signature sound. Bulla’s contributions have been crucial to Intervals’ success in the progressive metal genre. In 2024, the band released their highly anticipated album Memory Palace, further showcasing his distinctive drumming style.


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Jazz Drummer Of The Year

Jazz drumming requires deep study of master drummers that came before and this year’s nominess are all at the top of thier game – all are accomplished bandleaders and composers as well as phenominal drummers who are pushing the genre forward.

Nominee Jazz Brian Blade1080x1920

Brian Blade

Brian Blade is an acclaimed American jazz drummer and composer, known for leading the Brian Blade Fellowship and working with musicians like Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Norah Jones, and Joshua Redman. Brian spent 2024 performing live with the Fellowship Band and recording a new record entitled Three Visitors. Blade’s playing is celebrated for its emotive expression, deep groove, and dynamic range. His unique approach to drumming blends technical skill with heartfelt musicality, making him one of the most respected figures in modern jazz.

Nominee Jazz Gianluca Pellerito1080x1920

Gianluca Pellerito

Gianluca Pellerito is an Italian jazz drummer renowned for his virtuosity and collaborations with international artists. In 2024, Gianluca performed numerous live shows and festivals around the world with various artists and regularly posted content on social media, garnering him a large online following on Instagram. His technical skills and musicality on the kit have made him a force to be reckoned with this year.

Nominee Jazz Justin Faulkner1080x1920

Justin Faulkner

Justin Faulkner is a versatile force in the jazz world, known for his work with the Branford Marsalis Quartet. He seamlessly blends traditional jazz playing with modern improvisation, making him one of today’s most exciting contemporary jazz drummers. 2024 was a busy year for Justin, during which he performed with Sasha Berliner, Ray Angry, Alison Crockett, among many others. Justin also spent another year on the faculty at Temple University and launched the new Philadelphia Summer Jazz Academy for young musicians.

Nominee Jazz Tyshawn Sorey1080x1920

Tyshawn Sorey

Tyshawn Sorey is a renowned drummer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist celebrated for his innovative contributions to jazz, contemporary classical, and experimental music. This year, he received the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for his concerto “Adagio (For Wadada Leo Smith)” and released his new album The Susceptible Now, which was ranked No. 3 on The New York Times list of “Best Jazz Albums of 2024.” His dynamic drumming and compositional expertise have resulted in another exceptional year for Tyshawn.

Nominee Jazz Ulysses Owens Jr1080x1920

Ulysses Owens Jr.

Ulysses Owens Jr. is an acclaimed jazz drummer, producer, and educator known for his work at the Juilliard School. In 2024, Owens taught the first-ever 30-Day Jazz course with Drumeo, created a viral video that featured his Generation Y band covering a Nirvana song, and launched the new Louis Armstrong Broadway musical, A Wonderful World


Contemporary Drummer Of The Year

Contemporary drummers cross stylisitc boundaries, combining elements from funk, jazz, rock and metal – these drummers can do it all.

Nominee Contemporary Aaron Smith1080x1920

Aaron Smith

Aaron Smith is a versatile drummer known for his work in gospel, R&B, and pop music. He has performed with artists like Kirk Franklin and is a sought-after session drummer. In 2024, he kept a busy touring and recording schedule with the Aaron Smith Experience and the Aaron Smith Rhythmic Diversity & Audio Alchemy groups.

Nominee Contemporary Gergo Borlai1080x1920 1

Gergö Borlai

Gergő Borlai is a world-renowned Hungarian drummer known for his technical prowess and versatility across genres like jazz, fusion, and progressive rock. He has performed with numerous international artists and is highly respected as a drummer, clinician, and educator. In 2024, Gergő performed with Frank Gambale, HELO, and participated in various drum clinics and events worldwide.

Nominee Contemporary Greg Clark Jr1080x1920

Greg Clark Jr.

