Behind The Kit with Arizona Drummer cover art

Behind The Kit with Arizona Drummer

Behind The Kit with Arizona Drummer

By: Arizona Drummer
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Summary

Behind The Kit dives into the lives of today’s most inspiring drummers — from Grammy winners to rising stars. Hosted by Kyle Smith of Arizona Drummer, each episode explores the real stories behind the beats: the hustle, heart, and passion it takes to make it in music. Whether you're a drummer or just love music, you'll find powerful insights and raw conversations that go way beyond the kit. Follow, like, and subscribe to never miss a beat!Arizona Drummer Music
Episodes
  • 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 23: Haze Amaze (Nas, Fantasia, YouTube)
    May 1 2026

    Episode 23 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down with the one and only @HazeAmaze!

    Known for his creativity, feel, and versatility, Haze Amaze has built an incredible career performing with world-class artists like Nas and Fantasia, while also inspiring a global audience through his powerful and educational YouTube presence. His playing blends groove, musicality, and expression in a way that connects deeply with both musicians and fans alike.

    In this conversation, we dive into Haze’s journey behind the kit — from his early beginnings and influences to navigating the professional music world and building a platform that reaches drummers around the globe. We talk about developing your own voice, the importance of authenticity, the realities of touring and working with major artists, and what it takes to stay creative and inspired in today’s industry.

    This episode isn’t just about chops and technique — it’s about mindset, growth, and the courage to chase your path while staying true to who you are.

    Season 2 continues to grow through honest, powerful conversations like this one, and I’m beyond grateful to bring Haze’s story to the Behind The Kit community.

    Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 22: Art Cruz (Lamb of God)
    Apr 17 2026

    Episode 22 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down backstage with the one and only @ArtCruzDrums !Known for his ferocious power, precision, and relentless intensity behind the kit, Art is the drummer for @lambofgodofficial and one of the most respected players in modern metal. From his early days with Winds Of Plague to stepping into one of the most iconic bands in heavy music, Art has built a career defined by passion, perseverance, and an unmistakable playing style.In this conversation, we dive into Lamb of God’s brand new album, Into Oblivion — the record Art says he is most proud of to date. We talk about what made this album different and how approaching the record with a completely fresh perspective allowed him to create some of his most authentic work yet.We also discuss the experience of stepping into a band with such a massive legacy, the pressure and responsibility that comes with that role, and the moment Art truly felt like he belonged in Lamb of God.This episode goes beyond drums and technique. We talk about growth, identity, creativity, and the mindset it takes to continue evolving at the highest level. Art also opens up about how becoming sober impacted both his life and his approach to creating Into Oblivion, making this one of the most personal and meaningful conversations I’ve had for Behind The Kit.What makes this episode even more special to me is that Art and I actually played a show together back in 2008 when my band opened for Winds of Plague. Nearly 18 years later, reconnecting backstage in Phoenix for this conversation feels incredibly full circle.Season 2 continues with honest, powerful conversations like this one, and I’m beyond grateful to share Art’s story with the Behind The Kit community.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

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    31 mins
  • 🎧 Behind The Kit Episode 21: Drumeo (Domino Santantonio, Jared Falk & Brandon Toews)
    Mar 23 2026

    Episode 21 of Behind The Kit is one I’ve been incredibly excited to share — a VERY special conversation with the team behind Drumeo.

    In this episode, I sit down with Domino Santantonio, Jared Falk, and Brandon Toews — three people who have helped shape one of the most impactful platforms in the drumming world today.

    Drumeo has become a global hub for drummers of all levels, known for its world-class education, iconic collaborations, and its ability to bring the drumming community together in a way that’s never been done before. From viral “drummer hears song for the first time” videos to in-depth lessons with some of the greatest players on the planet, their influence on modern drumming is undeniable.

    In this conversation, we go behind the scenes of Drumeo — how it all started, the vision behind the platform, and what it takes to consistently create content that inspires millions of drummers around the world. We talk about creativity, consistency, building something meaningful, and the responsibility that comes with shaping the next generation of musicians.

    This episode isn’t just about drumming — it’s about passion, innovation, and the power of building something bigger than yourself.

    Season 2 continues to grow through conversations like this, and I’m beyond grateful to share this one with the Behind The Kit community.

    Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

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    1 hr and 25 mins
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