Conversations with Ramon Yslas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ramon Yslas.

Hi Ramon , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am born and raised in the east side of Los Angeles. My parents are both from Mexico and the youngest of 7 children. Fell in love with the heartbeat of music at a very early age. I received my first drum around age 7 and the rhythm’s been with me ever since.
At age 13, I was the youngest member of a rock band of seniors in high school. We were really good. Played many parties and school events. Later, i studied all the percussion instruments and became a working percussionist in my mid twenties. Working with latin artists for the first few years and eventually getting into the pop scene, all styles of music came my way of work. From recordings to TV and live performances, Traveling the world and having tons of fun.
In 2005, I was invited to be part of the faculty at Pasadena City College, blessed and very honored to be teaching Music Business and Percussion, and I am still part of the faculty there. It really is a joy to share all the knowledge with young inspiring musicians.
Many of the artists that I have worked with ( and continue to ) are listed on my website ( www.yslas.com)

Currently working with the legendary rock band “Chicago’. I have been playing percussion with Chicago since 2018 and still kicking ass on tour and in studio. This band doesn’t stop! I have a studio at home that also keeps me busy along with 2 young adult children and two very spoiled dogs. I try my best to lay low when I’m home, but that never seems to happen.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The music business is a bumpy road. One must learn to adapt, and quickly. Example: which could happen often, is changing your schedule, sometimes last minute. Several times I have had to cut a vacation short or cancel it due to a last minute show.
I tend to say Yes to work, a lot. lol
In the past, I have been off of work for months at a time. You finish a tour and it takes a while for the phone to ring again. The industry doesn’t know you’re back in town, and you got to get your hussle on, letting everyone who can hire you, that you are available !!
Being away from your family is a big struggle. When the kids are young, they don’t understand why dad is gone so long. It’s heartbreaking.
But like I said, you learn to adapt and quickly. Every job has its struggles and also has amazing opportunities when you
rearrange your schedule for the gig. Doors open up.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My instrument is percussion: all the hand drums and sometimes drum set. With Chicago, and other artists that I have worked with, I am part of the foundation of the music, the drumming, the heartbeat etc.
What I do is play what is needed for the song and not to over play. This is either in a recording situation or a live performance. My goal is always play what the song needs.
I’m honored to be part of Chicago for many reasons, Chicago was the reason I became a musician. Their music spoke to me as a child and now I have the honor to be a part of the music.
As a songwriter, I’m very proud to have had the band record two of my songs: a Christmas song “All is Right” and a studio album recording called “She’s Right”
I have had the honor to record on grammy award winning songs by Christina Aguilera and others, and currently also working on a podcast with a friend about Tribute Bands. And also extremely proud of my two beautiful wonderful children. Truly a happy feeling.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I am a risk taker. Navigating the music industry has meant taking creative and career risks and learning from every one of them. Growth comes from stepping into the unknown. With over 30 years in the industry, I have built a career by taking musical and professional risks. Saying yes to unfamiliar styles, new cities and last minute calls.

Pricing:

• Know what you are worth
• Negotiate if you feel it in your gut

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yslas.com
• Instagram: rayraydrums
• Facebook: rayraydrums