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Gregg Bissonette (born June 9, 1959[citation needed]) is an American rock drummer and vocalist. He is the brother of bassist Matt Bissonette, with whom he frequently collaborates. Bissonette is known for playing and recording many different styles of music. That experience led to him winning the 2023 Modern Drummer readers poll for best "All Around" drummer and also winning their 2015 category of best "Studio" drummer. He has played on albums by dozens of recording artists, including David Lee Roth's first three solo albums and has toured as part of Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band since 2008.

Career

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One of Bissonette's first recordings was on jazz trumpet legend Maynard Ferguson's Live from San Francisco in 1983. Brother Matt was also in the band and on the recording. He later appeared on Brandon Fields' The Other Side of the Story in 1985. It featured David Garfield on keyboards. A few years later Bissonette would start playing shows with Fields, Garfield and Steve Lukather on guitar and with John Peña on bass as Los Lobotomys. These shows took place at the Baked Potato, a jazz club and restaurant in Los Angeles, California, playing rock, Latin, and jazz.

Bissonette got his big break joining former Van Halen frontman David Lee Roth. The band included guitarist Steve Vai and future Mr. Big bassist Billy Sheehan. During 1985–1992 Gregg appeared on all three US Billboard 200 hit albums Eat 'Em and Smile (no.4) Skyscraper (no.6) and A Little Ain't Enough (no.18)[1] and the subsequent world tours.[2]

In 1990 and 1993, Bissonette released drum videos Private Lesson[3] and Playing, Reading & Soloing with a Band,[4][5] respectively. Private Lesson covers a variety of topics including double bass drumming, rudiments (with a backsticking technique from the snare drum solo Tornado[6] by Mitch Markovich), playing with a metronome and brushes.

From 1994 to 2004, he played on the musical interludes for every episode for the TV show Friends.[7]

In late 1995, Toto was beginning their Tambu tour when Simon Phillips developed back problems. Phillips asked Bissonette to fill in for him during the tour's first leg.

He played drums on one track on Santana's album Supernatural (1999).[8] In 2007, he recorded on the album La La Land by Daniel Glen Timms.[9]

In 2001 he was set to play on the Electric Light Orchestra's Zoom Tour Live with his brother Matt on Bass. The tour was cancelled after two televised performances: one at the CBS Television City on PBS and one on VH1 Storytellers.

Bissonette started playing double drums with Ringo Starr in 2003 in his band Ringo and The Roundheads. This band also included his brother Matt Bissonette on bass. Gregg has been a member of Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band since. (2008–present)

Bissonette in 2018

After appearing on a 2007 album by Spinal Tap's Harry Shearer, Bissonette became the drummer for the parody heavy metal band Spinal Tap for live dates and on their 2009 album Back from the Dead. Credited under his own name on the actual album, when Bissonette appeared with the group live (including at the 2009 Glastonbury Festival), he drummed under the name Scott "Skippy" Scuffleton. In keeping with the band's tradition of their (fictional) drummers dying from bizarre causes, Scuffleton was later said to have sneezed himself to death.

In 2013 Bissonette released his 3rd solo album where he plays drums and sings called Warning Will Robinson. This album also features his brother Matt on bass and backing vocals.

Bissonette played on Steve Lukather's 2021 album, I Found the Sun Again. With eight songs on the album, he played seven songs while Ringo Starr played one.

2021 was the release of The Reddcoats debut album. The album features Gregg and Matt Bissonette on drums and bass with Andy Timmons on guitar, Wally Minko on keyboards and Mike Medina on percussion.

Also in 2021 was the release of the debut album of The Red Locusts, again with Gregg on drums and his brother Matt on bass with Rick Springfield on guitar and vocals.

Bissonette can be heard on a number of rock instrumental and progressive rock albums, including The Extremist by Joe Satriani, Temporal by Shadrane, Deep Forest by Deep Forest, Bass Invader by Martin Motnik, Inner Galactic Fusion Experience by Richie Kotzen, Shadow King by Steve Fister, Revolution Road by Rocket Scientists, In the Eye of Time by Vox Tempus, Bug Alley[10] and the soundtrack to the movie The Endless Summer II by Gary Hoey.[11]

In 2012, Bissonette played drums on several tracks featured on Docker's Guild's album The Mystic Technocracy: Season 1: The Age of Ignorance, the progressive rock space opera masterminded by the French-American musician, teacher, and ethno-musicologist Douglas R. Docker.[12]

In 2024 Gregg and his brother Matt's band The Reddcoats released its second album, Reddcoats 2, which also features Andy Timmons, Ron Pedley, Wally Minko and Mike Medina. The album is 1/2 instrumental and 1/2 with Matt Bissonette on vocals. The album is a mix of pop, funk, fusion and Beatles influenced tunes throughout.

