For drummer and singer Kevin Redwood, the beat of the drum carries deep spiritual meaning.
“The beat is like the heartbeat of Mother Earth,” Redwood explained. “That’s why we hit the drum. It’s our heartbeat. The song we sang was a straight song, a regular song anyone can sing, just to open things up and let everyone know we’re ready.”
Redwood said the drum is much more than an instrument, referring to it with reverence as “our grandpa.”
“He brings us stuff, he guides us in a way,” Redwood said. “I would have been on a bad path if I didn’t come towards the drum. The drum had a big impact on my life. I wouldn’t still be here if I wasn’t singing with my voice, with my little brother.”
He added that drumming is not simply a choice but a calling.
“Normally it comes to you,” he said. “I felt like I had to. When I’m around the drum, I feel good. I feel at peace, joyful. It helps me not be so angry or frustrated. It makes me happy.”
Redwood has been drumming and singing for about seven to eight years, using songs and rhythms to ground himself while sharing their power with others.
That meaning was on display at the recent graduation ceremony at Ocean Man First Nation, where Redwood helped open the event with a drum song, welcoming and centering those in attendance.
“The drum called me,” he reflected. “And I answered.”