John Blease | Gretsch Drums
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John Blease

Gretsch Artist Since: 
2018
Country: 
Scotland/UK
Band or Affiliations: 
Robert Plant, Seal, Paolo Nutini, Goldie, Heritage Orchestra
Current Kit Setup: 

Gretsch Broadkaster in Black Glass
22x14, 12x8, 13x9, 14x14, 16x16, 14x6.5 snare

Influences: 

"Jim Keltner, Matt Chamberlain, Elvin Jones, Paul Motian, Steve Gadd, John Bonham, Jim Black, Mel Lewis, Tony Williams, Jay Bellerose, Paul Clarvis, Ed Thigpen, Dave Hassell, James Brown’s drummers, Levon Helm, Vernell Fournier, Idris Muhammad and many more as well as food, travel and all that life has to offer!"

We asked...Why Gretsch?: 

"Many of my idols such as Tony Williams, Philly Joe Jones, Mel Lewis and Elvin Jones all played Gretsch and I grew up marvelling at their sound. Still do! When I moved to London I saved up and bought a 30’s round-badge snare drum with “stick-chopper” hoops I’d fallen in love with on Denmark Street. Gretsch drums have always had a sound, feel and identity. I’m proud to be playing these wonderful instruments."

Advice to Aspiring Musicians: 

"Be open minded and work hard. Say yes to everything and soak it all up like a sponge. Listen to loads of music, and most importantly, have fun playing the best instrument in the world!"