Video: This Amazing Chicago-Area Drummer Won A National Drum-Off

By Tankboy in Arts & Entertainment on Jan 22, 2016 5:22PM

Tony Taylor Jr. of Matteston, Illinois took first place in Guitar Center’s 27th Annual Drum-Off in L.A. last weekend. Taylor is only 18 years old, so this is a pretty auspicious achievement for a guy who hasn't even started a "real career" in drumming. However, according to a statement from Guitar Center, previous winners have gone on to drum for artist including "Prince, Beyoncé, Jay Z, and more." The judging panel panel was primarily made up of career drummers—names many layman wouldn't recognize but who are well known as the first people major artists like Tom Petty, Lady Gaga, Rhianna, Jay Z and Rascall Flatts call for studio use and stadium tours.

Taylor takes home over $45,000 in prizes, but we're pretty sure the most exciting thing he's received is national recognition for being the most badass drummer in the land. Watch the performance that won Taylor the title in the video above, and we think you'll agree he's most deserving of this honor.