Greg Clark Jr. is a seasoned drummer renowned for his work in gospel and R&B music. He has collaborated with numerous well-known artists and made significant contributions to the live music scene. In 2024, Greg toured with Stanley Clarke, with a highlight being his performance with Will Smith in Azerbaijan.

Nominee Contemporary Jharis Yokley1080x1920

Jharis Yokley

Jharis Yokley is an emerging drummer recognized for his unique style, blending jazz, gospel, and fusion. Having performed with several renowned artists, Jharis is gaining rapid recognition in the music scene. In 2024, he released his debut solo album, Sometimes Late At Night, which received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and musical depth.

Nominee Contemporary Mark Guiliana1080x1920

Mark Guiliana

Mark Guiliana is a highly influential drummer and composer, renowned for his innovative approach to jazz and electronic music. Best known for his work with David Bowie on Blackstar, Mark leads his own bands and collaborates across genres. In 2024, he released a new solo album titled Mark, showcasing his unique sound and artistry.


Country Drummer Of The Year

Country drummers are the soul of Country music. Though they may have chops, they focus on supporitng the song, often making very subtle choices to make a song feel just right. This year’s nominees range from legend to newcomer.

Nominee Country Aaron Sterling1080x1920

Aaron Sterling

Aaron Sterling is an acclaimed session and touring drummer known for his versatile and dynamic style. He has worked with high-profile artists like John Mayer, Taylor Swift, and Harry Styles. In 2024, Aaron played on albums by Post Malone, Keith Urban, Pedro Capó, and Jelly Roll, further showcasing his wide-ranging talents.

Nominee Country Cody Ash1080x1920

Cody Ash

Cody Ash is a country drummer known for his solid, groove-based drumming that enhances the energy and storytelling in country music. Having toured with various prominent artists, Cody has earned respect in the live performance circuit. In 2024, he toured globally with rising country star Jelly Roll, further solidifying his place in the country music scene.

Nominee Country Mike Palmer1080x1920

Mike Palmer

Mike Palmer is a prominent country drummer known for his long-standing role with Garth Brooks. As a key member of Brooks’ band for decades, he provides solid, groove-based drumming that complements Garth’s signature style. Mike’s consistent performances have earned him recognition as one of the top drummers in the country music scene.

Nominee Country Steve Clark1080x1920

Steve Clark

Steve Clark is a country drummer known for his energetic, groove-based drumming. He has played with various artists in the country music scene, delivering solid support for both live and studio performances. Steve’s versatility and strong rhythm have made him a sought-after drummer in Nashville. In 2024, he has been touring with Zac Bryan.

Nominee Country Derek Mixon1080x1920

Derek Mixon

Derek Mixon is a country drummer best known for his work with Grammy-winning artist Chris Stapleton. His groove-oriented drumming perfectly complements Stapleton’s soulful country-rock sound, making him a prominent figure in Nashville’s music scene. Known for his powerful yet tasteful style, Mixon excels in both live performances and studio recordings.


Pop Drummer Of The Year

Pop drummers have to deliver perection night after night. This year’s nominees have all had great success live and in the studio crafting todays new hits.

Nominee Pop Brian Frasier Moore1080x1920

Brian Frasier-Moore

Brian Frasier-Moore is a renowned drummer known for his work with top artists like Madonna, Justin Timberlake, and Usher. Celebrated for his precision, versatility, and ability to adapt to various musical styles, BFM continued his global impact in 2024, touring with P!nk.

Nominee Pop Carlos Palmet1080x1920

Carlos Palmet

Carlos Palmet is a versatile drummer known for his work in various genres, including Pop. He has collaborated with numerous artists and is known for his technical proficiency and musicality. Carlos has been the backbone of Pitbull’s band for several years. In 2024, he toured with Pitbull on both the Trilogy and the After Dark tours, bringing Latin Pop vibes all over the planet. 

Nominee Pop Hayley Brownell1080x1920

Hayley Brownell

Hayley Brownell is a professional drummer, songwriter, and vocalist known for her work with a wide range of artists, including Olivia Rodrigo and Conan Gray. 2024 had Hayley touring the world with Olivia Rodrigo for her 95-city GUTS tour. 

