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Brooks Wackerman
Brooks Wackerman
Brooks Wackerman
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Key Information

Brooks Wackerman (born February 15, 1977)[1] is an American musician. He is the current drummer of metal band Avenged Sevenfold, which he joined in 2015. His first album with Avenged Sevenfold was The Stage (2016). He was previously the drummer for the punk rock band Bad Religion (2001 to 2015). Wackerman has also performed, either as a member or a session or touring member, with Blink-182, Bad4Good, Infectious Grooves, Glenn Tipton, Mass Mental, Suicidal Tendencies, the Vandals, Avril Lavigne, Korn, Kidneys (in which he sang and played guitar, releasing two albums), Fear and the Nervous System, Tenacious D, Farmikos, Tom Delonge, and Big Talk. His brothers Chad Wackerman and John Wackerman are also drummers.

Early life

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Wackerman's father Chuck, also a drummer, started teaching him how to play drums as early as five years old and was also his jazz band teacher at Los Alamitos High School, winning Most Outstanding Musician at the Reno Jazz Festival in 1993.[2] Wackerman started his musical career as a teen with a group called Bad4Good in 1991. The band released one album in 1992 called Refugee, produced by Steve Vai.

Career

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Infectious Grooves (1993–present)

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From 1993 to 2000, Wackerman was a member of Infectious Grooves, playing drums on the albums Groove Family Cyco in 1994 and Mas Borracho in 2000 as well as touring with the band. He returned to the band when they resumed activities and did a show in Brazil in November 2019.[3]

Suicidal Tendencies (1996–2001)

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Wackerman was a member of Suicidal Tendencies from 1996 to 2001, playing drums on Six the Hard Way in 1998, Freedumb in 1999, and Free Your Soul and Save My Mind in 2000. He left the band to join Bad Religion in 2001.

Bad Religion (2001–2015)

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Wackerman with Bad Religion in 2008

In 2001, he became the drummer for Bad Religion by replacing Bobby Schayer, who left the band due to a shoulder injury. He appeared on five albums with them (The Process of Belief, The Empire Strikes First, New Maps of Hell, The Dissent of Man and True North) as well as their 2013 EP Christmas Songs. On October 27, 2015, Brooks left Bad Religion after deciding it was time to pursue another path.[4] At the time of his departure, Wackerman was Bad Religion's all-time longest standing drummer, surpassing Bobby Schayer, who was in the band for ten years. He was also the youngest member of the band, with all of the other members being at least ten years his senior. Wackerman was replaced by Jamie Miller.

Tenacious D (2006–2015)

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In 2006, for The Pick of Destiny tour, Wackerman was selected to feature as the drummer for Tenacious D due to his previous work on the Vandals' Look What I Almost Stepped In... album, which both Jack Black and Kyle Gass cameo on. He would go on to play for Tenacious D at various festivals as well as support act and benefit concerts throughout 2008 to 2011. in 2012, Wackerman played with Tenacious D again on their Rize of the Fenix tour where he got the nickname "Thunderskin" from Jack Black for comical remark, making appearances on the Late Show with David Letterman, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. They also performed at the 2012 Rock am Ring Festival. Wackerman also appeared in the music videos for their songs "Roadie" and "Rize of the Fenix". He would perform on their 2012 EP Tenacious D Jazz and their 2015 live album Tenacious D Live.

Avenged Sevenfold (2015–present)

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On November 4, 2015, it was revealed that Wackerman was the new drummer for Avenged Sevenfold.[5] Brooks was working with the band one year prior to the official announcement because the band wanted to "fit in" with the new drummer. Like his predecessors Mike Portnoy and Arin Ilejay, but unlike the rest of the band members, he doesn't have a stage name. His first full-length album with the band was their October 2016 release The Stage, which showcased his progressive metal style of drumming, often using fast double kicks and blast beats.

Other projects

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Alongside Terry Bozzio, Wackerman contributed drums and percussion for Korn's untitled album. Wackerman is also the drummer for the Innocent,[6] a thrash metal band featuring bassist Ryan Sinn (formerly of Angels & Airwaves and the Distillers), vocalist Brandan Schieppati (Bleeding Through), and guitarist Dave Nassie (No Use for a Name). In March 2008, Wackerman joined Korn guitarist James "Munky" Shaffer's newest solo project, experimental industrial rock band Fear and the Nervous System,[7] alongside vocalist Steve Krolikowski (Repeater), Billy Gould (Faith No More), Leopold Ross (Error), and Zac Baird (Korn, Billy Goat).[7] Brooks also played drums for Avril Lavigne. Brooks filled in for Travis Barker during Blink-182's 2013 tour of Australia in the Soundwave festival as well as their sideshows. Brooks was hired to record drums on Blink-182 member Tom DeLonge's debut solo album To the Stars... Demos, Odds and Ends.[8]

Wackerman formerly fronted Kidneys alongside fellow Tenacious D band member John Spiker. Initially, his brother, John Wackerman played with Kidneys, but he would later be replaced by Todd Hennig (Death by Stereo). A full-length self-titled album was released in 2007, and another album in 2012, entitled Hold Your Fire, is available for digital download. The band parted ways in 2012.

