Meet Demetrius Conley | Drummer & Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Demetrius Conley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Demetrius, what makes you happy? Why?
What makes me happy is playing drums.

Because its not too late to become a drummer, all you have to do is take sometime to practice, learn a few lessons, and also use your dedication behind your kit, meaning fall in love with this instrument like you really meant to play the drums. The real reason why playing the drums makes me happy is because I have feel alive, I have these emotions running down inside my body when I perform in front of hundreds of people, the greatest energy I have while I develop technology around the drum kit, and also having collaborations with other talented musicians out here in South Florida. A lot of people would say “drums is life”. Well, yes it is, on the other hand, becoming a drummer is a lifestyle for me.

I chose this lifestyle as a result to this, I started listening to a lot of rock music when I was 11. I’ve watched music videos on TV just thinking, who is that musician playing in the back? It gave me an idea that I wanted to do whatever it is he/she is doing. So the funny thing is I was being caught in the kitchen banging on the kitchen table, cabinets, and maybe pull a wooden spoon plus two cooking pots. In contrast to this during Christmas, my mom decided to buy my first drum set and yes I started to make a bunch of noise that drove her crazy, my neighbors loved my playing though and I felt that excitement like I’ve earned that best energy inside of me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Well, like I said becoming a drummer is a lifestyle. Yes, you going to be playing gigs with other talented musicians whether if you’re playing for an original or cover band. It is not as easy when you’re playing out on these gigs, the first thing you MUST do is arrive at the gig on time or early. If you arrive early, it’ll give you plenty of time to setup your kit and do soundcheck. Never arrive at a gig late because that’s how you can lose your gig real quick.

The lessons I’ve learned right away is just by getting better on the kit, whenever I have free time I will always look at live drum lessons and start learning along the way when I play. That’s one way on how to get better is learning your skills behind the drums.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ve performed at various spots around South Florida. The first spot I perform at is the Open Stage Club in Coral Gables, FL. I love this spot because the energy I have is there. They serve great drinks and food so I recommend you all to check out the Open Stage Club Coral Gables, that venue is very cool!

The second venue I perform at is called Tea and Poets in South Miami, FL. One time my band Galaxy Beat hosted a show for the first time, we started invited rappers, artists, & bands to come out and perform. So please check out Tea and Poets, they have open mic nights every Wednesday so I really recommend that spot.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would say a huge big shoutout to one of my favorite drummers who influenced me to begin playing the drums is Chad Smith from the alternative rock band called the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He is a very hard hitter, his style is amazing, and he just blows my mind on his grooves.

Instagram: Instagram.com/miamidrummer08

Youtube: YouTube.com/DemetriusConley

Image Credits
Drummer/Musician