We’re back with another installment of the Big Fat Five—where I invite on a drummer that inspires me to break down the five records that shaped their voice behind the kit.

My name is Ben Hilzinger and today’s guest is Jacopo Volpe. Born and raised in Italy, Jaco has played with Vanilla Sky, Post Malone, Damiano David, The Bloody Beetroots, Salmo, Portugal. The Man, and a bunch more. He’s got power, chops, groove, and the kind of confidence that only comes from playing on the biggest stages in the world.

I’ll let Jaco tell you more about his journey, but for now, let’s dive into the five records that helped shape who he is behind the kit. Cheers.

---

Get Your Copy of the Drummers on Drumming Book Today!

🎯 ⁠Click here to order now!⁠

Drummers on Drumming (the book) takes you inside the stories, records, and moments that shaped some of the world’s greatest drummers. Built on the Big Fat Five format of digging into top influences, it’s packed with candid interviews and personal insights. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years, this book is here to inspire you to sharpen your skills and find your own voice behind the kit.

JACO'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Elton John

Album - Night and Day Concert - Live at Wembley

Release Year - 1984

Key Track(s) - "Crocodile Rock;" "I’m Still Standing"

Drummer - Nigel Olsson

-

Artist - Toto

Album - Toto Live in Paris

Release Year - 1990

Key Track(s) - "Rosanna." "Hold The Line"

Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

-

Artist - Stevie Ray Vaughan

Album - Live from Austin, Texas

Release Year - 1995/1997

Key Track(s) - "Texas Flood," "Cold Shot"

Drummer - Chris Layton

-

Artist - Blink-182

Album - The Mark Tom and Travis show

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - "Dumpweed," "Don’t Leave Me," "Mutt"

Drummer - Travis Barker

-

Artist - Foo Fighters

Album - Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace

Release Year - 2007

Key Track - "The Pretender"

Drummer - Taylor Hawkins

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out ⁠www.bigfatsnaredrum.com⁠ and follow us on ⁠Instagram⁠.