Wackerman appeared in the Suicide Machines' "S.O.S." music video in place of drummer Derek Grant, due to Grant's refusal to appear in photos or videos.[9]

Gear

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Wackerman currently endorses Drum Workshop drums, Remo drumheads and also uses Innovative Percussion drumsticks. Additionally, in 2021, after many years of using and endorsing Zildjian cymbals Wackerman officially signed on as an Istanbul Agop artist. He also once had a signature line of drumsticks manufactured by Zildjian as well.

Drum setup circa 2015 (Avenged Sevenfold tour): Drum Workshop drums, Evans drumheads and Zildjian cymbals and sticks:

Drums: Drum Workshop collector's series w/ maple/mahogany shells in black ice finish:

  • 22"x16" bass drums (x2)
  • 6"x12" rata drums (x2)
  • 10"x8" rack tom
  • 12"x9" rack tom
  • 13"x9" rack tom
  • 15"x13" floor tom
  • 16"x14" floor tom
  • 14"x6.5" nickel over brass snare

Drumheads: Evans:

  • Snare: ST dry/300 snare side
  • Toms: G2 clear/G1 clear
  • Bass: EQ4 clear/EQ3 reso black

Cymbals: Zildjian:

  • 21" A mega bell ride (left side)
  • 15" A Custom hi-hats
  • 20" A Custom EFX
  • 19" A Custom crash
  • 14" FX Oriental china "trash"/12" K splash (stacked)
  • 19" A Custom crash
  • 22" S rock ride or 22" S medium ride
  • 15" A Custom hi-hats
  • 20" S trash crash
  • 19" A ultra-hammered china

Sticks:

  • Zildjian Brooks Wackerman signature

Drum setup 2021 (current): Drum Workshop drums, Remo drumheads, Innovative Percussion drumsticks and Istanbul Agop cymbals:

Drums: Drum Workshop collector's series w/ maple shells in black ice or cherry finish:

  • 22"x18" bass drums (x2)
  • 10"x8" rack tom
  • 12"x10" rack tom
  • 13"x10" rack tom
  • 14"x12" floor tom
  • 16"x14" floor tom
  • 14"x5.5" bronze snare
  • 14"x7" maple snare

Drumheads: Remo:

  • Snare: Powerstroke 77 clear/Ambassador hazy snare side
  • Toms: Controlled Sound clear black dot or Emperor coated/Ambassador clear
  • Bass: Powerstroke P3 clear

Cymbals: Istanbul Agop:

  • 18" Xist china or 20" Xist china
  • 15" Mantra hi-hats
  • 8" Xist Brilliant bell
  • 19" Xist Brilliant crash
  • 14" Traditional trash hit stack
  • 19" Xist Brilliant crash or 20" Traditional heavy crash
  • 24" Joey Waronker ride
  • 15" Xist Dry Dark hi-hats
  • 20" Agop Signature china

Sticks:

  • Innovative Percussion Brooks Wackerman A7X signature sticks

Discography

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Wackerman performing with Bad Religion in 2007

With Avenged Sevenfold

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Main article: Avenged Sevenfold discography

With Mass Mental

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With Bad Religion

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With Tenacious D

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With Suicidal Tendencies

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With Infectious Grooves

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Other

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Brooks Wackerman

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Brooks Wackerman (born February 15, 1977) is an American drummer and songwriter renowned for his versatile style spanning punk, , and heavy metal genres. He is best known as the current drummer for the heavy metal band , which he joined in 2015, contributing to albums such as (2016) and Life Is But a Dream... (2023). Wackerman's career began at age 12 when he joined the band Bad4Good, a group of young musicians whose debut album Refugee (1992) was produced by guitar virtuoso . After that band's dissolution, he rose to prominence in the punk scene as the longest-serving drummer for from 2001 to 2015, recording five studio albums including (2002) and (2013), and touring extensively worldwide. During this period, he also collaborated with acts like and , showcasing his technical prowess and adaptability across subgenres. In addition to his work with , Wackerman remains active in projects such as the heavy rock band and is endorsed by major percussion brands including Remo, Innovative Percussion, and Zildjian for his influential contributions to rock . His transition to followed the band's search for a permanent replacement after the departure of previous Arin Ilejay, marking a pivotal shift toward more progressive and experimental heavy metal elements in their sound.

