by Web Team
Vic Firth Welcomes Carter Beauford to the Family
March 28, 2011 12:02 pm in Endorser & Company News, New Artist Signings by Web Team
HE’S WITH VIC!
Vic Firth Company, the world’s largest and leading manufacturer of drumsticks and mallets, is proud to announce that Carter Beauford has joined their growing family of artists! A founding member of Dave Matthews Band and truly one of the best-known drummers in the world, Carter brought his immense talent to Vic Firth in search of the perfect pair.
“When you work as much as we do, there isn’t a lot of time to try out new gear,” states Beauford. “You get kind of locked into a routine. And that’s sometimes unfortunate, because there could be something out there that’s better. That was the case with me and Vic Firth! When a friend of mine recently put some Vic Sticks in my hands, I could not believe the difference. The stick not only felt perfectly straight and balanced, but I could also hear the difference immediately. I found I didn’t have to work so hard because the stick was working for me. It was then I realized that I had found the right tool for the job.” – Carter Beauford
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THE FULL PRESS RELEASE
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Carter Beauford (SBEA) A 5B shaft with an extended taper and elongated oval wood tip. Superior response‚ sound and versatility. Dressed in yellow Vic Grip. L = 16" | Dia. = .595" [enlarge photo] |
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MT3A A soft felt core covered with fleece for lush sounds. Head = 1 3/8" | L = 14 3/4" [enlarge photo] |
Enter the Carter Beauford Giveaway!
What’s a big announcement without an awesome giveaway to go with it? They go hand-in-hand! In honor of Carter joining the Vic Firth family, we’ve put together a prize package that we think you’re really going to dig. We’re going to run this contest all week. On Friday, April 1st (no fooling) one lucky person will win:
- The very first brick of Carter Beauford Signature Sticks to leave the factory (12 pairs!)
- A digital download of MP3s featuring Carter’s recorded work, including THE ENTIRE DAVE MATTHEWS BAND STUDIO CATALOG!
- A Vic Firth Stick Caddy
- A Vic Firth t-shirt, hat and drum key
- Posters, stickers and more
HOW TO ENTER
Just leave a comment on this page! Are you a fan of Carter? Tell us why. What’s your favorite Carter groove? What do you think of his new signature stick? All comments related to Carter will be eligible. Once you’ve commented, share this page on Twitter and Facebook using the share buttons below. We’ll randomly select a winner on Friday (4/1) at noon, EST.
Always liked his playing style and DMB. just added one more reason to enjoy what he does on a drumset.
I have always enjoyed the music of DMB and appreciated the tasty playing of Carter Beauford. As a high school band director, I love using professional musicians like Carter to exhibit how music can fill the soul. I love watching him play – he LOVES what he is doing and his smile while he plays exhibits that perfectly. I want all my students not only to strive to be the best musician they can be, but also to get that emotional fulfillment from performing music – and as a teacher I can use videos and recordings of Carter playing and show them that you can achieve both. The new stick would look great in my band room!!
It was Fall of 1994. I was in 7th grade, and was just coming out of that rather embarrassing “grunge music” phase and was preparing all my flannel for the garbage. I was at home one afternoon after school playing drums along to the radio (like I used to do for hours each day), and “Ants Marching” came on…and changed the way I looked at drums entirely.
The incredible linear grooves and tasty textures that Carter was throwing down changed and inspired a whole generation of drummers – myself included – and he has continued to help evolve the art of drumming over and over with each passing year.
Some generations can claim Elvin Jones or Buddy Rich…some have Jack DeJohnette or Tony Williams or Billy Cobham. My generation? We have Carter.
Glad to see Carter with the Vic Firth family!
Fantastic drummer with a Fantastic company!
I’ll never forget my first time hearing Carter – I put on ‘Under The Table And Dreaming’, and was instantly blown away by that cutting snare drum / tom fill at the start of ‘The Best Of What’s Around’. It was the perfect mix of simplicity and style. After working my way through all of the DMB albums, I knew Carter was something special, and he has been an influence ever since. How great it is to have him in the Vic Firth family!
I like the look of the new stick and can’t wait to try it. Started off by learning how to play #41 and my respect for what Carter can do on a drumkit is ever expanding with each concert I attend. I too started off with a Pro-mark stick but then quickly found that I loved the vic firth 5A during my days in high school.
Absolutely love this announcement. I saw him using the yellow sticks earlier in the 2010 tour and knew he had to have switched to VF. Carter is my favorite drummer ever. I have his kit modeled pretty much to the detail. His unique still is just mind blowing. Watching his stick movement is unlike any other drummer. Add the fact that he’s always smiling, laughing, singing, and blowing bubbles at the same time make him my favorite drummer of my favorite band. Way to go VF for acquiring Carter!
I learned how to play kit listening to Dave Matthews (yea, I’m stupid for trying it) but just listening to how Carter grooves and the ideas he has for different songs and different styles was incredibly influential on me.
