Tiki Pasillas

Country: US

Band or Affiliations: Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez, Arturo Sandoval, Herb Alpert

Current Kit Setup:
USA Custom in Peacock Blue Oyster finish
8x8 TT, 9x10 TT, 9x12 TT, 14x14 FT, 18x20 BD, 6.5x14 SD

Influences:
Buddy Rich, Steve Gadd, Vinnie, Gene Krupa, Dennis Chambers, David Garibaldi, Giovanni Hidalgo, Ralph Irizarri , Tito Puente, Dave Weckle, Omar Hakim, John Robinson, Jeff Porcaro

We asked...Why Gretsch?:
I grew up playing a couple Ludwig kits and always knew that Gretsch was around just as long , so I always wondered how it would feel to play Gretsch, especially after listening to Michael Shreveport Santana records. That drum solo and the sound of those drums captivated me! I am truly blessed to be a part of “That Great Gretsch Sound”!

Advice to aspiring musicians?:
Have an open mind and heart, listen and find your own voice and sound!

Bio:
Tiki Pasillas is a Grammy-nominated multi-percussionist, drummer, and vocalist with over 40 years of experience in the music industry. Born on August 17, 1968, in Oakland, California, Tiki was the youngest of five siblings, all of whom played music, but he was the one who took it to a professional level. At 19, he moved to Hollywood to attend Musicians Institute/PIT, where his exceptional skill and versatility across genres quickly earned him a reputation as one of the most talented musicians in town. Throughout his career, Tiki has performed, toured, and recorded extensively, both locally in Southern California and internationally, collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez, The Jimmy Kimmel Show, Arturo Sandoval, and Herb Alpert. His talents have also extended to film and television, with contributions to soundtracks, jingles, and voiceovers, including notable appearances in films like Sing and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. Now based in Long Beach, California, Tiki continues to thrive in his creative career, balancing global recording and performance with his family life alongside his wife, son, and daughter. Known for his versatility and exceptional artistry, Tiki remains a highly respected figure in Latin music, jazz, and beyond.