If you were a fan of Minnesota music and staying up late 20 years ago, you may remember a local comedy/variety show called Nate on Drums. Though short-lived, this Emmy award–winning series captured the hearts of both the late night crowd and the local scene with their unique blend of lo-fi sketch comedy, irreverent animation, and an undeniable soundtrack.

While the show remains a fond memory to Minnesotans of a certain age, its footprint is disappearing fast. The bulk of the series is now considered lost media, and what little evidence of the show is out there remains at risk in a world constantly failing to backup its history. All of this leads KVSC to ask the question: Whatever Happened to Nate on Drums?

In a very special two-part Backstages, Johnny pieces together the full story of Nate on Drums 20 years later, we’ll talk about the show’s impact on the local scene, and we’re gonna find out what the cast are up to today! Even if you didn’t watch Nate on Drums, you’re not gonna wanna miss this!

This episode is part one.

Backstages is supported by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

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