The Company

So, What’s in a name?

Steve Rue, Jimmy Ford and Jay Gaylen

Yes, Ford makes drums (and a myriad of accessories such as the Smart Ass™ and PHAT One™ musician thrones, DRUMVEE® Fubarproof™ cases, and more). While it’s an old, familiar name, the Ford Drum Company is in no way associated with the Ford Motor Company. Or the Ford Theater. Or the Ford Clinic. Nor President Ford. Rather, were named after one of the Founders, Jimmy Ford, which is a more memorable name than Gaylen, the other partner.

Jimmy Ford is a truly mesmerizing talent. For more than six years he was Lionel Hampton’s “go-to” guy. He entertains guests at Disneyland Park regularly. Audiences throughout southern California take delight in his playing with noted big bands, trios and quartets. He continually dazzles audiences the world over with his tribute to Buddy Rich.

The other partner, Jay Gaylen, is drum crazy. He picked up the sticks at the age of seven. For most of his adult life, Jay’s been a marketing guy having developed award-winning advertising campaigns for some of the biggest brands in the country. That list even includes musical instrument manufacturers such as Gretsch Drums, Gibraltar Hardware, Toca Percussion, Hamer, Ovation, Adamas and Takamine guitars.

In early 2004, the company brought on yet another drum nut, Steve Rue. Steve, a.k.a. Zeke, is the shop production manager and a true drumsmith. An avid student of the instrument, Steve has long been intrigued with drum construction, physics, and acoustics. In addition to his wood working skills, Zeke has a strong background in electrical engineering and has designed proprietary machinery and processes for the company.

Jimmy, Jay, and Steve know drums, and what drummers want. They know what it takes to build a drum that sings. And drums within a set that sing harmoniously. Which, by the way, is a really tough thing to do. They know that not every drum is right for every drummer or every gig. They only build drums to meet the needs of one particular player — you.

Super-Premium. Nothing Less.

Ford drum kits and drum-related products will not be found at chain stores or sold at discount. However, Ford is definitely competitive with other high-end manufacturers who don’t offer nearly as many options. That’s a small price to pay for a truly custom drum.

Think about it. Have you driven a band lately? If not, park yourself behind a set of Ford drums. Contact us at 714.744.2467. Or, reach us via the Web at www.forddrums.com, Facebook, Twitter, or our YouTube channel.