We all have gone that way, even some famous drummers, some have died from it maybe it is better this way , God had other plans for me...but I did grow up playing along to sing sing sing...and it's funny my old band from the 80's still get together now and again and last time about a month ago we did a acoustic set with upright base and 12 string and me with brushe I must say we have really evolved never thought I'd do maggy may lol but it was so awesome Something to be said about being around. All theses years it's the 9/4 timing aka max roach that thrills me theses days or is it 9/3 oh well ....

Being a star, being famous, and/or being successful are often different things, especially in the arts.

Age is usually a factor when it comes to stardom, there probably aren't any 60-year-olds bursting on the scene to become a household name.

Fame just has to do with who knows/cares who you are. For example, in the music world, there are plenty of famous people within that community, but few 'normal' people know who Jaco or Vinnie are, even if you use their last names. But fame can occur or endure at pretty much any age. Consider how many drumming heroes are 60+ (or dead!) Even the kids look up to Vinnie, Terry, Buddy, Gadd, Kenny, JR, etc.

And success is subjective, it means what it means to each of us. But it's also achievable and potentially sustainable at any age.

So while it's a little late to become a star, that doesn't mean you're excluded from musical success or notoriety. Many of today's busiest and most successful players are our age and older. When it comes to playing, if you're good, you're good, and age is truly just a number. It's not too late to take your drumming more seriously.

It's funny to hear some of the older, extremely successful guys lament that music is "a young man's game", while they cheerfully work all the time!

Bermuda

Well said Bermuda, and coming from a very successful musician at that. For me right now my goal and dream (if you will) is to just be good enough to play in band that gets gigs, has fun and takes it serious. Ya the drinking and parting days were there several years ago for me and still are for some of my band members which makes me sad. So I like to envision myself playing for a band with that nice outdoor gig in the afternoon, not too crazy about gigging in bars until the wee hours of the night.

Ah great thread.

Not really, I just wanted to make a living from my most beloved activity which I have managed to do.

Fame is a bit of a pain in the rear really. It opens many many doors, but also slams many shut. Nipping to the shops or hanging out in your favourite little dive just gets to complicated.

Also as Bermuda touched on, Widespread fame, being deeply respected and being celebrated by your peers and the community that is involved in (lets say) drumming are quite far apart. Many of those who fall into either category want the other, or both. Not many achieve that.

Is there ever an end game? Maybe being able to be at the top of your chosen game being paid handsomely without having to do selfies everytime you try to do something normal. Semi famous should I say. There.

Bugger the fame, gimme the money!! :)

LoLoLoLo

Too close to Spinal Tap. "As long as there's, you know, sex and drugs, I can do without the rock and roll."

I'd hate to be famous. No privacy..... but that whole money thing....

I just wanted to be in a successful band, fame is something that never real interested me. Even as a young guy I knew that the drummer was usually the least well known member of the band, and I was cool with that. Ive been in some popular bands in the past and there where times people didn't even know I was the drummer until I told them. That was always fine with me, I like it when I'm done with the gig and I can walk up to the bar and get a drink with out having to talk to a million people. Leave that crap to the singers and guitar players:)

I had a dream of being a part of a famous band. That didn't quite pan out, but luckily I've been able to make a living playing drums.

Very interesting and accurate distinction, Bermuda. You and a few of our other members who are professional drummers and recording artists have an insight into this subject. Fame, stardom, financial success? I personally never really wanted any of it, and fittingly, never achieved it. I just wanted to play and have fun doing something I loved. They say if you do what you love for a living, you'll never work a day in your life, but for me, once I have to do something in order to make a living, it ceases to be fun. Keep the fame, the stardom, and the money; I'm happy playing the occasional casual gig with my friends, free from any pressure or obligation. But that's just me. Kudos to those of you who were so passionate about drumming that you dedicated your lives to it. We're all better drummers because of you professionals.

Mike