The Beats of a Drummer

The beats of a drummer provide the framework of a band.  Some people liken them to the spine of a book or the foundation of a house.  This makes a drummer a significant segment of a band.  In essence, he causes the "beat to go on."   This writer is not speaking of any drummer, but Detroit's own Drummer Ron Otis.     Who is this guy?  What makes him tick?  More importantly, what makes his drum "roll?"  Hang around and find out.

At age five, drum sticks were placed in the hands of Ron.  Five years later, he was playing in his church, and within six years, he was entertaining audiences in clubs.  What an extraordinary journey!    Why am I telling his story?  He can tell it better!

Ron grew up in Detroit, went to Osborn High School on the east side of Woodward, a street that runs north and south, basically cutting the city in half.    Today, Detroit is over 77% African American with music dominating its artistic culture.   

The drum has always played an important role in American music because it was a key instrument in African American music.  Where would music rate in the world without the contributions of black Americans?  There would be no jazz, smooth jazz, spirituals, blues, rock n' roll, hip-hop, rap . . . the list is long.
Historically, Africans used drums to communicate messages in faraway places.   They have been referred to as "talking drums."  Ron makes his drums "talk."

Establishing a Drum Voice
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As I "flipped" from one website to another, soaking up as much information as possible on Drummer Ron Otis, I was fascinated to hear him speak (as you heard in the video above) about his establishing a voice as a drummer.  I smiled at first . . . thinking whoever heard of a drummer having a distinct voice, aren't they in the band to "keep the beat?"  However, as I listened, the smile faded into interest.  

Ron talked about the necessity of establishing his voice as a drummer so that it would set him apart from other drummers.  He mentioned that if he were going to sound like 100 other drummers, what would motivate someone to choose him for gigs instead of another drummer?  Great question!  I was about to learn the answer.

Research reveals there are drummers who have established their identity--drummers like Art Blakely, Buddy rich, Brian Blade, Terri Lyne Carrington or Roy Haynes.  Therefore, when heard on a record or CD, they are recognizable because they have a distinct style of making those beats roll "off the drum.."  Here's a Ron solo with a band. 

 Ron Discography 
Check out Ron's Spotify Page to hear his latest recordings:
Stay in Your Lane - Take Time - Peace - Low Beat - Up Front

Ron Otis is an exceptional artist!  I was mesmerized by his graceful movements as he traveled from one drum to another!  My eyes were focused on him. . . other artists on the stage were background.  My ears enjoyed a "symphony of beats," each having a movement of its own.  Lastly, was the demeanor of the man. . . there is a detectable humility that transforms his astounding ability!   It's as though he doesn't know "how good he is."  Then . . . maybe that is what "greatness" looks like!  
The most disappointing thing about writing this article is, I have not seen Ron in a "live" concert.  That is a date I would love to see on my calendar.  As exciting, energetic and "rhythmically melodic" as Ron is via video, I know seeing him "live" would make me join the crowd in screaming for more! 
 RON OTIS: THE ASTOUNDING BEATS of a DRUMMER!