Adebayo Anthony aka Tony Sticks, a performing percussionist, is changing the game with his act and set to carve a niche for himself in the highly competitive entertainment industry by continuously showcasing his dexterity and mastery of the drums.
Explaining his foray into the entertainment industry and what inspired his choice of career, Tony Sticks said, “My inspiration came from within myself — from a spiritual connection I felt through rhythm as a Celestial band member. The sound of the drums always felt like a heartbeat to me, something divine that could move people emotionally and spiritually. That inner fire and purpose inspired me to turn my passion into a professional career.”
Continuing, he said, “I started learning drum playing in the Celestial Church band, where I watched and listened closely to experienced drummers. From there, I practiced consistently, experimenting with rhythms and styles. I also learned by playing at live events and rehearsals, which helped me understand timing, coordination, and stage presence.”
Speaking about the challenges he faced when starting out, the master drummer said, “One of my biggest challenges was limited access to proper instruments and exposure when I first started. I had to make the most out of what was available, often practicing with improvised setups. “Another challenge was being underestimated — people didn’t always take drumming seriously as a career path. But through persistence and faith, I proved my dedication and built my craft,” Tony Sticks stated.
He further shed light on qualities of a good showbiz personality in the Entertainment industry, “A good showbiz personality must have confidence, originality, humility, and respect for others. Consistency, charisma, and a good attitude toward teamwork are also vital to sustaining a lasting career in entertainment.”
He also shared the myth about his career, stating that many people think drummers just make noise or that it’s easy to play whereas in reality, drumming requires discipline, timing, creativity, and physical endurance. It’s a skill that combines both emotion and technique.
Speaking about his visions for his career and long-term goals, Tony Sticks reveals that, “I aim to build a brand as a respected percussionist, collaborate with top artists, and represent African rhythms on global stages. I also hope to mentor young drummers and create platforms where upcoming talents can express themselves.”
