Conversations with Collin Dobbs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Collin Dobbs

Hi Collin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and grew up in the small town of Grayson. I began playing drums at the age of 5 under the guidance of Jack Dukes. I continued playing throughout elementary school until my family moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 2014. There I played through middle and high school, playing for our musicals, worship team, and pep band until graduating from Calvary Christian Academy in 2022.

Before college, I had many opportunities to expand my skills in various ways. I have deep gratitude and appreciation for the many people who have helped build the stepping stones to where I am today. My faith, family, and friends also play a huge part in my life, and I will always be grateful for the road I have traveled thus far, even at this early stage in my career.

In the fall of 2022, I began studying Popular Music at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, FL, on a music scholarship. I quickly became involved with local mega churches, various jazz ensembles, Top 40 bands, Broadway and local school musicals, and filled in with GMA Dove Award-winning Southern Gospel duo, Jeff & Sheri Easter. I am fortunate to have studied privately with several experienced teachers, including Jack Dukes, Brian Baudrit, John Favicchia, and Seth Wexler.

After receiving valuable advice from professors and family, I decided to step away from PBAU and pursue my passion for music. In December of 2023, I moved to Nashville, TN. In “Music City,” connections are key. I’ve loved connecting with Nashville legends such as Eddie Bayers, Mark Beckett, Rich Redmond, and many others. I’m excited about the future and continue to learn new tips and push myself daily. My dream of touring full-time remains a major passion, and I understand that perseverance is essential here in Nashville.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Most musicians face different challenges along their journey, regardless of their skill level. It’s all part of growing and learning to be adaptable, having a “go with the flow” attitude. A few years ago, I thought my young age might prevent people from taking me seriously, but actually found the opposite to be true. Being surrounded by talented musicians whom I admire as mentors, and also call friends is incredibly valuable to me. I’ve always heard the saying “being in the right place at the right time” in the music industry, and it’s particularly true in Nashville—it’s really about who you know. Networking and building strong connections, regardless of age or musical genre, is crucial. I frequently connect with other drummers and occasionally take lessons because there’s always something new to learn or improve upon to bring to the stage and studio. My faith and family are central to my life, and I understand that opportunities will come and go throughout my career, which is perfectly okay. In a city like Nashville, filled with talented musicians, patience is definitely a virtue! As Will Smith said, “The separation of talent and skill is one of the greatest misunderstood concepts for people who are trying to excel, who have dreams, who want to do things. Talent you have naturally. Skill is only developed by hours and hours and hours of beating on your craft.”

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I currently work from home for Guitar Center Corporate, which offers the flexibility I need as an active musician. I am also an active member of the worship team at a local church. My home studio gives me the ability to record and mix sessions for singer-songwriters as well. Anyone interested can reach out via my social media links. I’m also excited to announce that I have several upcoming tour dates with various artists this year, and I look forward to adding many more.

Something that sets me apart from others my age is that I have often been told I am wise beyond my years. I take that as a huge compliment! I consider myself very independent, responsible, and I adapt quickly to change. I’ve always been taught to be humble and kind, knowing that everything I have been given is a gift. The ability to read sheet music from the age of 5, and now charts, has played a significant role in gaining access to playing time in any genre of music.
I’m proud to have stellar role models in my life who inspire me. I want to continue passing that same enthusiasm and encouragement along to other young drummers.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Don’t be afraid to ask others in the field for advice—this is key. The saying “iron sharpens iron” is a valuable lesson, and everyone has to start somewhere. My biggest encouragers in life are, of course, my parents, but I would have to say that my Uncle Stephen is my biggest mentor, and I deeply value anything he has to offer. As a drummer and singer himself, he has always encouraged me and given solid advice. When I look back on my early years, Jim Mullen and Rochelle Frederick come to mind. Not only did they push me musically in middle school and my early years of high school, they also played a key role in shaping who I am as a musician today. I also can’t go without mentioning Brian Baudrit, my private teacher from 5th grade to senior year of high school. Brian played a key role in teaching me technique and sharpening my skills on all of the percussion instruments. John Jones, the former Minister of Music at First Baptist Fort Lauderdale, gave me the opportunity to play percussion in my first production, the Emmy Award-winning Fort Lauderdale Christmas Pageant. If you have never heard of it, feel free to look it up on YouTube. It was an amazing production that, sadly, came to an end a few years ago. This is a memory that I hold very near and dear to my heart. Playing and being surrounded by such great musicians was an unforgettable moment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.collindobbs.com
• Instagram: @collindobbsdrums
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g53Mau997A4ySMcy/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits
2911 Studios, Calvary Christian Academy, Calvary Chapel