Interviews

DEXTER HERCULES: What It’s REALLY Like Drumming For Ed Sheeran

today30 July, 2025

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In this exclusive interview, Dexter Hercules – known for his work with Ed Sheeran (and loads more!) – sits down with The UK Drum Show main-stage host Ollie Winiberg to talk about his journey as a professional drummer.

From playing stadiums with Ed Sheeran to performing at The UK Drum Show, Dexter shares what it takes to thrive in today’s music industry. We discuss how he landed the Ed Sheeran gig, the difference between massive pop tours and drummer-specific shows, and why networking, community, and showing up even when you’re not playing can change your career.

If you’re an aspiring drummer, music lover, or Ed Sheeran fan – this one’s for you.

Dexter will be appearing at The UK Drum Show 2025 on both Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th October in the Mike Johnstone Education Room…Grab your tickets now for the hottest drum event of 2025: HERE

00:00 – Intro

01:14 – What It’s Really Like Drumming For Ed Sheeran

04:30 – 80,000 Fans VS a Room Full Of Drummers

08:10 – How Dexter Landed The Gig

11:30 – The Power Of Networking

13:00 – The Drumming Community Is Different

18:28 – Advice For Drummers


Dexter Proudly Plays…

Pearl Drums

Zildjian Cymbals

Porter & Davies Thrones


For more interviews with some of the biggest names in drumming please subscribe to The UK Drum Show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@theukdrumshow and click on the bell icon to be notified as soon as each new video is released.

Also, be sure to check out our sister-site: www.drummersreview.com where you can find many more big name interviews along with completely impartial video reviews of all of your favourite drum gear.


Catch up on all episodes of  The UK Drum Show: The Official Podcast
Hosted by the legend, our Main Stage Host, Ollie Winiberg, we’re sitting down with every drummer performing at the UK Drum Show

BIOGRAPHY:

Dexter Hercules is a London-based professional drummer who has been playing since the age of 3. Over the years, he has built an impressive career, performing and recording with renowned artists like Ed Sheeran, Ronnie Wood, Emeli Sandé, Little Mix, Lalah Hathaway, Theo Croker, Incognito, Kirk Whalum, Stormzy, Olly Murs, Rita Ora, Boy George, Ashanti, Derrick Hodge, and many more. Dexter was the house drummer for The Voice UK until 2023, and he now tours as Ed Sheeran’s drummer.

Known for his versatility and energy, Dexter has mastered a wide range of styles, including jazz, pop, gospel, fusion, broken beat, and funk. His ability to effortlessly shift between genres – whether playing Chuck Berry classics with Ronnie Wood or grooving with Robert Glasper and Derrick Hodge at Ronnie Scott’s – showcases his unique talent and adaptability.

Written by: Nick Carter

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