Drum-Off Competition

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Anyone can get behind a drum set and play around, but to be an amazing drummer is a skill that requires true talent and lots of practice in order to become a master at it. Those that are dedicated to drumming often dream of getting a chance to make it in the music business and perhaps even become notable for their skill, much like Travis Barker, Tommy Lee, Phil Collins and Stewart Copeland, just to name a few. Guitar Center, the leading United States retailer of guitars, amplifiers, percussion instruments, keyboards and recording equipment, has developed a competition that allows up and coming musicians to show off their drumming talent, win great prizes, and get a chance to launch a major music career. Who can resist a contest like that?On January 5th, the Guitar Center held their 19th annual Drum-Off Grand Finals at the Music Box at Fonda Theatre in Hollywood. The competition started three months ago, with drummers from across the country converging on 213 Guitar Centers across the United States. Those left standing then go on to store finals, and from there they compete at the district finals at 24 Guitar Center stores nationwide. Those that win at the district finals advance on to one of the four regional competitions held at Guitar Centers in New York, Hollywood, Chicago and Houston. The winner at each of those regions then competes to be crowned the 2007 Drum-Off Grand Champion.This year, the Drum-Off Championship was hosted by Stephen Perkins of Jane's Addiction, and drummers such as Adrian Young of No Doubt, Brooks Wackerman of Bad Religion, Shannon Leto of 30 Seconds to Mars, John Sawicki of Stomp and Byron McMackin of Pennywise were all on hand to cheer the 4 finalists on and give them a taste of what their lives could soon be like should they win the contest. The Guitar Center Drum-Off has become a staple in the music community, particularly with those who have made the drums their instrument of choice, and gives emerging musicians the support they need to create opportunities within the music industry. Dustin Hinz, the Manager of Event Marketing and Promotions for Guitar Center, says Guitar Center's mission is to promote the development of community amongst drummers, encourage musicianship and further their passion for music. After almost two decades of holding the Drum-Off, it is obvious that the retailer has succeeded in its goal.This year's winner is set to receive a Toyota FJ Cruiser, $10,000 in cash, a feature in the Guitar Center ad campaign, a $2,500 Levi's shopping spree, a custom designed drum kit from either DW, Pearl, Tama or Gretsch, a Roland TD20 electronic drum set, cymbals that are custom printed with the winner's signature, an endorsement deal and a write up in the magazine, Modern Drummer. If that isn't enough, the winner has the chance to show off his skills to some of the most noteworthy musicians and top executives in the music industry and maybe even land a recording deal or live gig with a highly respected band or artist. The 2002 Drum-Off Champion recorded with Prince on his most recent album and performed live with him at the Super Bowl, and the 2003 Drum-Off Champion performed with legendary funk group, Sly and the Family Stone. Who knows what is in the future for the 2007 Drum-Off Champion!The Young Hollywood team, who can often be heard in their offices, blasting various types of music through their radios and computers throughout the day, is always up for the opportunity to get exposed to new music. We hope to hear from the 2007 Champion soon!