How To BREAK Into Professional Drumming (Do These 3 Things!)

This is how I quit my day job to become a pro musician/drummer. Here's the full breakdown!
🥁Improve your creativity & confidence on the drums: DBO Academy 👉bit.ly/DBOAcademy
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Today I'm talking about the topic I wanted to know about my whole life as an aspiring drummer. How to quit your day job to become a professional musician! The road from drumming in your basement to becoming a pro musician/youtuber is a very uncertain path, BUT there are practical steps you can take to get there! So I'll be walking you through my revenue streams (and how much money I made) for how I became a professional drummer and youtuber. Let's get into it!
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⚙️ ALL MY DRUM GEAR ⚙️ ► imp.i114863.ne...
👇 My Exact Soundproofing Setup With Audimute (Get 10% OFF Using Links Below)
Front wall (with logo)
Acoustiwood: bit.ly/AMWood
Acoustic Panels: bit.ly/AMPanels
Back Wall (behind drumset)
Acousticolor (black): bit.ly/Acousti...
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Another cheap and effective sound treatment option: bit.ly/AMASheets
Some of the links above are affiliate links where I earn a very small commission if you purchase an item through using the link. You have no obligation to purchase through these links, but it does help fund these videos so that I can continue to bring value to you!
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ABOUT Drum Beats Online + DBO Academy:
Drum Beats Online is a website where beginner - advanced rock drummers learn to improve their skill and creativity on the drum set so they can have the confidence to play drums with others! The way I do this is through DBO Academy. Where drummers are put on a success path of transformation that takes them from beginner - to a master drummer. All in a community of positivity, support, and inspiration! If you want to reach your full potential on the drum set, I would HIGHLY recommend joining DBO Academy!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

If nothing else, I hope this video inspires you to go after what you really want in life! ►Make constant progress on the kit with DBO Academy: 👉 bit.ly/DBOAcademy

[@pjcShorts]

thx

[@RC32Smiths01]

Fully committing to a musical career is definitely not easy, especially at the beginning. Really appreciate the knowledge and advice!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Could not agree more! It's my pleasure!

[@RC32Smiths01]

@@DrumBeatsOnline Yeah!

[@BrandonScottDrums]

Dammit Gabe I’m legit editing a video talking about my entire drumming journey...😂 🤦🏻‍♂️ Not really about finances but the life side of it. HEYYYY THAT CELL PHONE EFFECT JUSY POPPED UP I LIKE IT... ❤️

[@shadowspear9639]

I'm always waiting for your videos :D

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Wait, you mean a video like this?!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/p37MhoiYfa2erLM Haha I'm just kidding man, that happens to me all the time!

[@thebrilliantrj]

imagine how we felt after buying all that cornstarch and water a few weeks ago...

[@SimonRileyDrums]

Can’t wait to see this one as well! Much love to both of you dudes🥁

[@SimonRileyDrums]

MAN!! This is SO DAMN RELATABLE to me and made me feel so much better! I just got out of the military 10 months ago after serving 8 whole years just to pursue my dream of becoming a professional drummer. KZbin has been my main focus and although I’m not at the point I want to be yet, I’m getting closer and closer everyday and it’s videos like this that motivate me even more! Thanks Gabe for sharing your story and here’s to continuing the grind🥁

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Heck yes Simon! You are a killer player, you’ve got this bro! Keep pushing forward!

[@thepilotdrummer]

You are the key of motivation

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@joelwallace5326]

Thanks for the advice bro Within the past 2 years I took music way more seriously and I would love to do it full time but I keep doubting if it will actually work. You've encouraged me to believe that I can do this.

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

That's amazing Joel. You've got this! #keeppushingforward

[@joelwallace5326]

@@DrumBeatsOnline Much respect bro

[@Strider258]

Very Harry Miree-esque man, I like it!

[@theunbanned4553]

For me it's planning things out. I'm a very chaotic person and planning things helps me improve to focus better on the drumming and the things I need to get done. Thanks for telling your story, it inspires me even more. For real thanks!

[@robbiesmith7468]

I am actually curious on how touring musicians bring in money. Revenue from touring and steaming music.

[@drummerdan95]

Merch is a big one. Arguably the biggest source of income on a tour.

[@brianquiles3435]

You are an example of never giving up, it amazes me how humble you are no matter how much you have accomplished. You always have your feet on the ground. God bless you always and go ahead brother. Greetings from Puerto Rico

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Thank you for the kind words!!❤️❤️

[@hectatusbreakfastus6106]

Pretty great video. I'm stuck in a job that takes me away from my kit for months at a time. Granted I've only had my kit for a little over a month but I'm certainly going to miss playing and all that time away is going to really hurt my playing.

