Custom Drum Building Drum Builder Profile: Brandon Blevins

Drum Building Profile:

My name is Brandon Blevins, I live in Lebanon, VA and I’m 27 years old. I work as an environmental scientist / professional to semi-professional drummer/bass player.

I’ve been personalizing my drums since I first started playing around 16 years ago. I have the desire to personalize almost everything I own, so naturally, that translated to my drums. I always saw and heard drums that I loved, so I would try to emulate those sights and sounds on my drums. I am currently in the process of getting my workspace in order to begin the drum building process. Specifically, I’m painting my first set for donation.

Drum Building Challenges:

The first challenge was figuring out what tools would be needed. MakeDrums.com made that a lot easier. My next challenge will be fine-tuning my craft to make my drum company and my drums stand out.

As of now, my brother Chris and I are playing my drums. We have been featured on a few records here and there. My drums and my drumming can be heard on a record called “Juxtaposed” from a Seattle, WA artist named Ben Gilmer.

How to Stand Out in a Crowd

I hope to be able to recommend sizes and bearing edge styles to meet the drummer’s specific needs. I tend to lean towards sound quality over looks. It is always a battle for both on drums. I also hope to be able to help local churches and/or schools with drum related questions. These seem to be overlooked quite a bit. I feel that if the drums ain’t right, the music ain’t right.

I almost hate to admit that drums are on my mind 24/7. The desire to create is so consuming and overpowering I can’t stop thinking of things to do. After work, that’s where I am. I lose all sense of time.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about building drums but just isn’t sure if they can do it?

It can be done. There really isn’t anything to lose. If you love playing drums, it’s only a natural progression to start making them your own. The personal satisfaction of knowing you did it is 2nd to none.

Check out Brandon’s workspace and custom drum set!