September 3, 2025
Xavier Ware (Bilmuri) breaks down the five records that influenced his playing
Drummers on DrummingAbout this episode
On this episode of Big Fat Five , I’m joined by drummer Xavier Ware. He’s currently out on the road with Bilmuri, and his playing is UNREAL—able to blaze with the kind of intensity that feels like he’s getting paid by the note, then pivot into a dynamic, nuanced jazz approach with left-foot finesse that I honestly can’t wrap my head around. Both of those styles live so far outside my own playing, which made this conversation especially exciting. We discuss where he learned the jazz language, how he breaks down the incredibly technical songs he’s known for, and his journey toward appreciating the small things. And ultimately, how you shouldn’t strive for perfect timing or playing, but that perfect feeling, for both you and the audience. XAVIER'S BIG FAT FIVE: - Artist – Nerve Album – Prohibited Beats Release Year – 2009 Key Track(s) – “Syncopath,” “Jabon,” “Far,” “7even” Drummer – Jojo Mayer Artist – Button Masher Album – The 16bit.Wav Release Year – 2020 Key Track(s) – “Siblings,” “Meta Knight's Revenge” (from Kirby Superstar ) Drummer – Midi Artist – Louis Cole Album – Quality Over Opinion Release Year – 2022 Key Track(s) – “Laughing in Her Sleep,” “I’m Tight,” “Failing in a Cool Way” Drummer – Louis Cole Artist – Sonny Rollins Album – East Broadway Rundown Release Year – 1966 Key Track(s) – “Front to Back” Drummer – Elvin Jones Artist – Yellowjackets Album – Blue Hats Release Year – 1997 Key Track(s) – “CapeTown,” “Statue of Liberty,” “New Rochelle” Drummer – Will Kennedy - Get Your Copy of the Drummers on Drumming Book Today! 🎯 Click here to order now! Drummers on Drumming (the book) takes you inside the stories, records, and moments that shaped some of the world’s greatest drummers. Built on the Big Fat Five format of digging into top influences, it’s packed with candid interviews and personal insights. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years, this book is here to inspire you to sharpen your skills and find your own voice behind the kit. For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices