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Russ Kunkel

The Immediate Family

Russ Kunkel

About

Paiste Artist Since
June 1983

Nationality
United States

Main Affiliations
The Immediate Family
Lyle Lovett

Follow Artist

„Cymbals all sound different, and that’s a good thing. I guess it all depends on what you like to hear when you behind the kit. The drummers point of reference. I’ve played and listened to other drummers play lots of different cymbals, and for the most part they sound great. Perfect for that drummer in that setting. For me, Paiste cymbals have always made me sound better. From my perspective behind the kit and when I hear them back when recording. Thank you, Kelly & Erik, for supporting me all these years, I am truly grateful. “

Setup

Biography

Talented, creative and true gentlemen of the music business are words often used to describe Russ Kunkel. Although the renowned drummer’s big break came three decades ago, his combined talents as performer, producer, and songwriter have kept him in demand with the top names in rock and roll. Born in Pittsburgh in 1948, Kunkel moved to Southern California in the early 60’s. He drummed in a series of groups before forming the band, Things to Come. While house band at the legendary Whisky-A-Go-Go, they opened for some of the top names of the era including Cream, Traffic, and The Byrds. His talent caught the ear of Joel Sill at Trousdale Music and later Apple Records head Peter Asher, who was recruiting players for an album by new artist James Taylor. Kunkel played on Taylor’s debut album, “Sweet Baby James” and before long found himself playing with George Harrison, Bob Dylan and others. Kunkel went on to write, perform and record with the LA-based jazz-rock group The Section. Among his songwriting credits are hits with Aaron Neville, Clannad, Joe Cocker, Jimmy Buffett and “Tender is the Night” with Jackson Browne and Danny Kortchmar. He also created and co produced film scores for Mike Nichol’s “Heartburn”, Joyce Chopra’s “Smooth Talk”, and “Certain Fury” for New World Films. First known for his expressive, lyrical drumming style, Kunkel has also earned a solid commercial reputation for musical creativity and artistic sensitivity as a producer. During his career, Kunkel has toured, done session work, produced and/or written hit songs with musicians including Steve Winwood, Linda Ronstadt, Dan Fogelberg, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Joe Walsh, James Taylor, Carole King, Jackson Browne, Bob Seger, Stevie Nicks, Simon & Garfunkel, Carly Simon, Aaron Neville, Clannad, Bonnie Raitt, The BeeGees, Reba McEntire, Kenny Rogers, Wynonna, Lyle Lovett and Jimmy Buffett. Today, Russ Kunkel’s busy career includes recording and touring with Lyle Lovett, since 2003. Recently Russ completed shows in Japan and Los Angeles with the band “The Immediate Family”. Reuniting with old band mates Danny Kortchmar, Waddy Wachtel, Leland Sklar and Steve Postell to lay down some big beat rock and roll. The Immediate Family will be releasing a new album early 2021 on Quartro Valley Records. Kunkel’s range of creative talents, his musical sensibilities and his easy-going manner have kept this consummate music pro in demand for many years. It is these same qualities that will keep him in demand for years to come.

Setup Cymbals

Formula 602 Modern Essentials Ride

Formula 602 Modern Essentials Crash

Formula 602 Classic Medium Ride

Formula 602 Modern Essentials Hi-Hat
  • Details

    Sizes: 14", 15"
    Volume: Medium
    Weight: Medium

    Sound character: Rich, warm, lush, deep. Wide range, complex mix. Giving and responsive feel. Broad, warm open sound. Compact, lush chick sound. Extremely versatile hi-hat, perfectly suited for dynamic, articulated playing in a wide range of styles. “They are just chunky enough, but not overpowering. They are a little more chocolaty than the classic 602s”, describes Vinnie Colaiuta.

  • Sounds

Formula 602 Classic Thin Crash

Formula 602 Classic Medium Hi-Hat
  • Details

    Sizes: 14", 15"
    Volume: Medium
    Weight: Medium

    Sound character: Rich, warm, full, silvery with a light touch. Wide range, fairly complex mix. Soft feel, easy to control. Lively, responsive and warm open sound. Full, precise chick sound. Versatile hi-hat for medium loud settings, perfectly suited for studio applications.

  • Sounds