![]() petra.electricshockmusic.com :: < Back Forward > Member Profiles > Paul Simmons The latest addition to the ranks of Petra, Paul Simmons was asked to join the band in 2003 following the departure of longtime drummer Louie Weaver. A seasoned veteran, Paul has played drums for nearly 30 years, inspired initially by the likes of Deep Purple, Rainbow, and other similar artists. Along with his brothers Mike and Jamie, Paul performed as a member of many heavy metal bands throughout the years. As a member of various secular bands in the cities of Los Angeles and Nashville, Paul traveled throughout the United States and recorded several albums. During the mid-1980s, Paul also toured as a member of Black Oak Arkansas. When initially approached in 2003 by manager Wayne Seboa to audition for Petra, Paul was on tour with Th' Legendary Shack Shakers, and was therefore a bit reluctant, due to his busy touring schedule. After some time and much thought, he accepted Wayne's invitation to audition for Petra, and ultimately landed the position as the band's next drummer. Since becoming a Christian in 1999, Petra is the first Christian rock band in which Paul Simmons has been a member. With Petra, he has toured throughout the United States and abroad, and is also featured on Petra: Farewell, the band's final official release. Paul enjoys writing original music. Unbeknownst to many, however, Paul also plays the guitar; in his own words, he plays well enough "to cause some damage," using the guitar merely as a creative tool to aid with his compositions. Site design and content ©Christopher Lee/Electric Shock Music. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication is a violation of Federal law and is subject to criminal prosecution. |