A Hundred Drums

Gabrielle Watson, known as A Hundred Drums, stands as a compelling figure in the realm of bass music, with her roots firmly planted in Denver. Her journey weaves a narrative of resilience and creativity. Sporting a powerful signature sound often dubbed ‘western soul,’ she interlaces traditional hand drumming with darker elements of UK dubstep, psytrance, and experimental bass frequencies. One can almost feel the reverberation of her beats in the concrete jungles she traverses, as if they narrate stories of struggle and triumph in every hit.

The 2021 release of her Enough Is Enough EP on Zeds Dead’s Deadbeats label marked a pivotal moment, one that thrust her into the national spotlight. Through its politically charged messages about systemic racism and her own encounters with police unjust treatment, Watson does not shy away from difficult truths. It seems this raw honesty pours into her work, shaping not just the soundscape but fostering a community around her music—a community that resonates with her lived experiences.

Gabrielle’s performances tell a story of their own, transporting audiences across the vastness of emotion. The co-founder of the B-Side Los Angeles crew, she has taken the stage at iconic venues like Coachella, Bonnaroo, and Red Rocks, supporting heavyweights such as REZZ and Subtronics. Each beat she plays seems infused with both determination and a hint of vulnerability; you sense that each performance is not just an act but a glimpse into her soul.

Yet, there’s always an air of uncertainty in any artist’s journey—what if the next sound doesn’t resonate, or the crowd doesn’t respond? Despite this, Watson presses on, confident in her vision. A Hundred Drums is not just a name; it’s an evolving testament to the power of music as an agent for change, a call to listen, to feel, and perhaps to reflect on the world around us.