Neil LaFortune | Gretsch Drums
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Neil LaFortune

Gretsch Artist Since: 
2021
Band or Affiliations: 
Abba Revisited/Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break/Freelance
Current Kit Setup: 

Broadkaster in White Glass
16x20 Bass Drum
8x10, 8x12 Rack Toms
14x16 Floor Toms
6.5x14 USA Custom Bronze Snare
5x14 Brooklyn Chrome over Brass Snare
6.5x14 USA Custom Wood Snare

Influences: 

Neil Peart, Jeff Porcaro, Phil Collins, Bernard Purdie, Larrie Londin, Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Ferrone, Kenny Aronoff, Tony Williams, Elvin Jones, Max Roach, Art Blakey.

 

We asked...Why Gretsch?: 

In early 1986 I drove around all of the drum shops in Toronto looking for a drum kit, and I played every brand of drum kit I could find, but when I hit the toms of this little USA Custom kit that was set up in a cymbal testing room, I FINALLY played the drums that made the sound that was in my head!
I fell in love with the sound, the look, and later on, the history and now, the Gretsch Family.

 

Advice to Aspiring Musicians: 

Practice and do the work while you are young, have the time, and don’t have as many responsibilities. Set goals, study with people who have what you want. Be self-disciplined and enjoy the process!