If you’ve heard Forrest Frank live on the Child of God tour, you’ve already experienced the dynamic drumming of Malachi O’Connor. In this exclusive Worship Drummer interview, Malachi shares how a love for music, a steady faith, and years of practice took him from late-night jam sessions in Los Angeles to packed arenas across North America.
Watch the full interview below to hear Malachi’s story in his own words.
Early Beginnings: Late Nights and Church Roots
Malachi grew up in a Christian home in Los Angeles and discovered drums in junior high. He remembers staying up until 3 or 4 a.m. replaying songs, then heading to his kit the next morning to copy what he heard.
His youth pastor noticed his passion and invited him to play at church. Soon the worship pastor—who became a key mentor—helped Malachi hone both his musical skill and his spiritual foundation.
Choosing Drums as a Calling
By age 16, Malachi knew he wanted to pursue music full time. Despite the uncertainties of a career in the arts, his parents supported his dream. “They trusted me as they trusted God,” he says, crediting their example of faith and dependence on the Lord for giving him confidence to follow his calling.
Building Experience: From Camps to Clubs
After graduating high school in 2020, Malachi skipped college and immersed himself in live music. He gigged in small L.A. venues—sometimes playing for more people on stage than in the audience—and spent summers at Hume Lake Camp, performing more than 100 sessions in a single season.
These experiences built his chops, strengthened his endurance, and taught him the value of humility and hard work.
Breaking Into the Professional Scene
Malachi networked intentionally, reaching out to music directors and fellow musicians on Instagram. His persistence paid off when he landed his first national tour as a drummer, playback tech, and tour manager.
Soon after, he got the call to fill in for the band Surfaces, where he met Forrest Frank. That connection eventually led to his current role as Forrest’s drummer on the Child of God tour.
Character Over Chops
While technical skill is essential, Malachi emphasizes that character matters most.
“Once you reach a certain level, your playing will get you in the room, but your character will keep you there,” he explains.
He highlights patience, professionalism, and a servant’s heart as crucial traits for any musician, especially in a worship setting.
Encouragement for Worship Drummers
Malachi’s advice for church drummers is simple but profound:
“Enjoy playing music as worship to the Lord. Serve with a joyful heart and have fun—it almost feels like cheating because it’s so enjoyable.”
Whether you’re playing in a small youth group or dreaming of arena tours, Malachi’s story reminds us that preparation, perseverance, and faith open doors in God’s timing.
What part of Malachi’s journey inspires you most? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to subscribe to the Worship Drummer YouTube channel for more interviews like this one.