It can all be summed up into one word called "predictability." So many drummers will never play a song the same way twice. This, many times, throws the other musicians off, potentially causing a drag in timing or increasing the chances of a mislead cue.

As the drummer in a band it is your responsibility to provide the foundation for the music. This meaning that everything you do behind the drum kit is vital. Anything you do out of the ordinary, or something the other musicians are not used to hearing you play in a particular song really has the potential to screw things up.

Experimenting is definitely a good thing, and that's why we practice, but there just comes a time when experimenting is over. You must decide what you're gonna do and then stick to it. Never throw in something that the other musicians are not expecting or you can end up with some serious chaos.

Predictability is a must! The other musicians must know what you're going to do before you do it. An outstanding drummer is predictable! Never slack, sloppy, or impulsive.

An outstanding drummer is also prepared and organized, ready to bring his or her goods to the table.

Now, what does being prepared and organized entail?

When you go to your regular band practice sessions, are you ready? Did you do your homework from the previous band practice? If so, do you have it nailed? Do you know exactly what you want to accomplish this time around?

Now, what does being prepared and organized for your next band practice session include? Do you have your tape recorder, note pad, pen, questions for the other band members written down, and did you bring everything you were supposed to bring?

It has always bugged me terribly when a band mate would come to play and he or she would just not be prepared. Situations like that are just not fair to everyone else who is prepared.

It's been said that when preparedness and opportunity meet, success occurs. I don't know what kind of "success" your hoping for, but one thing is for sure, you will more likely meet with it by being organized when opportunity knocks.