About Jake “The Snake”
Superdrummer Jake “The Snake” Herring isn’t just keeping time—he’s rock steady .
A lifelong drummer and professional musician, Herring’s journey hasn’t been an easy rhythm to follow. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, he was met early on with skepticism about what his future might hold. But Jake—with sticks in hand and a beat in his heart—has spent decades proving doubters wrong.
Born and raised in Chester County, PA, Jake is a Philadelphia sports fanatic who found his voice through music. From the moment he held his first pair of drumsticks at age 5, it was clear he had a gift. "I have autism and it's hard for me to do stuff," he says. "But it's easy for me to drum."
“The Snake” and “Tony Prego” were featured by Philadelphia’s 6abc.com Community Journalist Matteo Iadonisi. Click the photo above for the full story.
His parents, ever his champions, nurtured that spark with patience, love, and relentless support. “We knew that music gave him a way to express himself,” his mother recalls. “So we built everything around that.”
But one of the most formative influences came in the form of Anthony “Tony Prego” Cracchiolo — Jake’s longtime music teacher and close friend. A seasoned musician himself, Cracchiolo immediately recognized Jake’s talent and potential. “He didn’t need to be taught how to drum,” Anthony says. “He just needed someone to help him shape what was already there.”
“Tony Prego” became more than a teacher; he became a bridge between Jake and the wider music community. With Tony’s encouragement and connections, Jake began performing in local venues and eventually recording with regional bands, earning a reputation for both his precision and passion.
Now a fixture in the tri-state music scene, Jake continues to thrive, sharing his rhythmic brilliance with audiences who often don’t realize the obstacles he’s overcome. He speaks openly about autism and encourages young musicians to pursue their passions, no matter the odds.
Jake and his brother Brad regularly perform as the Herring Brothers in Exton, Downingtown, and elsewhere. And Jake holds down percussion for The Burners, the notorious classic rock behemoth that roars out of Honey Brook.
As for Jake’s biggest frustration? “Prego won’t give up on The Mets,” he laughs. “Surrounded by Phillies fans, and this guy just can’t take a hint.”
Jake Herring is living proof that with the right support and an unwavering beat, you can march to your own drum—and make the world listen.