Isaias Gil is a professional drummer whose credits include Jaci Velasquez, Salvador, and Thunderado to name a few. He will be heading out with Mike Valley & The Texas New Arms on tour soon! He is also on the roster for Q drums, Meinl, Evans, Vater and more. Some accomplishments worth mentioning include:
- Winner of Guitar Center Drum off 2010
- Recorded TV/ Radio promos for Kraft Mac & Cheese, Honda, etc
- Recorded with Macy Gray for Madeas Big Happy Family Reunion movie
- Toured with Coalo Zamorano, Alex Campos, Danilo Montero & Marcos Witt
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Isaias Gil about the acts he tours with, challenges, motivations and more.
Full Q&A along with links below.
Where are you from and what artists do you perform with?
I was born in Acapulco but have lived in Houston most of my life. I’m currently working with Mike Vallely & The Texas New Arms, Jaci Velasquez, Salvador, Grand Old Grizzly, Thunderado and Charlie & The Regrets.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
There was always music playing around my parents house. I was exposed to different genres and just loved how it made people move/feel. That connection is what keeps me going still. Seeing people react to music that I get to be a part of is sweet.
How is each tour / artist different?
I work with artists in the Christian circuit, Pop, Country, Rock and Americana. Every artists music is very unique but I find more in common than the obvious stylistic differences. Everyone I get to work with is kind, genuine and just all around good people. I find myself lucky to be in each mix of great crews.
Name one or two challenges you face as an independent musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
One major challenge is breaking stigmas. Someone might hear one aspect of what I do and pigeonhole me to that. They might not expect me to play something else. That’s been the toughest part.
Technology has made it possible to counter the challenge stated above. It’s made it to where I can upload different things on social media and show diversity or creativity or just something to encourage others (and myself) to keep going. I love that part of it.
What was the last song you listened to?
If I Had A Boat by James Vincent McMorrow. I enjoy listening to genres that are the polar opposite of what I’m usually playing. It’s my weird thing. =)
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I prefer CDs and have few a binders with CD’s that I keep in my car. I’ll use my phone too but CD’s have my heart.
Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I’m jamming Spotify and Apple Music. It’s made it easy to create playlists and learn or share new finds. Still love CD’s tho. Haha!
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
I’m on all social media outlets under my name and have my website www.isaiasgil.com I try to be quick to reply and connect with anyone who wants to reach out to me. All of the music I get to be a part of gets shared on all of those outlets too.
Anything else before we sign off?
Thank you for taking the time to ask these questions and connect with me.
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