Woman Drummers Rock

 

The truth is, Woman Drummers Do Rock! Everyone knows the artist formerly known as Prince but have you heard of his drummer? I’m sure you’ve heard the name Sheila E. more than once or twice because she is an icon for woman who play the drums. She was the drummer and musical director for Prince’s band as they toured from 1987-1989. She even released her own self titled album Sheila E. in July of 1987. 

Suzette Quintanilla is the older sister of the late, great pop star Selena! She was also the drummer in the family band “Selena y Los Dinos,” that jumpstarted her sisters career to stardom. Their father started the band with the two sisters and their brother as the guitarist as children but they became known as professionals in the music business in 1982. 

Viola Smith was one of the first American female drummers to ever play on a professional level beginning as far back as the 1920’s. She played with numerous bands including leading her own band which entertained from 1966-1970. She played on The Ed Sullivan Show, the Broadway musical cabaret and even had a chance to shine in two films.