Nominee Pop Mike Reid1080x1920

Mike Reid

Mike Reid is a versatile drummer known for his work in jazz, gospel, and pop music. He has performed with numerous well-known artists and contributed significantly to both live performances and studio recordings. In 2024, Mike toured the world with pop icon Justin Timberlake, further cementing his reputation as a sought-after drummer across multiple genres.

Nominee Pop Queen Cora Coleman1080x1920

Queen Cora Coleman

Queen Cora is a highly respected drummer known for her work with Prince and Beyoncé. She is also a music director and is renowned for her powerful playing style and versatility across various genres. Recently, she was assistant MD on CMT’s Smashing Glass gala, toured with Chante Moore, and was a featured drummer on the Seth Meyers show. 


R&B/Hip-Hop Drummer Of The Year

R&B and Hip Hop Drumming requires finesse often emulating a programmed drum beat that takes a high level of skill to make it groove just right. This year’s nominees are all at the cutting edge of today’s fastest growing genres.

Nominee RB HipHop Avante Clark1080x1920

Avante Clark

Avante Clark, also known as ‘Sonic The Drummer,’ is a versatile drummer who has made a name for himself in the gospel, R&B, and hip-hop scenes. Known for his intricate and high-energy playing, Avante blends technical skill with musicality, making him a highly sought-after session and live performance drummer. Avante spent 2024 touring with PARTYNEXTDOOR, innovating the style of trapjazz, and growing his Instagram presence.

Nominee RB HipHop Devon Taylor1080x1920

Devon “Stixx” Taylor

Devon Taylor is a renowned drummer recognized for his work with Justin Bieber and currently serving as the backbeat for Usher’s 2024 tour. Known for his energetic and precise drumming, Devon continues to make a significant impact in the music industry with his skill and versatility.

Nominee RB HipHop Eric Moore1080x1920

Eric Moore

Eric Moore is a powerhouse drummer renowned for his speed, precision, and dynamic performances. He has played with influential artists such as Suicidal Tendencies and Bobby Brown, and has made a lasting impact with his solo work, showcasing his exceptional drumming skills. In 2024, Eric toured the world with artists like Eros Ramazzotti and Andrey Chmut, performed at drum clinics and festivals, and was active in creating inspiring short-form content.

Nominee RB HipHop Jerrod Sullivan1080x1920

Jerrod ‘J-rod’ Sullivan

Jerrod ‘J-rod’ Sullivan is a highly respected drummer known for his work in gospel, R&B, and hip-hop. He has performed with notable artists like Janet Jackson and The Walls Group, earning recognition for his dynamic and precise playing style. In 2024, he toured with Janet Jackson, The 4 Korners, the J-Rod Sullivan Band, and more while expanding his Instagram audience with inspiring performances. 

Nominee RB HipHop Josh Foster1080x1920

Josh Foster

Josh Foster is a drummer known for his energetic and dynamic style, blending rock, pop, and contemporary techniques. He has gained recognition through his drum covers and collaborations, frequently showcasing his skills on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, where he connects with a growing audience. Josh spent 2024 touring with artists like Reneé Rapp and Mariah Carey, and released his own masterclass, “FEEL OVER FLASH.”


Soul/Funk Drummer Of The Year

The winner of this award will have had a busy, impactful year primarily in the soul and/or funk genres.

Nominee Soul Funk Jamison ROss1080x1920

Jamison Ross

Jamison Ross is a Grammy-nominated jazz drummer and vocalist from Jacksonville, Florida, gained widespread recognition after winning the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Drums Competition in 2012. He has collaborated with renowned artists like Snarky Puppy and released multiple albums in 2024, showcasing both his drumming and vocal talents.