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Better get a pad to help in the mean time!

[@cuzwell]

I'm under two years into drumming and I already have most of my gear. I'm trying to decide if part-time work is better than full-time so I can spend more time drumming and improving. Great to see a fellow Michigander having success. I may start streaming here and there just to get out of my comfort zone and possibly watch back later to see where I can improve.....which is everything lol.

[@donfisherjr.2404]

Very good advice from a young man who was focused on his career goals that provided fulfillment rather than just a steady paycheck at a boring job. Great video!

[@DrumsWithTaylor]

I'm in that working full time and playing Friday and Saturday stage right now. All kinds of gigs, just making it work. Making videos when I can, and just trying to enjoy music! This was very insightful.

[@abhishekaby941]

Thank you Gabe for sharing your journey please put more playthroughs

[@thejohnnydavidson]

Gabe! You offer so much more than just "how to play drums"! I appreciate how open and willing you are to help the drumming community. Thanks so much! I wish I had time to join DBO...

[@lucachiostergi]

Finally someone talking real shi*...my story is I'm a longtime drummer, but after covid hit a big downslope in my personal life and started doing odd jobs, like literally anything (bike mech, AV tech, stage building, sous-chef, bussy boy..and so on). Now I'm seriously fed up, have enough of people being passive-aggressive on workplaces and treating me like I know nothing, bosses bossing around, always feeling like people don't really know what I'm good at. But this all was a great teaching experience, personally and financially speaking. I'm at the point you were and just want to be a drummer cause it's the thing I can do best and somehow it'll happen. Great video man, loved it, it's real as real can be..respect

[@oretokin2905]

The most important drum video for me 😀 thank you so much . I got great feedback from this video that I am on the right path 😀

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Glad it was helpful!

[@willdrum516]

Gabe I have followed your videos and your career for some time. This is really pulling at my heart. I’m currently 27 years old and I have been drumming for 15 years. I have felt so lost and like nothing wants to happen for my drumming career but I couldn’t feel more sure that I have to pursue what I love and this video definitely put it out there for me. Thank you so much ! I love everything that you have done and what you share with the community 🙏🏽-Will R

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

This really means a lot! I’m so glad to hear that I could help motivate you in some small way to keep pushing forward. You’ve got this!

[@joshuamaltez4704]

Go for it! Best of luck!

[@maxschubert176]

The glasses fit to the "Church Gabe" very good

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

😂😂

[@brettclurdrums]

That's awesome, Gabe! I'm so stoked to see all the growth. I was watching your videos since before you had the dedicated drum space/studio :D I'm on a similar journey. One thing that I've found that has really unlocked earning potential has been writing articles for drum gear websites. It's become my main source of income. I hope to grow that so that I can eventually quit my full-time teaching job and then create a website with some courses as well as grow the KZbin channel. Thanks for all the inspiration, man!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Awesome dude!

[@toms4888]

wow! gage! great to hear! wow!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

❤️❤️

[@pravinjogdand]

I've been watching this 3 times, and whenever I feel I'm struggling in my musical journey I watch This video and it helps me to be energized.❤❤

[@Pugnare-et-vincere]

This guy just casually mentioning he is the drumer of one of my favorite bands. Seriouly. I was following this channel on and off for a few months, but I never noticed. Keep on rocking dude. You and youre band are just awesome.

[@claytonrath8033]

That snare mic at 3:57 slightly off center is bothering me 😅 great video Gabe!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Haha sorry!

[@rghelguera]

You are the picture of success: Making a living doing what you like best! I may do that someday....hopefully soon...

[@MehulShaRma]

THIS US WHAT MY DREAM IS , and also want to be a great Drummer and KZbinr too

[@loganlake7814]

This is just the video I need! I’ve committed to finding a way to do this for a living and I’m so ready to do whatever is necessary. I’ll jump through any hoop at this point, and this video definitely helps make things clearer and reinforces the fact that I really do want to do this for a living!!!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

So happy to hear that Logan!

[@PreKDrums]

This ones Probably my favourite video, it was super motivating watching you explain your story and the struggles. I’m in the beginning phase of being a full time drummer and it’s so dope seeing all the success you’ve had after years of grinding hard 🔥🔥🥁🥁

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

❤️❤️❤️

[@TREBLEBOOSTER65]

This video is the #1 thing I need at this point. I need to replace my job and this is my biggest passion

[@mishaDorjan]

I’ve never heard of this band of this guy before but this video literally helped me find a reason to keep going. Thank you.

