The Drum Lounge Podcast

The Drum Lounge Podcast is back with another episode packed with drumline culture, competition highlights, and real percussion knowledge. In this episode, Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell recap the Honor Your Name Drumline Competition hosted by Faith’s Place Center for Arts Education in West Palm Beach, Florida — an event that brought together some of the most exciting drumlines in the community.

  We break down the biggest moments from the competition, including Mainland High School’s drumline taking 1st place in the High School Division and Shark City Drumline winning the Community Drumline Division. The energy reached another level when Florida A&M University and Hampton University went head-to-head in a college drumline battle, delivering a performance full of power, precision, and showmanship.

  We also highlight two major educational opportunities in the percussion world — percussion clinics hosted by North Carolina Central University and Virginia State University, both providing valuable training and exposure for young drummers looking to grow their skills and connect with HBCU band programs.

  This episode also reintroduces a segment on the show: Lounge & Chop. Every episode, Jeremie and Bryon will break down a short snare lick designed to expand your music vocabulary, sharpen your chops, and help drummers improve their overall percussion skillset.
If you're passionate about HBCU band culture, drumline battles, marching percussion, cadences, or snare drum chops, this episode is for you.

5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: Hampton University Drumline cadence vs NSU (2025)
Bryon’s Pick: Faith's Place Drumline - "Fic Virth" (2026)

🔥 Woodies Drumsticks Deal
Level up your drumming! Grab a pair of Woodies Drumsticks and use promo code THEDRUMLOUNGEPOD for 10% off your order:
https://woodiesdrumsticks.com/TheDrumLoungePodcast

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram (@TheDrumLoungePod) for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell break down some of the most talked-about moments in the drumline competition scene. The conversation kicks off with a recap of the Rumble in the Jungle Drumline Competition, including an exciting battle between Palm Beach Lakes High School and Mainland High School, where the hosts analyze the energy, musicality, and competitive spirit displayed on the floor.

The discussion then shifts to Dolla Watson’s Stonecrest Battle of the Drumlines, highlighting the impact of independent and community drumline events on the culture. The hosts react to the Albany State vs Talladega, and Clark Atlanta University vs Fort Valley State battles. Jeremie and Bryon share their perspectives on how these competitions continue to push creativity, raise performance standards, and give high school and collegiate drummers a platform to showcase their talent.

From competition breakdowns to commentary on the evolving drumline landscape, this episode celebrates the passion, intensity, and community that make drumline battles such a powerful part of percussion culture.

5th Quarter Picks 
Jeremie’s Pick: Nexus Drumline - Dolla Watson’s Stonecrest Battle of the Drumlines Competition (2026)
Bryon’s Pick: Atlanta Drum Academy – Destination HBCU Drumline Competition (2025)

🔥 Woodies Drumsticks Deal
Level up your drumming! Grab a pair of Woodies Drumsticks and use promo code THEDRUMLOUNGEPOD for 10% off your order:
https://woodiesdrumsticks.com/TheDrumLoungePod

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram (@TheDrumLoungePod) for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this powerful and purpose-driven episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell sit down with Dr. Noble Lockhart-Mays, founder of Faith’s Place, an arts education center making a real impact in South Florida.

Dr. Lockhart-Mays takes us through her personal journey in music and education, what led her to establish Faith’s Place, and the mission behind creating a safe, nurturing space where young people can grow through the arts. The conversation dives deep into the importance of community collaboration, faith-based leadership, and why arts education is more than music — it’s a tool for transformation.

We also discuss the upcoming Honor Your Name event, an initiative focused on raising awareness around youth mental health, consisting of a basketball tournament and drumline competition, which takes place on March 7th in West Palm Beach, Florida. Dr. Mays goes into depth on why these conversations are critical in today’s generation. From drumline excellence and diversity to leadership, faith, and positive influence, this episode is a reminder of how powerful music can be when it’s rooted in purpose and community.

If you care about drumlines, mentorship, mental health, and building something that truly serves the next generation — this episode is a must-listen.


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

This episode was recorded on Super Bowl Sunday — so a few moments are time-capsuled to that day… but moving forward, episodes will be current and lined up with what’s happening right now in the drum world!

Hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell kick things off by addressing the recent hacking of Jeremie's YouTube channel before shifting into a broader discussion on the importance of community support, unity, and cohesiveness within drumming culture. The duo reflects on past episodes, shares thoughts on creating educational content that truly serves the community, a
nd breaks down their experiences with various drum pads.

The conversation expands into what’s happening around the band world — from upcoming drumline competitions and major events to a recap of the recent Texas Southern vs. Alcorn battle. Jeremie and Bryon also tap into the cultural impact of J. Cole’s latest album and how moments in music influence creative spaces like drumline culture.

As the episode rolls on, the hosts explore school rivalries, standout performances, and the growing influence of social media on band culture. They highlight the importance of exposure and recruitment through events like Mardi Gras performances and the upcoming Flo Mo practice for high school students. The episode wraps with personal stories from the field and a celebration of standout programs making noise right now, including South Carolina State University.
This one is packed with insight, laughs, and real talk — classic Drum Lounge vibes. 🥁🔥

5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: Sarah T. Reed H.S. Drumline (2026)
Bryon’s Pick: Texas Southern University Drumline (2025)

🔥 Woodies Drumsticks Deal
Level up your drumming! Grab a pair of Woodies Drumsticks and use promo code THEDRUMLOUNGEPOD for 10% off your order:
https://woodiesdrumsticks.com/TheDrumLoungePod

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture
The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell sit down with Pedro Orey, a cornerstone of HBCU percussion culture and longtime leader at Bethune-Cookman University's Percussion section, 'Sudden Impact'.
    The conversation traces Mr. Orey’s journey from a string player to a nationally respected percussion educator, unpacking his role in shaping drumline sound, teaching music philosophy, and the evolution of HBCU percussion over the decades. He shares insight into the importance of versatility, sound quality, and fundamentals, along with what he looks for during auditions and how young percussionists can prepare for the next level.
    The episode also dives into drumline culture—exploring the impact of competition, the Florida Classic, and how creativity, individuality, and tradition coexist within HBCU bands. Throughout the discussion, the hosts reflect on community, performance preparation, and the responsibility of passing knowledge forward, highlighting the balance between unity and personal expression that defines great drumlines.
    This is a thoughtful, culture-rich conversation that blends history, education, and real-world experience from one of the architects behind the sound.

5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: BCU's Sudden Impact Percussion - 8's Warmup (2017 Florida Classic)
Bryon’s Pick: BCU'S Sudden Impact Percussion - 2015 Feature (2016 Honda Banquet Performance)

🔥 Woodies Drumsticks Deal
Level up your drumming! Grab a pair of Woodies Drumsticks and use promo code THEDRUMLOUNGEPOD for 10% off your order:
https://woodiesdrumsticks.com/TheDrumLoungePod

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell dive deep into marching band culture, competition energy, and the moments that shape drumline history. The duo recaps the South Florida Bands Jamboree, breaks down standout performances, and reflects on audition experiences and the lasting impact of strong leadership—especially the influence of Dr. Wells, Director of Bands at Bethune-Cookman University.

The conversation expands into the evolution of modern marching bands, the role alumni play in pushing programs forward, and why innovation is no longer optional in today’s band culture. Jeremie and Bryon also spotlight the growing buzz around Tuskegee University, react to the return of the legendary C.R.E.A.M. percussion, and tap into the camaraderie, rivalry, and pride that define the drumline community.

From competition talk to culture celebration, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and appreciation for the artistry that keeps HBCU bands and drumlines moving forward.

5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: C.R.E.A.M. Percussion performance @ Dekalb County Jamboree (2012)
Bryon’s Pick: C.R.E.A.M. Percussion performance @ Stick Control Drumline Competition (2019)

🔥 Woodies Drumsticks Deal
Level up your drumming! Grab a pair of Woodies Drumsticks and use promo code THEDRUMLOUNGEPOD for 10% off your order:
https://woodiesdrumsticks.com/TheDrumLoungePod

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell dive into the culture of HBCU drumlines and marching bands. They react to standout performances, compare FAMU’s visual artistry with Southern’s precision, and share insights from the National Battle of the Bands. The duo also discusses the importance of community support, innovative drumline approaches like Cold Steel, and how drumline features are shaping modern shows. Along the way, they sprinkle in personal updates, light-hearted band stories, and a few product reviews to keep things fun and informative.