Nominee Soul Funk Lil John Roberts1080x1920

Lil’ John Roberts

Lil’ John Roberts is a renowned drummer who started his career as a child prodigy in Philadelphia. He has played with iconic artists across various genres, including Stevie Wonder, Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, and many others. His versatility has made him one of the most sought-after drummers in the music industry, particularly in jazz and R&B. John released his 2nd solo album Elevation in 2024, while continuing to tour, produce records, and MD for various artists. 

Nominee Soul Funk Nikki Glaspie1080x1920

Nikki Glaspie

Nikki Glaspie is a versatile drummer and vocalist who has played with artists like Beyoncé, Maceo Parker, and co-founded The Nth Power. Known for her powerful groove, versatility, and deep understanding of rhythm, she is highly respected in the funk, soul, and jazz scenes. In 2024, she toured with Snarky Puppy, showcasing her exceptional chops and feel.

Nominee Soul Funk Petar Janjic1080x1920

Petar Janjić

Petar Janjić is a Serbian-born drummer based in Nashville, best known for playing with Cory Wong. He has a strong educational background in music and has worked with numerous artists, including Victor Wooten and Kimbra. He is also involved in his own project, Uncle Bronco. 2024 had Petar touring and creating content with the Cory Wong Band, with a highlight of performing at the Pearl Hi-End Reimagined concert.

Nominee Soul Funk Stanton Moore1080x1920

Stanton Moore

Stanton Moore is a GRAMMY award-winning drummer from New Orleans, best known as a founding member of the band Galactic. He has also pursued a solo career and collaborated with a diverse group of artists, including Maceo Parker, Tom Morello, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Stanton had a very busy 2024, touring with Galactic, running his Spirit of New Orleans Drum Camp, and doing various clinics and events, including a visit to Drumeo. 


YouTube Drummer Of The Year

This award goes to a drummer who has built their profile independently, has created a strong online community on YouTube, and is constantly inspiring or entertaining people with their drum videos, playing, and/or personality.

Nominee Youtube El Estepario1080x1920

El Estepario Siberiano

El Estepario Siberiano is a Spanish drummer known for his explosive drumming style and strong online presence. In 2024, he formed the band The Cost and released their debut single, “Not For Me.” El Estepario has also collaborated with notable artists like Serj Tankian and released several viral videos that highlight his exceptional skill. In 2024, he surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube, cementing his influence in the drumming community.

Nominee Youtube Eric Carr EMC1080x1920

Eric Carr – EMC Productions

Eric Carr is a drummer, educator, and content creator known for his work with EMC Productions, his marching percussion-centric YouTube channel. In 2024, Eric reached 400K YouTube subscribers, and over 140 million combined views by merging his quirky sense of humour with his serious talent to introduce drummers to the world of marching percussion.

Nominee Youtube rdavidr1080x1920

Rdavidr

David Raouf, known as RDAVIDR, is a drummer, educator, and content creator who focuses on DIY drum modifications and tutorials. He has gained a significant following on social media, where he shares creative drum hacks, equipment reviews, and drumming tips. David’s unique approach to drumming and gear innovation has earned him a loyal fanbase amongst drummers. In 2024, David turned his focus to developing content on electronic drums, opening up a whole new audience for his honest and quirky videos. 

Nominee Youtube Sina Drums1080x1920

Sina-Drums

Sina Doering, known as Sina-Drums, is a German drummer who gained fame through her YouTube channel, where she posts drum covers and original music. She has become a well-known figure in the online drumming community. In 2024, Sina released several 1 million-view videos and is nearing 700 million total views on her channel. 

Nominee Youtube Kristina Rybalchenko1080x1920

Kristina Rybalchenko

Kristina Rybalchenko is a Russian drummer known for her powerful and energetic performances, especially in the rock and metal genres. She has gained popularity through her online drumming videos and collaborations. Kristina hit a milestone in 2024 surpassing 1 million subscribers on YouTube, all while starting to vlog and produce top-tier drumming videos.


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TikTok Drummer Of The Year

TikTok has become a very popular platform for drummers to showcase their skills. This year’s nominees have really stepped up their exposure on TikTok, reaching millions of views.

