My music is the soundtrack of my life—woven from the rhythms that have shaped me and the stories I’ve lived. Each beat I play carries a piece of my soul, drawing from my diverse influences and passion for rhythm. Whether it’s the intricate layers of jazz, the drive of rock, or the heart of Latin grooves, my sound is a reflection of my journey as a musician and a person.

I don’t just play drums—I create energy, emotion, and connection. My music is about bringing people together, transcending the boundaries of genre, and allowing the rhythm to speak for itself. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s always evolving. Every performance is an invitation to dive deeper into the sound, to feel every pulse, and to experience the music in a way that resonates with your heart and soul.

I pour everything I have into every beat, because my music isn’t just something I play—it’s something I live.

Every drummer has a unique connection to their gear, and for me, it’s all about the tools that help me bring my sound to life. I play a mix of traditional and modern drums, always choosing gear that enhances my style while pushing my creative boundaries.

• Drum Kit: My main setup features a custom Mapex kit, combining deep, punchy toms with a snare that cuts through the mix. I love how the warmth of the wood pairs with the sharp precision of my cymbals, creating a sound that’s both powerful and versatile.

• Cymbals: I rely on a combination of Zildjian and Sabian cymbals. The crashes and rides have the perfect balance of brightness and warmth, allowing me to express everything from delicate subtleties to explosive fills.

• Percussion: In addition to my drum kit, I incorporate a variety of percussion instruments—congas, bongos, shakers, and cajón—to add texture and color to my performances. I believe in the power of rhythm from all cultures and love experimenting with different percussion sounds to keep things fresh and dynamic.

• Hardware & Pedals: I use DW hardware for its stability and precision. My kick pedal is a Pearl Demon Drive, allowing me to maintain speed and control in even the most complex patterns. The smooth action and reliability are key to my playing.

My Passions:

Beyond the drum kit, my passions lie in the endless exploration of rhythm and sound. Drumming is more than just music for me—it’s a language. I’m driven by the idea that music can break barriers, tell stories, and connect people across cultures.

• Collaboration: I’m passionate about working with artists from all genres. Whether it’s a rock band, a jazz ensemble, or a Latin percussionist, I love blending different musical influences to create something new and exciting. There’s a magic that happens when musicians come together, and I’m always hungry for those creative moments.

• Music Education: I also have a deep love for teaching. Sharing my knowledge with the next generation of drummers is something I take very seriously. Every student I work with reminds me of my own journey, and I’m always inspired by their creativity and drive. Drumming is a lifelong learning experience, and I’m grateful to help others develop their craft.

• Rhythmic Exploration: I'm constantly exploring new rhythms and techniques—whether it’s digging into world music, experimenting with odd time signatures, or blending electronic elements with acoustic drums. The possibilities with rhythm are endless, and I love diving deep into new territory to see where it takes me.

At the end of the day, drumming is my way of expressing the emotions that words can’t capture. It’s my art, my voice, and my passion.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with some incredibly talented artists and perform in diverse settings, all while pushing myself as a musician and a drummer. Here are a few highlights of my journey:

• Live Performances: I’ve played on stages around the world, from intimate venues to major festivals. Some of the most memorable moments include headlining [Event/Festival Name] and sharing the stage with legends like [Artist/Band Name]. There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live crowd, and every performance brings a new level of growth and connection.

• Session Work: I've had the honor of recording and contributing my drumming to projects across a wide range of genres—rock, jazz, Latin, electronic, and beyond. Working as a session drummer has taught me to adapt to different styles and always find new ways to complement the music.

• Collaborations: Whether as part of a band or collaborating with individual artists, I’ve had the chance to work with some of the best musicians in the industry. From studio sessions to touring gigs, these experiences have helped me hone my craft and expand my musical horizons.

• Drum Education & Clinics: As a passionate advocate for music education, I’ve hosted drum clinics and workshops around the country. Teaching allows me to give back to the drumming community, share my knowledge, and inspire the next generation of musicians to push the boundaries of what they can achieve.

• Awards & Recognition: I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition from my peers and industry professionals, including awards for Best Drummer and Best Percussion Performance at [Event/Competition Name]. These honors motivate me to keep growing and never stop challenging myself.

• Recording & Production: Aside from live performances, I’ve contributed to the production and recording of numerous albums and tracks. From high-energy rock anthems to delicate jazz ballads, I approach each recording session with the same dedication to bringing the best possible performance to the table.

• Musical Innovation: One of my proudest achievements has been developing a unique approach to integrating traditional drumming with modern electronic elements. This fusion of acoustic and digital sounds has allowed me to experiment with new textures and rhythms, offering audiences something truly fresh.

Looking ahead, my goal is to continue growing as a musician, explore new styles and techniques, and collaborate with even more amazing artists. There’s still so much to discover, and I’m excited for every step of the journey.

