Calvin G. Williams – Welcome to The Groovement
At Scorpion Percussion, we love spotlighting drummers who bring unmistakable style and soul to their playing— Calvin G. Williams, better known as The Groovement, does exactly that. With a pocket deeper than most and a feel that’s equal parts finesse and fire, Calvin has built a name for himself as a drummer who doesn’t just keep time—he transforms it.
In this exclusive interview, we dig into the roots of
The Groovement: how Calvin developed his signature sound, the gear that helps him deliver it, and the mindset he brings behind the kit with the groove architect, himself.
What got you into drumming?
At a very young age while watching my oldest brother play drums. It wasn’t long after that, I picked up a pair of sticks for myself. & when I did, that same brother put down his sticks and picked up a bass.
What gear are you running with?
Pearl Master Works Kit / Soultone Cymbals/ Scorpion Drum Sticks
What Scorpion model do you play, and why?
Scorpion 5A oval lacquer— it allows my cymbals to have great stick action!
How did music change you as a person?
Music has always created a safe place for me to release my thoughts and feelings without ever having to say a word.
Who were your early influences?
Aside from my oldest brother — Clyde Stubblefield, Jabo Starks, Dennis Chambers, and Stewart Copeland
What’s your favorite way to listen to music?
While cleaning, relaxing and driving
Have you ever taught someone to play?
Yes! Several; to include my 3 wonderful daughters!
What’s your favorite thing about your local scene?
Favorite: being able to play alongside great musicians from my hometown.
Least: too many great musicians in the local industry where finding gigs are often a challenge. Bittersweet problem to have.
What could bands in the scene do better at shows?
Play with more internal passion to allow the music to really speak, rather playing to fill in open spaces. It’s about the music. Not the ego.
What is your favorite part of your kit?
My snare — Evans HD Dry / it allows me to produce a loud crack without having a long sustain
Do you play to a metronome?
Myself. I am KNOWN to be the human metronome. I only use one if I am in the studio.
If you could play in any band, which would it be?
The Roots — I would have the opportunity to play EVERY style of music
What have you been working on musically?
Still perfecting my timing, endurance and musicality
What is your favorite part about being a musician?
Making people forget their worries, if only even just for a moment
Will you be releasing any new music in the near future?
A new CD with Cherise The Movement
What are some specific challenges you have faced as a musician, and how did you overcome them?
Being able to remain flexible in my craft when playing ALL styles of music. Music doesn’t have a look. It’s a feeling. So when I’m playing musical genres I don’t play often, I fill myself with that culture, genre and history to ensure I properly embody the right sound, while still making it my own. How often I tap into a certain genre is irrelevant. When you hear me play, you will be able to close your eyes and feel exactly how you should. My drum style will always be natural and not mechanical.
