In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell reflect on their homecoming experiences, diving into the evolution of band traditions, the importance of alumni participation, and the camaraderie that makes HBCU band culture so special. They share hilarious memories, compare homecoming events across different schools, and highlight unforgettable performances that capture the essence of the season. The conversation also explores musical transitions, band battles, and the growing impact of quality media representation in the drumline community. To top it off, Jeremie and Bryon celebrate community achievements, announce the 10K Drum Pad Giveaway Winner, and invite listeners to join upcoming Lounge & Chop—all while keeping the spirit of homecoming alive.

5th Quarter Picks
🎵 Jeremie’s Pick: Bethune-Cookman University Marching Wildcats – “Smile”

🎵 Bryon’s Pick: Jackson State University – “If I Ever Fall In Love”

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell celebrate reaching 10,000 followers on Instagram and dive deep into the ever-evolving world of HBCU band culture. The conversation unpacks the controversy surrounding Alabama State’s Honeybees dance line, the role and etiquette of band announcers, and the power of community engagement within band programs.

The hosts also tackle heavier topics like hazing and culture reform in college bands, along with fresh updates from the ESPN Battle of the Bands. They explore performance rivalries between legendary programs such as Cookman, Alabama A&M, Norfolk State, and Hampton, analyzing how tradition, music arrangement, and institutional identity shape each performance.

Rounding out the discussion, Jeremie and Bryon highlight innovative snare techniques, the influence of homecoming traditions, and the importance of alumni participation in sustaining the art of HBCU drumming.

🎶 Fifth Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: SCSU Drumline “BBI” playing a Block from 2005
Bryon’s Pick: Hampton University Drumline “Sticky Situation” playing a cadence (2025)


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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell take listeners deep into the world of HBCU bands and drumlines. From Southern University’s legacy to the energy of recent band battles, they break down performances, sound quality, and the unique styles that set each school apart—including Bethune-Cookman, South Carolina State, and North Carolina Central.

The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, practice, and visuals in creating unforgettable performances, while also exploring new trends in drumline equipment and the evolving culture of HBCU music. Along the way, Jeremie and Bryon share personal stories from their own college band experiences, react to the latest fifth quarter moments, and celebrate community milestones—including social media growth and exciting giveaways.

🎶 Fifth Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: Southern University playing "Under Pressure" (2025)
Bryon’s Pick: Jackson State University playing "Ball & Parlay/The Show Mix" (2025)

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell celebrate six years of the show with an in-depth look at the evolving world of band culture. They explore the role of identity in performances, the impact of bias in competitions, and break down recent clashes, including Clark Atlanta vs. Florida Memorial and Florida’s high school drumline battles. The discussion also highlights the  traditions and techniques that continue to shape HBCU band culture.

Jeremie and Bryon dive into the heart of drumline dynamics—examining cadences, tuba breaks, and the distinct styles of different programs. They review the recent Lane College vs. Lincoln University battle, discuss expectations for Norfolk State, and celebrate the accomplishments of Virginia State. Throughout, they emphasize preparation, respect, and the importance of pushing the culture forward while encouraging listeners to stay active in the community and keep sharpening their craft.

🎶 Fifth Quarter Picks

Jeremie’s Pick: BCU's Sudden Impact playing "Intro to Impact" (2013)
Bryon’s Pick: Alabama State playing "2AM" by BigXthaPlug

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell welcome listeners into an engaging discussion on HBCU marching bands and drumlines. They take a closer look at recent performances by Bethune-Cookman University,  Southern University and Alabama State, highlighting each band’s unique style, energy, and song selections. The conversation continues with the Lounge and Chop segment, where Jeremie and Bryon share their own drum compositions and encourage listeners to learn and share their renditions. The episode also features the popular Fifth Quarter segment, showcasing Southern University’s rendition of “Kills Me” and Alabama State’s performance of “Shine.” To wrap things up, Jeremie and Bryon encourage community participation through challenges and giveaways, helping grow the Drum Lounge family.


🎶 Fifth Quarter Picks
Jeremie’s Pick: Southern University – “Kills Me”
Bryon’s Pick: Alabama State – “Shine”

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell dive deep into the current state of HBCU drumlines, exploring preseason predictions, the influence of social media, and updated tier rankings. They break down performances from Fort Valley, Jackson State, and Alcorn, discussing community reactions, the importance of visibility in recruitment, and how evolving drumline culture is shaping the next generation of talent.

