Nikki Glaspie is one of the most respected groove drummers working today — a player with deep funk roots, huge live energy, and the musical range to move between pop, soul, and improvisational band settings without losing identity. She’s known for major stage work (including Beyoncé) and as the founding drummer of The Nth Power, where her playing and presence helped define the band’s sound and message.
Glaspie’s foundation started in church. In a 2026 interview, she described growing up watching church drummers closely, learning by emulating what she saw, and developing an early ability to connect to audiences through rhythm. She also credited Modern Drummer magazine as a major influence, saying it introduced her to drummers she might not have discovered otherwise — including Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, one of her key inspirations.
Beyond the technical side, Nikki’s identity is strongly tied to the idea of music as communication and healing. She has spoken about touring the world, playing for important figures, and using music as a positive force — especially through The Nth Power. One of the most personal stories she shared was a moment in Tennessee where a fan told the band that his mother, who was in a coma after a stroke, opened her eyes during an Nth Power performance. Nikki described that moment as proof of the power of music and why the mission of music matters.
What she’s doing now: Glaspie remains active with The Nth Power and other live/recording work, while continuing her role as a visible mentor figure for younger drummers — especially young women entering a still male-dominated industry.
Quote: “You have to work hard; there is nothing better than hard work.” (M Network interview, 2026)
Gear: Yamaha Drums; Zildjian Cymbals; Vater Drumsticks; Remo Drumheads.
Sources: NikkiGlaspie.com; Zildjian artist page; M Network interview (2026); Modern Drummer Festival coverage.
Update: 1/22/26