My grandparents bought me a toy drum set when I was 3 and let me play along with the Lawrence Welk Show on TV. I've been a sideman ever since. After graduating from Berklee, I lived in NYC, Nashville, and LA, playing with Stuff, Jose Feliciano, Melissa Manchester, Delbert McClinton, Rodney Crowell, Jerry Reed, Carlene Carter, Larry Coryell, Wayne Krantz, Randy Travis, Little Anthony, "Friends" TV Show, and others. I enjoy backing up vocalists.
Michael Clarke
Independent
Michael
Clarke
IN 3
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Most memorable Next-Level Performance
The years I spent playing with bassist Gordon Edwards and guitarist Cornell Dupree in "Stuff" were the most fun. The depth of the grooves were something I'll never forget, and I've tried to bring that to every subsequent gig since. -
What Drives Your Creativity?
The Artists I play with inspire me. I strive to create a safe musical space for them to perform and let them know I will go with them wherever they want to take their music. -
Why do you choose Vic Firth?
I've played a wide variety of gigs over the years, and there's always been a Vic Firth stick/brush model that fits the job perfectly. The product innovation is important as well. There's always something new to try.
BEHIND THE KIT