[@AtomGill]

0 dislikes for a reason! You're an inspiration brother 👊

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

❤️❤️❤️

[@lonnienorton.]

I really appreciate your channel, I enjoy watching a new video all the time with coffee in the morning before I go to my kit for my daily drum lesson. I've been lucky enough to play the drums for the past 35 years and I love the fact that we as drummers are always learning and hopefully progressing in what we love. ❤😁👍

[@NativeIntelligenceCheckMyDJmix]

Super real video, love the breakdown, Gabe ..ur the ultimate drum hustler, honestly I got tired just hearing how hard you work. lol.

[@XanderTheAwesome]

So much excellent content in this video. Thanks Gabe! Also the production value of your videos these days is outstanding!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

I’m so glad you liked it!!

[@adambell2068]

Dude you are so inspiring!

[@JoeyRam.]

You give me more reasons to keep looking for that moment in life to jump on stage and play. I'm so so proud of you 👏🏻 and feel lucky that I found one of your videos in KZbin. 🤘🏻🥁🤘🏻

[@andyalexander5816]

I found this incredibly useful. Thank you so much for it, having you explain your steps from the start helped me out a lot and I relate to it almost to a tee. I could give you a kiss for this video! Mwah 💋

[@joesalter4212]

Thank you for this video. I'm currently at the beginning of this path, although a bit older (nearly 24). I just worry too much that I won't be able to sustain a liveable lifestyle if I make the transition. I currently teach online alongside my day job(pharmacist) but have always wanted to be a full time musician. This video may have been that little bit of inspiration I need. Thank you ❤️

[@PunkMarioBros]

I’m in school now and I’ve learnt 5 instruments now which is to try and improve the amount of session work or instrument lessons I can do to earn money doing what I love and maybe one day go somewhere with a band

[@lessgoofyone]

This might be the most inspiring drum video I've ever seen. I'm doing this shit.

[@Robzilluh]

Just found the channel today. From michigan myself! Love the insight. This info is so valuable to people on the outside because not a lot of people talk about how they made it to be a full time musician.

[@chrisr7692]

It's always good to hear from someone who is so passionate about teaching and learning. I'm grateful even though my Pearl decade was stolen, along with all of my harmonicas about 2 months ago. I have hope and I appreciate your candidness and encouragement. I'm living in an area that should hopefully get me some paying gig's starting in March. Hoping to have a decent sounding kit before I get the gigs. Anyway, thank you for sharing this me.... it's what I needed to absorb and I know it's not going to be easy but it's sure worth it when you're doing something you love and helping others along the way. Keep up the great work and continue to educate us in all areas of the drums, cymbals, hardware. ect., and maybe the most important, a positive attitude with knowledge and experience, willing to help me out and reveal the hope of being a full time musician is still very much possible. Grace and peace to you and your family always. Chris

[@jacques_mw]

This video is really inspiring and just what I needed to see as an aspiring professionnal drummer, thanks for sharing your experience Gabe!

[@jan-michaelneumann2077]

I really can feel the struggling you´ve been through in younger days. I´m in the same situation (24y now) for the last 6 months and now I´ve been told that I have a big talent at the drums so I started this journey and this is what I am most passionate about. I watched your video and it´s like I was looking at myself in a mirror. I appreciate what you are doing Gabe and I personally will do it similar to you 🤘

[@arockalypsgaming]

I think it's so cool that God put you where you needed to be to get the job with I Prevail.

[@cyntosphotography7483]

wow you inspire me despite of my challenge

[@adelekejames6537]

Definitely not quitting🥁💯💯 I feel pumped with this great video of yours.

[@HenkJanDrums]

Thanks. My strategy is having a lot of different groups/styles/capabilities: drums 60% percussion 30% singing 1% recording 3% teaching 1%. lifetime education 5% I have 3 choirs, a big band, a cover band, a concert band, an accordion group. Non regular or on call i attend percussion groups, jam sessions, substitute drumming, some concerts with an extra accordion group, choir, session band, etc. During covid my life time education was about 90% so could make serious progress than. With my age 65 i am happy to have most gigs of my life. Never expected that. My goal is extending my lifetime as an active drummer. So did add a lot of education just for that goal. Lifetime updating also is important. Would be nice to level up but also important to keep some back up to return to. Being realistic with my future and age. Had last year a few gigs and some recording projects at a higher level where full pro's were involved. Was attacked/tested several times but my education did grow so much that it really is more than a trick to learn. My experience did grow also so did build something that is as solid as i am. Did get some travel expenses and free attendence of a club etc. Have my gear OK. Prepare for the gig. Do improvise a lot. Can learn songs fast for 70%. In some groups i have sheet music. Best wishes to you.

