stephen taylor

What did Norco Music mean to you?

Norco Music was the beginning of everything I am today. I was completely failing out of a four-year college, where I had given up music and the arts to pursue a degree I had no passion for. Norco Music picked me up, dusted me off, and said, “Come on in, as you are.” It became a home—a place to move forward. Not just with music again, but with a community of artists who believed in making this crazy life a reality.

Favorite memory from your time there?

Wow, too many to count—it really was all of it. The studio sessions (good and bad), the songwriting, the smoke/vent sessions on the knoll, the endless sweaty hours clocked in the practice rooms. The days we came up short, and the days we knew we struck gold. I made friends for life during those times, and I cherish them deeply.

What are you doing now?

I currently record and perform as a drummer for inthebackground and Moondough. In addition to other session work and regular gigging, I’m also a sound designer for film, commercials, and other audio-visual projects. I’m lucky to do much of this work alongside my bandmates Dillon Droke and Steen Kevett-Lopez through our post-production company, Digital Native.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced is overcoming the tendency to compare myself to others. It’s hard not to feel discouraged when a six-year-old is absolutely shredding on drums on Instagram. But take a breath—they are them, and you are you. Let others inspire you, and stay confident in your own craft. Even the greats are still learning something new every day.

Was there a moment you knew you were on the right path?

It was a simple (but persistent) invitation from Brady Kerr, after a Castle Pines and City of Thieves show, to join Norco Music. That moment brought me back to my calling in music performance and production. Through Norco, I also discovered a love for sound design, thanks to the Pro Tools courses. Sometimes you just know you’re in the right place, with the right people, you know?

What project are you most proud of?

It’s been nearly 10 years now with inthebackground. Many incredible projects have come and gone during that time, but this band has always been the pillar of my artistic journey—my solace and one of my greatest friendships.

How do you stay inspired?

When I’m in a creative rut, inspiration comes from everywhere. The everyday world is more musical than you think—if you take a second to really listen. Most of all, my friends and family inspire me daily. We’re constantly discovering, sharing, and pushing each other’s limits.

What advice would you give current Norco Music students?

Enjoy your time there—and know it’s only the beginning. Keep chasing that next level. Push yourself, and be open to change. But most of all, whatever you end up sinking your teeth into…DON’T STOP.