In just a few weeks, Modern Drummer, the world’s most widely read drum magazine, dedicated entirely to the art of drumming, brings together an all-star lineup of world-class drummers for their 2021 Modern Drummer Festival. From notable drumming collaborations, artist interviews, and even some special appearances by Cindy Blackman-Santana, Stewart Copeland, and introducing fifteen-year-old drumming prodigy Felipe Santos, winner of Modern Drummer Readers Poll as 2021s Social Media Celebrity.
Bursting with excitement, Felipe exclaimed, “it’s Modern Drummer! It is a big name, and that has always been a big aspiration for me to be involved, and now that I am – I wasn’t even expecting to win that nomination; I was just happy to be nominated. But this is very incredible!”
Born in New York City, Felipe started making beats before walking. After attending his first concert at the age of three, Felipe was instantly connected to live music- a natural on stage, he leaves jaws dropping- “when it comes to drumming, it’s not just hard work. It is kind of something I was born with. That pertains to why I love drums so much… In my mindset right now, it is just that I get to produce the beat and set in the baseline… and it is kind of incredible the things you can do with this instrument. It is very versatile. I think that is just it, just keeping the beat.”
Felipe’s goal is to play the music that best represents him and helps him continue discovering his sound as an artist. Building on his deep knowledge of music, Felipe’s musical influences include Miles Davis, Buddy Rich, Foo Fighters, Megadeth, to pop artists like Imagine Dragons, Charlie Puth, and Harry Styles. In addition, he has had the honor to play with artists like Dave Mustaine, Zakk Wilde, and Joe Perry.
Felipe has been bullied at school and has never been one to “fit in” and enjoy video games and other kid stuff. However, Felipe shares, “the stage and behind my kit is my safe place, is where I belong, and I take control about what happens around.”
Drumming has taken Felipe across the globe. He was awarded a special age waiver for attending Berklee’s Summer Music Program with a full scholarship and garnered an invitation to join Berklee again next year. He is a member of the Wells Fargo Jazz Band, is working on drum loops for apps, and is recording his first album, to be released in 2022.
To follow Felipe’s journey, join his over 16k followers on Instagram @Felipesantos_official
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