Behind The Kit with Arizona Drummer

Arizona Drummer
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Behind The Kit dives into the lives of today’s most inspiring drummers — from Grammy winners to rising stars. Hosted by Kyle Smith of Arizona Drummer, each episode explores the real stories behind the beats: the hustle, heart, and passion it takes to make it in music. Whether you're a drummer or just love music, you'll find powerful insights and raw conversations that go way beyond the kit. Follow, like, and subscribe to never miss a beat!

  1. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 18: Ben Anderson (Nothing More)

    FEB 9

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 18: Ben Anderson (Nothing More)

    Episode 18 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been looking forward to for a long time — sitting down with  ⁨@BenAndersonDrums⁩  , the powerhouse drummer behind  ⁨@NothingMoremusic⁩  .Known for his explosive energy, precision, and unmistakable feel, Ben has helped shape the sound and live intensity of one of modern rock’s most dynamic bands. From massive tours and festival stages to deeply intentional songwriting and performance, Ben’s approach to drumming is equal parts physical, emotional, and disciplined.In this conversation, we dive into Ben’s journey behind the kit — how he developed his voice as a drummer, the demands of performing at the highest level in a heavy rock band, and what it takes to maintain consistency, longevity, and authenticity in a fast-moving industry. We talk about preparation, endurance, mindset, musical chemistry, and the responsibility that comes with serving the song night after night.This episode isn’t just about power and chops — it’s about control, intention, and showing up fully for the music and the people around you.Season 2 continues to build with meaningful conversations like this one, and I’m incredibly grateful to share these stories with you.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

    1h 34m
  2. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 17: Sarah Hagan

    JAN 30

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 17: Sarah Hagan

    Season 2 of Behind The Kit continues with a conversation that goes far beyond drums — Episode 2 features  @SarahHaganBackstage , one of the most respected and influential figures in the modern drum community.Sarah is best known for her work in Artist Relations, most notably as the longtime Head of Artist Relations at  @ZildjianCompany  where she helped shape careers, foster meaningful artist relationships, and bridge the gap between musicians, innovation, and legacy. She has also played a pivotal role at  @MusoraOfficial ,  @DrumeoOfficial  ,  @GibraltarHardware  ,  @PercussiveArtsSociety  , and  @SJCCustomDrums  continuing her mission of education, advocacy, and community-building within the drumming world.But titles only tell part of the story. Sarah has become a trusted voice and constant source of support for countless drummers — advocating for artists, championing creativity, and helping musicians navigate the often unseen side of the music industry with honesty and integrity.In this conversation, we dive into Sarah’s journey, her philosophy on artist relations, and what it truly means to support artists in a sustainable and human way. We talk about career longevity, communication, trust, and how meaningful relationships are built — not just between brands and artists, but within the drum community as a whole.This episode isn’t about chops or gear — it’s about people, purpose, and the impact one person can have behind the scenes when they genuinely care about the artists they serve.Season 2 is already shaping up to be something really special, and this conversation sets the tone in a powerful way.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

    1h 34m
  3. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 16: Madden Klass (Touring/Session Drummer)

    JAN 16

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 16: Madden Klass (Touring/Session Drummer)

    Episode 16 of Behind The Kit marks the official launch of Season 2 — and I couldn’t imagine a better way to kick things off than sitting down with one of my favorite drummers on the planet, Madden Klass.A Berklee College of Music graduate with an incredible résumé, Madden has performed with artists like Chappell Roan, boygenius, and Nat and Alex Wolff, while carving out a career defined by feel, musicality, and absolute professionalism. Beyond the credits, Madden is a drummer with deep intention — someone who brings emotion, creativity, and purpose to every note she plays. In this conversation, we dive into Madden’s journey as a drummer, her approach to feel and composition, and what it truly takes to build and sustain a career at the highest level of the music industry. We talk about preparation, adaptability, artistic identity, and the mindset required to show up consistently as a professional — even when the path isn’t always clear.This episode isn’t just about chops or touring credits — it’s about artistry, discipline, and trusting your voice as a musician. Season 2 is officially underway, with more incredible conversations already recorded and even more on the horizon — and if this episode is any indication, this season is going to be something really special.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting this series. 🥁🖤

