We had the good fortune of connecting with Richard Sherwood and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Richard, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I wanted to create a giant electro-acoustic percussion instrument that has never been seen before. I love to move and dance when I play, so creating a stand-up instrument that can play any sound I want was what i was going for.
This instrument can produce the sound of a full band on its own, but I also love to play and improvise with other performers of all types. The Drumdala really is my dream instrument and the basis of my business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love music and I’m a percussionist through and through. I’ve also played a bit of keys since childhood. I enjoy studying all the world’s musical traditions, but I’ve never been a traditionalist myself. I’m always looking for new sounds and unique ways to combine and produce music that have not been done before. I have a degree in Jazz performance, but I wouldn’t consider myself a jazz drummer. I’ve played in so many flavors of bands throughout the years and have paid my dues playing in less-than-optimal conditions and working all sorts of odd jobs to support myself.
I’ve struggled through some difficult times and almost quit music at one point when it seemed all was hopeless. I asked for help from God/universe/whatever you wish to call it. I did receive help- I saw that I have inner negative voices that hold me back. Being more aware of these and quieting them has helped me a lot and I will probably be trying to improve on this for the rest of my life. I also got help from a few key supportive people. And music, it seems, is what I’m supposed to continue doing. All the best performing and traveling began after that difficult time.
My brand, Drumdala, is all about bringing positive, powerful energy into the world and binging people together through music.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d say go to Venice beach because there’s nothing else like it. There’s no better people-watching environment. There are some great downtown spots, of course. I perform sometimes at The Moxy Hotel in downtown. The whole 8th floor is a combination nightclub, multi-bar, high-end restaurants, lucha libre wrestling ring, outdoor pool-DJ area called Level 8. Fun, but pricey. For a cheaper option, they have to eat at my local street taco stand, “Pobres Tacos” on Pico near La Cienega. They have some of the most amazing birria tacos and quality Mexican fare I’ve had anywhere. The Mint, across the street is an old LA music venue staple. In Hollywood, Black Rabbit Rose is a funky good time for music and magic.
For hiking, there’s a great spot called Malibu Creek. The entrance is off Mulholland, though. What’s cool about it is that there’s a swimming pond you can walk to and great bouldering/climbing you can do- great for exploring, but can be a little scary if you’re new to climbing up big rocks.
If we had time, I’d also recommend driving up to Big Sur, but that’s a multi-day mission.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My sister, kimery Sherwood, came up with the idea to create the instrument. She has always been a huge supporter of my musical vision and career.

My old friend, William Close, is a musical instrument inventor. He has designed over 100 unique instruments including the famed Earth Harp. He also designed the drum cloud, an upright percussion instrument I’ve played for years. The instrument was part of the inspiration for my Drumdala.

Website: https://www.drumdala.net

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drumdala/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-sherwood-222992193/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Drumdala

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/richard-sherwood-drum-and-percussion-instruction-los-angeles-3

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLd-NJLDD3efNc432m8WClA

Image Credits
Eraser Studio for some of them.

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