dashboard drum
n. A car dashboard used as a drum.
Other Forms
Examples
2001
Despite our enthusiasm for the trip, keeping it interesting for the duration of the drive proved challenging. We listened to a book on tape. We played dashboard drums in time to the Backstreet Boys and stuffed ourselves with sinfully delicious snacks.
—Robin Spevacek, “Thief River Falls, Minn.,” Star Tribune, January 07, 2001
1996 (earliest)
The album liner notes gives Hahn credit for 'dashboard drumming,' on the song, which relies mostly on a programmed hip-hop style beat.
—Michael Mehle, “Drummer taps into success of Geggy Tah,” Denver Rocky Mountain News, October 18, 1996
Notes
It was 'air guitars' night at the University of Alabama, and students called it the greatest rage since streaking.

'I never saw anything like this,' said awed spectator Rebel Steiner.

The object of an air guitar act is simple: you get on stage and pretend to be playing a musical instrument. Some performers used props such as broom sticks, tennis rackets and cardboard.
—“On the Light Side,” The Associated Press, April 24, 1982
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