Denis Loncaric
Brad Wilk, the Rage Against The Machine Drummer, showcases a blend of power and precision that has resonated with fans worldwide.
Interestingly, outside of his music, he is a fervent advocate for type 1 diabetes awareness, a condition he was diagnosed with in his early twenties.
His personal battles and advocacies not only shape him as an individual but also lend depth to his drumming. Eager to know more about this unique blend of talent and dedication?
Let’s dive deeper into the rhythms and convictions of this iconic drummer. Dive in!
Brad Wilk: Rage Against The Machine Drummer
Early Life
Brad Wilk was born on September 5, 1968, in Portland, Oregon. The city’s vibrant music scene would later play a pivotal role in shaping his musical inclinations. Brad’s family moved to Chicago when he was a child, exposing him to a diverse range of musical genres and influences.
While details about his family and early education are not widely publicized, it’s evident that music was a significant part of his upbringing. The beats of the city streets, combined with the eclectic mix of rock, jazz, and blues that Chicago is known for, undoubtedly left an indelible mark on young Brad.
Career
The First Beat
Brad’s journey with drumming began in earnest during his teenage years. While many kids were picking up guitars or trying their hands at singing, Brad was drawn to the rhythmic pulse of the drums. His first drum set? A humble, second-hand kit that became the foundation of his drumming journey.
Discovering the Rhythm
It wasn’t just about banging on the drums for Brad. He immersed himself in the art, learning the intricacies and nuances that separate a good drummer from a great one. His love for drumming was evident in the hours he spent practicing, refining his technique, and experimenting with different beats.
From Band to Band
Before achieving fame with Rage Against The Machine, Brad played with several bands, honing his skills and building his reputation in the music scene. It was during these early gigs that he showcased his unique style, a blend of raw energy and rhythmic precision.
Meeting Rage
The fateful meeting with the members of what would become Rage Against The Machine happened in Los Angeles. Brad, along with Tom Morello, Zack de la Rocha, and Tim Commerford, formed the band in 1991. Their shared passion for music and socio-political activism was the glue that held them together, and with Brad’s powerful drumming backing them, they were set to take the world by storm.
Notable Performances
Woodstock ’99, Rome, New York
On July 24, 1999, Rage Against The Machine delivered a blistering performance at the infamous Woodstock ’99 festival. Brad’s drumming was on full display during their rendition of “Killing in the Name,” driving the crowd into a frenzy.
Los Angeles Coliseum, Los Angeles
On July 30, 2011, as part of the LA Rising festival, Rage Against The Machine played a memorable set. Brad’s drumming during “Bulls on Parade” was particularly standout, showcasing his signature blend of power and precision.
PinkPop Festival, Netherlands
On June 8, 1993, Rage Against The Machine played at the PinkPop Festival. Their performance of “Bombtrack” was a testament to Brad’s impeccable timing and rhythm.
Notable Collaborations
Chris Cornell in Audioslave
After Rage Against The Machine’s initial disbandment, Brad, along with other RATM members, teamed up with Chris Cornell to form Audioslave. Their debut album “Audioslave” released in 2002, featured hits like “Like a Stone” and “Show Me How to Live.”
Black Sabbath’s “13”
In 2013, Brad collaborated with the legendary Black Sabbath on their album “13.” His drumming can be heard on tracks like “God Is Dead?” and “End of the Beginning.”
Juliette Lewis
Brad has also worked with actress and singer Juliette Lewis. Their collaboration can be heard on tracks like “Inside the Cage” from Juliette and the Licks’ 2006 album “Four on the Floor.”
