Carter Anthony Beauford, born November 2, 1958, is an American drummer, percussionist, and founding member of the Dave Matthews Band. He is recognized for his exceptional skill in multiple genres and his unique ambidextrous and open-handed drumming styles.
In addition to playing drums, he provides backing vocals for the band. In 2010, a Rolling Stone magazine reader’s poll ranked Beauford at number 10 among the greatest drummers of all time. His versatility and technical mastery have earned him widespread acclaim.
Table of Contents
Carter Beauford Net Worth
Carter Beauford has a net worth of $75 million. He is widely regarded as one of the best drummers today. As the drummer for The Dave Matthews Band, Beauford showcases exceptional talent.
He has also performed with Santana, further highlighting his versatility. My youngest son, an exceptional drummer himself, introduced me to this incredible band. While the entire band is highly skilled, Beauford’s drumming stands out as phenomenal, earning him widespread admiration and solidifying his status in the music industry.
Early life
Beauford was introduced to drums at age three. His father purchased tickets to a Buddy Rich concert but couldn’t find a babysitter, so he brought Beauford along. Mesmerized by Buddy Rich’s performance, Beauford developed a deep interest in drumming.
Following the concert, his father bought him a tin drum set with paper heads to nurture his passion. Demonstrating early talent, Beauford began performing professionally by age nine, setting the foundation for his future career as a renowned drummer.
Career
Beauford explains his unique playing style in his instructional video “Under The Table & Drumming”. He attributes his left-hand-lead technique on a right-handed kit to practicing in front of a mirror as a child, trying to emulate drummers like Buddy Rich.
By unknowingly setting up his drums in reverse to match the audience’s view seen on stage and TV, he developed complete ambidexterity at an early age. This accidental method greatly influenced his distinct and versatile drumming approach.
Personal life
Beauford joined Secrets, a Richmond, Virginia-based jazz fusion band, with members like LeRoi Moore, John D’earth, Dawn Thompson, Keith Horne, Butch Taylor, Dane Bryant, Eddie Williams, and Tim Reynolds. Secrets performed across Virginia, including The Jewish Mother and Miller’s in Charlottesville, where Dave Matthews bartended.
Beauford also played jazz with Blue Indigo alongside LeRoi Moore, Sal Soghoian, and George Melvin, performing at Tokyo Rose, Miller’s, and the Delaware Water Gap Jazz Festival. Later, Matthews invited Beauford to record a demo, leading to the Dave Matthews Band formation.
What gloves does Carter Beauford wear?
Carter Beauford wears custom drumming gloves developed in collaboration with FootJoy, designed for both functionality and style. These gloves feature his signature, embodying a blend of luxury and practicality.
Conclusion
Carter Beauford’s journey from a young drum enthusiast to a world-renowned percussionist underscores his profound impact on the music industry. His innovative techniques and contributions to the Dave Matthews Band have not only garnered him critical acclaim but also a substantial net worth, underscoring the lucrative potential of diverse musical talents. Beauford’s legacy is a testament to the enduring appeal and influence of exceptional drumming in contemporary music.
FAQs about Carter Beauford
- What inspired Carter Beauford to start playing drums?
- Beauford was inspired to take up drumming after witnessing a Buddy Rich performance at the age of three.
- What makes Carter Beauford’s drumming style unique?
- Beauford’s ambidextrous and open-handed playing techniques, along with his ability to seamlessly integrate various musical styles, make his drumming uniquely captivating.
- Has Carter Beauford collaborated with other artists outside of the Dave Matthews Band?
- Yes, Beauford has worked with a variety of artists, including Carlos Santana, John Popper, and Béla Fleck, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
- What equipment does Carter Beauford use to achieve his sound?
- Beauford uses a Yamaha Drums Recording Custom drum kit, Zildjian cymbals, and custom FootJoy drumming gloves, among other equipment.
- What recognition has Carter Beauford received for his drumming?
- Among other accolades, Beauford was ranked as the tenth greatest drummer of all time in a Rolling Stone magazine reader’s poll, highlighting his significant impact on the drumming .