Early years

Childhood and family

Brooks Wackerman was born on February 15, 1977, in . He grew up in a highly musical family in Orange County, with his father, Chuck Wackerman, serving as a respected musician and ensemble teacher for over 50 years in . His brothers—Chad, John, and Bob—further embedded music into the household dynamic; is a prominent drummer known for his collaborations with , while John is an accomplished session drummer who has worked with artists like Slash and Lindsey Buckingham, and Bob plays bass and works in music production. This family legacy created a creative environment featuring a soundproofed garage dedicated to drumming practice, fostering a deep immersion in music from an early age. Wackerman's childhood was marked by constant exposure to diverse genres, including , , , , and swing, through his family members' performances and shared musical activities. His early interest in music was ignited by observing his siblings perform and being placed behind the by his older brothers to learn the fundamentals, starting at a young age. At age 9, Wackerman received his first drum set and began formal drumming lessons, building on this familial foundation.

Musical beginnings

Wackerman's interest in drumming was sparked early by his family's musical heritage, with his father, Chuck Wackerman, a longtime educator and , providing initial guidance on the instrument in their Long Beach home. Around age nine, he began formal lessons, studying with renowned instructors including Murray Spivack, whose method focused on foundational techniques, rudiments, and economy of motion to build relaxed, efficient playing. He also trained with specialist Chuck Flores, honing skills over approximately seven years that emphasized both classical snare work and improvisational elements. These lessons laid the groundwork for his versatile style, blending technical precision with creative expression. At , Wackerman immersed himself in the school's music program, participating in the advanced directed by his father, where he developed ensemble playing and soloing abilities. In 1993, as a , he earned the Outstanding Jazz Soloist award at the Reno , highlighting his emerging talent amid the competitive music education scene. In the late and early , Wackerman entered the vibrant music scene through local cover bands and original projects, drawing from the punk and influences prevalent in the area. At age 12, he joined the teenage group Bad4Good, signing with and contributing to their 1992 debut album , which marked his initial foray into recording. These experiences in the underground punk-adjacent circuits built his presence and adaptability.

Professional career

Infectious Grooves

Brooks Wackerman joined in 1993 at the age of 16, stepping in as the band's drummer following the departure of . His early involvement provided a stable rhythmic foundation for the funk-metal outfit, which featured overlapping members from and served as a key networking bridge in the punk and metal scenes. Wackerman contributed drums to several key releases during his initial tenure, including the album Groove Family Cyco (1994), which showcased the band's signature fusion of slap bass grooves and aggressive riffs, and Mas Borracho (2000), a more experimental effort incorporating Latin influences and raw energy. His playing on these records emphasized tight, syncopated patterns that drove tracks like "Violent & Funky," highlighting his ability to lock in with bassist Robert Trujillo's dynamic lines. Wackerman's drumming style in blended intricate grooves with punk-infused intensity, delivering complex rhythms that propelled the band's high-energy performances. Notable examples include his propulsive work on live renditions of "," where he layered rapid fills and offbeat accents to amplify the song's chaotic vibe. This approach not only enhanced the group's live shows but also solidified their reputation for seamless transitions between sludgy metal breakdowns and danceable sections. The band reunited in 2019 for a series of performances, including shows in , with Wackerman returning on drums alongside Trujillo and vocalist . His full-time involvement concluded around 2020 due to growing commitments with , though he has made occasional guest appearances since, such as rehearsals and select jam sessions.

Suicidal Tendencies

Brooks Wackerman joined Suicidal Tendencies in 1996 as their drummer, coming from shared members in Infectious Grooves and replacing the prior percussionist amid the band's preparations for their eighth studio album. His arrival helped stabilize the lineup during a transitional period for the crossover thrash group, led by vocalist Mike Muir. Wackerman's tenure saw him perform on key releases, including the studio album Suicidal for Life (1997), the live EP Six the Hard Way (1998), the compilation Friends & Family 2 (1998), Freedumb (2001), and Free Your Soul...and Save My Mind (2000). These works highlighted his drumming style, characterized by rapid, aggressive rhythms and grooves that fueled the band's high-energy thrash punk aggression, often driving mosh-pit dynamics in tracks like "Accepted" and "No Mercy Fool!" from Suicidal for Life. He also made occasional contributions to other compilations during this era, reinforcing the band's punk-thrash fusion. Throughout the late 1990s, Wackerman toured extensively with , including appearances on the Vans Warped Tour in 1999 alongside punk and hardcore acts such as and , where sets emphasized raw live intensity and crowd participation. The band shared bills with similar punk outfits on various U.S. and international dates, solidifying their reputation for chaotic, high-octane performances. Wackerman departed in 2001 to join , completing a final two-week European tour in July before exiting amid ongoing lineup shifts within the group.

