The first time I saw Jordan play drums, I whispered out loud to myself, "good god." She's one of those drummers that make playing the drums look effortless. All while triggering backing tracks and singing glorious harmonies. I wanted to ask Jordan the 5 questions to see what it's like on the other side of things. What is a professional, touring drummer actually thinking back there?? Here we go.
Question #1: What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word "tour?"
JW: Time. I think as I’ve gotten older I’ve started being a little more aware of how my time is spent. At its best, touring is a wonderful experience full of bonding and expression and fun. At its worst, it can be mentally and physically detrimental, and financially questionable. Either way it isn’t an easy thing. In my early touring life it was all about saying yes and pouring all of my time and effort into gaining experience. Now I’m more interested in shifting towards diversifying and creating a career where I have the ability to only hit the road with the projects that inspire me.
Question #2: Do you have any pre-show rituals?
JW: I like to think through the setlist and remind myself of things that need to happen between songs - whether it’s changing trigger settings or switching to different tracks.
Question #3: Tell us about the worst show you’ve ever played. Why was it the worst?
JW: A fundraising gig in FL with a pretty major artist back in 2019. During the set, (I was on electric drums), the song started and it suddenly sounded like a closet full of drums and percussion was falling down a staircase. I thought maybe the drum pads were glitching out but then I looked over at the keyboardist. He immediately stopped playing, the drum barrage stopped, and then he looked mortified. The keyboard had somehow gotten switched to a drum kit patch. Total disaster, and the rest of the show didn’t go much better. It was hilarious though.
Question #4: As a touring musician, what’s something you learned the hard way on tour?
JW: You have to ask for what you need and not be afraid to set boundaries. I spent so much time being fearful to ask for things - whether it was a raise for added responsibilities, per diems, travel day pay, whatever - because I was worried that rocking the boat would lead to losing the gig. Personal boundaries can also be difficult because of the emphasis on the “hang” but the reality is that if you don’t feel good and give yourself the things you need, you aren’t going to be a good hang, anyways.
Question #5: I’ve just handed you $10,000 cash. You have 4 hours to spend it. What do you do?
JW: Book an elaborate vacation somewhere amazing and far away.
Summary: Jordan is currently working on an EP of her own music all while touring with Grace Potter, Brittney Spencer and CAM. She loves jogging, for some reason, and avocados. If you see her out in the world, tell her Lauren misses her without any context or explanation.