Joochan Im

Gretsch Artist Since: 2015

Country: KR

Band or Affiliations: Professor of Drums - Howon University, Lee Juck Band, John Park Band, Song Young-joo Trio, Song Ha-cheol Quartet, Park Ji-eun Quintet.

Current Kit Setup:
Broadkaster
22 BD, 14 SD, 8 TT, 10 TT, 12 TT, 16 FT

USA Custom
18 BD, 12 TT, 14 FT, 14 SD

Influences:
Lewis Nash, Kenny Washington, Philly Joe Jones, Marcus Gilmore and more for jazz ,
Dennis Chambers, Dave Weckl , Dan Needham, Chris Coleman, Chis Dave and more for fusion and funk, pop

Bio:
Joochan Im is a drummer and composer who has built a unique musical world by transcending genre boundaries. With a deep understanding of classic jazz, he creates compositions that reflect contemporary sensibilities, offering a distinctive sound that bridges tradition and modernity. He embodies the roles of performer, composer, and educator, constantly evolving his sound based on the rich musical experiences he has gained through years of work in both Korea and the United States.

Joochan Im laid his musical foundation at Seoul Institute of the Arts, and sought to expand his horizons through music studies abroad. In 2010, he earned a bachelor’s degree from The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York, where he delved deeply into the essence of jazz and modern expression, interacting with musicians from diverse cultural backgrounds. He further honed his expertise in music theory, composition, and performance while pursuing a master’s degree at Queens College, City University of New York. These experiences continue to influence his musical language today.

As a composer, Joochan Im aims to create music that emotionally connects performers and audiences, rather than merely crafting formal compositions. His works are rooted in jazz, yet absorb and reinterpret elements from a wide range of genres, including classical, rock, soul, Latin, and electronic, to create his own musical language. He released a solo album titled ‘Mother’s Cup’, which received critical acclaim from both the press and fellow musicians. This album goes beyond being just a drummer’s work; it showcases his ability to compose and lead music in its entirety.

As a performer, Joochan Im has collaborated with a wide range of artists and bands, continuing his versatile musical journey. He has worked with musicians from various genres, including Song Young-joo, La Ventana, Paul Kirby, Wooongsan, Lee Jeok, John Park, Jeokjae, Kim Bum-soo, Jung Yup, Ali, Im Heon-il, Song Ha-chul Quartet, and others. His drumming spans jazz, pop, R&B, fusion, and rock, allowing him to navigate through diverse musical worlds. On various stages and sessions, he has contributed to making music more dimensional with his delicate touch and dynamic energy.

His performance history is equally diverse. Joochan Im has solidified his presence as a drummer on major stages such as the Seoul Jazz Festival, Seoul Forest Jazz Festival, Daegu Jazz Festival, and Chilpo Jazz Festival, as well as international festivals. His improvisational sense and organic sound control in live performances have earned him deep trust from fellow musicians.

As an educator, Joochan Im is passionate about mentoring the next generation. Currently, he serves as a full-time professor at Howon University, where he teaches students not only technical skills but also how to interpret and create music. He respects each student’s individuality and potential, while continuously researching how to cultivate skills and sensibilities that will allow them to succeed on the international stage.

Joochan Im continues to write new music, prepare for collaborations with new artists, and engage with the next generation of musicians. His music world, as a drummer, composer, and educator, continues to grow richer and deeper.