Discography

[edit]
Artist Album Year
Maynard Ferguson Live from San Francisco 1983
Yarborough and Peoples Heart Beats 1983
Brandon Fields The Other Side of the Story 1985
David Lee Roth Eat 'Em and Smile 1986
Keiko Matsui A Drop of Water 1987
David Lee Roth Skyscraper 1988
Pat Kelly Views of the Future 1989
Frank Gambale Thunder from Down Under 1990
David Lee Roth A Little Ain't Enough 1991
Joe Satriani The Extremist 1992
Steve Bailey Dichotomy 1992
Tab Benoit Nice and Warm 1999
L.A. Blues Authority L.A. Blues Authority 1992
Stan Bush Every Beat of My Heart 1992
Lanny Cordolla Of Riffs and Symphonies 1992
Ann Lewis Rockadelic 1993
Robin Zander Robin Zander 1993
Joe Satriani Time Machine 1993
Circus of Power Magic & Madness 1993
Vasco Rossi Gli Spari Sopra 1993
Brandon Fields Brandon Fields 1994
Gary Hoey The Endless Summer II soundtrack 1994
Milos Dodo Dolezal/Guy Mann-Dude Milos Dodo Dolezal/Guy Mann-Dude 1994
Joe Satriani Joe Satriani 1995
Richie Kotzen Inner Galactic Fusion Experience 1995
Wayne Watson Field of Souls 1995
Bryan Duncan Christmas Is Jesus 1995
Jason Becker Perspective 1995
Andy Summers Synaesthesia 1995
Mustard Seeds Mustard seeds 1996
Enrique Iglesias Enrique Iglesias 1996
Larry Carlton The Gift 1996
Steve Vai Fire Garden 1996
Ron Kenoly Welcome Home 1996
Gary Hoey Bug Alley 1996
Steve Fister Shadow King 1997
Steve Lukather Luke 1997
Pat Boone In a Metal Mood:
No More Mr. Nice Guy 		1997
Kalapana Captain Santa Island Music 1997
Andy Summers Last Dance of Mr. X 1997
Michael Thompson The World According to M.T. 1998
Gregg Bissonette Gregg Bissonette 1998
Paul Anka A Body of Work 1998
Bette Midler Bathhouse Betty 1998
Luis Villegas Cafe Ole 1998
Matt Bissonette Spot 1998
Bass Extremes Cookbook 1998
Kombo Big Blast 1999
Steve Vai The Ultra Zone 1999
Santana Super Natural 1999
Carl Verheyen Slingshot 1999
Matt Bissonette Spot 2 2000
Duran Duran Pop Trash 2000
Don Henley Inside Job 2000
David Benoit Great Composers of Jazz 2000
Jann Arden Blood Red Cherry 2000
Gregg Bissonette Submarine 2000
Crush Velvet Cowboys Crush Velvet Cowboys 2000
Gordon Goodwin Swingin for the Fences 2001
Larry Carlton
& Steve Lukather 		No Substitutions: Live in Osaka 2001
Steve Mindick So It Begins 2001
Lana Lane Covers Collection 2002
Jughead Jughead 2002
Rico Garcia The Beginning 2002
Lana Lane Winter Sessions 2003
Eric Norlander Music Machine 2003
Engelbert Humperdinck Definition of Love 2003
Under-Radio Bad Heir Ways 2003
Steve Lukather Santamental 2003
Dan Ramsey Gentle Giants 2003
Robert Downey Jr. The Futurist 2004
Chester E. Smith Monster Groove Party 2004
Raizing Lazarus Raising Lazarus 2004
Rocket Richotte Salute 2004
Vox Tempus In the Eye of Time 2004
Deep Forest Deep Forest 2004
Matt Bissonette Oh No! Bass Solo! 2004
Owen Kortz Owen Kortz 2004
Ryan Cabrera Take it all 2004
Richard Marx My Own Best Enemy 2004
Matt Swindells Matt Swindells 2004
Matt Swindells Matt Swindells Here 2005
Ozzy Osbourne Under Cover 2005
Ten by Tuesday Tearing Down the Walls 2005
Dan Ramsey Everybody's Songs But My Own 2005
Martin Motnik Bass Invader 2005
Brian Setzer Dig That Crazy Christmas 2005
Steve Vai Real Illusions: Reflections 2005
Ray Charles Genius and Friends 2005
Brian Ghiglia Mystery 2006
Dave C. Norman Stratosfear 2006
Santo Garofalo Further Up and Further In 2006
Phil Soussan Vibrate 2006
Eric Norlander Hommage Symphoniqe 2006
Michele Pillar I Hear Angels Calling 2006
Globus Epicon 2006
Dave Rogers Blow Your Mind 2006
Lou Rawls Lou Rawls Christmas 2006
Various Artists 80's Metal Tribute to Van Halen 2006
Rocket Scientists Revolution Road 2006
Harry Shearer Songs Pointed and Pointless 2007
Katharine McPhee Katharine McPhee 2007
Sasha & Shawna Siren 2007
Mick Abrahams Rattlesnake Shake Guitar:
Music of Peter Green 		2007
Code The Enemy Within 2007
Cal Leonard
and His Orchestra 		Mr. Irrelevant 2007
Daniel Glen Timms La La Land[9] 2007
Keith Emerson Band:
featuring Marc Bonilla 		Keith Emerson Band 2008
Overland Breakaway 2008
Chris Boardman Midtown Moves 2008
Mustard Seeds Mustard Seeds 3 2008
Marco Cardona Instrumentality 2008
Shadrane Temporal 2008
Dick Wagner Full Meltdown 2009
Colin Hay American Sunshine 2009
Spinal Tap Back from the Dead 2009
Norm Stockton Tea in the Typhoon 2009
Jason Sadites Weve 2009
Randy Jacobs The Return of Randy Dynamite 2010
Grand Illusion Brand New world 2010
Ralf Jung The Art of Pop 2010
The Doobie Brothers World Gone Crazy 2010
Mark Nilan Jr. Hands On 2010
Ringo Starr Live at the Greek Theatre 2008 2010
Jet Velvet Jet Velvet 2010
Dave C. Norman Higher Ground 2011
Cindy Horstman
and Friends 		Fretless 2011
Abby Cubey & Margarita Devil Dressed in Lace 2011
Barry Manilow 15 Minutes 2011
Globus Break From This World 2011
Mari Hamada Legenda 2012
Docker's Guild The Mystic Techocracy:
Season 1: The Age of Ignorance 		2012
Gianni De Chellis Bondage 2013
Gregg Bissonette Warning Will Robinson 2013
Ringo Starr Postcards From Paradise 2015
Mari Hamada Mission 2016
Ringo Starr Give More Love 2017
Mari Hamada Gracia 2018
Norm Stockton Grooves & Sushi 2019
Charly Zurcher Eleven 2020
Steve Lukather I Found The Sun Again 2021
The Red Locusts The Red Locusts 2021
Globus Cinematica 2022
Bass Extremes S'Low Down 2022
Mari Hamada Soar 2023
Marty Friedman Drama 2024
Matt Bissonette Common Road 2025
Mr Scary Haunted 2025
Jason Raso 777 2025
[13][14][15]