"Shawn Garcia is a true master of his craft—his drumming is more than just rhythm; it's an experience. Whether on stage or in the studio, he brings a level of energy and precision that’s unmatched."
— Drummer's World Magazine

"What sets Shawn apart is his ability to blend technicality with feeling. He doesn’t just play the drums; he brings them to life, creating grooves that you can't help but move to. An exceptional talent."
— Music Review Weekly

"Garcia’s playing is nothing short of magnetic. From jazz to rock, his versatility shines through, and his passion for the drums is infectious. He’s a drumming force that keeps audiences on their toes, never knowing what’s coming next."
— Live Music Today

"A modern drumming innovator, Shawn Garcia is known for pushing the limits of what a drummer can do, fusing traditional techniques with futuristic sounds. He’s a rhythm architect, building bridges between genres."
— The Beat Report

"There’s a raw, palpable energy that comes with Shawn’s playing. It’s not just about hitting the drums—it's about creating moments. Every stroke feels intentional, and his ability to build tension and release is a skill few drummers possess."
— Percussionist's Journal

"Shawn Garcia doesn’t just keep time—he owns it. A drummer with technical prowess, unmatched groove, and an undeniable stage presence, he’s one of the most exciting talents to emerge in the modern drumming world."
— Rhythm & Soul Blog

"The way Shawn Garcia approaches rhythm is almost cinematic. It’s as if each beat has its own story to tell—he plays with depth, texture, and an ever-present sense of urgency. He’s one of those rare drummers who can capture the soul of a song with every hit."
— Music Connection

Current Projects:

Album Recording with Velvetsky Rider
I’m currently in the studio recording drums for Velvetsky Rider’s upcoming album. We’re blending a unique mix of rock, electronic, and ambient soundscapes, with touches of jazz and funk that bring a new level of depth to our music. This project has been a thrilling challenge, and I’ve been able to experiment with different textures, grooves, and rhythms. The album promises to be a bold, dynamic collection that captures the full spectrum of the band’s sonic identity. I can’t wait for our fans to hear it!

Live Tour with Velvetsky Rider:
We’re hitting the road this year with Velvetsky Rider, performing at some of the largest and most iconic venues we’ve ever played. Our live show is an immersive experience, combining high-energy performances with captivating visuals, and I’m really excited to showcase our new material. The set features some incredible drum solos, improvisations, and interactive elements that get the audience involved. There's nothing like the energy of live performances, and I love connecting with the crowd in real-time.

Solo Percussion Project:
Alongside my work with Velvetsky Rider, I’ve been developing a solo percussion project that combines live drumming with electronic loops, samples, and textures. It’s been an exciting journey blending traditional percussion with modern sound design, and I’m aiming to create a sonic experience that bridges acoustic and digital realms. My goal is to craft a performance that feels immersive and emotional, drawing on my eclectic influences from world music, funk, and experimental rhythms.

Drum Education & Workshops:
One of my ongoing passions is educating the next generation of drummers. I’ve been hosting a series of drum workshops and lessons, offering both in-person and online classes for drummers at all levels. Whether it’s teaching the basics of rhythm or diving deep into advanced techniques, I’m focused on helping others build a solid foundation while encouraging creativity and self-expression. I’m also developing my own educational content, with plans to release instructional videos and tutorials focused on rhythm, groove, and building a unique drumming voice.

Future Goals:

Collaborate with Diverse Artists:
In the coming years, I’m hoping to collaborate with even more artists from different genres. I want to push my creative boundaries and work with musicians in genres ranging from hip-hop and classical to world music and electronic. Each collaboration is an opportunity to learn and grow as a musician, and I look forward to expanding my musical vocabulary.

Solo Release:
One of my long-term goals is to release a solo album—a deeply personal project that blends my love for rhythm, composition, and storytelling. I envision it as an instrumental record that incorporates a mix of jazz, rock, funk, and electronic elements, all with a heavy focus on innovative percussion. I want the album to feel like an auditory journey, with each track offering a unique experience.

Expand Drum Education:
I’m eager to expand my drum education initiatives, creating a comprehensive platform where drummers can connect, learn, and grow together. I plan to offer more in-depth online courses, as well as drum clinics that cater to drummers of all skill levels. Writing a book about my approach to rhythm and drumming is also on the horizon, and I’m excited to share my insights and experiences with the global drumming community.

Innovate with Sound & Technology:
Music technology is evolving rapidly, and I’m excited to explore how new tools and tech can help push the boundaries of drumming. I’m particularly interested in integrating electronic drum kits, live-looping setups, and immersive visual elements into live performances. As new technology opens up endless possibilities, I’m excited to stay ahead of the curve and continue innovating with my sound.

Perform at Major Festivals & Events:
Looking ahead, one of my goals is to perform at the world’s biggest music festivals, including Coachella, Glastonbury, Montreux Jazz Festival, and others. These global platforms offer incredible opportunities to connect with diverse audiences, and I’m excited about the possibility of sharing Velvetsky Rider’s music with listeners from all over the world.

In everything I do, my goal is to stay creative, continue evolving as a musician, and connect with audiences through the universal language of music. There’s always something new to explore, and I’m excited for the next chapter of this journey with Velvetsky Rider and beyond!