Greyson Nekrutman

Greyson Nekrutman is an American professional drummer who became the official percussionist for the Brazilian heavy metal legends Sepultura in early 2024. At just 21 years old, he took over the drum throne following the departure of long-time member Eloy Casagrande, marking one of the most significant lineup changes in the band's modern history. Before this historic appointment, Nekrutman spent a year with the crossover thrash pioneers Suicidal Tendencies from 2023 to 2024.

His background distinguishes him from many of his peers in the extreme metal scene. Unlike players who started in garage bands, Nekrutman was a classically trained jazz prodigy from Long Island, New York. This foundation gave him the technical precision and dynamic control necessary to master complex time signatures, allowing him to transition seamlessly into the aggressive rhythms of heavy metal. As of 2026, he remains active with Sepultura while balancing guest appearances and collaborations across the metal spectrum. [edit]

Growing up in Long Island, New York, Greyson Nekrutman displayed an early aptitude for rhythm that set him apart from other children. His musical education began with formal jazz training rather than the typical rock or metal influences common among aspiring drummers. This disciplined approach focused on big band arrangements, complex polyrhythms, and the intricate timing required for jazz performance. By his high school years, his talent had garnered national attention when the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) named him one of the nation's top-performing high school jazz musicians.

This accolade was not merely a trophy but a signal of his mastery over the instrument. While his peers were learning basic beats, Nekrutman was refining a style often described as having "Buddy Rich-style virtuosity." He spent his formative years practicing rigorously in local circuits, developing a unique ability to blend the fluidity of jazz with the power needed for heavier genres. This period of intense study provided the technical bedrock that would later allow him to step into the shoes of legendary metal drummers without missing a beat. His journey from a high school jazz prodigy to a professional touring musician was built on years of solitary practice and formal instruction before he ever stepped onto a major stage. [edit]

Nekrutman's professional ascent has been defined by rapid transitions between elite groups in the heavy music world. In 2023, he joined the crossover thrash band Suicidal Tendencies, playing alongside frontman Mike Muir. This role served as his entry point into the heavier side of the industry, where he honed his skills in a live setting against some of the genre's veterans. His tenure lasted approximately one year before he received an offer that would change his trajectory entirely.

In early 2024, he was recruited by Sepultura to replace Eloy Casagrande. Joining a band that has defined groove metal since the 1980s at age 21 was unprecedented. He integrated quickly, bringing a fresh, jazz-influenced precision to their classic sound. His debut performances were met with immediate acceptance from the fanbase, proving that his technical background translated perfectly to the band's legacy. Later in his career, he demonstrated his versatility by temporarily joining the American thrash band Trivium in October 2025 as a fill-in drummer following the departure of Alex Bent. This arrangement was facilitated by a specific agreement between the two bands, allowing him to return to Sepultura for their scheduled "Farewell Tour" in 2026. In March 2026, he further cemented his status as a sought-after session musician by recording drums for the hardcore punk band Cro-Mags' new album alongside guitarist Arthur Rizk. [edit]

Nekrutman is portrayed in the media as a humble, technically gifted, and serious musician. Coverage focuses heavily on his skill and the gravity of replacing a legend like Eloy Casagrande. He avoids the typical "rock star" persona, instead presenting himself as a craftsman dedicated to the instrument. His social media tone is professional and grateful, often thanking fans and acknowledging his roots. He is seen as a bridge between the technical discipline of jazz and the raw energy of heavy metal, earning respect from both traditionalists and younger fans. [edit]

Greyson Nekrutman commands a focused, growing sphere of attention within the global heavy metal community, though his profile remains distinct from the ubiquitous saturation enjoyed by legacy icons. As of September 2026, iFANN's Global Fame Engine has evaluated this person, but they do not currently hold a placement in the published rankings (Global Top 1,000 or a Top-100 scope list). This absence signals a career in active ascent rather than stagnation; he is building momentum through high-profile transitions between major acts like Sepultura and Trivium without yet crossing the threshold into the world's most visible tier. His audience consists primarily of dedicated metal fans who follow the lineage of these historic bands rather than a broad celebrity following. The fanbase has no formal name documented in available records. While social media platforms host vibrant discussions around his drumming, there are no organized independent campaigns, named sub-communities, or ritualized behaviors attributed solely to Nekrutman that distinguish him from the wider collective of Sepultura supporters. [edit]

Before entering the metal scene, Nekrutman was a nationally recognized jazz drummer, a rarity for someone who would eventually join a band like Sepultura. His technical prowess is frequently compared to the legendary Buddy Rich, though applied to a much heavier genre. When Trivium approached him in October 2025, Sepultura agreed to release him for the tour only on the condition that he return to lead the rhythm section for Sepultura's 2026 farewell cycle. Despite his rapid ascent to playing for such a historically significant group, his time with the lineup remains defined by professional milestones rather than viral folklore or extraordinary crowd reactions. No documented incidents exist of fans shutting down streets or staging spontaneous celebrations specifically for his performances. The narrative surrounding him is one of steady integration into the metal pantheon, focusing on establishing his place within the lineup rather than generating standalone legendary anecdotes. [edit]

Greyson Nekrutman maintains a low profile regarding his personal life and family details. He has mentioned in interviews his gratitude for being surrounded by his "back home" community during tours, indicating strong support from his family in Long Island. However, he keeps his romantic relationships strictly private, avoiding tabloid scrutiny. There are no public records of marriages, engagements, or children as of 2026. His focus remains entirely on his rapidly expanding career in the music industry. [edit]

Derrick Green, Arthur Rizk, Matt Heafy, Mike Muir, Eloy Casagrande[edit]

As of 2026, Greyson Nekrutman maintains a low profile regarding his romantic life. There are no public records, credible media reports, or social media confirmations detailing any past or current romantic relationships, engagements, or marriages. He appears to be single, focusing entirely on his rapidly expanding career in the music industry. No children have been reported. In interviews, Nekrutman has emphasized his dedication to his craft and his family's support system, often mentioning his gratitude for being surrounded by his "back home" community during tours. However, he keeps his personal dating life strictly private, avoiding the tabloid scrutiny common among younger celebrities. [edit]

iFANN Editorial Team analysis of Greyson Nekrutman's earnings, ventures, and assets points to roughly $1 Million as of 2026. This estimate reflects his status as a touring drummer for three major acts: Suicidal Tendencies, Sepultura, and Trivium, combined with his endorsement deal with Pearl Drums. While specific financial disclosures are not public, top-tier touring drummers for legacy acts can earn between $5,000 and $15,000 per week plus backend royalties. Assuming consistent touring schedules from 2024 to 2026, this supports the mid-range estimate. His primary income sources include salary and touring fees from his contracts with these bands, royalties from recordings with Suicidal Tendencies and Sepultura, and an annual retainer or commission structure from his partnership with Pearl Drums. Given his young age and transient lifestyle, real estate holdings are likely minimal. [edit]

While Nekrutman has been nominated for various industry recognitions due to his work with Sepultura and Trivium, there are no documented wins from major award ceremonies like the Grammys or Metal Hammer Golden Gods as of 2026. His accolades remain primarily in the realm of educational honors and peer recognition. Notably, he was named one of the nation's "top-performing high school jazz musicians" by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) prior to his professional debut. [edit]