Television soundtracks

[edit]

Movie soundtracks

[edit]

Gregg Bissonette's movie soundtrack credits include the following:

See also

[edit]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Gregg Bissonette

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Gregg Bissonette (born June 9, 1959) is an American Grammy Award-winning drummer and percussionist renowned for his versatility across rock, jazz, pop, and fusion genres, having performed and recorded with numerous high-profile artists including Ringo Starr, David Lee Roth, Don Henley, Carlos Santana, Ray Charles, and Duran Duran. Born in Detroit, Michigan, to a musical family—his father Bud was a drummer, his mother Phyllis played piano and vibraphone, and his brother Matt is a bassist—Bissonette began drumming at age five and received classical training on timpani and mallets. After attending the on scholarship and studying at North Texas State University, Bissonette moved to in the early , quickly establishing himself as a top through collaborations with leader and rock acts like Toto and ELO. His breakthrough came with David Lee Roth's 1986 solo tour and album , followed by work on Grammy-winning projects such as and Steve Lukather's 2001 album No Substitutions, which earned Best Pop Instrumental Album in 2002. Since 2008, he has been a touring and recording member of Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band, contributing to performances and releases over the past 17 years. Bissonette's solo discography includes jazz-influenced albums like his self-titled debut (1998), (2000), and Warning Will Robinson (2013), alongside instructional materials such as the DVD Musical Drumming in Different Styles. Endorsed by brands including Dixon Drums, , and sticks, he has been voted the best all-around drummer in the Readers' Poll multiple times, including in 2023, and was nominated again in 2025. In 2020, he launched the Gregg Bissonette Drum School through Drum Channel, offering online education in various styles from to hip-hop.

Early Life and Education

Childhood and Family Background

Gregg Bissonette was born on June 9, 1959, in , , into a musically inclined family that profoundly shaped his early interest in percussion. His father, Bud Bissonette, was a and who provided the household's first musical environment, while his mother Phyllis played and . His younger brother, Matt Bissonette (born July 25, 1961), would later become a professional with whom Gregg frequently collaborated from their youth onward. The family, including their sister Kathy who also pursued music-related work, resided in Warren, a suburb, where music was a central part of daily life. Bissonette's initial exposure to drums came through his father's kit, on which he began experimenting around age five, with Bud serving as his first informal teacher. This early play quickly evolved into structured learning; at age ten, he started private rudimental lessons with local instructor Bob Yarborough in Warren. By eleven, Yarborough introduced him to the full set, marking Bissonette's transition to ensemble playing. At fourteen, inspired by the vibrant music scene—including influences and local ensembles—he took set lessons from prominent area drummers Myron MacDonald and Mark Bertacchi, while forming his first band, Today's People, with Matt on bass. During his high school years at Warren Mott High School, where he graduated in 1977, Bissonette's passion for diverse genres deepened through participation in the school's under director Bill Baker, blending with rock elements from local performances and radio exposure. At age 15, he attended the summer program on scholarship. These experiences, rooted in the energetic Detroit-area community, honed his versatility across jazz and rock styles. This foundation led him to pursue formal musical training at North Texas State University.