The conversation takes a closer look at the intricacies of HBCU drumline performance — from techniques and competition dynamics to the evolution of cadences and the critical role audience engagement plays. With candid insights, personal experiences, and a shared passion for the craft, Jeremie and Bryon deliver an engaging analysis that will resonate with both seasoned bandheads and new fans alike.

5th Quarter Segment Picks:

• Jeremie’s Pick: Benedict College Drumline “LOD” playing Teaser (2018)
• Bryon’s Pick: Boston Crusaders Drum Break (2025)

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Get ready for a drumline deep dive! In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell reflect on their favorite band camp memories, break down their 2025 HBCU Drumline Tier list, and bring personal stories and hot takes to the mic. From reminiscing on summer band vibes to unpacking the latest shifts in the South Florida percussion scene, this episode blends nostalgia, expertise, and raw drumline energy. Whether you’re an alum, active marcher, or just love the culture—this one’s for you!

No 5th Quarter Segment this week.

🛒 Check out Jeremie's Amazon Storefront for essential percussion gear:
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🕊️ This episode is dedicated to our dear friend and fellow drummer, Nicholas Jackson.
We received the heartbreaking news of Nick’s passing while recording this episode. Despite the shock and sadness, we did our best to push through and finish the conversation in his honor.
Rest in peace, Nick — your spirit, rhythm, and friendship will forever be a part of this community.

   In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell sit down with percussionist and innovator TJ Stevens, creator of the Bolt mallet — a custom tenor drumstick designed specifically for HBCU drummers. TJ shares his journey from student to instructor, breaking down the challenges of designing an instrument that reflects the power, precision, and personality of the HBCU percussion experience.
   The conversation dives into the Bolt’s design process, its impact on the drumline community, and the importance of identity, detail, and community support in both performance and instruction. The trio also explore teaching philosophies, the evolution of cadences, stick control, and the balance between tradition and innovation in marching percussion.

🎯 TJ’s Bolt mallet is available now at americandrum.com

🙌 Special congratulations to our Drum Pad Giveaway winner — Jiomar Hernandez! Thank you to everyone who entered and continues to support The Drum Lounge Podcast.

5th Quarter Picks:
🎵 Jeremie’s Pick: BCU Band — Shake Your Pants (2014)
🎵 Bryon’s Pick: BCU Band — Fedz Watchin’ (2014)
🎵 TJ’s Pick: BCU Drumline — ‘08 (2008)

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   In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell kick things off with a hilarious recap of their struggle to find time to record—real drummer problems! They dive into the hype around summer band season, the incredible comeback of the Georgia Mass Band, and their memories from high school band camps and Honda Battle of the Bands.

  Things heat up during the fan-favorite "Lounge and Chop" segment, where Jeremie breaks down a crisp snare lick and Bryon follows up with one of his own. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned drummer, you’ll want to grab your sticks and chop along!

  The episode wraps with the 5th Quarter segment, and a special announcement: 🎉 The Drum Lounge Podcast is giving away a brand-new Xymox drum pad to one lucky follower! Tune in to find out how to enter and get in on the action.
This episode is all about community, culture, and pushing your skills to the next level—don’t miss it!

🎵 5th Quarter Picks
Jeremie: Miles College – “End of the Road” (2008)
Bryon: GAMB – “Still” by Moneybagg Yo (2023)


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In this episode, Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell continue their recap of the Destination HBCU Drumline Competition with an in-depth conversation about the current state of drumline culture. They explore the offseason grind, the art of writing new cadences, and the often-overlooked nuances of competition judging—including how personal bias can impact scoring.

The duo also highlights the distinct identities of different drumlines and the strategies they use to prepare for future battles. Drawing from their experiences at events like Rep Your City, Jeremie and Bryon break down the evolution of drumline styles, the importance of tempo, and the cultural legacy of Southern drumlines.

This episode is packed with insight, passion, and real talk about what it takes to excel in today’s drumline scene—celebrating both the technical skill and the tight-knit community that keeps the culture alive.

