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’A Drummer’s Guide To...’ is the podcast that dives into everything it takes to thrive as a professional musician beyond the practice room. Hosted by Emily Dolan Davies, a drummer since 1999, pro since 2008, and a passionate mentor since 2018, this show unpacks the real-world challenges, triumphs, and strategies for building the career of your dreams. Whether you’re chasing gigs, navigating the music industry, or balancing passion with practicality, Emily’s got your back with honest insights and inspiring stories. Find out more about Emily at EmilyDrums.com
Episodes
Saturday Feb 21, 2026
Saturday Feb 21, 2026
You’re a professional.
It’s just four minutes.
So why does this song feel like a punch in the chest?
In Episode 219 – A Drummer’s Guide To… Heartbreak on the Setlist (Q from Anonymous), I answer a listener’s question about performing a song that’s deeply tied to a painful past relationship.
Should you just “be professional” and play it?
Or are you allowed to have boundaries in a band?
We explore:
🥁 The difference between suppression and emotional regulation
🥁 When pushing through builds resilience — and when it’s just self-punishment
🥁 How music hardwires itself to memory
🥁 Whether raising it with your band is weakness… or maturity
🥁 How to reclaim a song that hurts (if you choose to)
This isn’t just about one sad tune.
It’s about emotional labour in performance — and what professionalism actually means.
If you’ve ever had to show up on stage while something personal was going on… this one’s for you.
💬 Want your question answered on a future episode?
Submit it here: EmilyDrums.com/ama
🎯 Want a free 30-minute coaching taster session?
Head to: EmilyDrums.com
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