Musical Training at North Texas State University

Bissonette attended (now the ) in , during the late 1970s, earning a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1981. The university's studies program, renowned for its intensive curriculum, provided a foundational environment for his development as a drummer, emphasizing ensemble performance and technical proficiency. As a student, Bissonette joined the One O'Clock Lab Band, the program's flagship jazz ensemble, under the direction of Leon Breeden, serving as its drummer for three years. This , composed of top student musicians, rehearsed daily and performed complex arrangements, fostering Bissonette's skills in ensemble cohesion and adaptability. His participation honed his ability to sight-read challenging charts and navigate diverse styles, from swing to contemporary . Bissonette contributed to two landmark recordings with the One O'Clock Lab Band: Lab '80 (1980) and Lab '81 (1981), both issued under Breeden's leadership. On Lab '80, he drove the rhythm section across tracks like "Yes Or No" (arr. Steve Owen), featuring and solos, and "Winds of " (Mario Cruz), showcasing the band's dynamic brass and reed interplay. In Lab '81, his contributions included a prominent solo on "Contraflow," highlighting his improvisational prowess alongside saxophonist Jim Snidero and saxophonist Chip McNeill. These albums captured the band's precision and energy, serving as key artifacts of Bissonette's student-era growth and equipping him with the versatility essential for transitioning to professional work.

Professional Career

Big Band and Jazz Beginnings

Following his graduation from the in 1982, where he had served as for the renowned One O'Clock Lab Band, Gregg Bissonette transitioned swiftly into professional circles. This university experience provided a crucial launchpad, exposing him to high-level arrangements and preparing him for the demands of professional ensemble work. In 1982, at age 23, Bissonette realized a longtime aspiration by joining Maynard Ferguson's as its , with his brother Matt already contributing on bass. Bissonette's tenure with Ferguson's ensemble marked his entry into the professional jazz scene, emphasizing big band versatility and high-energy performances. The band undertook extensive world tours over the next two years, showcasing Bissonette's ability to drive complex rhythmic foundations in live settings. Key appearances included the Mayport Jazz Festival in Jacksonville, Florida, in October 1982, where the group's explosive style captivated audiences at major venues and events. These early 1980s outings further highlighted his growing command of ensemble dynamics, blending precise section playing with improvisational flair essential to Ferguson's trumpet-led spectacles. During this phase, Bissonette contributed to notable recordings that captured the band's vitality. He played percussion on select tracks of Ferguson's Storm album, recorded live-to-two-track at Ocean Way Recorders in Hollywood, California, in June 1982. His full drumming role shone on the live album Live from San Francisco, released in 1983, which documented a performance featuring the siblings' tight rhythm section supporting Ferguson's high-note pyrotechnics. These efforts underscored Bissonette's technical maturation in jazz contexts, particularly in navigating fast tempos, swing feels, and interactive solos within a big band framework. By his early twenties, Bissonette had earned initial recognition for his prowess, including an introduction to magazine via a 1982 letter on Ferguson's stationery, signaling his rising profile in drumming circles. This period also saw the beginnings of his endorsement relationships, such as with drumsticks, affirming his status as a promising talent in percussion at a young age.

Rock and Mainstream Collaborations

Bissonette's transition from jazz to rock was facilitated by his versatile background in big band settings, allowing him to adapt seamlessly to high-energy rock ensembles. In 1986, he joined David Lee Roth's solo band following Roth's departure from , serving as drummer from 1986 to 1989. He contributed drums to Roth's debut solo album (1986), which featured a powerhouse lineup including guitarist and bassist , and the follow-up (1988), both achieving multi-platinum status. The band toured extensively in support, with highlights including high-profile shows like the 1986 tour and international dates in 1988–1989, where Bissonette's dynamic playing and drum solos showcased his technical prowess. In 2008, Bissonette joined Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band, a rotating supergroup of artists, marking a significant mainstream collaboration that extended through multiple tours in the late 2000s and 2010s. He participated in editions such as the 2008, 2010, and subsequent lineups, performing hits from Starr's catalog alongside songs from fellow All-Starrs like and , with tours spanning , , and beyond. Bissonette's role included not only drumming but also lead and backing vocals on select tracks, enhancing the band's nostalgic, jam-oriented live energy. Bissonette's involvement with Toto began in the 1990s, where he provided drumming support for live performances starting with a 1995 European tour filling in for Simon Phillips during the Tambu promotion. This led to ongoing contributions to the band's live shows in subsequent years, including select dates in the 2000s, helping maintain Toto's signature fusion-rock sound amid lineup changes following Jeff Porcaro's 1992 death. Throughout these rock endeavors, Bissonette's vocal talents added depth to his performances, particularly in harmonious rock contexts with Roth and Starr. His rising profile in the mid-1980s culminated in a feature as an emerging talent in magazine's January 1987 issue, highlighting his "rising star" status amid the Roth collaborations.

