The other night while perusing YouTube, I came across this magnificent specimen. With the sheer amount of video content being uploaded every second, it’s absolutely amazing that anything cuts through the clutter. However, one thing that I have learned is that for a video to be viewed more than a few times by people that aren’t family or friends, it helps to showcase a real skill. Case in point, the video above delivers this in spades.

As I was sifting through the comments, I was perplexed by a few of the commenters mocking his seemingly over-the-top demeanor. Not that I have the authority to render their opinions moot, but I think they mistake his overzealous playing style to be something less than pure. And even if it is just a way for Mr. Moore to stand apart from the general drumming population, why should he be criticized? It would seem that the very notion of giving it all that one has is being challenged here, and for that, a rebuttal is most definitely in order.

After completing some basic research, the drummer in question is Steve Moore. He has been performing with his current ensemble Rick K. and The Allnighters for quite some time, and though it would be foolish to think he is devoid of greater aspirations (as we all look to challenge ourselves in new and different ways), he seems to be content in his current occupation. Now, in regard to the negative comments, there seems to be a preconceived notion when considering musical ability and how it’s best applied. Because this man has “talent,”  the only proper way to apply said talent is to be embroiled in the pursuit of becoming an “artist.”  I will save the idea of “art” for another post, but for the moment, let us assume that this is indeed the case. It would then make sense that some feel he is “wasting” his talent by performing in an ensemble that doesn’t seem to be interested in artistry. But, how could he be wasting his talent if most of us are in agreement that he is, in fact, talented?

Professional performers are, above all else, in the business of being recognized. And with that, has he not achieved what most of us strive for in our own lives, and that is to be recognized, i.e. remembered? Whether you agree with what I’m purporting and/or my assessment of Mr. Moore, all I ask is that you watch the video again and simply enjoy his fervor. It’s one thing to enjoy what you do, but it’s quite another to be in a position to illustrate how much you enjoy it.

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