Mike Portnoy is one of the most popular and respected drummers in both metal and rock. He is also an accomplished writer, director and producer, and the recipient of numerous industry accolades, including 26 Modern Drummer awards and being the youngest inductee in MD’s Hall Of Fame.
A key element of several popular bands, his diverse projects range from the progressive rock supergroup, Transatlantic, to an all-star Beatles tribute, Yellow Matter Custard.
His best-known role, to date, is as the leader, co-founder, drummer, producer, director and cowriter for metal/prog juggernaut Dream Theater, before moving on in 2010.
That same year, he worked on Avenged Sevenfold’s #1 album Nightmare (2010) and their subsequent tour, earning him multiple awards, such as Revolver magazine’s Golden God award for “Best Drummer” and Drum magazine’s award for “Drummer of the Year”.