Some one who’s really influenced me is Don Brewer from Grand Funk Railroad. He’s the drummer for the band and I have met him about 5 times. He’s a great guy and to me one of the best rock and roll drummers of all time. He is very charismatic on stage and off. Originally from Flint Michigan he grew up in a small poor town where everyone basically grew up to work in a car factory. After his father introduced him to music just like mine did, he decided that’s what he wanted to do with his life. He formed Grand Funk and they became one of the most successful rock bands in history. To me he’s a great influence because of his style of playing. When he’s on stage he goes nuts, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him play where he’s not smiling and having a great time. He is really animated behind the drums. Sometimes he’ll get up and run around the drums and stage. He gets so into the music it’s ridiculous. But not only that but what he’ actually playing is some incredible drum work. He also writes music and sings as well. He’s an all around great musician not just a drummer. Off stage he’s really down to earth and helping to people who want to be in the business. Overall I find him to be a good role model in the sense that he parties but is still focused on the music. He is in his 60’s now and is still touring the states each year rocking just like he was when he was 20. He doesn’t do it for money or fame, but for fun and the love of music. He was a true success story and I hope to be the same one-day!

Ben Dacoba