[@Drummerjawkneed]

This was awesome! Thanks for inspiring us to follow our paths. I’m going to do it!

[@mihaimunteanu2059]

Hey Gabe just got an ocasion to join a new trash metal band here in my city...The thing is I used to love double bass but nowadays I dont use anymore and I find it funny how I am in the same situation you were in when you joined I prevail. Also I wanted to say thank you, keep up the good work and happy birthday

[@THEDRUMMER3779]

What's your advice on finding bands/live performances that need drummers?

[@RiKkaeLla08]

Thanks very much having this video.. it really help me realized not to stop my passion. More power to your channel from one of your zealous subscriber here in the Philippines.

[@poppunkmark305]

Gabe you're such an inspiration and where did you get that jacket

[@NikkeK]

Great video!

[@ronaldzeoli7528]

Those who are serious about wanting to have a musical career and can read sheet music try auditioning for one or all of the military branches. You get to play all the time and in different places. Its a great option.

[@Juicedude502]

I been hearing God said do not despise small beginnings and you just confirmed that thanks mane

[@khrashingphantom9632]

This was amazing! Although I'm glad you mentioned living with your parents it really should have been a MUCH larger point. ALMOST NO ONE in the U.S is living off $1100 per month while paying full average rent. So "budgeting" (while EXTREMELY important and necessary) alone doesn't cut it. To become successful in ANY pursuit (music especially) requires a lot of luck, hard work, and HELP. Thank goodness for your parents letting you live with them and (even indirectly) investing in your dream. I'd say they saw how hard you were working to make this happen (NO DAYS OFF from what you described. Maximum grind. Lol) and just gave you what seemed like a stable base of operations to grow and expand. Congrats on the website and KZbin success you've gotten so far and I hope you get that 1M plaque because this channel is quality! Thanks for posting. Also to the parents/guardians out there if you see you young one REALLY going for dream they have help them along if you can. You never know how far they can take it. Thanks again.

[@skithunter8990]

So inspiring. Happy for you. I’ll never be a pro drummer, but it’s inspiring for other avenues.

[@blaazdrum6816]

Probably the most inspirational video I've seen of you.. I'm in this period where I try to find as many ways to make money as possible as a drummer: I started teaching, joined a few bands and started gigging again, so I totally relate to your story! Thanks for those precious advices!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

I appreciate that! Keep pushing forward dude, you've got this!

[@richardlewis8500]

This was a very good video. I was there a long time ago but had zero ideas and no internet back then. Still working 9-5 and drumming as a "hobbie". Painful. Young guys think about this but be smart. Very inspirational.

[@tsamopoulos]

Happy bday gabeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@scottgraham2530]

Thank you for this ... I had to get a day job but always wondered how ... so awesome

[@IlichBezpaleva]

Thank you so much, for a great drum inspiration. For me, sinking now in personal hard times inside - it is the best of.

[@lukemc7930]

This is definitely a video I needed to see Gabe! I'm glad you've made it with music and with teaching, I can imagine it's not easy so it's cool to see you living it. This has for sure inspired me to think about the next step to take, just need to plan it out. What do you think about playing drums on cruise ships? Might venture down that alley.

[@Ramezml]

So much love. Come to Mexico city man, you can stay in my couch.

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

I’d love to! I have tons of family there.

[@justanotherguygeorge128]

Congratulations man you did it and you give us ideas about drumming. Thanks a lot.

[@clip_caruso]

Thanks for everything Gabe! You're a great guy! 🤟

[@julesdrums6167]

Awesome man. Thank you for sharing-from a fellow Michigan drummer. Currently play out of a garage in Dexter right next to AA.

[@raykos4257]

Such an amazing video!

[@Professor_Gamble]

Dang Gabe, you're awesome and so humble. I think that the biggest lesson here is putting in the work. As you said, what if you hadn't kept up with your drumming and your lessons? You get the call from I Prevail and then they just go, nah, not good enough. Your hard work paid off and it made you a better drummer with more experience. Stay true my friend. I hope you come to California soon and I can meet you in person.

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

I appreciate the kind words and am so glad you learned a great lesson from this video!

[@jimmyfafard2709]

Holy shit I have just starting watching your youtube drumming videos, and I didn't even know you were in I Prevail. I started listening to your band about two years ago and really love the music!! Love your drumming, hopefully some day I can be as good as you!!