Bad Religion

Brooks Wackerman joined in 2001 as their drummer, replacing , who departed due to a debilitating shoulder injury. His arrival marked a significant evolution in the band's , infusing their sound with a drumming approach renowned for its precision and speed. Wackerman's technical prowess, honed through earlier involvement in the punk and hardcore scenes with groups like and , allowed him to seamlessly integrate into 's high-energy performances while elevating their mature phase. Over his 14-year tenure, Wackerman contributed to five key studio albums that solidified Bad Religion's enduring influence in punk rock: Process of Belief (2002), The Empire Strikes First (2004), New Maps of Hell (2007), The Dissent of Man (2010), and True North (2013). These releases showcased his ability to deliver complex rhythms that complemented the band's intellectual lyrics and aggressive melodies, with standout tracks highlighting his dynamic fills and tempo control. His role extended beyond the studio to rigorous live commitments, where Bad Religion routinely played over 100 shows annually, including extensive world tours across North America, Europe, and Australia, as well as headline slots at festivals like Coachella in 2015. Wackerman's live drumming was particularly noted for intricate fills that added depth to re-recorded or performed classics from earlier albums such as Suffer, enhancing the band's catalog during anniversary celebrations and high-profile sets. In October 2015, Wackerman announced his departure from after contributing to these albums and countless tours, expressing a desire to explore heavier musical territories. He cited the opportunity to "spread [his] wings a little wider, too, musically" and engage with "rhythmic possibilities" in a metal context as key factors in his decision to join . This move concluded a pivotal era for , during which Wackerman's steady presence helped maintain their reputation for blistering, intellectually charged punk performances.

Tenacious D

Brooks Wackerman joined in 2006 as their touring drummer to support the release of the band's film Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny and its accompanying soundtrack album. Selected for the role due to his versatile drumming style demonstrated in prior projects like , Wackerman provided live percussion for the duo's comedic rock performances without contributing to the studio recordings, which featured on drums. During the 2006–2007 Pick of Destiny world tour, which spanned , , and Australia with 32 shows, Wackerman adapted to Tenacious D's theatrical stage antics, including an opening Hell-themed skit where he performed in character as "" in a cream-colored suit and glasses. His setup featured a triple-kick configuration to deliver energetic rock backbeats for satirical songs like "," transitioning from acoustic segments with and to full-band electric sets that incorporated a solo showcasing double-kick precision. This period marked extensive live support, balancing his concurrent commitments with on the . Wackerman returned to Tenacious D in 2012 for the Rize of the Fenix tour, a 45-show run promoting their third studio album, including U.S. dates and European festivals where he again supplied solid, dynamic drumming for the band's parody-driven setlists. He also recorded drums for the full-length Jazz EP released that November, blending his rock foundation with improvisational jazz elements on tracks like "Mostly Jazz." Festival slots highlighted his ability to maintain tight rhythms amid the duo's exaggerated humor and stage energy. His association with Tenacious D continued with touring until 2015, including contributions to select tracks on the 2012 live album Tenacious D Live (recorded during 2006–2012 tours), earning him the onstage nickname "Thunderskin" from Jack Black for his powerful playing.

Avenged Sevenfold

Brooks Wackerman auditioned for and joined Avenged Sevenfold in 2015 as their permanent drummer, following the death of original member Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan in 2009 and a period with interim drummers. His tenure began with the band's shift toward more experimental sounds, marking a significant transition in his career from punk rock ensembles. Wackerman's prior experience in punk provided a foundation of rhythmic precision and adaptability that aided his integration into the group's dynamic style. Wackerman debuted on Avenged Sevenfold's seventh studio album, (2016), which introduced influences including complex structures and odd-time signatures, notably in the 15-minute epic "Exist" featuring sections in 7/8 and 5/4. The band's eighth album, Life Is But a Dream... (2023), further explored these progressive elements with philosophical themes and intricate compositions, solidifying Wackerman's contributions to their evolving sound. From 2016 to 2018, Wackerman participated in the extensive World Tour, encompassing North American and international legs that showcased the new material to sold-out arenas. Subsequent festival runs from 2023 to 2025, including a headline slot at in 2024, highlighted the band's continued momentum and Wackerman's live prowess. As of 2025, Wackerman's tenure approached 10 years, nearing the length of The Rev's original stint as the band's longest-serving drummer. In 2025 interviews, Wackerman reflected on adapting from punk's straightforward aggression to Avenged Sevenfold's , emphasizing the creative rebirth it sparked. During a Drumeo session in , he broke down grooves from tracks like "Bat Country" and "Exist," discussing technical adaptations and band chemistry. Similarly, in a May WRIF discussion, he detailed the challenges and rewards of the genre shift after 15 years in punk, underscoring his growth within the group's innovative framework.

