The Return of Guitar Center's Drum Off 2026

Guitar Center will donate 15% of each ticket price to The Guitar Center Music Foundation. Visit guitarcenterfoundation.org to learn more about the Foundation.

After nearly a decade, the legendary Guitar Center Drum-Off returns.

Witness the electrifying culmination of one of music's most iconic competitions as six finalists from across the country take the stage to compete for the title of Drum-Off Champion. Hosted by comedian, actor, and drummer Bill Burr alongside Jane's Addiction's Stephen Perkins, this star-studded finale will feature special guest appearances, surprise performances, and unforgettable collaborations throughout the night.

This year's finale brings together some of the most celebrated names in music to serve as judges, performers, and special guests, including Tre Cool (Green Day), Josh Freese (Foo Fighters, Nine Inch Nails, Guns N' Roses), Brad Wilk (Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave), Adrian Young (No Doubt), Kenny Aronoff, Michael Anthony (Van Halen), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Alex Gonzalez (Maná), Pocket Queen, Jay Weinberg, Thomas Lang, Jared Falk, El Estepario Siberiano, and many more. Adding to the excitement, Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo will perform live with each finalist during the competition, creating a truly unique and unforgettable Drum-Off experience.

First launched in 1988, Drum-Off ran for 28 years and helped launch the careers of some of today's most accomplished drummers, including Tony Royster Jr. (Jay-Z, Katy Perry), Cora Coleman-Dunham (Prince, Beyoncé), Thomas Pridgen (The Mars Volta), Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper), and Ilan Rubin (Nine Inch Nails, Foo Fighters). Now, after nearly ten years away, the competition is back—bigger, louder, and more exciting than ever.

As part of Guitar Center's commitment to championing musicians at every stage of their journey, Drum-Off continues its legacy of discovering, celebrating, and elevating the next generation of drumming talent.

Experience an unforgettable evening celebrating rhythm, creativity, and music culture as the nation's top drummers battle live on stage for thousands in prizes, career-changing opportunities, and Drum-Off glory.

Be there when the next drumming legend is crowned.

*Featured talent, judges, performers, and event details are subject to change without notice