Anyone who knows and follows Mike knows the term "Embrace The Suck" all too well. Simply put, there are just some things we need work on in our drumming and even in our everyday lives. Instead of putting ourselves down or others, embrace where you are, accept the challenge and make those weaknesses strengths. Mike's message has always been clear, we are all on the same journey just at different parts of the timeline. I think Mike is one of the few drum educators that really get it, he really understands the struggle, the challenge and he has a way of communicating clearly on how we all can get there with patience, effort and passion.
You should always strive to be a better you each day, not just in drumming but in life in general. We've looked at a few things that have been developed to make our learning process more easier, enjoyable and intuitive. I personally know a lot of people that are currently using Groove Freedom and Groove Scribe in their daily practice routine. To think that all this has been developed in just a few short years and it has enhanced our abilities to learn and push ourselves even further. Who knows what other innovations will come about in the next coming years?
As you can see this feature article is not your typical article that talks about the usual things that are already known about Mike, his YouTube stardom leading to a successful online drum instruction web site. There are more than enough interviews that cover these areas but instead we wanted to focus on the drive, passion and innovation that fuels Mike Johnston and how he takes that motivation and gives back to the drum community. Mike has always pointed out that he's not a gifted drummer that was born with chops like Tony Royster Jr. He's an average Joe like you and I that worked very hard to be where he is in life. Bottom line he's probably one of the most sincere, positive and passionate person you will ever meet. Being a teacher and educator is what he is most passionate about and we are all benefiting from it.
It is a great time to be a drummer with all the resources and information we have, there is so much out there for us to learn, so many resources that we can pick and chose from. Personally I think it only enhances our experiences even more so and we are fortunate to have people like Mike always striving to be innovative, always pushing the bar line further but always remembering his humble beginnings.
Mike endorses Meinl Cymbals, Gretsch Drums, Aquarian Drumheads andVater.
For Mike's set up please visit his artist pages by clicking the links provided.
