One of the main reasons Microsoft is currently eating Netscape for browser lunch may easily be explained with one word- diversity. If you possess the talent to sing then my advice to you is be diverse and Sing, Sing, Sing!!! This is one strategic move that gives you not only an edge over the competition when you're out beating the bushes looking for a band, but it can also make you indispensable at your present position. Some drummers think their playing ability alone is going to be how their value to a band is determined, my belief is they couldn't be more wrong. With few exceptions the general public is cognizant of three main things when they rate a band:

1) Vocals. For the most part only lead vocals, but I've noticed exceptionally strong harmonies may capture some attention. Also, if you do sing lead vocals a few times a set don't be surprised that the vast majority of people won't notice. There is a big difference in audience perception when your fronting a band as opposed to being behind a drumset. Recently I had the opportunity to front the band I'm in for a few songs. I've played in this particular club where this took place a good two dozen times and each time had done my fair share of lead vocalizing. After the set was over the owner of club, who is always there, told me I did a great job singing and then asked me if I had ever sang lead before.

2) Danceability. Lay down a heavy dance beat, K.I.S.S., (Keep It Simple Stupid), you can designate time in the performance to be a "hotshot".

3) The Show. If you do nothing but stand on stage and don't move or interact with your audience then you are contributing to the success of a DJ who will soon be warming your spot on the same stage.

I mentioned earlier that the general public is aware of the above three things but guess what, the bands that really have it together, the bands you really want to be in, are also aware of these things too. If you play in a band with a lead singer and are able to take over singing lead from time to time, or can fill a needed harmony then your value in the drummer's marketplace will rise as fast as Apple Computer's stock is falling, (sorry Mac fans).

Self confidence and a healthy ego are essential when it comes to being successful as a drummer in a band. The key here is "healthy ego". Some guys get in the habit of overplaying. I don't think they play that way all the time because they enjoy it or because they consider it good musical writing. I believe insecurities are sometimes the reason. Whatever style of music your playing should ultimately drive your drumming style. Some songs may require more fills and expressiveness and others may call for a strict dance beat. You need to be flexible and behave intelligently enough to work within thevarious styles the music is calling for. Once again this ability to adapt will make your value higher in the drummer's marketplace.

In a lot of cases it's up to the drummer to orchestrate song segues. This is an important part of your job. You need to be aware of the other musicians needs in the band, as well as the necessity of reducing to a minimum the amount of "dead air" between songs. It is also an integral function of the drummer to not only set the initial time meter for the songs but to keep the meter solid throughout it's performance. I always critique mine and others live performance on the ability to play with a good sense of time. Drum fills don't sound good with erratic time foundations. Priorities dictate that the bands rhythm must be right before fills are added. Your fellow band members may grow to tolerate a sloppy meter but no matter how good the drum fills are will never be happy with it . If you think this could be a problem for you then I suggest you practice with a drum machine. Drum machines are cold and calculating and they don't lie. Set the machine on a basic 4 x 4 rhythm and play along. Throw your fills in and see what happens. If you find your fills are ending too soon then relax a little and try again. You may need to mentally count during your fills. Practice this enough to where it becomes natural. Your fellow band members may just notice and thank you for it.