Third-grader James Shaffer has rhythm in his bones. From the moment he could pick up a pair of drumsticks—or, more accurately, anything he could bang on—James has been creating beats. The music runs deep, quite literally, as his father is a longtime member of a local band called The Swamp Tigers. It seems inevitable that James would follow in his father’s footsteps, but what makes this young musician unique is the dedication and genuine passion that have driven him at such an early age.

While James is only in third grade, his musical journey began long before he was even born. “My dad’s been playing in his band since before I was born,” James said, almost as if the music was a part of his DNA. And before he could even talk, he started banging on things around the house— anything that made noise. Recognizing his son’s potential, James' father built him his first drum kit. “It’s a threepiece with a crash cymbal, a hi-hat, and another one we can’t quite remember the name of,” James laughs, showing his casual, humble attitude.

The drum set isn’t some flashy electronic kit but the real deal, allowing James to get a proper feel for what it’s like to be in sync with the instrument. “I like the real feel of it,” he says proudly, appreciating the connection between stick and skin that electronic sets simply can't replicate.

As impressive as James is behind the drum kit, he's not stopping there. "I’m learning to play the guitar, too,” he shares with a gleam in his eye. “I have both an electric and an acoustic.” His musical growth is astonishing for someone so young, but James has no intention of limiting himself to one instrument. His dream now? To be a guitar player, continuing the family tradition of music but adding his own unique spin on things.

His taste in music? It’s not what you might expect from an elementary school student. When asked about his favorite artists, James quickly responds with “Guns N' Roses” and “AC/DC.” While some kids might be listening to top 40 hits, James is diving deep into the sounds of the 80s, loving the raw energy of rock classics like Highway to Hell.

Though James has plenty of time to figure out where his musical talents will take him, it’s clear he’s already carving out his own path. When asked about his future, he casually mentions the idea of forming a band with his friends. "Maybe we could be an 80s tribute band,” he says with a smile, already imagining the long hair, satin shirts, and loud guitars that would define their act. And while the band members—drummer Zeke, piano player Willow, and James himself on guitar—are still perfecting their craft, it's clear that James has big dreams for the future. Who knows? Maybe the next great rock band will come from Carbondale.

But James is not just all about music. In between lessons and practice, he finds joy in simpler things, like riding his bike and spending time with his grandparents. In fact, he's been known to entertain his grandparents with impromptu drum solos, much to their delight. "They usually clap," James says, modestly describing their enthusiastic support.

At school, James’ interests extend beyond music. His favorite subject? P.E. He plays soccer “just for fun,” and while he’s not out there chasing championships, it’s clear that even in play, James embodies a laid-back but focused attitude.

In a world where video games often take center stage for kids, James is refreshingly old-school. “I’m not a big gamer,” he admits. Instead, you’re more likely to find him playing checkers with his parents, reflecting a thoughtful side that balances his rock-and-roll ambitions.

James Shaffer is a kid who could be famous for his drumming, guitar playing, or even his checkers skills one day. But it's his heart, his love for his family, and his genuine excitement for the future that will leave a lasting impression on everyone who meets him. Whether he’s tapping away on his drums or strumming a guitar in the future, this young musician is bound to make a lot of noise—in the best possible way.