Other projects

In addition to his commitments with major bands, Brooks Wackerman has maintained involvement with the group since 1998, serving as their primary drummer alongside bassist and other collaborators. The band released their debut album How to Write Love Songs in 1999, blending and elements in a supergroup format. Wackerman continues to perform with Mass Mental periodically, balancing it with his other touring obligations. Wackerman has undertaken notable session work, including contributions to Korn's untitled eighth studio album in 2007, where he shared duties with on several tracks. This collaboration highlighted his versatility in nu-metal production, providing percussion and additional programming to complement the band's experimental sound. He has also appeared on various punk and rock compilations and guest spots, though specifics remain tied to broader discographic entries. Beyond recordings, Wackerman has made guest appearances at drum clinics worldwide, demonstrating techniques from his diverse career and engaging with aspiring musicians through live workshops. These events often feature endorsements for his preferred gear, such as drumheads and Innovative Percussion mallets, emphasizing practical applications in rock and metal settings. While specific one-off tracks from the are limited, his occasional charity performances underscore his community involvement in the drumming scene. In recent years, Wackerman has expanded into drum education, producing content for platforms like and Drumeo. From 2024 to 2025, he released tutorials and sessions focusing on groove development, hybrid rudiments, and exercises tailored to intermediate players. A prominent example is his October 2025 Drumeo collaboration, where he broke down grooves like "" while sharing warm-up routines and practice tips. These efforts reflect his commitment to mentoring the next generation of drummers through accessible online resources.

Equipment

Drum kits

Brooks Wackerman maintains a long-standing endorsement with (DW) Drums and is listed as an official artist on their website. He has utilized DW featuring North American maple shells, including the Collectors Series with Santa Monica configuration, throughout his professional career. These provide the tonal versatility he requires for various genres, from punk to heavy metal. Wackerman's typical drum setup for , as of October 2025, is a multi-tom configuration centered around DW maple shells, comprising two 22" x 16" s, rack toms in 10" x 9", 12" x 9", and 13" x 9" sizes, floor toms in 15" x 15" and 16" x 16" sizes, rata toms in 6" x 14" and 8" x 17" sizes, and a 14" x 7" by YC Drum Company, forming an expanded . For his work with in the 2000s and early 2010s, he favored simpler, compact setups with a single and four toms arranged in a reversed manner—10" and 12" as rack toms, and 16" and 14" as floor toms—to suit the fast-paced punk style. Custom features in these include black nickel hardware for durability and aesthetic appeal, along with personalized branding such as his initials or band logos on the shells. Since joining in 2015, Wackerman has evolved to larger configurations, incorporating double 22" x 16" bass drums with dual pedals to accommodate the band's metal dynamics, while retaining the multi-tom layout and adding elements like rata toms for atmospheric effects. This expanded setup enhances the power and complexity needed for live performances, as demonstrated in his touring rigs.

Cymbals and endorsements

Wackerman has been endorsed by since 2021, following a long association with Zildjian that spanned much of his early career. He announced the switch, stating his excitement to join a company with a rich history of producing high-quality, handcrafted cymbals that align with his playing style across rock and metal genres. His current setup, as of October 2025, features a selection of Istanbul Agop models designed for versatility, including 15" Traditional hi-hats and 17" XIST Dry Dark Brilliant hi-hats; crashes in 18" XIST Brilliant, 19" XIST Brilliant (x2), 19" XIST Dry Dark Brilliant, and 21" XIST Dry Dark Brilliant; rides comprising 22" XIST Prototype Ride and 22" XIST Power Ride; a 20" XIST ION ; a stack of 12" XIST Power Splash and 14" Turk China; and a 34" . This configuration supports seamless transitions from punk-influenced precision to metal's intensity, as showcased in his work with . In addition to cymbals, Wackerman endorses drumheads, utilizing their and series for balanced tone and durability on his kits. He also has a drumstick model, the A7X, with Innovative Percussion, featuring a barrel-shaped wood tip for bold projection and construction suited to and metal demands.

