The 5th annual Drummers United Festival, held from October 25–27, 2024, in Austin, Texas, shattered attendance records by drawing over 70,000 percussion enthusiasts, making it the largest percussion-centered music festival in the United States to date. The event featured headline performances by legendary percussionist Sheila E., multi-genre maestro Questlove, and fast-rising Latin fusion artist Jaylen Torrez, celebrating a global spectrum of rhythms from jazz to Afrobeat.
A Celebration of Percussive Excellence
The three-day festival opened with a dynamic performance from Sheila E., who delivered a sizzling set blending salsa, funk, and soul, thrilling audiences with her iconic stage presence and masterful timbale solos. Sheila E. paid homage to her Afro-Latin roots, drawing on decades of musical legacy and paving the way for a weekend of rhythmic diversity.
Questlove took the stage on Saturday night, spinning an eclectic mix of hip-hop, soul, and classic funk, fusing digital loops with live drum breaks in a nod to his legendary work with The Roots. His set included tributes to J Dilla, Prince, and James Brown, with crowd members dancing late into the evening.
The festival closed on Sunday with Jaylen Torrez, a 23-year-old percussion prodigy whose genre-blending style incorporates Latin, EDM, and traditional African rhythms. Torrez’s live set, which featured an ensemble of drummers from Cuba, Ghana, and Brazil, brought the audience to a roaring ovation.
Panels and Workshops Offer Global Learning
While the performances captivated, it was the festival’s daytime offerings that set it apart as a hub for education and collaboration. Dozens of workshops and panels provided hands-on instruction and thought leadership on percussion-related topics.
Participants immersed themselves in interactive drum circles, beginner-to-advanced djembe and conga lessons, and masterclasses on beat-making software and electronic percussion gear. A standout session titled “Rhythms of the Diaspora” showcased cross-cultural collaborations and explored the role of rhythm in storytelling across African, Caribbean, and Latin traditions.
In addition, a panel on the “Future of Percussion” brought together instrument makers, music technologists, and artists to discuss how emerging technologies are shaping the next generation of drumming. From programmable pads to hybrid acoustic-digital kits, the panelists emphasized innovation while preserving cultural heritage.
Austin’s Musical Landscape Expands
Austin, already celebrated as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” has further solidified its status with the success of Drummers United. The festival’s focus on rhythm-driven music provides a vibrant complement to the city’s famous indie rock and country scenes, reflecting a growing appetite for global sounds and community engagement.
City officials noted the festival’s economic and cultural impact, with local hotels and restaurants reporting a surge in business. Over 150 local vendors participated in the festival market, offering handcrafted instruments, international cuisine, and artisan goods.
“Events like this remind us of the unifying power of rhythm and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for musical expression,” said Austin Mayor Lisa Guerrero during the opening ceremony.
Looking Toward 2025
Following the overwhelming success of this year’s event, organizers confirmed that Drummers United will return in October 2025 with expanded programming. Future plans include a youth percussion summit, artist residencies, and partnerships with global drumming communities.
Festival Director Marcus Green shared his vision: “Our goal is to build a movement. Drummers United is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of culture, connection, and the primal power of rhythm.”
As the beat continues into the next chapter, Austin stands poised to remain the heartbeat of the nation’s percussion scene.