(Above: Ty at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado with Cochren & Co.)
Trevecca sophomore Ty Thompson was emotional when he played the drums for a crowd of 10,000 at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.
“I played there with Cochren and Co., in a lineup that included Toby Mac and Danny Gokey. I had to try not to cry a few times because playing there was one of my dreams,” Thompson said. “Along with Madison Square Garden and my hometown in Texas, that was where I had dreamed of playing.”
Thompson’s breakthrough exposure as a drummer happened at Camp Electric, a creative arts camp for teens hosted by Trevecca. Attendees learn from some of the top artists and creatives in Christian music and entertainment.
“Camp Electric was awesome. I wouldn’t be in Nashville without it,” Thompson said. “I learned so much from my instructors and they were able to help me get my foot in the door in the Christian music industry.”
The camp was where he was introduced to Trevecca and felt God calling him to Nashville. His time at the University has helped to shape him into the artist he wants to be. He has been particularly impacted by the professors who have helped him perfect his craft.
“I love it here and I have learned a lot,” Thompson said. “Professor Brian Fullen does my drum lessons and he is helping to mold me into a more professional drummer. He is getting me ready for big opportunities and I am so grateful.”
Thompson’s connections have also given him opportunities in country music, where he has played the CMA Fest with artist Angie K and opened up for Morgan Wallen at the Faster Horses Festival in Michigan. He has also opened for Brian Kelley from Florida Georgia Line, while drumming with Noah Hicks.
He recently switched his major to music business, believing it will give him the best chance of navigating the industry and finding success. His long term plans are to continue drumming, in whatever capacity is available to him.
“In the future, I would like to be in the studio or live drumming with a band. I’ve been thrown into this crazy storm with some great opportunities and I am just going with the flow,” Thompson said. “Drumming has always come so naturally to me and ultimately, this is how I worship. I feel closest to God when I am leading at church, doing what I love.”
He feels fortunate to have such a range of opportunities so early on in his career and eagerly anticipates what is coming next. He believes his faith has played a crucial role in his advancement in the industry.
“I've been so blessed to get a taste of both the country and Christian industry while being so new to town,” Thompson said. “Whether it’s country, Christian or playing at church, I’m grateful for all of it and I feel so prepared for whatever is next. God continues to open doors for me, and I wouldn’t have gotten any of these opportunities without Him.”