Van De Sype, Johan

ADAMS DRUMMERS FESTIVAL, 10 April 1995
ADAMS DRUMMERS FESTIVAL, 01 April 1996
ADAMS PERCUSSION FESTIVAL, 01 April 1996
ADAMS DRUM CLINIC, 08 April 2004

In early July 2008, Johan Van de Sijpe passed away at the age of 43. Born in Sijsele, Johan was considered one of the most gifted Belgian drummers of his generation. He began his career in the 1980s with Cerceuil, and later played with Chacok Twice, Bronks and Cowboys & Aliens. He reached his commercial peak with Jo Lemaire, with whom he toured extensively. Johan also played during the reunion shows of St. James. His final band was the cover group Noisy Neighbours.

At Muziekcentrale Adams in Diest, Johan was deeply involved with all things drums. As a cymbal specialist, he knew better than anyone the secrets of hammering and shaping cymbals. His expertise was well known far beyond the Belgian drum scene. Johan was also the author of the cymbal pages on the Adams website (still online). He was a regular guest at Adams events to share his knowledge.