Vinnie Colaiuta
Versatile Drumming Innovator
Vinnie Colaiuta, born in 1956 in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, is a drumming icon whose extensive career spans studio recordings and live performances with some of the biggest names in music. His collaborations with legends like Frank Zappa, Sting, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and Joni Mitchell have showcased his versatility and technical prowess, making him a household name in the world of drumming.
From his early days, Vinnie was captivated by rhythm. At age 7, he began his musical journey, teaching himself to play drums and absorbing influences from drumming giants like Buddy Rich and Tony Williams. His passion led him to the Berklee College of Music, although he left after two semesters on the advice of his mentor, Gary Chaffee, to pursue a professional career.
Vinnie’s break came when he moved to Los Angeles in 1978 and won an audition with Frank Zappa. This opportunity catapulted him into the spotlight and established him as a drummer capable of handling complex rhythms and diverse musical styles. Over the years, Vinnie has become known for his ability to seamlessly transition between genres, from jazz to rock to classical, demonstrating a mastery that few can match.
His work in the 1990s with Sting, particularly on albums like ‘Mercury Falling’ and ‘Brand New Day’, highlighted his skill in blending sophisticated rhythms with mainstream music. His track on ‘Ten Summoner’s Tales’ showcases his subtle complexity and innovative approach to drumming.
Today, Vinnie continues to influence the music industry, not only through his performances but also through his educational efforts, offering workshops and sharing his knowledge via a popular podcast. His contributions to music make him a true pioneer, consistently pushing the boundaries of drumming while inspiring a new generation of musicians.
Vinnie Colaiuta, renowned for his virtuoso drumming and rhythmic innovation, carefully selects his gear to enhance his dynamic playing style. Here is a snapshot of the equipment he trusts, showcasing each piece’s role in crafting his signature sound. Whether laying down tracks in the studio or electrifying audiences with live performances, Vinnie’s choices in gear are a testament to his pursuit of sonic excellence and precision.
- DW Drums
- Zildjian Cymbals
- Remo Drumheads
- Vic Firth Drumsticks
- Paiste Cymbals
Vinnie Colaiuta, renowned for his drumming prowess, has received significant recognition throughout his career. He was inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 1996 and later into the Classic Drummer Hall of Fame in 2014. His skills and contributions to music have also earned him a Grammy Award, along with several nominations. Moreover, Vinnie has received over fifteen Drummer of the Year awards from Modern Drummer magazine’s annual reader polls, underscoring his impact and influence in the drumming community
As Leader
- Vinnie Colaiuta (1994, Stretch/GRP)
With Frank Zappa
- Joe’s Garage (1979, Zappa)
- Tinsel Town Rebellion (1981, Barking Pumpkin)
- Shut Up ’n Play Yer Guitar (1981, Barking Pumpkin)
- The Man from Utopia (1983, Barking Pumpkin)
With Jeff Beck
- Jeff Beck’s Guitar Shop (1989, Epic)
- Who Else! (1999, Epic)
- You Had It Coming (2001, Epic)
- Jeff (2003, Epic)
With Sting
- Ten Summoner’s Tales (1993, A&M)
- Mercury Falling (1996, A&M)
- Brand New Day (1999, A&M)
- Sacred Love (2003, A&M)
With Joni Mitchell
- Wild Things Run Fast (1982, Geffen)
- Taming the Tiger (1998, Reprise)
Selected Collaborations (Partial)
- Leonard Cohen – The Future (1992, Columbia)
- Michael Bublé – It’s Time (2005, 143/Reprise)
- Faith Hill – Cry (2002, Warner Bros.)
- Ringo Starr – Ringo Rama (2003, Koch)
- Mark Knopfler – Privateering (2012, Mercury)
- Megadeth – The System Has Failed (2004, Sanctuary)
- Chick Corea Elektric Band – Alive (1991, GRP)
- Herbie Hancock – Possibilities (2005, Vector/Angel)
Colaiuta has collaborated with a who’s who of the music industry. His notable collaborations include playing with Frank Zappa on Joe’s Garage and Tinsel Town Rebellion, as well as contributing to Sting’s hits from Ten Summoner’s Tales and Brand New Day. He has also worked extensively with artists such as Jeff Beck, Joni Mitchell, and Megadeth, contributing to countless recordings that have become classics.
Latest Posts
Join Our Behind the Beat Newsletter
All the latest drums news, interviews, lessons, reviews, deals and more, direct to your inbox!