Photo taken from Modern Drummer 1997 issue
Mike Portnoy will go down as one of the most influential drummers in the history of music. Every year in Modern Drummer it seems that Mike has recieved some sort of award(and in fact, a whole boatload of them!) His picture can be found in just about any drumming magazine, and his influences can be heard in many new and up-and-coming bands.
Mike has a degree from Berklee School of Music, where he met the other three original members of the DT, John Petrucci, and James LaBrie.
The interesting thing about Mike's drumming is his ability to listen and play for the song. He lays back when he needs to, and really pushes when the need arises. He is just as comfortable playing jazzy groove as he is playing a blistering 32nd note phrasing. For a great sampling of just what Mike is capable of doing, check out the Liquid Tension Experiment albums, and then you'll see what I mean!
I really can't do justice to Mike and everything he's done and accomplished. If you would like to learn more about one of the most influential drummers in rock history, please check out Mike's personal website at:
