“That great Gretsch sound” is an iconic saying that sums up one of the greatest and oldest drum companies in America. In 1883, German immigrant Friedrich Gretsch opened a small musical instrument shop in Brooklyn, NY making banjos, tambourines, and drums. The Gretsch company grew and quickly became known for their high quality and distinctive sound. In the 1950’s-60’s they developed drums with a three-ply shell, diecast hoops, and precision bearing edges that gave them a unique sound. They were the top choice of many of the greatest jazz drummers of the day. Max Roach, Art Blakey, Elvin Jones, Tony Williams, Louie Bellson, Sonny Payne, Jo Jones are some of the drummers who played Gretsch in the “golden era.”  This period of around 1957-1969 is also commonly referred to as the “Round Badge Era” and drums from this period are highly sought after by collectors today because of their […]

October 2026 Issue