Don't worry, one thing I've never been known to be is politically correct.
Really helpful. I feel very encouraged by your reply. I have always kind of laughed at Ringo Starr, but he is listed as a favorite by many. The tempo thing - I've definitely got that going for me. Thanks.
You're killin me with the "boom-chicky-boom" part.
Proper micing can help any drummer sound better (or worse, since every stroke will be heard), and so can properly tuned drums and better equipment. But it basically all comes down to you, the drummer. If you've got a strong sense of tempo you can play with anyone. Ringo Starr was not the most inventive drummer in the world, yet he is highly respected
for his nearly perfect tempo.
I guess that's my way of saying that I don't think being physically strong is the only thing that's important. Stamina is certainly important, but that's something that I think improves the more you play. I'm sure you've seen some pretty darn wimpy looking guys who can play the heck out of their kit, right? It's in the hands and wrists. You don't have to have 18" biceps.
If you're thinking that maybe you can't hit the drums as hard as a man, I might agree with you somewhat on that point. But if your band is drowning you out, then you either need to be miked, or they need to turn down
their volume. A good band has a good mix, so that all the instruments can be heard equally clearly.
Some people are naturally hard hitters, and some are naturally soft hitters. I know guys far smaller than me who just beat the snot out of their drums. I don't find that necessary. If that's their natural style, fine, but the truly skilled drummer IMHO is the one who can adjust their own volume to their circumstances.
As to whether there are actual physical restrictions that would prevent you from playing as well as a man, I don't think so. But then again I'm not a doctor, though I did sleep at a Holiday Inn Express once. (yeah, I loved those commercials).
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