    1h 41m
  4. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 15: Mike Sleath (Shawn Mendes | Camila Cabello | Miley Cyrus)

    12/29/2025

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 15: Mike Sleath (Shawn Mendes | Camila Cabello | Miley Cyrus)

    Episode 15 of Behind The Kit marks a huge milestone — not only is this our final episode of 2025, but it also closes out Season 1 of the series.This season has been nothing short of incredible, and I couldn’t think of a better way to wrap it up than sitting down with  ⁨@MIKESLEATH⁩  — a drummer whose journey, perspective, and experience embody exactly what Behind The Kit is all about.Throughout this conversation, Mike opens up about his path as a drummer, the realities of building a sustainable career in music, and the lessons learned along the way — both behind the kit and beyond it. We dive into mindset, preparation, growth, and what it truly takes to stay committed to your craft in an ever-changing industry. Playing with incredible artists like  ⁨@MileyCyrus⁩  ,  ⁨@camilacabello⁩  , and being the drummer for  ⁨@shawnmendes⁩  , Mike is no stranger to performing at the highest level.This episode isn’t just about drums — it’s about perseverance, adaptability, and trusting the process when the road ahead isn’t always clear. Mike’s story offers insight and encouragement for drummers and creatives at every stage of their journey.As Season 1 comes to a close, I want to sincerely thank every single person who watched, listened, commented, shared, and supported this series — and of course, every guest who gave their time, honesty, and expertise to help inspire this community. None of this exists without you.Season 2 is already in motion, with incredible conversations recorded and even more on the calendar — and I truly can’t wait to share what’s coming next.Thank you for being part of this journey. 🥁🖤

    1h 8m
  5. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 14: Matt Horn (YouTube’s Drum Tech | POV Tour Life)

    12/22/2025

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 14: Matt Horn (YouTube’s Drum Tech | POV Tour Life)

    Episode 14 of Behind The Kit features one of the most recognizable behind-the-scenes voices in the modern drum world —  @matthorndrums  YouTube’s drum tech and the mind behind some of the most immersive POV and BTS tour-life content on the platform.Matt has carved out a completely unique lane by pulling back the curtain on what life is really like as a professional drum tech — from load-ins and rehearsals to showtime, problem-solving on the fly, and the reality that most people never see. His content has resonated with drummers, techs, and music fans alike because it’s honest, practical, and deeply rooted in real-world experience.In this episode, Matt breaks down how he got his start in the drum tech world, what it actually takes to earn trust on major tours, and how preparation, consistency, and attitude can make or break a career behind the scenes. We talk about the responsibilities that come with being the backbone of a live drum rig, how to think like both a technician and a musician, and why problem-solving under pressure is one of the most valuable skills on the road.Matt also dives into how his POV-style videos took off, why authenticity matters more than polish, and how documenting tour life has helped educate and inspire the next generation of drum techs. From troubleshooting gear minutes before downbeat to navigating long tour days and high expectations, this conversation shines a light on a role that’s absolutely essential to live music — but rarely celebrated.Whether you’re a drummer curious about the tech side, someone aspiring to work on tours, or just fascinated by the machinery that keeps shows running night after night, Matt’s story delivers real insight, real perspective, and real behind-the-scenes truth from the road. 🥁🛠️

    1h 43m
  6. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 13: Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes (Tate McRae | Ava Max | Jordin Sparks)

    12/15/2025

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 13: Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes (Tate McRae | Ava Max | Jordin Sparks)

