Marc Atkinson

A Toronto native, Marc is both musical director and drummer for Las Vegas legend Wayne Newton, performing with Newton, running his orchestra, and writing all arrangements for the star. Marc has recorded and toured extensively across musical genres, with artists such as Jessica Simpson, Neal McCoy, David Foster, The Backstreet Boys, Drew Carey, Ruth Pointer, and Quincy Jones. He has appeared on shows including The Late Show with Craig Kilborn, The Tonight Show with Jay Lenoand The David Letterman Show and more. Marc has also authored several books on drumming, including The UnReel Drum Book: Featuring the Music of Randy Waldman and the Drumming of Vinnie Colauita. His next planned release is the first of his Frank Zappa series, which will include the much-anticipated full note-for-note transcription of Joe’s Garage followed by Shut Up N Play Yer Drums. In addition, he has had many of his transcriptions published over the years, beginning with Keep It Greasy, (Modern Drummer, 1997). Marc began playing drums in childhood, and by age 15, made a commitment to serious musicianship. He recalls first hearing Frank Zappa’s seminal Joe’s Garage at age 16. Marc went on to study at Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music, under his mentor Gary Chaffee. It was during this period he first met Frank Zappa. He currently lives and plays in Las Vegas. Marc Uses exclusively Paiste cymbals and absolutely loves Paiste Formula 602 classic! “Paiste 602’s have such a unique and magical sound that distinguishes itself from any other cymbal! From early John Bonham and Bill Bruford to Vinnie Colaiuta, Joe Morell, Chad Wackerman and Jeff Porcaro. The list doesn’t get and bigger than that!”