Discography

With

Brooks Wackerman contributed drums to all tracks on 's seventh studio album, , released on October 28, 2016, through . This marked his debut recording with the band following his official joining in late 2015. The album debuted at number 4 on the chart and reached number 1 on both the Top Rock Albums and Top Albums charts. Wackerman performed drums on tracks "Mad Hatter" and "Jade Helm (Instrumental)" from the band's EP Black Reign, released on September 21, 2018, via Records. The EP compiles previously released songs tied to the Call of Duty series, with Wackerman's contributions appearing on the more recent recordings among them. On Avenged Sevenfold's eighth studio album, Life Is But a Dream..., released on June 2, 2023, Wackerman provided full drumming across all 11 tracks, including the experimental compositions "Cosmic" and "(D)eath." The album debuted at number 13 on the US chart, reflecting its progressive and boundary-pushing sound influenced by the band's collaborative process. Wackerman also drummed on the lead single "Nobody" from Life Is But a Dream..., released on March 14, 2023, which served as the album's first preview and peaked at number 4 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart. Since 2018, he has performed on all live tours, including the End of the World Tour (2018), The Stage World Tour extensions, and the Life Is But a Dream Tour (2023–2025), with select recordings from these performances featured in official deluxe editions and promotional releases such as live versions on the band's website and streaming platforms.

With Bad Religion

Brooks Wackerman joined in 2001 as their drummer, replacing , and remained with the band until 2015. During this period, he provided drums for five studio albums released on . His debut with the band was on the album Process of Belief (2002), where he drummed on standout tracks including the high-energy single "Supersonic." The album marked a significant comeback for and topped the chart. Wackerman continued contributing to The Empire Strikes First (2004), which peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Independent Albums chart, New Maps of Hell (2007), The Dissent of Man (2010), the latter reaching number 6 on the same chart, and True North (2013). These releases solidified Bad Religion's punk rock legacy, with multiple entries achieving top 10 positions on the Billboard Independent Albums chart during Wackerman's tenure. He also appeared on the live compilation album 30 Years Live (2010), which documented performances from the band's 30th anniversary tour and featured Wackerman on drums for several tracks from his era with the group. In 2015, Wackerman left Bad Religion to pursue other opportunities.

With Tenacious D

Brooks Wackerman joined Tenacious D as their touring drummer in 2006 to support the promotion of their film Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny and its accompanying soundtrack album. Although the studio recordings featured Dave Grohl on drums, Wackerman provided live percussion support during the band's extensive tour, contributing to the project's overall presentation and helping establish the band's stage dynamic. The film and soundtrack achieved cult status among fans for their satirical take on rock mythology, despite not attaining major commercial chart success. In 2012, Wackerman returned to support Tenacious D's third studio album Rize of the Fenix, again primarily through live performances and promotional activities, including appearances in the music videos for "Rize of the Fenix" and "Roadie." The lead single "Low Hangin' Fruit," released ahead of the album, featured Wackerman's drumming in live renditions and festival sets, aligning with the album's themes of comedic rock revival. Like previous releases, Rize of the Fenix did not achieve significant chart positions but reinforced the band's dedicated cult following. Wackerman's recorded contributions with Tenacious D include drumming on the 2012 EP Jazz, a novelty release featuring improvisational jazz interpretations of the band's songs such as "Wonderboy" and "Tribute," produced by bassist John Spiker. He also performed drums on select tracks for the 2015 live album Tenacious D Live, capturing performances from the 2012 Rize of the Fenix tour era, including energetic renditions of "Low Hangin' Fruit" and "The Metal." These recordings highlight Wackerman's versatile style, blending rock precision with the band's humorous energy. Throughout his tenure, Wackerman participated in extensive touring with , including headline shows and festival appearances that amplified the band's recordings.

With Suicidal Tendencies

Brooks Wackerman joined in 1996 as their , marking a lineup shift that included vocalist , guitarists Mike Clark and , and bassist Josh Paul. Wackerman's initial recording contribution came on the 1997 compilation album Prime Cuts, where he played drums on two newly recorded tracks: "Berserk!" and "Epic Escape." These additions updated classic material with the refreshed lineup, blending the band's thrash roots with contemporary energy. His primary studio album with the band was Freedumb (1999), on which Wackerman handled all drumming duties, delivering a mix of aggressive thrash, punk, and funk-metal elements across 13 tracks. The album, released via Suicidal Records, showcased Wackerman's precise and dynamic style, supporting Muir's lyrical themes of societal critique and personal freedom. Wackerman also drummed on the EP Free Your Soul... and Save My Mind (2000), contributing to its five tracks that extended the experimental sound of Freedumb with heavier riffs and intricate rhythms. No additional full-length studio albums were released during Wackerman's tenure, which ended in 2001.

With Infectious Grooves

Brooks Wackerman joined in 1993 at the age of 16, contributing drums to the band's sound during its mid-1990s peak. His first recording with the group was the concept album (also released as Groove Family Cyco / Snapped Lika Mutha), issued in 1994 by . The album features a about a through comedic skits and heavy tracks, with Wackerman's energetic drumming providing a solid foundation for Robert Trujillo's bass lines and Mike Muir's vocals. In 2000, Wackerman appeared on Mas Borracho, the band's fourth studio album, released by Suicidal Records. This effort leaned more into Latin influences and experimental grooves, showcasing his versatile playing across tracks blending , and funk elements. Wackerman reunited with for the 2020 EP Take U on a Ride – Summer Shred Sessions, Vol. 1, a four-track release on Org Music that marked the band's return after a two-decade hiatus. The EP revives the group's signature high-energy style, with Wackerman's precise rhythms driving songs like "Funky Farm" and "Now (Payback's a Bitch)." No specific singles from featuring Wackerman's drumming as a primary credit were identified in verified discographies, though released promotional singles earlier in the decade prior to his involvement.

