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Mike Portnoy’s Prog Percussion Proves Itself Again; Drummies 2012
The following data highlights some of the key races and significant winners in the 17th Annual Drummies. For a complete listing of all winners in the 40+ categories that comprise the Drummies, visit http://www.drummagazine/drummies.
“Best Drummer” – A Close Race: Portnoy vs. Peart
Unlike last year when Portnoy’s victory was very decisive, the race was very close with Portnoy barely beating out runners-up, Neil Peart, Mike Mangini, Chris Adler and Chad Smith.
In part, Portnoy’s victory may be a result of how busy he was this year. As noted in the July 2012 Issue of DRUM!, Portnoy founded two bands (Flying Colors and Adrenaline Mob), and was on the bus with numerous acts. “Portnoy has demonstrated his popularity and dedication to the drumming arts,” said Phil Hood, publisher and co-founder of Enter Music Publishing. “With his second victory, he has proven that his drumming is recognized by drummers, regardless of age or demographic.”
The same factors regarding Portnoy reflect his taking “Best Progressive Drummer”. He beat out last year’s winner, Gavin Harrison, and other runner-ups, Mike Mangini, Darren King and Virgil Donati.
Other Repeat Winners: Stanton Moore Marches To A Third Straight Win
There were other repeat winners, too. In the “Funk” Category, Stanton Moore won for a third straight time over some great talent, such as Tony Royster Jr., Questlove, Aaron Spears and Jay Lane. “Stanton has done an excellent job in mastering the second-line funk of New Orleans,” Hood continued. “He also has ‘popularized this drumming style to new audiences.”
Sheila E Slaps To A Second Straight Victory: “Best Percussionist”
Returning to well-deserved recognition in the Drummies, Sheila E, won her second straight in the “Best Percussion” Category. She won over some formidable talent, such as Toca Rivera, Paulina Da Costa, Zakhir Hussain and Alex Acuna.
“Rising Star” Drummer Diversity
Of all the categories, The “Rising Star” was exciting for the diversity of talent. Jen Ledger, an English female drummer for Christian hard rock band, Skillet, won the category. In contrast, runner-up, Chris Dave, is a well-respected jazz drummer, who also plays pop and hip-hop. And, the second runner-up was Mike Johnston, a respected teacher, who is known for his web site, http://www.mikeslessons.com
Additionally, Dave took “Best Jazz Drummer” over some very impressive talent, such as Cindy Blackman, Dave Weckl and Danny Gottlieb.
First Timers: Shannon Leto
Recognized for his drumming with the highly popular group 30 Seconds To Mars, Shannon Leto (brother of movie icon Jared Leto) received his first Drummie by winning the “Indie” Category. Runners-up were Kyle Burns, Jen Ledger, Joe Rickard and Dave Brogan.
Close Contests: Country
Of all the categories, the closest race was country where one vote separated Jim Riley, drummer for Rascal Flatts from Rich Redmond of the Jason Aldean band.
Drummie In Memoriam: Ralph MacDonald
In what could be considered a “sympathy vote,” Ralph MacDonad, who passed away recently, won “Best Jazz Percussionist.” Runners-up included Giovanni Hidalgo and Jamey Haddad.
“Every year, The Drummies recognize such a wide range of talent and products,” said Hood. “That’s really the point of putting them on.”
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