EMAB Magazine
Marcus Lee
Drummer
Romantic
Rebel
1. Who are your musical influences?
My influences come from all different styles and players. Growing up though, my favorite drummers were Neal Peart (Rush) & Mike Portnoy (ex-Dream Theater, Liquid Tension Experiment, ex-Adrenaline Mob, Winery Dogs) who is coincidentally also influenced by Neal Peart. I'm a big fan of European style power metal but I also enjoy pop, jazz, classical, and even some country & hip hop!
2. How old were you when you started playing the drums?
I was 14yrs old when I first started playing drums. Before that, all I wanted to be was a pro wrestler. Who knew that years later I would be able to live both my dreams?
3. Who got you your first drum kit?
When I first started playing I used my Dad's old red Percussion Plus kit. He taught a few beats on it and allowed me to practice on it. After a few months of that my parents ended up buying me a black Tama Swingstar kit that I still have to this day!
4. Do you have any pre show rituals?
Pre show I usually warm-up with some rudiments and various sticking patterns then do a few push-ups to get the blood flowing. Right before we hit the stage we gather in a circle and do our "Let's rock, let's rock today" chant.
5. What is the hardest thing, for you personally, about being on the road?
If you would have asked me this seven months ago, I would have said the long drives. Now it is being away from my girlfriend. Although, I absolutely love touring and she supports me 110%, I still miss her when I'm away.
6. What brand of drum kit do you use?
Right now I use the Saturn IV series of Mapex drums which is used by one of my favorite drummers Aquiles Priester (ex-Angra, Primal Fear, Hangar) and also by Chris Adler (Lamb of God, Megadeth). Along with Mapex drums, I use Sabian cymbals, Gibraltar hardware, and Vater drumsticks.
7. What is something you always have to have with you on stage?
Well besides my drumsticks and drums, water. Not fun being under the hot stage lights without a refreshing glass of water.
8. What is the strangest thing you have ever autographed?
I've autographed a lot of different things throughout my music career. Boobs are too common now. The strangest thing would have to be this guy's prosthetic arm in West Virginia.
9. Who, in your personal life, is you biggest inspiration?
Without a doubt, my girlfriend. She has worked so hard and has overcame so much to accomplish what she has done. It is hard to not be inspired by such an amazing person.
10. What advice do you have for any one who wants to start playing an instrument?
Focus on your craft before you try to start a band and play shows. I see so many bands that consist of beginner players. Everyone has to start somewhere yes, but get your skill level up before you try to "take over the world." I practiced 2-3hrs a day for 2yrs before I even played my first show. That first show was great though, and it was because I was ready.