Nominee tiktok Brandon Khoo1080x1920

Brandon Khoo

Brandon Khoo is a professional drummer from Singapore, known for his dynamic and explosive playing. He has performed with artists like Jacee Chan, Emil Chau, and Richie Chen and is the full-time drummer for Shirlyn & The UnXpected, one of Singapore’s leading rock acts. In addition to performing, Brandon is an educator and mentor, contributing to programs like Noise Singapore and collaborating with platforms like Drumeo to share his expertise with a global audience.

Nominee tiktok Swedish Drummer1080x1920

That Swedish Drummer

Carl-Johan ‘CJ’ Hökdal, known as ‘That Swedish Drummer,’ is a versatile content creator, educator, songwriter, and session/live drummer. After graduating from Musicians Institute in Los Angeles in 2013, he toured and recorded with artists like Louise Lemón, SCARLET, Sophie Hanson, and Paul Gilbert, performing at festivals like Sweden Rock and Eurosonic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, CJ shifted his focus to content creation, growing a substantial online presence.

Nominee tiktok Izzy Lamberti1080x1920

Izzy Lamberti

Izzy Lamberti, a talented drummer from New York City, began playing at age five. Currently studying at Berklee College of Music, she has already made her mark in the music scene. Izzy has collaborated with artists like Aidan Bissett, Rachel Grae, and Hayes Warner, and supported acts such as Flo Rida and Yung Gravy. A social media influencer, she has amassed a large following on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Nominee tiktok Raja Meissner1080x1920

Raja Meissner

Raja Meissner is a popular TikTok drummer known for her energetic and creative covers of popular songs. Blending rock, pop, and metal styles, she has garnered a large following for her impressive technical skills and entertaining videos.

Nominee tiktok TomParkin1080x1920

Tom Parkin Drums

Tom Parkin Drums is a rising star on TikTok, known for his inventive drumming covers of popular songs across various genres. His energetic performances, paired with precise technique, have helped him amass a growing fanbase on social media.


Instagram Drummer Of The Year

This year’s nominees for Instagram Drummer of the Year have very different styles but all have 1 thing in common – they have all excelled in reaching more drummers in 2024.

Nominee Instagram Buckets1080x1920

Buckets The Drummer

Buckets the Drummer is a street performer known for his high-energy drumming, utilizing buckets and other unconventional percussion instruments. He has built a large social media following thanks to his distinctive style and captivating street performances in various cities, where he showcases his creative rhythm and passion for music.

Nominee Instagram Benedictusesdomine1080x1920

Benedictusesdomine

Fr. Hyacinth Marie Cordell, a Dominican priest from Philadelphia, has become an internet sensation for his incredible drumming skills. Once aspiring to be a famous drummer, a profound spiritual conversion led him to the priesthood. Now the pastor at Saint Patrick Church, he uses his talent to connect with a global audience on social media, covering bands like Metallica and Meshuggah. His videos, which have garnered millions of views, have earned praise from renowned musicians, including members of Metallica.

Nominee Instagram Justin Scott1080x1920

Justin Scott

Justin Scott is an independent drummer and educator based in Atlanta, Georgia. Renowned for his technical precision and versatility, he has made a significant impact through his social media presence and valuable educational contributions to the drumming community.

Nominee Instagram Nate Mueller1080x1920

Nate Mueller

Nate Mueller, a 21-year-old drummer from Nashville, Tennessee, began playing at age nine, drawing inspiration from drummers like Matt McGuire and Casey Cooper. He has built a significant following on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, and has also showcased his talent on stage performing with artists such as Mike Shinoda, Sarah Cothran, Munn, and Melina KB.

Nominee Instagram Riccardo Merlini1080x1920

Riccardo Merlini

Ricardo Merlini is celebrated for his extraordinary speed and precision, particularly in the metal and progressive genres. A multiple speed drumming world record holder, he is revered for his technical mastery. Through his engaging tutorials, performances, and content, Ricardo shares his expertise in advanced drumming techniques, inspiring drummers worldwide.


