Senior Alexander Brown wants to drum his way to the top.
He recently finished in first place in the “Drum Off” competition hosted by Southfield’s Guitar Center.
The competition consists of five rounds, and Brown aced the first two rounds so far. Each competitor had three minutes to “do their thing” in a solo. Anything over three minutes was automatic grounds for disqualification.
“I knew I would do well,” said Brown, “but I was nervous because I didn’t know how everyone else would do.”
As the senior advances through the competition, $25,000 is on the line if he makes it to Nationals in Los Angeles and wins.
Brown’s love for music was inspired by his uncle, Eric Gatson, who was the drum major for Hampton University. “My uncle keeps me going by helping and encouraging me,” Brown said.
The senior, who plays the snare drum, was also on Eisenhower Elementary School’s drum line and began playing drums at his church when he was 11 years old.
“I treat my music as a job, and I take it very seriously,” Brown said. He plans on attending either Kentucky State University or Jackson State University to double major in business and music education. “I want to be a band director after I graduate.”
Southfield High Band Director Tom Miller said, “Alex is a great kid. He has all the skills necessary to become a great band director some day.”
Brown’s drumming competition continues October 25, at 7 p.m. at the Guitar Center for round three. Even if he doesn’t win in the next round, “He’s going to go far” with his music career, predicts fellow band member Darrius Green.