287 – Neil LaFortune: Hosting the “Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break”, Working with Tribute Acts, Adapting to the Socioeconomic Climate of Your Scene

Neil LaFortune has covered many styles throughout the years from Classic Rock, Funk, R&B, Country, Latin, Pop, Jazz, and Blues based cover bands, to original acts. Studies at Ontario College of Percussion in Toronto and later studies with Jim Blackley helped prepare Neil for professional settings that required reading and versatility.

The last several years Neil has been busy with Tribute acts such as Abba Revisited, Police tribute “Message In A Bottle,” as well as many other tributes in the U.S. and abroad. Neil’s work included gigs with his duo Sticks and Tones as well as rising Canadian country singer Meghan Patrick opening for the likes of Rascal Flatts, Dwight Yoakam and Kiefer Sutherland. In 2020 Neil started hosting his weekly interview series called the Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break.

Teaching is another passion and Neil teaches lots of private lessons at home and does clinics and workshops locally and abroad. His teaching efforts earned him the Drummers Choice’s Teacher of The Year in 2003. 

In this episode, Neil talks about: 

* Differences between the music scenes in Canada compared to the U.S. * Hosting the “Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break” * Navigating the world of endorsements * Adapting to the socioeconomic climate of your scene* Working with tribute acts* Good health after 50

This episode is sponsored by Beier Drums

Neil proudly endorses: Gretsch drums, Dream Cymbals and Regal Tip products