This year marked the bittersweet end of an era as You Me at Six decided to call it a day after 20 years of making music together. For fans, it was a shocking announcement—but for Dan Flint, the band’s powerhouse drummer, it was a decision made with heart. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dan to talk all things drumming, the band’s journey, and what it really takes to evolve as a musician. And yes, I may have cheekily demanded they get back together—because who wouldn’t want more YMAS?
From the very start, Dan made it clear that drumming isn’t about being “the best.” It’s about authenticity, consistency, and connecting with the music. We dove into the band’s early MySpace days, a time when connecting directly with fans shaped their rise in ways that social media today can barely replicate. That DIY ethos helped cement their bond with audiences and fuelled their growth into one of the UK’s most enduring rock bands.
Dan’s drumming has evolved significantly over the years, and he walked me through some of the technical challenges behind their tracks. In particular, “The Swarm” is far more complex than it seems, demanding precision and stamina that only years of experience can provide. Yet, despite the technicality, Dan insists it’s always about serving the song and not showing off.
One of the most fascinating parts of our chat was discussing how You Me at Six ended their career gracefully—a rarity in the modern music industry. They wanted to step back on their own terms, finish as friends, and avoid forcing themselves to tour. Yet, Dan left the door open for the future, teasing that while the band may have officially paused, their story may not be necessarily over…
We also talked about side projects and the importance of exploring creativity outside your main gig, along with some invaluable advice for aspiring drummers: practice, patience, and never lose sight of why you picked up sticks in the first place.
If you’re a fan of You Me at Six or just love drumming, this interview is a masterclass in musicianship, humility and longevity. And who knows? Maybe this isn’t the last we’ve heard from Dan and the band. I, for one, am rooting for it.
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