With

Brooks Wackerman served as the drummer for the supergroup , contributing to their sole studio album, How to Write Love Songs, released in 1999 exclusively in by Zain Records. On the album, Wackerman performed drums across all tracks and provided bass vocals on select songs, including the energetic opener "Speedmetal," showcasing his versatile punk-infused style within the band's eclectic sound. The project, which featured connections to prominent punk and metal musicians like bassist (formerly of ), highlighted Wackerman's early collaborations in the scene. Despite Wackerman's ongoing association with as their since 1998, the band has not released any additional albums or undertaken tours following How to Write Love Songs. This limited output underscores the project's status as a one-off endeavor amid the members' commitments to other high-profile acts.

Other appearances

Wackerman has contributed as a session to several pop and rock albums outside his primary band affiliations. On Avril Lavigne's 2004 album Under My Skin, he performed s on tracks including "Don't Tell Me" and "Nobody's Home," adding a punk-inflected energy to the record's production. Similarly, he shared duties with on Korn's untitled eighth studio album released in 2007, providing percussion across multiple songs that blended the band's nu-metal style with experimental elements. In film soundtracks, Wackerman's work includes drumming on the score for Team America: World Police (2004), where he collaborated with composer to support the puppet-based satire's musical sequences. He also contributed drums to tracks on the 50 First Dates soundtrack that same year, notably on Wayne Wonder's cover of "Hold Me Now," enhancing the romantic comedy's eclectic mix of and pop covers. Wackerman has made notable guest live appearances, filling in as drummer for Blink-182 during periods when was unavailable due to injury. This included performances on the 1999 , where he played sets featuring songs like "" and "Don't Leave Me," and the band's 2013 Australian tour, maintaining the group's high-energy sound. Earlier in his career, Wackerman drummed on ' 2000 album Look What I Almost Stepped In..., delivering the punk outfit's signature fast-paced, humorous tracks with precise and dynamic playing. He also appeared on Glenn Tipton's solo album (1997), contributing drums to the guitarist's heavy metal project alongside guest vocalists like .

