Remembering Aaron Spears - 1976-2023

I cant believe in a matter of a few months, the world lost two drumming legends. At the end of September Dom Famularo passed away leaving a massive whole in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him. Then just a few days ago on October 30th, the incomparable Aaron Spears passed away for reasons the public doesn’t know of yet.

At BTN, we are in awe of the immense talent and skill possessed by drummers from all walks of life. Today, we shift our focus to the exceptional drummer, Aaron Spears. Born with an innate passion for rhythm, Spears emerged as one of the most influential drummers of his generation, captivating audiences worldwide with his astonishing playing style and virtuosity.
With a career spanning over two decades, Aaron Spears earned a reputation as a true master of his craft. His musical journey began at an early age, fuelled by a natural inclination towards beats and an unwavering dedication to perfecting his skills. Inspired by influential drummers such as Dennis Chambers and Vinnie Colaiuta, Spears embarked on a relentless pursuit to hone his technique and develop his unique voice behind the kit.
One of the defining moments in Aaron Spears' career came when he became the drummer for the legendary R&B artist Usher in 2004. This significant milestone propelled his name into the spotlight, offering him a platform to showcase his incredible talent on a global scale. Over the years, he has also collaborated with other renowned artists such as Alicia Keys, Lady Gaga, and Ariana Grande, leaving an indelible mark on the contemporary music scene.
What set Aaron Spears apart from other drummers is not just his astonishing technical prowess but also his ability to infuse emotion and expression into his playing. Whether in a live performance or a studio recording, his drumming revealed a deep understanding of music dynamics, adaptable to any genre or musical situation. His grooves were infectious, and his fills were awe-inspiring, showcasing his innate ability to push boundaries and create musical landscapes that captivated his audiences.
Beyond his prominent collaborations, Spears has also gained recognition for his involvement in numerous drum clinics and workshops, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring musicians worldwide. This dedication to education made him an influential figure in the drumming community, inspiring a new generation of drummers to seek excellence and explore their own artistic voices.

Aaron Spears inspired me personally with his boundary-breaking drumming style and unwavering passion for music. The story of Aaron Spears stands as a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and musical talent. He has carved his path in the world of drumming, imprinting his name as one of the greats in the industry and will be deeply, deeply missed.

I’m so thankful that my a handful of students and I were able to meet Aaron at a Drum Clinic in Vancouver several years ago. He took the time to really meet with us, chat us up and was so kind.

Thank you, Aaron for living life so fully. My prayers and thoughts are with his wife and son.