Meet the Band

Normand Lewis is the heart and soul of Metal to the Core, serving as both lead vocalist and primary guitarist. Born in Los Angeles in 1995, Normand discovered his passion for music at an early age, but it wasn’t until his late teens that he found his calling in metal.

As the main songwriter of the group, Normand’s lyrics often explore themes of personal struggle, social commentary, and the human condition. His distinctive vocal style ranges from melodic clean singing to aggressive screams, perfectly complementing his intricate guitar work.

Despite the band’s growing success, Normand remains fiercely protective of his privacy. He is married with two children, but has made it clear that their identities will remain protected from public scrutiny. This commitment to family privacy reflects his grounded approach to fame and his determination to separate his artistic expression from his personal life.

Normand’s journey with Metal to the Core began in 2014 when he met Veyra Shade after both were rejected from the same audition. What started as a commiserating drink between two disappointed musicians has evolved into a decade-long musical partnership that forms the backbone of the band.

His guitar style blends technical precision with raw emotion, creating the signature sound that has defined Metal to the Core’s identity throughout their years of playing bars and local festivals before their breakthrough with NotJustPrompts Records.

Draven Holt’s entry into Metal to the Core is perhaps the most unconventional origin story in rock history. Born in Florida in 1993 to undocumented Mexican immigrants, his early life was shaped by economic hardship and the constant uncertainty that comes with living in the shadows.

Music became Draven’s escape and eventual livelihood, as he took on small gigs wherever he could find them to help support his family. His drumming style, forged in dive bars and street corners, developed a raw power and authenticity that comes only from playing music as a matter of survival.

The meeting with Normand Lewis began with a fight – a heated argument that escalated until Draven threw such an unexpectedly absurd insult that both men burst into laughter. This moment of shared humor broke down all barriers between them, and what could have ended in genuine animosity instead became the beginning of a lasting friendship.

When Normand and Veyra found themselves in need of a drummer, the bruised and laughing Draven seemed like an unlikely candidate. However, their first jam session revealed an undeniable musical chemistry. Draven’s thunderous, emotionally-charged drumming provided the perfect foundation for the band’s sound.

To protect his parents’ identities and legal status, Draven legally changed his name when the band formed. While “Draven Holt” has become known to metal fans worldwide, his birth name remains a closely guarded secret – a testament to his loyalty to family and his understanding of the real-world consequences that fame can bring.

His drumming combines technical skill with raw emotional power, creating rhythmic foundations that are both precisely crafted and viscerally compelling. Every beat carries the weight of his journey and the hopes of his family.