A Filipino Family Band with a Child Drummer in the UK
Music has always been a universal language that brings people together. And for the Soulm8s, a Filipino family band based in the United Kingdom, music is not just a passion but a way of life. The Soulm8s consist of Jackie (mother and singer), Lloyd (father and guitar/singer), and their son, the talented young drummer named Liam. Let's dive into their story and explore what it's like to have a child drummer in a family band.
The Soulm8s, originally from the Philippines, moved to the UK over a decade ago. Their love for music was deeply ingrained in their culture, and they wanted to continue sharing it with others even while living abroad. The parents, both singers and musicians, started performing at local Filipino community events and soon became a popular act in the area. They eventually formed the Soulm8s with their son, with Liam starting out as a cajon player.
However, Liam soon showed an interest in playing the drums. At the age of eighy, he began taking drum lessons and quickly developed a natural talent for it. It wasn't long before he was playing drums for the Soulm8s and wowing audiences with his skills.
Having a child drummer in a family band brings both advantages and challenges. On the one hand, it adds a unique and exciting dynamic to the performance. Seeing a young child behind the drum kit is a rare sight, and it's impressive to watch Liam keep up with his older siblings and parents. On the other hand, playing drums is physically demanding, and it can be challenging for a child to maintain the stamina needed to play for an extended period.
Additionally, being part of a family band can sometimes blur the line between family and bandmate, and it can be difficult to balance those relationships.
Despite the challenges, the Soulm8s have continued to thrive as a family band, thanks in no small part to Liam's drumming skills. They play a mix of Filipino and Western music, including classic hits and original songs. Their performances are energetic and engaging, and they always manage to get the crowd on their feet.
Being a Filipino family band in the UK has its own unique challenges as well. The Soulm8s are proud of their heritage and aim to showcase Filipino culture through their music. However, it can be difficult to find gigs that cater to their niche audience. They often perform at Filipino community events or private functions, but they also try to reach a wider audience by performing at festivals and other public events.
In addition to performing, the Soulm8s also prioritize giving back to their community. They have raised money for various charities, including those supporting education and healthcare in the Philippines. They believe that music has the power to bring people together and create positive change in the world.
Having a child drummer in a family band is undoubtedly a unique experience, and it requires a lot of dedication and hard work. However, for the Soulm8s, it's a labor of love that brings them joy and fulfillment. Liam may be the youngest member of the band, but he's an integral part of the Soulm8s, and he's paving the way for young musicians everywhere.
Follow the Soulm8s on social media:
Facebook: www.fb.me/thesoulm8s
Twitter: @soulm8sband
Instagram: @thesoulm8s