Talent may get you into the room, but what makes people trust you enough to call you back?

In Episode 12 of Off Script with Jarvis, professional touring musician and Teddy Swims drummer DeAndre Hemby reveals what it takes to build a successful and sustainable career in the live music industry.

From performing at Coachella and preparing for major tours to navigating ego, social media, endorsements, and professional relationships, DeAndre shares the work that happens long before a musician steps onstage. He explains why true preparation requires more than memorizing songs. Musicians must understand the artist’s vision, learn the musical language of the show, remain flexible, and be ready to adjust while protecting the intention of the music.

Jarvis and DeAndre also break down pocket, musical vocabulary, dynamics, and the power of space. They explore how great musicians balance creative expression with discipline, knowing when to contribute and when the most musical choice is not to play.

Beyond musicianship, DeAndre explains why dependability, trust, humility, respect, self-awareness, and a strong work ethic are essential for career longevity. Talent can create an opportunity, but character and the ability to serve the entire team often determine whether that opportunity leads to another call.

This episode is essential for drummers, touring musicians, music directors, producers, artists, and anyone who wants to understand the professional mindset behind elite live performance.

Topics include:

• Preparing for festivals, major tours, and Coachella
• Understanding pocket, dynamics, vocabulary, and space
• Balancing musical freedom with discipline
• Why dependability and trust matter as much as talent
• Serving the artist’s vision with humility
• Navigating ego and professional relationships
• The reality of touring beyond social media
• Building strong relationships through respect and consistency
• Endorsements, career opportunities, and team advocacy
• Creating a sustainable career in the music industry