Mike Johnston | Gretsch Drums
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Mike Johnston

Gretsch Artist Since: 
2012
Country: 
US
Band or Affiliations: 
Educator/Clinician
Current Kit Setup: 

USA Custom in Antique Maple Gloss
14x20 Bass Drum, 8x12 Rack Tom, 14x14 Floor Tom, 5x14 Prototype Snare, 5x14 Side Snare

Influences: 

Phil Collins, Vinnie Colauta, Dave Weckl, Mark Guiliana

We asked...Why Gretsch?: 

"Gretsch drums are the drums that I grew up listening to, they were the drums that my idols played. I spent so much time listening to my favorite player playing Gretsch drums that they eventually became the standard for me. I also love anything with a sense of history, and Gretsch drums have that in spades."

Advice to Aspiring Musicians: 

"My first advice to most drummers of any age is to find an aspect of drumming that they are truly passionate about. There are so many avenues to take with this instrument from touring, studio work, retail, manufacturing, teaching, being a tech. Try them all out and figure out which one really speaks to your soul. Then follow that path and don’t let ANYONE get in your way!"