Steve Smith on Jack DeJohnette

Steve Smith has long stood as one of the most technically accomplished and musically versatile drummers of his generation. Known globally for his work with Journey, Vital Information, and an array of jazz legends, Smith combines precision, historic knowledge, and a deep respect for the lineage of drumming. His approach marries power with nuance, always serving the music while expanding its rhythmic possibilities. Beyond performance, Smith has become an influential educator, preserving and advancing drum traditions through masterclasses, clinics, and detailed historical studies. His commitment to understanding the roots of American drumming—from jazz to early R&B—continues to shape his artistic voice and teaching philosophy.

Jack DeJohnette’s impact on modern drumming is immeasurable—his blend of jazz tradition, avant-garde freedom, and groove-based intuition reshaped what it means to be a contemporary drummer. His work with Miles Davis, the Keith Jarrett Trio, and his own ensembles introduced a fluid, open style that erased the boundaries between timekeeping and melodic improvisation. For Steve Smith, DeJohnette became a foundational influence, a model of musical fearlessness whose touch, phrasing, and sense of space helped shape Smith’s own evolution. That influence is central to the documentary Smith created, which not only honors DeJohnette’s legacy but also analyzes the innovations that changed the trajectory of drum performance. Smith further explored these ideas in his acclaimed Sonor YouTube series, where he breaks down drum concepts, demonstrates advanced techniques, and reflects on the lineage of great drummers. The series stands as both an educational resource and a continuation of DeJohnette’s spirit and legacy. 

Sonor Presents: Jack DeJonette and Steve Smith  Talk Drums (Part 1)  

Sonor Presents: Jack DeJonette and Steve Smith Talk Drums (Part 2) 

Sonor Presents Jack DeJonette and Steve Smith : Talk Drums (Part 3)