5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: BYOS video to J. Cole’s “Rich N***”
Bryon’s Pick: Sudden Impact warm-up (2025 marching season)

🔥 Woodies Drumsticks Deal
Level up your drumming! Grab a pair of Woodies Drumsticks and use promo code THEDRUMLOUNGEPOD for 10% off your order:

https://woodiesdrumsticks.com/TheDrumLoungePod

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell tap into everything happening across the drumline scene as competition season ramps up. From the importance of consistency in content creation to personal drumstick preferences and favorite practice gear, the guys blend real-life percussion talk with culture and community.

They break down A&T’s new cadence "PHUN", explore the unique atmosphere and format of the Rumble in the Jungle competition, and highlight the value of networking within the marching and music industry. The conversation also touches on sound projectors, tradition versus innovation in modern drumlines, and the cultural impact HBCU bands continue to have on performers and audiences alike.

Jeremie and Bryon also spotlight current storylines in the band world, including challenges facing certain programs, while keeping the focus on growth, opportunity, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming slate of competitions. The episode closes with the always-anticipated 5th Quarter segment, celebrating standout performances from across the drumline community.

🥁 5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick:
Virginia Union University Marching Band — “Neck” (2025)

Bryon’s Pick:
Norfolk State University Drumline “MDF$” — Drum block vs. VSU (2025)

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell break down their recent HBCU Drumline Tier List rankings, the reactions it sparked across social media, and the real-world experience that shapes their opinions in the percussion space.

They dive into the nuances behind their rankings, shout out schools that may have been overlooked, and talk about what really matters when evaluating drumlines — including the importance of quality video footage and performance consistency. The guys also look ahead to the upcoming spring season and competitions, sharing their excitement for the drumlines ready to make noise this year.

The episode then transitions into a Lounge & Chop segment, where Jeremie and Bryon each teach a short snare solo, breaking down stickings, timing, and musical concepts for viewers to learn and practice. It’s a hands-on moment that reflects their passion for education, growth, and giving back to the drum community while still keeping the competitive edge of HBCU band culture alive.

The show wraps up with the always-hyped 5th Quarter segment, where Jeremie and Bryon react to band clips and celebrate the creativity, competitiveness, and brotherhood within band culture.

🥁 5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick:
Jackson State University — “Flicka Da Wrist” (2025)

Bryon’s Pick:
Southern University — Percussion Feature from their halftime show at the Band of the Year event

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms
-Follow us on Instagram for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content
-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥

In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell officially return from hiatus and kick off the new year with a deep dive into the state of the HBCU drumline and marching band scene. The guys reflect on the previous marching season, highlighting standout performances, community reactions, and the evolving conversation around judging standards within band culture.

  The discussion covers major moments from the season, including First Take’s visit to Bethune-Cookman, and transitions into a detailed tier-list breakdown of drumlines across the country. Jeremie and Bryon analyze the strengths, weaknesses, and overall impact of programs such as Florida Memorial, South Carolina State, Bethune-Cookman, Alabama State, North Carolina A&T, Texas Southern, Prairie View A&M, and North Carolina Central.

  Throughout the episode, the hosts debate rankings, dissect head-to-head battles, and talk about the importance of musical diversity, identity, and innovation in modern band writing. As always, the conversation balances serious analysis with humor, viral moments, and candid commentary that reflects the culture and passion of the HBCU band world. The episode closes with reflections on the future of band programs and a reminder of the importance of exposure, competition, and continuous growth for young percussionists.


🥁 5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: Bethune-Cookman Drumline – “Spirit Groove” (2017)
Bryon’s Pick: Southern University Human Jukebox – “Folded” by Kehlani

🎙️ Stay Connected
-Subscribe to The Drum Lounge Podcast on YouTube and all major podcast platforms

-Follow us on Instagram for clips, highlights, and HBCU drumline content

-Like, comment, and share this episode to support the culture

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

The Drum Lounge Podcast — where HBCU band culture lives, breathes, and evolves. 🥁🔥