Bissonette, Gregg (USA)
ADAMS DRUMMERS FESTIVAL - 05 april 2009
Gregg Bissonette – A Master of Musical Versatility
Gregg Bissonette is best known for his incredible ability to perform across a wide range of musical styles—from the big band jazz of Maynard Ferguson to the hard rock of David Lee Roth to the legendary Spinal Tap.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Gregg earned his Bachelor of Music Education at North Texas State University (now University of North Texas), where he performed for three years in the acclaimed “One O’Clock Jazz Band.” He later joined Maynard Ferguson’s Big Band, touring the world with his brother Matt and recording Live in San Francisco.
After relocating to Los Angeles, Gregg worked with a long list of top artists including James Taylor, Joe Satriani, Gino Vannelli, Tania Maria, Brian Wilson, Ringo Starr, Toto, Ray Charles, Don Henley, Electric Light Orchestra, and more. In 1985, he joined David Lee Roth’s post Van Halen band, recording three albums and touring globally.
Gregg contributed to Santana’s Grammy-winning album Supernatural and played on No Substitutions by Larry Carlton and Steve Lukather, which won “Best Pop Instrumental Album” at the 2002 Grammy Awards. He was also invited to perform at the Buddy Rich Memorial Concert.
He has released the award-winning 2-DVD set Musical Drumming in Different Styles (Hudson Music), along with other instructional videos and two solo CDs: Gregg Bissonette and Submarine, both featuring his brother Matt.
