The Fastest Drummer in the World: Viola Smith
Apr 28, 2025•32 min
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Episode description
Known as "the fastest girl drummer in the world," Viola shattered expectations in the 1930s swing scene, advocated for women musicians during WWII, and kept playing drums until she was 107 years old! In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into her groundbreaking career, her fearless fight for women’s place in music, and why her legacy deserves a standing ovation today.
From orchestra pits to swing bands to national television, Viola proved that talent has no gender — and no expiration date.
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