Awards & Accolades
Rage Against the Machine Awards and Nominations:
1997 Grammy Awards
- Won: Best Metal Performance for “Tire Me”
- Nominated: Best Hard Rock Performance for “Bulls on Parade”
2001 Grammy Awards
- Won: Best Hard Rock Performance for “Guerrilla Radio”
- Nominated: Best Rock Album for “The Battle of Los Angeles”
2001 MTV Video Music Awards
- Nominated: Best Rock Video for “Sleep Now in the Fire”
2001 Radio Music Awards
- Nominated: Artist of the Year/Alternative & Active Rock Radio
Audioslave Awards and Nominations (with Brad Wilk):
2004 Grammy Awards
- Nominated: Best Hard Rock Performance for “Like a Stone”
- Nominated: Best Rock Song for “Like a Stone”
- Nominated: Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for “Like a Stone”
2005 Grammy Awards
- Nominated: Best Hard Rock Performance for “Doesn’t Remind Me”
Discography
Rage Against the Machine Studio Albums
- 1992: Rage Against the Machine
- 1996: Evil Empire
- 1999: The Battle of Los Angeles
- 2000: Renegades
Audioslave Studio Albums
- 2002: Audioslave
- 2005: Out of Exile
- 2006: Revelations
Black Sabbath Studio Albums
- 2013: 13
- 2016: The End
- 2014: We Will Reign
Prophets of Rage Studio Albums
- 2017: Prophets of Rage
Brad Wilk – Rage Against The Machine Drum Kit
Drums
- Gretsch and Tama
- 22 x 18 Bass Drum
- 14 x 6.5 Tama Bell Brass Snare
- 12 x 9 Tom
- 16 x 16 Floor Tom
- 18 x 16 Floor Tom
Cymbals:
- Paiste Signature Power Crash 19″
- Paiste 18″ Signature Power Crash
- Paiste 14″ Signature Series Sound Edge Hi Hat Cymbals
- Paiste 21″ Signature Dry Heavy Ride
Influences
Growing up, Brad Wilk was deeply influenced by a myriad of drummers, but a few stand out in shaping his percussive journey. John Bonham of Led Zeppelin was a significant influence, with Brad often expressing admiration for Bonham’s powerful yet intricate drumming style.
Another key figure was Bill Ward of Black Sabbath, whose heavy beats and innovative rhythms resonated with Brad’s own approach to drumming. These drumming legends, among others, provided the foundation upon which Brad built his style, blending their techniques with his own unique flair.
Style
At the heart of Brad’s style is a blend of raw power and rhythmic finesse. While many drummers lean heavily into speed or technicality, Brad strikes a balance, ensuring that his beats serve the song first and foremost.
One of Brad’s standout techniques is his use of the hi-hat. He often employs tight, closed hi-hat patterns that contrast with explosive snare hits, creating a dynamic tension in the rhythm. Additionally, his fills are both fluid and punchy, seamlessly transitioning between song sections.
What truly distinguishes Brad from other drummers is his ability to adapt. Whether it’s the rap-metal fusion of Rage Against The Machine or the more melodic rock of Audioslave, Brad’s drumming evolves to fit the musical context, making him a versatile and invaluable asset to any band he’s a part of.
Personal Life
In 1997, Brad Wilk faced a significant personal challenge when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Rather than letting this setback define him, he channeled his energy into raising awareness about the condition.
Over the years, he’s been proactive in his efforts, generously donating approximately $12,000 to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Orange County chapter.
In a move that combined his entrepreneurial spirit with his personal health journey, Brad developed “Olade,” a sugar-free lemonade. By 2009, the Food and Drug Administration gave its stamp of approval, recognizing Olade as a non-dietary supplement.
On the home front, Brad was once married to Selene Vigil. The couple shared the joys of parenthood, welcoming two children into their lives. However, like many relationships in the limelight, they faced challenges, leading Selene to file for divorce in 2013.
FAQ
When did Brad Wilk join Rage Against the Machine, and how did he meet the other band members?
Brad Wilk joined Rage Against the Machine in 1991. He met the other members, Tom Morello, Zack de la Rocha, and Tim Commerford, in Los Angeles. Their shared passion for music and socio-political activism led to the formation of the band.
Has Brad Wilk collaborated with other notable bands or artists outside of Rage Against the Machine?
Yes, besides Rage Against the Machine, Brad Wilk has been a member of Audioslave, playing alongside Chris Cornell. He also collaborated with Black Sabbath on their 2013 album “13” and played with bands like The Last Internationale and Prophets of Rage.
How has Brad Wilk contributed to raising awareness about diabetes?
Brad Wilk was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1997. Since then, he has been active in raising awareness about the condition, notably donating to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. He also developed “Olade,” a sugar-free lemonade, which received FDA approval as a non-dietary supplement in 2009.
My name is Denis. I am a drummer, percussionist, music enthusiast, and blogger. Drums have been my passion for 15 years now. My idea is to write about the things I like and I am interested in. I want to share my drum passion with fellow musicians who walk, talk, and breathe drums.
