Where can we find you right now and what are you up to?
Hey Guys, my name is Hank Lin(Chia-Hung Lin), drummer for Dead Marble, Joshua Gomez, and NetherOak. I’m from Taiwan, living in LA, and studying at Musicians Institute. Besides playing in bands, I’m also focusing on writing my solo album right now.
Tell us a bit about your influences.
My Influences are mainly rock and metal music, bands like Slipknot, Arch Enemy, In Flames, Lamb of God, and Trivium. These five bands influenced me so much on both drums and guitar. As a drummer, I got inspired by many drummers too, like Joey Jordison(Ex-Slipknot), Jay Weinberg(Slipknot), Daniel Erlandsson(Arch Enemy), Chris Adler(Ex-Lamb of God), Mike Portnoy(Ex-Dream Theater), Kerim “Krimh” Lechner(Septicflesh, Krimh), etc.
How did you start?
When I was seven years old, I started playing classical music on piano. Later, I wanted an instrument to express more of my energy and emotion, mentally and physically, so I picked up drumsticks at 16. It’s a lot quicker and easier for me to learn drums based on my knowledge of piano. It helps so much, both rhythmic and reading-wise. Not too long after I started playing drums, I became a huge fan of metal/rock music, which greatly influenced my playing style. I also pick up the guitar a bit later than drums. I love guitar very much too, especially for music writing, it helps a lot to write songs. But after all, drum is still my favorite instrument.
What obstacles does an emerging artist have to face in our time?
As an artist, first, we need to find the path and goal we want, find a passion that we’re willing to keep pushing ourselves no matter what, and sacrifice our time and energy. Second, dedication is such an important part. In my opinion, this is one of the significant obstacles for artists. Success doesn’t come quickly. It takes time and failures. But every time we fail, we have two choices: give up or stand up. This is what makes the difference. Don’t let the challenge beat you up. Stand up and learn from the mistake; don’t give up. You’re getting closer and closer to your goal every time!
What worked for you marketing-wise? What advice or tips would you give to new artists?
Nowadays, social media is a big part of our lives. At the same time, it is also a perfect platform to put ourselves out there and show the world what we have. For me, I put videos on there, whether it is practice videos/covers/original music and consistently feeding social media new content. Also, follow and take a look at how the algorithm works on the platform. It will make a big difference, too. Use social media as a chance to market yourself and show your talent to the world, and you will be surprised at how many opportunities you can get there!
What are your goals? Where do you see yourself in five years?
Since I started playing drums, my goal has always been to be in a band with the people I enjoy playing/hanging out with, play at the big stage/festival, and touring. Also, I want to be able to motivate other musicians, just like the way all the people who inspired me! Right now, I’ve been playing local shows with my bands. During each show, there’s always stuff I learn, and I realize I need to improve, so I’m still learning and growing. Keep building up the ability to get closer to my goal! At the same time, I’ll keep writing my own music. Now, I’m still in the process of writing my first album. It has been an enjoyable and exciting experience so far!
Tell us about your latest or upcoming release.
I have a song out on Spotify. It’s called “The Dawn Through the Darkness” under my name “Hank Lin.”
At the same time, I’m in the process of writing my first album for my solo project, so stay tuned!
@hanklindrums