Tanner Wayne is an American drummer, known for having been the drummer of Underminded, Scary Kids Scaring Kids, and Chiodos. He has also filled in on drums for Underoath. And is since July 2018 the drummer for Swedish metal titans In Flames. Tanner has a Pearl Masters Maple Complete kit with a Reference snare.

Tanner stepped into In Flames following the departure of Joe Rickard. Tanner: “…I had taken a little break from touring for a while and I was doing a lot of session and studio work and things like that. And so it was just a normal thing for me to come in and do a drum session for a band. And so their producer hired me to play drums on the album. I was excited about it, but it was “just” another thing. I had no idea that they were wanting to hire me to be in the band. I just did my best and had fun making the album, and we had a great time while they were there. So when they asked me if I would wanna do it. And, of course, you say 'yes' when In Flames ask you to be their drummer. You don't really say 'no' to that."

What is it you like so much about playing Pearl Drums?

I love the consistency that the sound of my drums bring to every room we play. Whether it’s a small venue, outdoor festival or arena, I know I’m going to be able to sit down and feel the same power every time. From the low end punch of my toms, to the ever consistent sound of my snare...I just love my Pearl Drums.

Which drummer/band influenced you most into playing drums?

Like most drummers my age, I think Travis Barker influenced us all very heavily. I grew up in San Diego, so Blink 182 was our hometown band. Travis has always brought an insane level of creativity and I think that opened my mind up to the possibilities behind the kit. Other than that, I have a very eclectic iTunes library that keeps my mind busy with ideas.

Who in your mind are the drummers of tomorrow, who has caught you eye?

Man...great question! With social media and YouTube, there are so many up and coming musicians that I love and inspire me. My favourite has to be Justin Wilson ll (@babyboydrummer). He is only 4 years old and has so much soul behind the kit. It is awesome to see his progression.

What do you like most about being a drummer?

My favourite thing about being drummer is the ability to be more creative on stage. As a guitarist, it isn’t the normal routine to play things that aren’t in the song. But as a drummer, if I’m feeling a certain fill or part, with the ok from my band, I can throw it in there and have fun with it.

What is the worst thing to happen to you during a show?

The thing that comes to mind is a moment at our Borgholm Brinner fest last year. I forgot to count in “Take this Life” and just started playing the song. I had to stop and start over. The biggest no-no while playing live haha. Thankfully everyone laughed and we continued the show.

What do you practice and for how long?

I don’t have a very specific regiment every day. I make sure I stretch for a while and then the band and I play through the songs for about a half hour. I just make sure I’m nice and loose.

What is your best advice to a young player wanting to make it in this industry?

Just keep it up! Practice your ass off, keep your head down and believe in the path. Make friends with people that inspire you. Try and make connections without being abrasive. But mainly, practice practice practice. Your time will come.

If you had the chance to play drums for another artist who would it be?

I always thought that I would want to play hip hop or with a DJ. I did that for years and it actually drove me nuts haha. I realized that I need to be challenged in order to be driven and passionate about the music I’m learning/performing. But I’d love to play with Coldplay, or a couple songs with Slipknot. Random, I know!