Doug
Perkins
University of Michigan / Boston Conservatory
Black Swamp has been a vital partner in my musical career for most of my career! Not only do they create some of my favorite tools that define me as a percussionist but they are also a wonderful team of people that I trust. And, I am proud that I get to be a Michigander like them!
Doug's Percussion Pick
The RecPlate changed my touring life more than almost anything else in my travel rig. They allow me to put all of my favorite sounds in my setups conveniently and without huge racks or bulky stands. They are a simple, elegant, and a revelation! No modern percussionist should be without at least one!
Artist Q&A
What is the oldest BSP instrument you own? What was your first?
Probably my chromium (TD1) tambourine!
What does your typical practice routine look like? Do you have a favorite place to practice?
My best days are when I get some early morning warmup and practicing before the world gets busy. My favorite place is in my studio at home (probably barefoot) until my dog (Roman) gets jealous.
What is your favorite practice technique? Anything creative or out of the ordinary?
Not sure I have a go to but my favorite memory was practicing pad for hours in high school while watch MTV Real World Marathons (Im a Gen Xerox who was a teen in the 90's).
What is your favorite performance memory?
I'm so lucky to have many favorite performance memories but the best always involve being on the road with my best friends!
What inspires your creativity?
My creativity is energized by my curiosity. I am at my most creative when I am exploring an improbable idea or a project that has probably not been done before.