Mike Portnoy Surprises Son Max With Dream Theater Drum Challenge at Drumeo
Max Portnoy walked into Drumeo expecting a normal day. Instead, his father, Mike Portnoy, waited for him with a surprise.
Mike asked his son to play Honor Thy Father by Dream Theater without any practice.
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The Song Choice
Mike picked Honor Thy Father for good reason. The song runs for ten minutes and includes fast changes and complex rhythms. It came out in 2003 when Max was only four years old.
Drumeo has a habit of putting drummers on the spot. Last year, they asked Mike to learn Tool’s Pneuma with no prep. This time, it was Max’s turn.
Some Friendly Pressure
The video shows father and son trading jokes while Max studies the song. Mike watches as Max works through the patterns and timing. Though the tone stays light, the challenge is real. Dream Theater songs often test even skilled drummers.
Max keeps his focus. He works through each section while Mike stands close by, offering advice and keeping things relaxed. The two share a few laughs, but Max stays locked in.
Nailing the Performance
When Max reaches the final run, everything clicks. His timing stays sharp. The fills land where they should. The song flows from start to finish. Mike watches with a calm, proud look.
By the end, Max handles the song with skill. Mike’s expression says it all. He watched his son take on one of his hardest songs and play it well.
Dream Theater on Tour
Dream Theater will head out on a North American tour this fall. With Mike back behind the kit, longtime fans will see him playing these songs live again.
Get Dream Theater Tickets Here.
Mike co-founded Dream Theater in 1985 and rejoined the band after 13 years away. He remains one of metal’s best-known drummers. Max has built his own career as the drummer for Code Orange and plays bass for Tallah.
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