Rush - “Tom Sawyer” – 2:31
That’s really where it all begins. Two minutes and thirty-two seconds into Rush’s classic song, “Tom Sawyer.” That’s all you really need to know about why Fred Berman started playing drums.
The son of a successful band-leader, Fred started playing piano at age 5. In fifth grade, Fred had to make a decision as to what instrument he was going to play in the elementary school band. His band-leader father looked him square in the eye:
“Whatever you do, Fred, don’t start playing the drums…You’ll have to schlep ‘em all over the place. Try the flute – it’s much easier to carry.”
Two years later, Fred (with the help of his parents and their car) was schlepping his brand new Emerald drum set to his first Battle of the Bands gig….and the schlepping has continued ever since.
So, take a listen.
And then, check out “Tom Sawyer.” 2:31.
Turn it up. Loud. No, a little louder.
Yeah, that’s all you really need to know.