Session and Touring Work

Bissonette has established himself as one of the most sought-after session drummers in the industry, amassing hundreds of recording credits across genres from the to the present day. His freelance work spans rock, pop, jazz, and more, with notable contributions including drums on the 2014 re-issue of Plácido Domingo's album Amore Infinito: Songs Inspired by the Poems of John Paul II, featuring and the London Symphony Orchestra. Similarly, he provided percussion for ' 2011 album In Your Dreams, supporting the singer's comeback release with his versatile rhythms. These sessions highlight his adaptability, often involving quick integration into established productions for high-profile artists. In addition to studio commitments, Bissonette has maintained an active touring schedule, particularly in the 2000s, balancing live performances with his recording demands. He served as the for James Taylor's 2002 tour, backing the folk icon alongside bassist Jimmy Johnson and keyboardist Larry Goldings during a series of North American dates that showcased his solid, supportive style. Around the same period, he joined for select live appearances, including a 2012 collaboration with Toto where he drummed on a cover of "," demonstrating his ability to blend into ensemble settings on stage. His touring roles often emphasize reliability and groove, allowing him to support artists without overshadowing their material. Bissonette's recent session work continues to reflect his enduring demand, with contributions to contemporary releases such as Terry Reid's track "" on the 2023 tribute album Reimagined, co-featuring Fernando Perdomo, and Steve Lukather's 2021 effort , where he played on two tracks. Up to 2025, he has appeared on projects like the collaborative single "The Only Way Out Is Through" by Aliza Hava, maintaining his pace amid ongoing tours. As a Los Angeles-based freelancer, Bissonette manages his dual career through strategic booking, prioritizing studio efficiency—often completing sessions in a single day—while reserving touring for long-term alignments that align with his family life and educational pursuits. This approach has sustained his reputation as a go-to for both recorded and live endeavors.

Contributions to Film and Television

Film Soundtrack Recordings

Gregg Bissonette has made significant contributions to film soundtracks as a session drummer, providing percussion for a variety of cinematic scores across genres from to action. His work often involves delivering dynamic, precise drumming that enhances emotional and action-driven sequences, drawing on his versatile style honed through extensive session experience. One of his notable early contributions came with the 1999 comedy American Pie, where Bissonette performed drums on tracks from the original motion picture soundtrack, supporting the film's upbeat, youthful energy through rhythmic grooves that complemented the ensemble cast's comedic timing. He reprised this role in the 2001 sequel , adding percussion layers to maintain the series' lighthearted musical vibe. In 2000, Bissonette drummed on the soundtrack for the mockumentary , contributing to composer CJ Vanston's score, including the end credits track, where his playing underscored the film's satirical portrayal of dog show enthusiasts with subtle, humorous rhythms. Bissonette's involvement in animated features expanded with the 2003 Pixar film , composed by , where he provided drums alongside Rick Baptist on trumpet for key tracks like "Nemo Egg (Main Title)" and "First Day," helping to evoke the underwater adventure's whimsical and tense moments through fluid, supportive beats. His action-oriented work includes the 2004 score for , directed by , in which Bissonette drummed on multiple cues alongside and Curt Bisquera, delivering intense percussion for chase and fight sequences under composer John Powell's direction. Later in the decade, he contributed drums to the 2006 comedy The Devil Wears Prada, enhancing Theodore Shapiro's score with energetic rhythms that mirrored the film's fast-paced fashion world satire. Throughout the 1990s and 2010s, Bissonette collaborated with prominent composers on film projects, including on live performances and scores that influenced his approach to orchestral percussion in cinematic contexts.

Television Soundtrack Recordings

Gregg Bissonette has made significant contributions to television soundtracks through his versatile drumming on both episodic series and live broadcast performances. His work often involves providing musical interludes and cues tailored to the fast-paced demands of TV production, where sessions emphasize adaptability and efficiency to meet tight episode schedules. One of his most notable involvements was on the Friends, where he supplied drums for the musical interludes in every episode from 1994 to 2004, contributing to the show's iconic comedic timing and emotional underscores. This role highlighted his ability to deliver precise, energetic performances that complemented the series' lighthearted tone, and he continues to receive royalties from the soundtrack. Bissonette's drumming also features prominently in animated series, including and American Dad!, where he records interludes for ongoing episodes as of the 2020s. These contributions underscore his skill in blending humor-driven rhythms with dynamic scoring, supporting the shows' satirical style across hundreds of installments. He has also contributed to other TV soundtracks such as and Wheel of Fortune. Unlike feature films, which allow for more layered post-production, Bissonette's TV engagements often require quicker turnaround times, with recordings completed in sessions as short as two hours to accommodate weekly episode cycles, though his approach remains consistent in prioritizing producer vision and multiple sonic options.

