085 – Kevin Rapillo: Band Leading for Rodney Atkins, Building Careers on Relationships, Staying Focused on Musical Goals

Kevin Rapillo was born in Trumbull, CT, just north of New York City. A combination of growing up just hours north of New York City and having a great uncle, Lou Vitale, that was a professional drummer were the things that helped nurture Kevin’s interest in music. After high school, he found himself at the Berklee College of music in Boston. After moderate success in the Boston area with bands in and out of label deals, Kevin moved to Nashville in late 1997 looking for a fresh start. Shortly after his move, Kevin met and stared working with country singer Rodney Adkins in the early stages of his career. After 14 years and six number ones, Rodney’s still going strong and keeps Kevin busy as a full-time touring drummer.

When not touring, kevin stays busy in Nashville playing often at the legendary Nashville club, The Family Wash. Kevin has worked with many other artists in Nashville including Will Kimbrough, Pat Buchanan and producer Tom Hambridge. Last year, Kevin’s trio recorded a record called The HiMM’s.

In this podcast, Kevin Talks about:

Touring with country singer Rodney Atkins

Auditioning a whole new band as the band leader

The influence of a great uncle who was a successful big band drummer

Staying focused on musical goals the face of overwhelming competition

Drumming for Tom Hambridge – songwriter, producer and drummer as well

Building your career around relationships

Kevin endorses Sakae Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Remo Drumheads

This episode is sponsored by Sakae Drums