Why Carter has inspired me.. I would have to say his style of play, how he can easily play open or traditional. but my MAIN reason for loving his work is his ability to re-crate the hi-hat. He uses the hi-hat as it’s own instrument, instead of the foundation for a good groove. You KNOW when your listening to a Carter Groove… just listen for that Hi-hat… Got to love it!
I have not been listening to Carter for as long as some who have posted already but I know what a great drummer, musician, showman and artist he is. I am currently in a band where I play drums and we are doing a few DMB covers and I have been watching hours of videos to study Carter and his technique. Carter Beauford truly deserves this for his contribution to the drum world. Thanks for all you do Carter! P.S. I can not wait to get my hands on your signature drum sticks!
Its an interesting switch from Pro Mark. This guy is my absolute favorite because of the amazing, tasteful fills he does at every show. I buy so many of their live releases because of that reason. He does so many different interpretations of DMB’s tracks, its crazy. I look at each opportunity to hear his performances as if it’s a clinic because you learn so much.
Ohhhhhhhhh FANTASTIC NEWS! Finally, we have the man here within the VF family… I can’t wait to see more from Carter… love to see what he will be contributing to the Educational aspect here with VF… I’m looking forward to seeing some great things…
Being a fan of Carter, it is a constant thrill to watch his style evolve, as well as the gear he uses!
Definitely one of the BEST drummers out there right now. I have looked up to Carter since i started playing the drums and getting into music in the 7th grade. Even more then his incredible feel and quality of playing, i admire the emotion he emits while playing. I get the sense that he is carefree and jubilant, especially when he pops a bubble! It’s definitely a trait i try to emulate in my playing.
This is wonderful!!! Welcome Carter!!!
Can NOT wait to try that stick and make the move to Vic with Carter!!! I trust his feel and instincts on how a stick should feel…..have used his previous stick for almost 2 years now and and grateful he is now with Vic Firth.
What a great addition to Vic Firth! Carter has been an inspiration to me for many years. He has a style that has caused me to rethink my entire approach to the drumset. Tasteful fills and strong grooves make every DMB song amazing. I have always been partial to the song Kit Kat Jam off the Busted Stuff album and any of the intros played between songs at live shows.
Looking forward to trying out the new stick!
Technical playing mixed with tasty licks is something I love about drumming, and Carter has got that down! Also, Carter and I and twins now. Yamaha, Zildjian, and Vic Firth! WOOOO!!!!
Always been a fan of Carter and glad to see he’s on with Vic Firth now. Looking forward to trying out the new sticks.
This is amazing! I just discovered this guy last year so I don’t know what my favorite groove is. I have not tried his signature stick but I’m pretty sure it’s awesome.
I have always been such a fan of this wonderful and amazing musician. Your promo video is actually the first time i have ever seen Carter playing the drums – he has such a relaxed feel and makes everything look so effortless. The open style just looks like drums should be played this way – why do we learn cross over doesn’t seem correct
I do wish DMB would come and play in South Africa someday – taking into account that Dave is actually South African!!
My favourite Carter track goes back to the album “Under The Table and Dreaming – song Ants Marching – beautiful stuff – i think most of it is 6/8 in to some 9/8 whatever it was doesnt really matter as it just flows and grooves.
Great addition to a great stick company – well done!! Look forward to the arrival of the stick in Africa!
Jason R.
Carter’s always been my favourite drummer since I started playing about 10 years ago… His unique musical approach to everything is something that you just won’t find from anyone else. He’s got the groove, as he shows in songs like Jimi Thing and Shake Me Like A Monkey, but also the outstanding technical ability, as shown when he recorded the whole “Crash” album (including Say Goodbye) and in the live versions of Ants Marching. And THEN there’s his odd time playing… The man’s amazing. He is the one and only.
I look forward to getting my hands round a set of these sticks, if he says they’re worth using then I’ve definitely gotta try some! Can’t wait.
I always enjoy Carter’s playing. He’s got a great way of making drums looks like they’re fun to play, rather than a chore. Got to admire someone who shows how much fun they’re having.
I’m excited about the new sticks! Congratulations Vic Firth on partnering with Carter…great match! Can’t wait to get a pair and give them a try!
Carter has always been one of my favorite drummers… so much so that I named my dog after him… Carter Coltrane Creed! Welcome to the VF Family!
carter is amazing and the stick looks awesome!
Carter is such an awesome drummer with so many rocking grooves and cool tambers. It is impossible to choose his best beat. His sticks will be very fun to drum with. He is a great addition to the vic family!
I became a musician and a drummer because of the Dave Matthews Band and Carter Beauford. #41 was everything for me back then. My favorite groove/song right now is ¨Where Are You Going¨. The stick looks amazing, a great addition to the Signature Series. Definitely gonna switch between the Carter, Questlove and Steve Jordan models, that´s all I need!
Carter creates creative and inspiring grooves!
Carter! Welcome to vic!
I really do admire Carter Beauford for being so amazingly creative. I am influenced by his style a lot.. I especially like his Hi-Hat work. It is amazing. He does not play a straight Hi-Hat groove, instead he varies the Hi-Hat groove so well. Incredible..