Drum Performance Of The Year

The winner of this award put on a legendary, must-watch performance (captured on video), either with a full band or solo.

Nominee Performance NameOnly Colin Brittain1080x1920

Colin Brittain – The Emptiness Machine (Live) – Linkin Park

Nominee Performance NameOnly Mike Portnoy1080x1920

Mike Portnoy – Mike Portnoy Learns Pneuma By Tool

Nominee Performance NameOnly Eloy Casagrande1080x1920

Eloy Casagrande – 1st Show with Slipknot @ Pappy Harriet’s

Nominee Performance NameOnly Steve Smith1080x1920

Steve Smith – Jazz Drum Solo @ The Sonor Warehouse

Nominee Performance NameOnly Mario Duplantier1080x1920

Mario Duplantier – Gojira Live @ The 2024 Paris Olympics


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Drum Recording Of The Year

The nominees in this category have played on at least one track of the album for which they are nominated. The styles are as diverse as the drummers nomiated.

Nominee Recording NameOnly Aaron Sterling1080x1920

Aaron Sterling – F-1 Trillion by Post Malone

F-1 Trillion spans 16 tracks, from riff-heavy country rock to delicate, understated ballads. Aaron Sterling’s performance throughout the album highlights his remarkable feel and impeccable instinct, delivering exactly what each song needs from a drummer with finesse and precision.

Nominee Recording NameOnly Steve Jordan1080x1920

Steve Jordan – Hackney Diamonds by The Rolling Stones

Nobody could ever truly replace Charlie Watts, but Steve Jordan confidently leads the band in a bold new direction. With his bombastic energy, swagger, and irresistibly greasy grooves, he breathes fresh life into this iconic 60-year-old group, elevating their sound to new heights.

Nominee Recording NameOnly Horacio Hernandez1080x1920

Horacio “El Negro” Hernández – Live in Italy by El Trio

Horacio Hernández demonstrates why he’s a legendary Latin jazz drummer on this electrifying live album. His trio effortlessly navigates tempo and feel changes, with Horacio’s playing consistently on point. Striking a perfect balance, he supports the band with finesse and elevates the energy with joyful precision.

Nominee Recording NameOnly Mark Guiliana1080x1920

Mark Guiliana – Mark by Mark Guiliana

Mark Guiliana’s latest solo album is a true testament to his artistry—composed and performed entirely by him. The drumming is nothing short of extraordinary, seamlessly supporting this genre-defying masterpiece with innovation and precision.

Nominee Recording NameOnly Tre Cool1080x1920

Tré Cool – Saviours by Green Day

Tré Cool and Green Day’s latest studio album, their first in four years, is a triumph. It marks a return to the pop-punk sound that catapulted them to stardom, with Tré’s drumming standing out as a driving force—frantic at times, consistently clever, and always energizing.

Make Waves Sig B 2

A very special shoutout to our title sponsor, Yamaha, for helping us put on this year’s Drummer Of The Year Awards. A longtime partner and friend of Drumeo, we can’t thank them enough.

Yamaha continues to step up and support the Drumeo mission of helping to create new drummers. They’re fully committed to keeping existing drummers engaged in playing longer through educational support and incredible product innovation.

With a rich history of drum-making since 1967, Yamaha is committed to empower people to “Make Waves” with their sound and music. With drum offerings from beginner to some of the most elite craftsmanship found anywhere, Yamaha has long made a promise to providing customers of all ranges drum products that are reliable, value-driven, durable, and high-performing.

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Drumeo Team - We're professional, award-winning drummers and drum teachers, coaches, recording artists, and content specialists who are passionate about drums and helping drummers around the world. This post was written and/or edited by Sam Landa, Brandon Toews, Jared Falk, Dave Atkinson, or another pro on our team (which has a combined 1000+ years of drumming experience). Are you looking for inspiration, education, and support to take your playing to the next level? Join the Drumeo community today!

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