🎵 5th Quarter Picks:

Jeremie: South Carolina State University Drumline - "Stick It" (2010)
Bryon: Talladega College Drumline 

🛒 Check out Jeremie's Amazon Storefront for essential percussion gear: https://www.amazon.com/shop/jeremiefoster


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On this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell recap the Destination HBCU Drumline Competition in Augusta, Georgia. They break down standout performances, analyze the judging process, and share their thoughts on the unique energy that drumlines bring to the field. From the intensity of live performances to the role of sound quality and tuning, this conversation dives deep into what makes or breaks a show.

The duo also explores key topics like preparation, community vs. collegiate divisions, and accountability among judges. Plus, they highlight some of the gear, custom sticks, and vendors spotted at the event—making this episode a must-listen for any drumline enthusiast.

🎵 5th Quarter Picks:

Jeremie: Jackson State University "Sonic Boom" – "NOKIA" by Drake
Bryon: Fort Valley State University Drumline – "The Fall Off"

🛒 Check out Jeremie's Amazon Storefront for essential percussion gear: https://www.amazon.com/shop/jeremiefoster


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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell sit down with Malik DOPE—renowned for blending drumming and dance—to discuss his journey and the broader evolution of percussion. From the cultural impact of go-go music in D.C. to the uphill battle of funding for music programs, Malik shares insights on honoring pioneers, innovating drum gear, and building his brand, Definition of Percussion Entertainment.

The trio reflects on their experience at the Battle of the Apple Drumline Competition, diving into topics like fame, envy, and the importance of positive energy in the percussion world. Malik also introduces Dope Wae, his new multimedia and consulting agency, along with a sleek mobile drumstick holder, called the "8+ Stick It", aimed at modernizing drum performance tools.

The episode wraps with a powerful conversation on community, mentorship, and pushing the art form forward—followed by a high-energy Fifth Quarter segment that you don’t want to miss.

5th Quarter Picks:
🎵 Jeremie – "Just Wait" x Chance the Rapper | BYOS | Jeremie (2016)
🎵 Bryon – The Magic Lick by Jeremie Foster (2013)
🎵 Malik DOPE – Malik DOPE America's Got Talent audition (2020) 

🎧 Check out Jeremie's Amazon Storefront for all your percussion essentials:
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Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-drum-lounge-podcast--3683925/support.

🥁 In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell dive into the intense showdown between Florida Memorial and Bethune-Cookman. They unpack the performance quality, cadence execution, and key leadership moments that made this battle unforgettable.

💥 From communication breakdowns to underdog triumphs, Jeremie and Bryon explore what makes a drumline truly stand out—confidence, preparation, and adaptability. They also touch on the cultural impact of these battles and what they signal for the future of drumline competition. Whether you're a percussionist or just love the energy of band culture, this one's for you! 🎶🔥

🎧 5th Quarter Picks

Jeremie: Sudden Impact – 2017 Percussion Feature (Bandroom footage)
Bryon: Sudden Impact – "Twisted" (2017)

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell break down the highlights from the recent Beat Down9 Drum Line Competition in Atlanta. They dive into the energy of the event, the standout performances, and how the competition structure set it apart from traditional tournament-style matchups. From the intensity of the drum battles to the impact of visual performance, Jeremie and Bryon explore what made this event a must-watch for drumline enthusiasts.

The conversation also touches on the evolution of performance styles, the role of social media in shaping modern drumline culture, and the importance of audience engagement. They wrap up with an in-depth analysis of performances from Jackson State and Fort Valley State, breaking down their signature cadences and musical choices. Whether you're a die-hard percussion fan or new to the world of drumlines, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the artistry and competitiveness of HBCU drum culture.

5th Quarter Picks
🎶 Jeremie: Jackson State’s Sonic Boom playing cLOUDs by J. Cole
🥁 Bryon: Fort Valley State University cadence from 2024

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell celebrate the growth of their podcast and community engagement, reflecting on their recent experiences at the Honor Your Name Drumline Competition. They discuss the standout performances from middle school and high school drumlines, emphasizing the talent and energy displayed. The conversation highlights the importance of fostering a love for drumming at a young age and the challenges faced during live performances.

The hosts also delve into the intricacies of the competition, analyzing the performances of various teams and the complexities of live streaming. They share insights from the judges and explore the importance of execution and style in drumline battles, particularly focusing on the electrifying showdown between Tennessee State and Florida Memorial. In addition, they preview the upcoming Beatdown event and offer valuable tips on preparation strategies for competing drumlines.

