In a unique and entertaining episode of Drumeo’s online video series, legendary drummer Mike Portnoy showcases his musical prowess while attempting to play along with Taylor Swift’s 2014 hit “Shake It Off.” Despite being a renowned figure in the world of rock and metal, Portnoy humorously admits that he may be one of the few who hasn’t encountered this pop phenomenon. The segment highlights not only his drumming skills but also the fun and challenge of engaging with music outside his typical genre, emphasizing the crossover appeal and universal nature of music.

When Portnoy’s drum technician, Jose, reveals his unfamiliarity with pop music, the Drumeo host plays a stripped-down version of the Swift track, devoid of drum elements. With no prior exposure, Portnoy jumps right in, instinctively laying down drum fills and executing double-kick drum patterns that capture the essence of the song, demonstrating his remarkable ability to adapt and improvise even on first listen.

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After his initial attempt, he curiously inquires, “Is that something that’s popular?” Upon learning that the track has amassed over 3 billion streams on Spotify, he quips, “It sounds like something out of Disneyland in Japan or something,” showcasing his playful and candid nature. His surprise at the track’s success underlines the vast landscape of contemporary music that even seasoned artists like him can sometimes overlook.

Despite his curiosity about the artist behind the song, the Drumeo team encourages Portnoy to focus on crafting his interpretation of the track. However, he finds it challenging to take notes, expressing, “I don’t think I can improve on what I did spontaneously.” He finds himself grappling with the lack of key changes and the rapid succession of verses, choruses, and the rap segments typical of Swift’s style, which is quite different from his usual repertoire.

Feeling a bit lost in the complexity of the song structure, Portnoy ultimately decides to simply jam along with it, adding his own improvised drum part that captures the song’s spirit while reflecting his unique style.

Portnoy’s Surprising Discovery of Taylor Swift

After a couple of attempts and delivering his own rendition of the song, Portnoy finally learns that it’s the work of none other than Taylor Swift. His reaction is one of astonishment: “Oh my god, that’s Taylor Swift?! Like only the biggest artist on earth,” he exclaims, revealing his disbelief at not knowing any of her songs despite her immense popularity. This moment highlights the intersection of different musical worlds and how artists can come from vastly different backgrounds.

Portnoy’s interest piques particularly during the rap breakdown, where he identifies a drum pattern reminiscent of Toni Basil’s iconic ’80s hit “Mickey.” He notes, “Actually, that’s a pretty cool kick drum pattern, pretty syncopated,” showcasing his analytical approach to drumming and his ability to appreciate various influences within the music. This moment also illustrates how even artists who are not deeply entrenched in a genre can find inspiration and connection through music.

In a lighthearted moment, he playfully apologizes to Swift, saying, “Taylor, I’m really sorry. I still would play with you in a heartbeat. I swear I wouldn’t do that.” His humorous tone reflects his respect for her artistry, even as he navigates unfamiliar territory.

While it seems unlikely that Portnoy will be taking the stage for any of Swift’s Eras Tour dates soon, he has returned to the spotlight with his band Dream Theater. Their upcoming album, Parasomnia, is set to release on February 7, marking an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career.

Mike Portnoy’s First Encounter with Taylor Swift’s Music