Shawn Beamer spent nearly two decades behind the kit for Southern rock mainstays Molly Hatchet, anchoring the band through heavy touring years and multiple studio and live releases. Known for a straight-ahead, hard-driving style that fits classic Southern rock, he became a key part of Hatchet’s modern-era lineup on the road and in the studio.
Beamer began playing professionally at 17, working the East Coast “A” circuit with bands including Code Blue and Little Tramp before moving into higher-profile touring work. He later joined Molly Hatchet in the early 2000s and remained the band’s drummer for roughly 19 years, logging extensive worldwide touring and recording output during that period—including multiple studio albums, live albums, and live DVDs tied to the group’s long-running concert schedule. His discography credits also reflect his association with Molly Hatchet releases and related projects.
Recent activity: Molly Hatchet continued touring its legacy-era schedule into the 2020s, with Beamer listed as the drummer for show promotions during that span, and his profile remained active through major drum-industry artist pages reflecting his long tenure with the band.
Plays: Pearl; Paiste; Vic Firth.
Sources: Mapex Drums (artist page); Vater Drumsticks (artist page); Franklin Theatre (event listing); Discogs; AllMusic.
Update: January 23, 2026
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