"No question Slingerland is one of the great American drum brands. It's also near and dear to my father's heart. He played Slingerland, as did many of his friends and fellow drummers. The history is undeniable."
- DW CEO Chris Lombardi

Founded by H.H. Slingerland, the Illinois-based musical instrument manufacturer began producing drums in 1928 and has remained a favorite among vintage drum enthusiasts. The company's most noted artist affiliations included greats such as Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Louie Bellson and Kansas' Phil Ehart. Slingerland was family owned and operated for more than 60 years. During the '70s and '80s the name was procured by several different companies, including Gretsch. In 1994 Gretsch sold Slingerland to Gibson Musical Instruments, where it has remained until today.

The picture above features Buddy Rich's 1970s Tonight Show Drum Set (White Marine Pearl).

Buddy Rich drum solo, Tonight Show (Johnny Carson), April 13, 1976

"In recent months we've been working really hard to put the Slingerland brand and that amazing 'drum essence' into the right hands. I'm really proud and pleased to say that DW is now the owner of Slingerland. All of us here at Gibson want to thank Chris for persevering on this and we know Slingerland is in great hands."
- James "J.C." Curleigh, Gibson CEO