My favourite groove of Carter is the verse part from”Stay (wasting time)”. His new signature stick looks great by the way.. I need to check it out soon.
Carter is an amazingly fluid and musical percussionist, I have enjoyed his work for a long time!
One of my favorite drummers… and one of the best!!! Welcome Carter!
Fabulous news! Massive drummer, Massive Sticks!!! He’s home now!!!!
Definitely one of my favorite drummers. The guy plays with the best feel out there and grooves harder than just about anyone! Look forward to trying these sticks out, they sound right up my alley! Welcome Carter!
HELL YES! Carter Beauford has been on the pro-mark bill for too long… glad to see he’s moved to vic firth! I need some of these sticks ASAP! Ive been a Carter fan for as long as i’ve been a drummer, his lyrical playing is beyond comparison. I’ve never heard a drummer play so musically. I’m a fan of classic songs, like the awesome RUSH-inspired 7/8 grooves in “dreaming tree” or the smooth drum solo into “say goodbye”, but you can’t discount the newer works like the intricate playing on the backbeat “spaceman” or the big band style in “shake me like a monkey”… no matter what Carter plays he plays it with the utmost musicality. i can’t wait to try the sticks out!!! i’ve never used sticks with a grip so it’ll be a new experience for me, but if Carter says they work well… I should probably listen! CONGRATS CARTER AND VIC FIRTH! Keep up the good work!
Dan Ogrodnik
Certainly one of contemporary best drummers in the scene… but no the mainstream one. Maybe that’s why his style of playing, independence and technique should we widespread around the world’s drumming community. We do have a lot of thing to learn from him. WELCOME TO THE FAMILY!
I’m a huge fan of Carter! The first track I heard him play was #41 a year after the Crash cd came out. Ever since then I’ve been hooked on how Carter plays and the entire sound of DMB.
I can’t help but feel that Beauford is overlooked in mainstream circles as one of the most technically sound and innovative drummers of our time. He is incredibly clean and orchestrates his grooves and fills with a full spectrum of rhythmic and harmonic colors. Since the first time I heard DMB’s “What Would You Say?” I wanted to hear more. Carter quickly worked his way to the top five of my favorite drummers of all time. Congrats on picking up a true gem!
Yes I feel the same way , he is so amazing, I first heard of him back home (Ivory Coast) I was working on music by Paco Sery (drummer). Carter Beauford has been influence for me, I learned how to play open and his drumming to me is quite lyrical and driven by an unbelievable passion for great music. It surely makes me sad that he is not recognized as he should but oh well I’ll always be a Carter Beauford fan ..Go DMB …and welcome Carter
Welcome Carter to the Vic Firth family.
I’m so happy to hear this news! Vic Firth and Carter Beauford are like those two really good friends you have finally start dating – you knew they would always be good for each other. I’m really anxious to play with these new sticks!
No favorite grooves, they’re all good…
Does this mean that his sticks are gonna be straight now??? LOL Carters the man please pick me HUGE FAN!
Amazing news.
Carter is such a sweet addition to the Vic Firth Family! His style, his hands, his open style of playing; where do I begin? All I can do is restate what people have already said. He is a big influence in my playing style and my drumming philosophy. It’s all about groove!
i’m a big fan of carter beauford, since the first time i heard his playing;
i dont really have a favorite groove, i many grooves, its hard to decide which one is the best.
I think the Carter Beauford stick is going to be an amazing stick, slightly thicker than a regular 5b, although i would make it slightly longer (not very much longer, about 0,5 – 1 inch)
i also dont think the vic grip is really necessary. nonetheless i think it will be a great stick.
although i dont really like the color yellow that much..
couldn’t Mr. Beauford choose another color? (the default red color looks better in my opinion, i wonder what it would look like in green, or even better in black!)
I was so stoked to see this post on Facebook. I am a huge Carter Beauford fan, I’ve spent most of my years of practice playing DMB stuff, to challenge myself and develop a style that was a tribute to Carter. I even for the longest time carried a set up to gigs that was a near replica of his kit! I am also a huge Vic Firth fan, I’ve been using the 55A for a long time now, and it is hands down the best stick I’ve ever played. To see Carter and Vic teamed up has made me even more excited about playing Vic Firth and being a drummer! Stoked!
I’ve always been a fan of Carter’s work. he’s actually been one or my inspirations to drum. it’s fitting that he finally gains a spot on that signature stick list. great to have Carter on.
This is amazing news. I am a big Carter Beauford fan. He is who I listened to when I first began playing drums. I even play open-handed because of him. His sound on the drums is like no other I have heard before or have yet to hear. My favorite groove would have to be the time sig changes in You Never Know from the Busted Stuff album. So smooth.
The new sticks look great and the grip is gonna be an awesome feel. I cannot WAIT to get my hands on these sticks. Much love to Carter in making this change for the better.
I think the new stick is BEAUTIFUL