Zoro (drummer)

Zoro (born Daniel Donnelly, June 13, 1962) is an American drummer whose style includes rock, R&B, and hip hop. Sometimes known as 'The Minister of Groove' to his fans, his syncopation and drumming philosophy have earned him respect as a professional drummer. His unique style, the so-called "foot technique ," involves drumming in a heel-down position, quickly striking and releasing the beaters from the bass drum head. This contrasts with the 'planting' of other contemporary drummers.

Zoro has toured and recorded with Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, New Edition, Jody Watley, Sean Lennon, Philip Bailey, Lisa Marie Presley, and Throttle Body Motorcycle Club, among others. He was named the number one R&B drummer and clinician in industry magazines including Modern Drummer and 'Drum!.'

Author
Zoro is the author of four books. "The Commandments of R&B Drumming" earned him a Modern Drummer Reader's Poll #1 Educational text vote. The book was expanded and re-released by Alfred Publishing in a 10th anniversary edition. The follow-up, "The Commandments of Early R&B Drumming" was written with Daniel Glass. In 2011, he published "The Big Gig", a book centered on achievement in the music industry. In September 2016 he released "SOAR!: 9 Proven Keys For Unlocking Your Limitless Potential"

Christian Faith
In addition to his work in music, Zoro is a Christian Motivational speaker appearing at festivals and churches around the world. He has been featured on Christian television, including the 700 Club, Daystar Celebration, Jc-TV, The Joni Show, MorningStar Ministries, among other broadcasts.

Ministry and Motivational Speaking and Teaching
Now working out of Nashville, TN, Zoro is increasingly focused on his Ministry and motivational speaking work for groups like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Compassion International.

Zoro is currently a percussion instructor at Belmont University in Nashville. He is also a pastor at Bayside Church Adventure Campus in Roseville, CA.

Gear and Equipment
Zoro is endorsed by DW Drums, Evans, Latin Percussion among other manufacturers. His most recent set of note was played during his 2004 engagement with Lenny Kravitz, drumming on the "Baptism" tour.