Today we’d like to introduce you to Eli The Drummer.
Hi Eli, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
To start, I would say I’ve always had a passion for music, and drums were always something that caught my attention. My parents have told me stories of when I was a toddler and how I would go into the cabinet and get the pots and pans and bang on them with wooden spoons. I believe that’s where my love for drums started. My official journey really started in fifth grade when I joined band class. That was my first introduction to actually playing an instrument, and I started on the snare drum. I fell in love with the feeling of playing, the discipline behind it, and the role that rhythm plays in music. Eventually, I knew I wanted to take it further and play the full drum kit, so my parents got me my first drum kit, and from there everything took off.
At 17 years old, I started playing in church, and that became my foundation as a musician. Church was my first real stage and my training ground. Every Sunday taught me how to play in front of people, read a room, feel the atmosphere, and understand how to serve the music instead of just playing drums. I was able to grow by playing with different musicians and developing my own sound. I truly believe playing in church is a big reason why I’m able to perform on bigger stages today, work with different artists, and adapt to different environments.
Growing up, a lot of my early influences came from gospel R&B, and gospel hip-hop. Artists like Mary Mary and Kirk Franklin really shaped my musical foundation. Later on, especially in my teenage years, I became heavily influenced by mainstream 90s, 2000s, and 2010s R&B and hip hop which had a huge impact on the way I approach the drums today. Artist like Chris brown, Bryson tiller, Jagged edge and many other artist are still in my music rotation to this day. That blend of R&B, and hip-hop is a big part of who I am as a drummer. Fast forward to the present, I mainly play R&B and hip-hop, performing with DJs and artists, and I’m grateful for how every stage of my journey—from band class, to church, to bigger performances—helped shape me into the musician I am today.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been far from a smooth road. There have been many struggles along the way, from dealing with self-doubt to building confidence and finding my identity as a drummer. Coming from an area where gospel music is such a big part of the culture, it was challenging at times being someone who was heavily influenced by R&B and hip-hop and trying to find my lane within that space.
A big part of my journey was developing my own sound and learning how to make my playing fit the direction of modern-day music. Studying drummers like Devon “Stixx” Taylor and CJ Thompson— who are the top drummers in the industry helped me understand what was acceptable to play and how to make it work for the music. Understanding what music directors and shot callers are looking for, while still staying true to who I am as a musician, took a lot of time. It came down to consistent practice, discipline, mentorship, and putting myself out there. Now, I’m at a place where I’ve found my sound, found my lane, and I’m able to consistently work doing what I love.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As stated in the introduction, I’m a professional drummer who specializes in R&B and hip-hop. I perform with DJs, artists, and different musicians, and one thing that sets me apart is my ability to be a hybrid drummer. When I’m playing with DJs, I’m able to adapt to a live environment where the next song or direction can change at any moment. Whether the DJ switches songs, extends sections, or builds energy with the crowd, I’m able to follow their lead and create moments in real time instead of just playing a set pattern.
When I’m playing with artists, I focus on bringing their vision to life and making their music feel as close to the record as possible while still adding my own touch.
I also really value building relationships with the people I encounter through music. I like connecting with people, being a genuine human being beyond just the drums, and using music as a way to encourage others, bring joy, and make people smile. That connection is a big part of why I do what I do. I believe that God is just using me and my talent as a gateway to showing people the Heart of Christ.
What I’m most proud of is being able to use music to create moments, make people dance, and bring energy and joy to people through my playing. Being able to make a living as a full-time musician and support myself through something I’m passionate about is something I’m extremely grateful for.
I think what sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to be myself when I play. I wear my emotions on my sleeve, I interact with the crowd, and I bring energy to every performance. I’m not too cool to have fun, dance, and truly enjoy the moment behind the drums. Along with that, my work ethic, dedication, and desire to keep growing are a big part of who I am. I’m always trying to improve, learn the ins and outs of the industry, and understand what it takes to not only get opportunities but maintain them. I take pride in being professional, being prepared, showing up on time, knowing the music, and always bringing a great attitude.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is doing my first drum competition at 12 years old. At that point, I had only been playing drums for about two years, so I was still early in my journey and learning a lot. I remember competing against around 30 other young drummers, and I ended up placing third. That moment really stuck with me because it showed me that I had potential and that my hard work was starting to pay off, even at an early stage. More than anything, it motivated me to keep going, stay consistent, and keep getting better on my instrument. That experience played a big role in shaping my confidence and passion for drums moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elithedrummer.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eligerald_
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@elithedrummer00
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elithedrummer_