Solo Career and Educational Roles

Solo Albums and Releases

Gregg Bissonette's debut solo album, titled Gregg Bissonette, was released in 1998 on . Produced primarily by his brother Matt Bissonette, the album features a fusion-oriented sound blending , rock, and progressive elements, with Gregg handling drums, percussion, and some keyboards. It showcases his versatile drumming through tracks like "Common Road," which includes guitar work from , and "Teenage Immigrant" featuring on guitar, highlighting intricate rhythms and dynamic interplay. Other notable contributions come from guitarists such as on "Dr. Toulak" and on "Wildwood," emphasizing Bissonette's ability to adapt to various stylistic demands. The album received positive reception for its technical prowess and guest lineup, with reviewers praising its energetic fusion grooves and Bissonette's precise, musical approach to drumming. In 2000, Bissonette released Submarine on Favored Nations Entertainment, a label founded by . This instrumental album explores underwater-themed motifs through diverse genres including , Latin, , and , produced by Matt Bissonette with engineering by Doug Bossi. Tracks such as the opener "Marbles" feature on guitar, while "Submarine" itself includes contributions from , and "Lava" spotlights . The production emphasizes high-fidelity sound capture of subtle percussion details, creating an immersive listening experience. Critics lauded the album for its stylistic variety and Bissonette's innovative drumming, noting how it demonstrates his finesse across complex time signatures and textures without overpowering the ensemble. Bissonette's third solo album, Warning Will Robinson, arrived in 2013 as a self-released double CD. Co-written and produced by Matt Bissonette, it marks a shift toward vocal pop-rock with electronic and influences, where Gregg takes lead vocals on several tracks alongside his drumming. Guests include George Lynch and Doug Bossi on guitars, with a bonus minus-drums disc for play-along practice. The album's themes blend personal reflection and high-energy anthems, as in the title track referencing the 1960s TV series . Reception highlighted its accessibility and Bissonette's confident singing, appreciating the modern production and rhythmic drive that bridges his fusion roots with contemporary sounds.

Teaching Positions and Instructional Contributions

Gregg Bissonette has established himself as a prominent educator in percussion, leveraging his professional experience across genres to mentor students at academic institutions. Since the 2000s, he has served as a percussion instructor in the faculty of Berklee College of Music's percussion department, delivering lessons on drumset techniques, reading, and soloing that emphasize musical versatility. His role at Berklee includes guiding students through practical applications of groove and stylistic adaptation, informed by his collaborations with artists such as and Santana. At , Bissonette holds an ongoing position as adjunct faculty and for percussion as of 2025, where he conducts classes and master sessions focused on drumset proficiency across big band, rock, Latin, and blues styles. Students praise his approachable teaching style, which prioritizes individual progress and real-world musicianship, as evidenced by testimonials from his CLU drum students who credit him with advancing their technical and creative skills. Bissonette's instructional contributions extend to multimedia resources that promote drumming versatility and genre-switching. His award-winning two-disc DVD set Musical Drumming in Different Styles, released by Hudson Music in 2006, features over four hours of content including play-along tracks in , Afro-Cuban, , , fusion, and rock, with exercises, transcriptions, and full song performances to illustrate supportive drum parts. He has also authored companion materials for Private Lesson through Alfred Music, offering video demonstrations of techniques, playing, and dynamic control, accompanied by a of transcriptions and exercises for total immersion learning. In addition to DVDs, Bissonette contributes video lessons to the Drumset Method series by Kennan Wylie, providing beginner-to-intermediate guidance on drum setup, beats, limb independence, and stylistic exercises in Books 1 and 2 of the complete edition. These methods highlight practical genre transitions, such as from rock shuffles to Latin rhythms, to build adaptable musicianship. In 2020, Bissonette launched the Gregg Bissonette Drum School through Drum Channel, an online platform offering courses on classic beats, vocabulary, song form, and more, aimed at developing musicality and professional skills for drummers of all levels. Bissonette further shares his expertise through masterclasses and clinics, including a free drum clinic at the College of Music on February 22, 2024, where he demonstrated versatile grooves and fills drawn from his session work.