5th Quarter Picks:

Jeremie: BCU's Sudden Impact playing "Putty" (2023)

Bryon: Tennessee State playing "If I Ever Fall in Love" (2016)

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell dive into recent drumline competitions, including the Rumble in the Jungle event. They share insights on standout performances, competition strategies, and the challenges faced by participating drumlines. The conversation also highlights the importance of community in music education and the excitement surrounding upcoming events.
Additionally, Jeremie and Bryon introduce Lounge & Chop #6, a short snare lick they taught during the episode, providing listeners an opportunity to practice and improve their drumming skills.

5th Quarter Picks

Jeremie: BCU playing "Amazing Grace" (2006)
Bryon: Nexus Drumline (2024)

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell dive into the latest drumline competitions, including Rumble in the Jungle and Honor Your Name. They break down standout performances—especially Clark Atlanta’s recent showcase—while discussing the art of cadence, the evolution of drumline styles, and the power of live streaming in HBCU band culture.

From the role of cymbals to the identity of Georgia’s percussion scene, they explore how trends shape traditions. Plus, they share laughs, insights, and personal experiences in the world of music and education. 

 5th Quarter Segment Picks:
🎵 Jeremie: BCU Sudden Impact – Buzz (1992)
🎵 Bryon: Talladega Marching Band – Oui by Jeremih (2016)

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon Russell welcome Chop Exterminators, a prominent figure in the band media space. They dive into the evolution of band culture, the growing influence of social media on drumlines, and the crucial role of sight reading in music education. Chop shares his journey from being a dedicated band member to becoming a media pioneer, emphasizing the power of community and collaboration in shaping the band world. The discussion also explores Florida’s highly competitive drumline scene and the future of band media.

5th Quarter Picks

🎵 Jeremie’s Pick: RCC playing M. Theory
🎵 Bryon’s Pick: Blue Devils playing Grievous Groove
🎵 Chop’s Pick: Palm Beach Lakes High School (2019 Feature)

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!

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In this episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon reflect on their appreciation for the growing support from their audience and share personal updates, including family celebrations. They dive into the cultural significance of the Honda Battle of the Bands, emphasizing the role it plays in HBCU band culture. The conversation explores the importance of unity in drumlines, a recap of the recent Tap Off competition, and standout performances, including Piper High School's impressive showing.

Additionally, Jeremie and Bryon discuss the art of drumline competition, highlighting key elements such as skill assessment, challenges within the percussion community, and the push for unified competition standards. They share personal experiences from their time in drumlines, offer tips for preparing for auditions, and discuss the impact of band scholarships on education. The episode also teases upcoming guests and reinforces the importance of community engagement in the music space.

🎵 5th Quarter Picks:
Jeremie’s Pick: Sudden Impact playing "Unity" (2016)
Bryon’s Pick: Alabama State’s drumline playing "Millennium" (2007)

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In this action-packed episode of The Drum Lounge Podcast, hosts Jeremie Foster and Bryon break down their recent experiences in the drumline community, including an intense drumline competition in South Florida, where Bryon's Faith's Place Drumline secured 1st Place. The duo highlights the vibrant percussion culture in South Florida and introduces a new initiative—Sight Reading Sundays—designed to help drummers sharpen their music reading skills.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the Nexus drumline, a powerhouse group keeping the legacy of Morris Brown College alive. Jeremie and Bryon analyze Nexus’ showdown with Marching Thunder, discussing performance quality, judging criteria, and some of the controversies surrounding the results. They examine the strengths and weaknesses of each ensemble, focusing on snare line execution, overall showmanship, and the fine balance between cleanliness and complexity in drumline music.

Adding a mix of humor and nostalgia, Jeremie and Bryon swap personal band stories, break down recent battles like Albany State vs. Fort Valley, and debate the significance of drumline cadences in shaping the identity of a band. They also engage in a lighthearted but competitive debate over which region boasts superior drumlines—Florida or Atlanta—all while emphasizing the importance of practice, precision, and dedication in music education.

🔥 5th Quarter Picks 🔥

Jeremie’s Pick: Norfolk State Drumline playing "Cookman Block" (2012)

Bryon’s Pick: MLK Drumline playing "TikTok"

🔗 Check out our Amazon Storefront for essential percussion gear: https://www.amazon.com/shop/jeremiefoster

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Don’t miss this deep dive into drumline battles, judging controversies, and the evolving culture of percussion excellence. Hit play and join the conversation! 🎶🥁

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