[@silvanoolalla]

Thank you so much for the video, I think I couldn't find any better help. I'm a 17 year old drummer and my dream it's to be a full time musician, and you have encouraged me so much to go for it, taking small steps.

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

It’s truly my pleasure. You’ve got this!

[@gijsdries4141]

Nice man, mad respect for making the jump!

[@FeedTheFireLLC]

This video is priceless, man. Thanks so much

[@az12drums]

Please do more videos like this

[@destruction7367]

Thank you so much for making this video. Appreciate you man, rock on 🤘

[@bogdyscripcaru5929]

Thank you for everything,Gabe!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

You are very welcome!

[@DontMakeMomCry]

Words of wisdom! Thank you Gabe -AW

[@loadedares3523]

You are an inspiration Gabe. I wanna make drumming my career as well but my family and relatives don’t want that because they think that this is not good for me and I will eventually regret this in the future. I don’t blame them because every parent wants the best for their children but I want to be a full time drummer. That being said I honestly don’t know where to start my drumming career.♥️♥️

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

I can totally relate to this!

[@jacksonsilverman5790]

Great video Gabe, I’d love to see more content like this in the future! The practical yet inspiring breakdown of this information was really helpful!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

I’m so happy to hear that Jackson!

[@benjaminwoodman]

Dude I live in Michigan too and it seems impossible. This is really cool how close of a background we have.

[@Prof-Sanstixx]

Nice things to hear from you bro, I wish I will be as you have achieve yours, and the main thing thats bordering me is my parents and the nature of the environment.

[@milesvaniglia7854]

Love it man! I feel like I could do KZbin videos and gig out. I also think getting involved at my church would be good too. They’re always looking for drummers. I also thought moving to Nashville might be a good idea. I mean the proximity of other musicians could lead to opportunities.

[@kathrynwright2075]

Thank you for sharing the details of your story. - Very inspiring!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

You are very welcome!

[@Jester_jester415]

Awesome Gabe! Thank you. But despite that I still work at a day job (but I fond money in two records of my band). And I’m almost 37 now. And I’m kinda frustrating😕

[@declanwrightmusic]

Heck yeah! I would love to see a Part 2!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Alright!

[@edwinsonsantos7100]

This is very inspiring man! It motivated me to make small steps forward. I'm from the Philippines ☺

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Happy to hear that!

[@icadrums]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing! Great work Gabe!! :)

[@cgDRUMS.]

Appreciate your blueprint

[@HezekiahOmanudhowo]

I love how legit this is tho Nice outing

[@andrewwarrendrums8969]

This is such an awesome video! This is something I’m working on getting started and seeing your journey makes me want to keep striving for more!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

❤️❤️

[@jasoneilersdrumvideos939]

I’m actually moving to the Michigan suburbs in a few weeks to join my band full time. Starting this now doesn’t seem too bad of an idea.

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

Ha that’s awesome!

[@jamieriordanmusic]

awesome video, thank you Gabe!!

[@vuongangkhoa9671]

You good!!! Your story is really inspiring

[@jomudesimedia]

Groovy info. Thanks my friend.

[@justdrumit9031]

Hey man, this video really inspired me. I want to become a drummer but my patrents don't. I started at age of 14 and i think that this is too late. I joined a band and we have one song together and we want to record an album. I don't know what to expect. When started playing more and more because of the band my grades started going down and my parents are being mad at me. They always say that school needs to be on 1st place and i understand that but the bad thing is that i am still 15 and i can't find money for gear. Mom and dad aren't helping me in anyway nd it is really hard for me. I need to change my drum heads, need to buy a new pedal, because my old one is broken and a new cymbal. It is not easy but i keep pushing because i want to make my dream come true. I know that it will be hard to achieve because i come from a small country in the middle of nowhere and i am a girl, but i will push as hard as i can to become a drummer. Thanks to everyone who read that to the end! I hope this comment will inspire someone and no one will give up! The only thing that can stop you from succeeding are only your negative thoughts. Believe and things will happen the way you want!

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

There you go! I love the positivity. I know it can be a very difficult road sometimes, but keep pushing forward and good things will come.

[@wilsonhsubmth]

It is trully inspiring.

[@tea2920]

I've been playing drums for 4 year and producing and playing keyboards for 3 years, right now I'm learning bass and to mix/master im 15 and i wanna go to collage (archeology) and then open a studio

[@miguelsaavedrums]

Congrats man and thank you for the advices

[@DrumBeatsOnline]

🙏🏽🙏🏽