058 – Charles LaMont Garner: Growing Beyond his Gospel Roots, The Importance of Mentorship, Building a Career Through Good Relationships and Good Character

“My father’s side was musicians, my mother’s side was singers and preachers.” This sums up Charles LaMont Garner’s musical pedigree. The Charleston, SC native lives in Atlanta where he works as a drummer and producer when he’s not on tour with India Arie. Gospel music was his gateway to drums, and presented him with his first opportunity to play professionally at age 15. Since then, he has played with a wide swath of bands and artists, picking up life lessons from each colleague and experience along the way.

In this podcast, Charles talks about:

Growing up and playing in church in Charleston, SC

His mentor, Quentin Baxter, and the many lessons Charles learned from him, musical and otherwise.

A trip to Switzerland at age 16 which cemented his desire to be a pro musician

How he learned different styles by playing each one exclusively, one at a time

His mixed feelings about gospel chops

His stint with a corporate band in Ethiopia (yes, Ethiopia).

How good character creates good relationships, and good relationships create a good career

The life he almost had as a singer in an R&B group, and how losing it was the best thing that could have happened.

Charles Lamont Garner endorses Pearl Drums, Vater Sticks and TRX Cymbals.