Behind the drum chair for Styx since the mid-1990s, Todd Sucherman has become one of modern rock’s most respected and complete drummers—known for power, control, deep time, and an ability to elevate a song without overpowering it. A Chicago native, he joined Styx in 1995 and has remained a central force in the band’s live identity ever since, anchoring high-energy performances while building a parallel career as a session musician, clinician, and educator.
Sucherman’s work extends well beyond Styx into progressive rock, studio sessions, and artist collaborations. He is highly involved with the progressive rock band Finally George (led by German composer and multi-instrumentalist Georg Hahn), serving as the primary drummer and percussionist on the band’s releases. This includes Life Is a Killer (2018), Icy Skies (2021), and the 2025 album Painter, where his playing supports intricate arrangements and emotional, modern prog songwriting. His involvement with Finally George reflects a major part of his current musical identity, highlighting a side of his playing built around detail, dynamics, and modern progressive language.
Recent activity through 2024 and 2025 reflects both major touring and major creative developments. Styx remained active on the road, and in January 2025 Sucherman made a significant gear change, leaving Pearl after nearly 25 years and returning to Sonor drums. In May 2025 he expanded further into visual art with Realities Of Rhythm And Time, a debut art collection created with SceneFour that transforms his performance motion into abstract artwork. He continues presenting masterclasses and educational events between tour cycles, maintaining a strong presence in the drumming education world.
Sucherman remains active in studio and project work as well, with a long list of recording credits outside Styx including projects tied to artists such as Brian Wilson, Tommy Shaw, Derek Smalls, and others. His solo album Last Flight Home remains a creative milestone, and he continues balancing touring, recording, education, and progressive projects while evolving as both a musician and creative artist.
Gear:
Sonor drums, Zildjian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, and Remo drumheads.
Sources: Todd Sucherman official website, Sonor official news release, Blabbermouth, SceneFour project coverage, Finally George Bandcamp credits and release documentation, prog press coverage of Painter, Styx tour and event listings.
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Update 1/20/26