Drumming Style and Equipment

Signature Techniques and Influences

Gregg Bissonette's drumming style is renowned for its exceptional versatility, seamlessly blending elements from , rock, and fusion genres, allowing him to adapt to diverse musical contexts throughout his career. Influenced heavily by legendary drummers such as for intricate swing patterns and for powerful rock grooves, Bissonette developed a technique that emphasizes precision and musicality over sheer speed. His early work with Maynard Ferguson's in the 1980s showcased swing feels rooted in Rich's influence, featuring light, propulsive work and phrasing that maintained a buoyant pulse even in high-energy charts. In rock settings, Bissonette employs drum patterns inspired by Bonham's thunderous footwork, delivering driving rhythms with controlled aggression, as evident in his contributions to David Lee Roth's 1980s albums where he layered complex fills over straight-ahead beats. This fusion approach extends to hybrid techniques, such as incorporating into backbeats, creating grooves that bridge improvisational freedom with structural solidity—hallmarks of his fusion work. A distinctive element of his style is the integration of vocals with drumming, particularly in live performances where he sings while maintaining intricate limb independence, a skill honed through years of multitasking in ensemble settings like Ringo Starr's All Starr Band. Bissonette's style has evolved through the to incorporate adaptive methods for modern production and , reflecting a shift toward digital tools and online instruction while preserving his core versatility. By 2025, his approach includes simplified yet effective patterns for virtual play-alongs and clinics, emphasizing groove accessibility across genres to inspire emerging drummers amid streaming and remote collaboration trends. This evolution underscores his commitment to blending traditional techniques with contemporary demands, ensuring his influence remains relevant in an increasingly hybrid landscape.

Drum Kit Setup and Endorsements

Gregg Bissonette primarily uses a Dixon Artisan series drum kit as his standard setup, featuring a 24-inch bass drum, 12-inch rack tom, 16-inch floor tom, and 14-inch snare, often finished in custom wraps like deep purple sparkle for visual impact during performances. His signature snare drum, the Dixon Artisan 14 x 6.5-inch steel model with a black nickel-plated shell, is designed specifically for his recording and touring needs, incorporating a 1mm steel shell, Remo UT Coated batter head, and Remo UT Clear resonant head for a versatile, punchy tone suitable across genres. Bissonette pairs this with Sabian cymbals from the Artisan series, including 15-inch hi-hats, 18-inch crashes, and a 22-inch ride, selected for their responsive projection and clarity in both studio and live settings. For hardware and accessories, Bissonette relies on DW 9000 series pedals for their durability and adjustability, allowing precise control during extended sessions, while provides his signature hickory drumsticks, model 5B with a tip, which he has endorsed since the for their balance and rebound. Drumheads are consistently , favoring Coated Ambassador batters on and snares for warmth and models on bass drums to enhance low-end response without overpowering mixes. Bissonette adapts his kit configuration for specific contexts, opting for expanded setups with additional and percussion for engagements to accommodate complex charts, whereas session work often features a streamlined four-piece arrangement to fit tight studio spaces and quick setups. Bissonette's long-standing endorsements reflect his professional reliability, including Dixon Drums since 2014 for their boutique craftsmanship, since his 2019 switch from Zildjian, and for heads since the early 1980s. Other key partnerships encompass sticks, DW pedals, and LP percussion accessories, all chosen for seamless integration into his hybrid acoustic workflows. As of 2025, his rig remains centered on these acoustic elements, with no major shifts reported, though he incorporates occasional electronic triggers for enhanced hybrid performances in modern productions. In October 2025, Dixon celebrated his 10-year endorsement anniversary with a special signature honoring his father, Bud Bissonette.

