Rocky Top drummer gets lesson of a lifetime
Erick Dugger (left) recently won a private drum lesson with rock drummer Gregg Bisson, who is currently touring with Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band.
Dugger attended the “Music City Drum Expo” in Nashville, a two-day event packed with drumming talent including Ray Luzier of Korn, Donald Barrett of Lady Gaga’s band, Bill Gibson of Huey Lewis and the News, and heavy metal drummer Jay Weinberg, whose father Max Weinberg famously plays with Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band.
During the expo, Dugger entered a drawing sponsored by Dixon Drums for a one-on-one drum lesson with Bissonette. A few weeks later, he got the surprise personal call from Bissonette himself, telling him he had won.
“Gregg is an awesome drummer and a great person,” Dugger said. “I was honored to spend that one-on-one time with him.”
Because of Bissonette’s busy schedule of clinics and tour dates, the session had to be set several weeks later, but Dugger said it was well worth the wait.
During their time together, Bissonette watched Dugger play, praised his skill level, and shared stories from his decades in the music industry.
The two talked about music, Ringo Starr, touring, and studio life, and even jammed together.
“Gregg was over-the-top complimentary about Erick’s playing,” said a family member. “It was an unforgettable experience.”
For Dugger, the experience adds another highlight to an impressive career.
A 2003 Anderson County High School graduate, Dugger also attended Pellissippi State Community College and is currently studying full time at Berklee College of Music in Boston.
His list of accolades includes four consecutive Guitar Center “Drum-Off” Knoxville championships from 2000 to 2003, and the 2013 “Next Great Drummer” national title in Atlanta — judged by professional drummers Eric Seats (Patti LaBelle) and Lil John (Janet Jackson).
“This was a rare opportunity that most people don’t get,” Dugger said. “It was a dream come true to learn from one of the best.”