How to Get the Most Out of Hiring a Remote Session Drummer

You've written a great song. It's got a great melody, catchy lyrics, and a solid chord progression. But there's one thing missing: a killer drum track.

So what do you do? Well, with a quick search online, you can find many drummers set up and ready to record from their studios entirely remotely.

When trawling through the web to find the perfect drummer, it's worth considering these four tips to help you get the most out of the experience.

Define the feel of the song

The first step is to define the overall feel of the song. Is it upbeat and happy? Dark and brooding? Something in between? This will help you narrow down your search for the right drummer. Do you want someone who can play complex fills and solos or someone who can lay down a simple but solid groove? Once you've decided on the song's feel and vibe, your search for the ideal drummer will be much easier.

Find someone who fits your budget

Let's be real—professional session drummers don't come cheap. But that doesn't mean you have to break the bank to find a good one. There are plenty of great drummers out there who offer their services at reasonable rates. Do some research and find someone whose fee fits your budget. But, just like most things in life, you get what you pay for.

Make sure they're available when you need them

This may seem like an obvious one, but it's important to make sure that your chosen drummer is available when you need them to be. If you're on a tight deadline, make sure they're able to accommodate your timeline before you book them for the job. Some drummers (myself included) offer a 48-hour turnaround, which you might need if you're on a tight deadline.

Listen to their demo reel

Last but not least, make sure you listen to their demo reel before you hire them! This will give you a good idea of their style and ability and whether or not they're a good fit for your project. Don't hire someone whose playing style is completely different from what you're looking for—it'll only end in frustration on both sides.

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Here at WantDrums, I specialize in providing custom drum tracks to musicians and producers around the world. As an online session drummer for over 12 years, I can help take your music to the next level with hassle-free, affordable remote drum recording. Get in touch, and let's chat about your project!