Famous Drummers and Their Drum Kits

Over the course of the past 60 years, many famous drummers have chosen a particular brand to accompany their band’s playing style, often endorsing the particular brand throughout their careers. Drummers like Keith Moon, Phil Collins and Ringo Starr have famously endorsed drum kits that they have played on, which in-turn have become a defining feature of their music.

Ringo Starr

Source: drummerworld.com

As far as famous drummers go, Ringo Starr is probably at the top of the list. 

Being one of the first true celebrity drummers, Starr chose Ludwig in the early days. Which is popular set that has gone down in history as probably the most famous drum kit of all time. 

The black oyster pearl kit that was famously used during the Beatles’ hey-day proved a simple yet effective kit for Ringos back-beat drumming style, which is still widely praised and emulated to this day.

Phil Collins

Source: theguardian.com

One of the millions of people Ringo Starr influenced is none other than Phil Collins. 

Collins went with a classic Gretsch kit combined with Sabian cymbals. Not only did the set look great, but it suited the progressive rock style of Genesis and some of the drum-heavy numbers released during his solo career. 

As well as using a classic custom Pearl DLX Birch kit, Collins would occasionally use various electronic kits from the Simmons brand. Yet to this day, he is mainly known for his love of Gretsch drum kits, and various signature product were released including the Phil Collins Special 14” and regular 14x14” snare drums.

Keith Moon

Source: rollingstone.com

Keith Moon is probably more famous for destroying his kits than anyone else!

Despite this apparent recklessness, he could actually be described as a thoughtful drummer with great insight into what was needed to give The Who that distinct sound.  He will always be remembered for his unique style and often self-destructive behavior.

In the early years, Moon employed a Premier outfit 55 kit to bring along to early gigs and rehearsal sessions, while later moving on to a number of Ludwig and Zicko kits to further hone his style of playing.

The most famous of his kits has to include the Premier kits, which were highly customised and personalised to his style. Moon later became a full endorser of Premier kits, and stayed with the brand for the rest of his career. He used a 16-drum kit for recordings of the band’s later albums and took the kit on their final tour. Moon frequently used 14x6” (which were reinforced with steel so he could stand on the kit) and 5 ½” snare drums.

Obviously, when you’re choosing a brand of drums, it can be helpful to think about your own playing style. Take note of what the world’s greatest drummers use and compare your own style to there’s when you’re making your choice. The team at Drummers Paradise can help you out and advise you about the best brand for your requirements, and our great range of kicks, toms and snare drums will ensure you get the sounds you are after, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned drummer!