References

  1. https://www.innovativepercussion.com/artists/brooks_wackerman
  2. https://remo.com/profile/brooks-wackerman
  3. https://www.loudersound.com/features/ten-things-you-need-to-know-about-avenged-sevenfold-s-new-drummer
  4. https://www.musicradar.com/news/brooks-wackerman-on-making-his-mark-with-metal-masters-avenged-sevenfold
  5. https://1234apparelandwood.com/pages/about-brooks
  6. https://blabbermouth.net/news/brooks-wackerman-how-i-landed-avenged-sevenfold-gig
  7. https://drummagazine.com/brooks-wackerman-drums-in-the-family/
  8. https://www.ruppsdrums.com/blogs/5280drumblog/brooks-wackerman
  9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PR5dEnvMZk
  10. https://drummerszone.com/artists/brooks-wackerman/3522/profile/
  11. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-04-22-vw-25616-story.html
  12. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-01-21-vw-1972-story.html
  13. https://loudwire.com/mike-muir-how-jay-weinberg-became-infectious-grooves-suicidal-tendencies-drummer/
  14. https://fullinbloom.com/infectious-grooves-in-brazil-2019-w-robert-trujillo-jim-martin-mike-muir-brooks-wackerman-dean-pleasants/
  15. https://www.theprp.com/2019/11/18/news/watch-infectious-grooves-perform-live-with-metallica-avenged-sevenfold-ex-faith-no-more-members-cover-we-care-a-lot/
  16. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/infectious-grooves-mike-muir-robert-185127149.html
  17. https://www.metal-rules.com/1999/02/01/suicidal-tendencies-prime-cuts-friends-and-family-six-the-hard-way/
  18. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/suicidal-tendencies-13d6d95d.html?tour=7bd7e210
  19. https://drummagazine.com/brooks-wackerman-bad-religion/
  20. https://www.ruppsdrums.com/blogs/5280drumblog/brooks-wackerman/
  21. https://blabbermouth.net/news/avenged-sevenfolds-brooks-wackerman-life-is-but-a-dream-tour-kit-rundown
  22. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/bad-religion
  23. https://www.thebadreligionpage.net/shows/
  24. https://loudwire.com/bad-religion-part-ways-drummer-brooks-wackerman/
  25. https://loudwire.com/what-sold-brooks-wackerman-joining-avenged-sevenfold/
  26. https://exclaim.ca/music/article/drummer_brooks_wackerman_leaves_bad_religion
  27. https://worleygig.com/2007/04/30/an-interview-with-brooks-wackerman-of-tenacious-d/
  28. https://www.rocksubculture.com/2012/05/25/tenacious-d-at-fox-theater-oakland-ca-5242012/
  29. https://www.discogs.com/release/4053592-Tenacious-D-Jazz
  30. https://www.discogs.com/master/920399-Tenacious-D-Live
  31. https://blabbermouth.net/news/avenged-sevenfold-recruits-ex-bad-religion-drummer-brooks-wackerman
  32. https://blabbermouth.net/news/brooks-wackerman-reflects-on-his-avenged-sevenfold-audition-i-didnt-think-i-got-the-gig
  33. https://www.universalmusic.ca/press-releases/avenged-sevenfold-surprise-fans-release-new-album-stage/
  34. https://www.loudersound.com/music/albums/avenged-sevenfold-the-stage
  35. https://screamermagazine.com/interviews/featured-interviews/avenged-sevenfold-brooks-wackerman-california-dreamin/
  36. https://www.immortalreviews.com/home/2016/10/28/avenged-sevenfold-the-stage
  37. https://www.instagram.com/p/DQMWShoE_Zh/
  38. https://metalplanetmusic.com/2023/11/avenged-sevenfold-to-headline-download-festival/
  39. https://www.madaboutrock.co.uk/2024/12/avenged-sevenfold-announce-european.html
  40. https://wrif.com/2025/05/12/drummer-brooks-wackerman-opens-up-about-journey-from-bad-religion-to-avenged-sevenfold/
  41. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uONUhS3ToMw
  42. https://www.sonicperspectives.com/news/brooks-wackerman-talks-swapping-punk-for-metal-and-why-avenged-sevenfold-felt-like-a-creative-rebirth/
  43. https://www.discogs.com/release/3930074-Mass-Mental-How-To-Write-Love-Songs
  44. https://www.moderndrummer.com/2024/06/brooks-wackerman-modern-drummer-podcast-11/
  45. https://www.dwdrums.com/artists/?Designation=CLINICIAN
  46. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfS0GxKQ20s
  47. https://en.beatit.tv/brooks-wackerman-joins-istanbul-agop-family/
  48. https://istanbulcymbals.com/artists/4065/brooks-wackerman.html
  49. https://www.innovativepercussion.com/products/a7x
  50. https://www.billboard.com/pro/avenged-sevenfold-stage-rock-album-charts/
  51. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/ep/avenged-sevenfold/black-reign/
  52. https://genius.com/albums/Avenged-sevenfold/Life-is-but-a-dream
  53. https://www.billboard.com/charts/hot-mainstream-rock-tracks/2023-06-10
  54. https://music.apple.com/gb/song/supersonic/1485040387
  55. https://x.com/ssoundod/status/1882167603617264047
  56. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/bad-religion-takes-empire-on-the-road-66367/
  57. https://www.facebook.com/DoctorFeelGoodMzHyde/posts/september-28-2010-bad-religion-released-their-fifteenth-studio-album-the-dissent/1345070666994027/
  58. https://www.musicchartsarchive.com/artists/bad-religion
  59. https://www.discogs.com/release/8274632-Bad-Religion-30-Years-Live
  60. https://www.discogs.com/master/102433-Suicidal-Tendencies-Prime-Cuts
  61. https://www.discogs.com/master/18759-Suicidal-Tendencies-Freedumb
  62. https://www.discogs.com/master/18762-Suicidal-Tendencies-Free-Your-SoulAnd-Save-My-Mind
  63. https://www.discogs.com/release/815465-Infectious-Grooves-Groove-Family-Cyco-Snapped-Lika-Mutha
  64. https://orgmusic.com/products/ifgrtuorbl-lp
  65. https://www.discogs.com/artist/267845-Infectious-Grooves
  66. https://www.discogs.com/artist/1727095-Mass-Mental
  67. https://www.metal-archives.com/artists/Brooks_Wackerman/13274
  68. https://www.discogs.com/release/3032764-Avril-Lavigne-Under-My-Skin
  69. https://www.discogs.com/release/11885965-Various-50-First-Dates-Original-Motion-Picture-Soundtrack
  70. https://dyingscene.com/archive/blink-182-to-tour-australia-without-travis-barker-brooks-wackerman-takes-his-place/
  71. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/851/The-Vandals-Look-What-I-Almost-Stepped-In/
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