    Episode 13 of Behind The Kit features one of pop music’s most electrifying live drummers —  @DrummingwithJarvis  the rhythmic backbone behind superstar artists like  @TateMcRae  ,  @avamax  , and  @JordinSparks  !Jarvis isn’t just a powerhouse musician — he’s also a great personal friend of mine, and getting to spotlight his journey on this series is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time.From global tours to late-night TV to massive festival stages, Jarvis has carved out a reputation for precision, musicality, and the kind of high-energy performance that modern pop gigs demand. His journey is a masterclass in versatility, hustle, and staying ready for opportunities that can change everything.In this episode, Jarvis dives deep into his come-up, how he broke into the pop touring world, and what it takes to keep up with artists whose shows evolve constantly. He shares his philosophy on building a pocket that supports dancers, tracks, and blockbuster production — all while maintaining authenticity behind the kit.We also explore the realities of rehearsing for arena-level pop tours, learning massive catalogs quickly, handling pressure on live TV, and adapting to different artists’ musical identities. Jarvis' story is filled with actionable insight for drummers chasing pop, hip-hop, or commercial touring careers — and honest perspective on what it’s like to perform on some of the biggest stages in the world.Whether you’re grinding toward your first gig, dreaming about pop tours, or inspired by drummers pushing the modern scene forward, Jeb’s journey delivers motivation, clarity, and the real behind-the-scenes of life on the road. 🥁✨

    1h 13m
  7. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 12: Jake Sommers (Luke Combs | Nashville | Touring Pro)

    12/01/2025

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 12: Jake Sommers (Luke Combs | Nashville | Touring Pro)

    Episode 12 of Behind The Kit features the heartbeat behind one of modern country’s biggest artists — Jake Sommers, longtime drummer for Luke Combs, and a rock-solid force on some of the most iconic stages in the world.From stadium tours to award-show performances, Jake has helped shape the sound of Luke’s massive rise, bringing consistency, power, and musical maturity to a gig that never stops growing. His story is one of grind, gratitude, and the kind of commitment it takes to hold down one of the most in-demand touring chairs in Nashville.In this episode, Jake opens up about his journey into the Nashville scene, how he landed the Luke Combs gig, and what it takes to stay prepared for a nonstop touring cycle. He shares his approach to groove, pocket, and musical support — and why serving the song will always outshine flashy chops.We dive into life on the road, building chemistry with a band, navigating pressure on the biggest stages, and the mindset it takes to show up night after night for crowds of tens of thousands.Whether you’re hustling toward your first gig, dreaming of touring life, or simply inspired by musicians who put in the work every day, Jake’s story is full of practical wisdom, heart, and the reality of what it means to chase your dreams. 🤠🥁

    1h 9m
  8. 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 11: Mike Mangini (Monolith | Dream Theater | The Lab)

    11/10/2025

    🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 11: Mike Mangini (Monolith | Dream Theater | The Lab)

    Episode 11 of Behind The Kit features one of the most technically brilliant and forward-thinking drummers on the planet — Mike Mangini, best known for his jaw-dropping symmetric playing, his Guinness World Record-breaking speed, and now his innovative new education platform: The Lab.A drummer, educator, and visionary, Mike has dedicated his life to pushing the boundaries of rhythm, technique, and human potential. His latest project, The Lab, redefines drum education by breaking down the science of drumming and unlocking the systems behind creativity, precision, and flow.In this episode, Mike opens up about his journey from teaching at Berklee, what inspired the creation of The Lab, and how his approach to drumming has evolved over decades of innovation and performance at the highest level.He shares deep insight into his mindset, how he trains both physically and mentally, and his mission to help the next generation of drummers tap into their own peak performance.Whether you’re a student, a pro, or simply passionate about rhythm, this conversation will challenge the way you think about drumming forever. 🧠🥁🎧 Available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music!

    1h 9m
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About

Behind The Kit dives into the lives of today’s most inspiring drummers — from Grammy winners to rising stars. Hosted by Kyle Smith of Arizona Drummer, each episode explores the real stories behind the beats: the hustle, heart, and passion it takes to make it in music. Whether you're a drummer or just love music, you'll find powerful insights and raw conversations that go way beyond the kit. Follow, like, and subscribe to never miss a beat!

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