Giulliana Merello

Gretsch Artist Since: 2024

Country: US

Band or Affiliations: Independent

Current Kit Setup:
USA Custom in Piano Black Gloss
16x22 BD, 7x10 RT, 8x12 RT, 14x14 FT, 14x16 FT, 5x12 SD
6,5x14 Ridgeland SD

Influences:
Steve Jordan, Cindy Blackman

We asked...Why Gretsch?:
"I always knew that Gretsch was one of the most iconic and respected drum brands in the world, but it wasn’t until someone who had a huge influence on my career showed me its true greatness that I really understood it. That moment sparked something in me. From the first time I sat behind a Gretsch kit, I felt like I wasn’t just playing an incredible drum set, I had a responsibility. A responsibility to honor that sound, that history, and that legacy. Every time I sit down to play, I do it with respect, passion, and the mindset that I have to give it my all, to push myself, and to be the best I can be. For me, playing Gretsch isn’t just about choosing a drum kit; it’s a statement of intent."

Advice to aspiring musicians?:
"Believe in Yourself!"

Bio:
Brooklyn, New York (originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina)

Giulliana Merello is a professional drummer and composer based in New York City, with 20 years of experience in the music industry. She is the founder and leader of the all-female percussion project Top Queens and co-creator of Back to Back Beat, a groundbreaking drum duo performed back-to-back alongside Helen De La Rosa.

In 2019, she was the drummer for Concha Buika, performing at renowned jazz festivals worldwide, including SFJAZZ Center and the Grand Théâtre de Genève. From 2020 to 2024, she was the drummer for Karol G, one of the biggest Latin artists in the world, playing in major arenas and stadiums across the globe. During this time, she also participated in high-profile television appearances such as Saturday Night Live, The Today Show, and the Latin Grammys 2020.

Giulliana gained further recognition in 2022 when she was featured on the cover of Modern Drummer, the most influential American drumming magazine. That same year, she made a guest appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers as the featured drummer for the show's "guest week." She was nominated for the Drumeo Awards in the R&B Soul and Hip-Hop category in 2022 and went on to win the award in 2023.

With an extensive touring background, she has completed 11 consecutive U.S., Latin American, and European tours, performing with artists such as Gary Numan, Computer Magic, SIAMÉS Band, Concha Buika, and Karol G.

In 2024, Giulliana collaborated with Camila Cabello and embarked on a European tour supported by Gretsch with her personal project Back to Back Beat. This innovative drumming duo blends various musical styles, deeply rooted in her Latin American heritage, and fuses rhythms to create a unique sonic experience.

Now, in 2025, she takes a new step in her artistic journey with the release of her first solo album, MIM (More is More), further showcasing her versatility as a musician and composer.

Giulliana is endorsed by top industry brands, including Earthworks Mics, Remo, Vic Firth, Zildjian, Gewa Electronic Drums, 64 Audio, and Gretsch Drums