References

  1. https://drummercafe.com/featured/drummer-percussionist/gregg-bissonette
  2. https://greggbissonette.co/bio/
  3. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/gregg-bissonette-mn0000802210
  4. https://www.dglartists.com/gregg-bissonette
  5. https://www.berklee.edu/people/gregg-bissonette
  6. https://www.dci.org/news/grammy-winning-drum-set-artist-to-offer-educational-session-at-07-world-championships/
  7. https://www.drumchannel.com/greggbissonette/
  8. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/gregg-bissonette.html
  9. https://www.mattbissonette.com/about-matt-bissonette
  10. https://playdixon.com/gregg-bissonette/
  11. https://www.candgnews.com/news/picking-the-right-tempo-with-gregg-bissonette---5564
  12. https://northtexan.unt.edu/issues/2019-summer/finding-his-beat.html
  13. https://music.unt.edu/jazz/ensembles/one-oclock-lab-band.html
  14. https://www.moderndrummer.com/2009/11/gregg-bissonette/
  15. https://www.facebook.com/ddmusic.ph/posts/get-to-know-gregg-from-studio-sessions-to-world-tours-meet-the-man-behind-the-le/1185934820247819/
  16. https://hudsonmusic.com/gregg-bissonette/
  17. https://www.discogs.com/release/3632576-North-Texas-State-University-100-OClock-Jazz-Lab-Band-Leon-Breeden-Lab-80
  18. https://www.discogs.com/release/3536006-North-Texas-State-University-100-OClock-Jazz-Lab-Band-Leon-Breeden-Lab-81-Commemorative
  19. http://good-music.kiev.ua/load/jazz_rock/north_texas_state_university_1_00_o_39_clock_jazz_lab_band_leon_breeden_1981_lab_81_commemorative/7-1-0-34037
  20. https://www.adams-music.com/en/lummen/history_clinics/bissonette-gregg-usa
  21. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4N0c_d85pg
  22. https://www.drumeo.com/beat/musical-drumming-in-different-styles/
  23. https://www.discogs.com/release/2080937-Maynard-Ferguson-Storm
  24. https://maynardferguson.com/release/live-from-san-francisco/
  25. https://www.discogs.com/release/5408176-Maynard-Ferguson-Live-From-San-Francisco
  26. https://www.drumeo.com/beat/the-top-100-drummers-of-all-time/
  27. https://www.instagram.com/p/DQu2864Dq6p/
  28. https://www.bravewords.com/news/drummer-gregg-bissonette-looks-back-on-being-part-of-david-lee-roth-s-1986-eat-em-and-smile-band-dave-gave-me-a-great-chance-to-play-anything-i-wanted
  29. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/gregg-bissonette-drummer-interview-ringo-starr-david-lee-roth-1033240/
  30. https://www.musicradar.com/news/drums/the-drummers-of-toto-620206
  31. https://www.moderndrummer.com/issue/january-1987/
  32. https://www.james-taylor.com/tour/tour-date-archive-2002/
  33. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LH0urcExrwc
  34. https://open.spotify.com/artist/2eBaOuE2ZujGVsgpd9aE7Q
  35. https://mn2s.com/booking-agency/talent-roster/gregg-bissonette/
  36. https://soundcloud.com/cj-vanston/best-in-show-end-credits
  37. https://genius.com/albums/Thomas-newman/Finding-nemo-an-original-soundtrack
  38. https://www.discogs.com/release/2559675-John-Powell-The-Bourne-Supremacy-Original-Motion-Picture-Soundtrack
  39. https://drummersreview.com/news/gregg-bissonette-interview/
  40. https://metro.co.uk/2020/07/30/friends-drummer-gregg-bissonette-still-gets-royalties-sitcom-soundtrack-every-year-shook-13061596/
  41. https://www.facebook.com/drumeo/posts/gregg-bissonette-reacts-to-his-most-famous-drum-performances-gregg-is-one-of-the/919948570160635/
  42. https://www.discogs.com/release/3487330-Gregg-Bissonette-Gregg-Bissonette
  43. https://www.allmusic.com/album/gregg-bissonette-mw0000033382
  44. http://jazz-rock-fusion-guitar.blogspot.com/2020/10/gregg-bissonette-1998-gregg-bissonette.html
  45. https://www.discogs.com/release/3538292-Gregg-Bissonette-Submarine
  46. https://jazztimes.com/archives/gregg-bissonettes-submarine/
  47. https://www.allmusic.com/album/submarine-mw0000060061
  48. https://www.discogs.com/release/7322920-Gregg-Bissonette-Warning-Will-Robinson
  49. https://mydrumlessons.co.uk/2013/12/gregg-bissonette-releases-new-solo-album-warning-will-robinson/
  50. https://college.berklee.edu/percussion/visiting-artists
  51. https://www.callutheran.edu/faculty/profile.html?id=gbissonette
  52. https://greggbissonette.co/what-students-are-saying/
  53. https://hudsonmusic.com/product/musical-drumming-in-different-styles/
  54. https://www.alfred.com/gregg-bissonette-private-lesson/p/00-VH0513AIO/
  55. https://www.halleonard.com/product/209866/hal-leonard-drumset-method-complete-edition-books-1-2-with-video-and-audio
  56. https://lacm.edu/2024/02/07/gregg-bissonette-drum-masterclass-2-22/
  57. https://sabian.com/artist/gregg-bissonette/
  58. https://jazzweekly.com/2019/04/greg-bissonette-ringos-starr/
  59. https://www.facebook.com/groups/8393406199/posts/10162015486966200/
  60. https://greggbissonette.co/
  61. https://www.drumeo.com/beat/gregg-bissonettes-favorite-drum-parts/
  62. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGPtUpVY8Eo
  63. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9Nx9diBSQ0
  64. https://www.percussionsource.com/dixon-artisan-san654gbs-14x6-5-gregg-bissonette-steel-snare-drum-219824
  65. https://www.moderndrummer.com/drummers/gregg-bissonette/
  66. https://equipboard.com/pros/gregg-bissonette
  67. https://www.moderndrummer.com/2014/04/gregg-bissonette-joins-dixon-drums/
  68. https://www.facebook.com/SABIANCymbals/videos/gregg-bissonette-favorite-cymbals/2411806659062120/
  69. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQPavbSj8_W/
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