Hi and welcome to the Lil’ Drummer Girl website. My name is Dawn-Marie (D.M) Mutell. I am a drummer who has been playing drums physically and mentally (I used to sing drum parts in my head a early as 3 years old) for over 35 years now.
I’ve named this site The Lil’ Drummer Girl because one of my mom (who has passed almost 30 years ago) used to love to sing “The Lil’ Drummer Boy” song during the holiday season and I thought I would keep her spirit alive as she’d call me her Lil’ Drummer Girl. So I dedicate this business to her.
My parents loved music and so did my siblings. Growing up I’ve learned and loved all types of music. If it had a beat, I’d listen to it. I don’t believe playing drums (or any type of instrument) has anything to do with being feminine or masculine, it’s only about creating and playing music.
After working for major labels, music publishers, merchandisers, and sports entertainment companies, I decided to make a try at doing something different. This project is for the rising stars out there who work their butts off day in and day out to be heard. It’s getting louder out there every day and trying to make in this biz was always tough, and, today seems even tougher. I never want you to give up on your dreams. Sometimes we reach our dreams by doing something we never thought to do. So, don’t give in just yet — your big break might just be around the corner!!!
I’ve had the opportunity to see hundreds of concerts and performances. And, to this day, I still get goosebumps when I see an amazing show.
Still, after all these years, I’m amazed there’s a ton more to learn. Have you ever thought about how you feel when you hear a new song for the first time and it gets you pumped? Whether it’s a new melody, a new set of lyrics, a new bass line etc. it might just motivate you on your own project.
I remember one of my first drum instructors – Jim Tuscano would say “if you can say it, you can play it” and that “you must first learn the rules so you can break them” (of course he was referring to music). Music is truly infinite and never-ending. I think that’s one of the reasons I love it so much. “Sometimes I feel as though I’m not breathing if I’m not listening to some great Tunes.”
The Lil’ Drummer Girl Podcast was created for those who are interested in hearing from those who have made it, and, find out what separates them from the norm.
I’ve created this site in hopes that we can connect on the many different layers of the music business and in our personal lives as well. I want to pass onto you some marketing tips not only from what I’ve learned along the way while I’ve been making my mark and trying to get my message out to the world but from those already living the life and are major recording artists, entrepreneurs, artists or authors. Remember what P.T. Barnum Bailey said, “a funny thing happens without promotions.. nothing”. Marketing savvy will help you fill booties in the seats at your live performances. What message do you want to send out to the younger generation who might listen to your music and watch your videos or DVD’s? Do you want to be an inspiration?
LDG will provide you with tips, tricks and ways to promote your business and build your brand. Remember, whether you’re an artist, performer or a band member, you still have an image to portray. How do you want to be perceived? My classes and workshops will help you with finding the answers to those questions.
I’d like to share some of my crazy stories as I live, breathe and work in this crazy world of the music and entertainment business.
As a fashion stylist, image consultant and personal shopper, I help folks who are looking for a new look, a way to brand their business whether it is for a record album or a photo shoot, playing dress-up is always a blast.
I thought starting this blog and podcast would be a great way to reach out and see how many others are out there in the music business who love to play drums or any other instrument (or sing) and rock on so that we can become a force to be reckoned with. Take a trip “On the Roadie Bus Express” as we head on our way to achieving our goals and inspirations. Let’s put on our life preserver jackets and swim together to create a new wave of success so that we can hone our craft, deliver our message and inspire others to keep on keeping on!!