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.
I love Carter so much. His smile and sunny disposition on stage never fail to cheer me up! The man has so much talent it’s ridiculous. His drumming never stagnates – there’s always something new and exciting in his playing and it’s never the now-standard eighth note subdivisions. Carter makes every song unique, and I would have to say my favourite one of his grooves is on Joy Ride, but that’s closely followed by Kit Kat Jam!
I don’t think that there has been one person to inspire me and so many others than Carter Beauford has. The fluidity and sense of rhythm in his playing are impeccable, no other drummer has been able to replicate this – it’s impossible. That in itself shows how unique Carter is in his approach. He plays the drums as if it’s a voice, i’ve never heard someone adapt such a unique style towards their playing, and for that I admire Carter Beauford – always. And Vic Firth, you have a new customer.
Carter is the finest drummer on the planet !! Using these sticks can only make him better, if that is possible. Hoping to catch one after one of the shows this summer.
Welcome Carter! Can’t wait to see you in Atlantic city this summer! I love your work on the newest album especially Lying in the Hands of God. Keep it up!
Interesting switch, Carter! I look forward to hearing you play this summer!
carter is AMAZING.
took over 20 shows to get one of his sticks before.
hope it doesn’t take this long again!
Carter using Vic Firth drumsticks it´s just like Thor using his hammer. Full power for the Gods!!!
Name this Carter Track!
snare………….snare………….snare…………..snare………….
Ants!
Watching Carter play is half the fun of going to see DMB. The MAN IS AMAZING!!
I love the smoothness & slickness of Carter’s playing. My trust is that these sticks will make me play like Carter =]
The way Carter lays down Jazz and Funk grooves changes the whole foundation as this does with many drummers who can make the music go in a more interesting direction. I particularly like his triplet fills grooves which we hear him play. As for his signature stick, I like the combination of the 5B with the oval tip. The oval tip has nice action and sound on the drums and cymbals. All the best, JLap
I have been drumming since I was 14 years old, I first saw DMB in 1994 and was blown away by Carter’s drumming. I have never heard or seen a drummer like Carter, he always shows pure joy when playing and is the most original drummer that I have ever seen. Congratulations on your continued success!
I love Carter when he plays with his awesome precision a standard groove and rocks afterwards a freakin´ Fill in! Thats really awesome – love the music he makes!
he plays that very well, like the Flams and Drags.
like white or black…
Also like the sound of his snare drum
To the sticks – i like sticks with grip and 5B is nice, but i would prefer another “easier” clolour, which fits my drumset
But awesome video; like the way he laughs when he plays!!
Carter is amazing, been to #32 shows, one of the best was Nationals Staduim this year, front row durig two step. I though my heart was going to pop of my chest, he was hitting the drums so hard.
the first time I heard Carter play, all I could think of was his creativity. the first time I saw him play… I thought there was no way he could use that whole kit… boy did he prove me wrong. that just ties in with the creative thing… congrats on the signing!
Carter is the man!!
DMB is great and Carter is an amazing drummer, who has so many great licks and grooves it’s hard to choose a fav. The new stick with yellow grip is pretty pimp looking and I’m sure a great stick with a great drummer will produce great music. Good work Vic Firth….HORNS!!
I’ve always liked the DMB, the band has carried me through a lot in life. But Carter holds a very special place in my heart. A short year and a half ago, I named my son after Carter, not just because I’m a super-fan but because of his smile- it just oozes genuine happiness, something that a Mom and Dad can only hope their child grows up having! That baby kicked to the beat of Carter’s drum in my belly and now he bangs along to the beat on his own drum!
Carter is the man! Great player, great guy!
I started listen to the dave matthews band back in high school and I couldn’t believe the beats that Carter was throwing down. He really helps bring that band to the next level with his skills. I love listening to all their live recordings cause you can really hear Carter let loose.
Gotta say the sticks look cool. I like the yellow, that was a nice compliment.
My Son turned me on to the DMB several years ago a since then I’ve been hooked. Cater quickly became my favorite to watch on stage because he is always smiling and enjoys life just like me. After every concert, I attempt to catch drumsticks but I quess I’m not fast enough. Maybe next concert.
Carter is one of my favorite drummers. His playing with DMB is absolutely amazing. Great to see he’s now using the best sticks around. Can’t wait to get my hands on his signature sticks. Great work Carter and Vic Firth!!
Carter + Vic Firth = Awesome!
amazing drummer… cant really say more…
The first time I saw DMB live was a life-changing experience to me. Music had always been my passion, but something happened that night. Carter’s precision, groove, and innovation in the world of percussion is unlike any other drummer out there today, and he truly does not get the respect he deserves. I would be willing to say he is the most skilled percussionist in the mainstream today. Carter’s ability to play dynamically, in all styles, with metronome perfect grooves is truly a gift to the ears of the listener. I am very anxious to try out the the new SBEA, and I am sure I will not be disappointed. My favorite Carter grooves would have to be Pig. It takes a true master to play this groove with the feel and precision that Carter does. I also really enjoy Pay For What You Get, as it really gave Carter the chance to show off the jazz chops that he possesses. Love you Carter, I know that Vic Firth will treat you right as I have been playing their sticks for years!
Love the new signature stix. Vic grip is the best!
Favorite Carter Groove has to be Say Goodbye. Simply amazing work. That and Drive In Drive Out, its a shame that song hasn’t been played like in years.
Carter was one of the main reasons I pursued the drums, and Vic Firth sticks have been my primary tools since I started playing. A perfect match!
Vic Firth is the best, so it’s obvious why Carter has jumped on board with them. Can wait to try a pair of these out!
He can groove on just two and four on the snare.
Carter is the drummer we all try to emulate, from his ambidextrous chops to his professional attitude!
I’ll be honest, I’ve not really ever listened to Carter. But he still sticks out as a giant of drumming in my mind.
There’s really not a better way to familiarize myself with his work than to win the whole DMB catalog, right?
Carter Beauford is the greatest drummer I have ever heard!!! He changed drumming for me, the moment I first heard him. I own all the DMB live and studio albums and study his playing daily. My favorite groove is rapunzel from before these crowded streets. Excited to hear the grooves he will create with his new vic firth sticks!!:)
I am a big fan of Carter B., why he is the drummer who influences. Since the first time I saw him play always wanted to emulate. The best Groove of the Carter to me: Rapunzel. I loved him had signed with Vic Firth, because for me, is the best in the world
Thans Carter, Vic Firth, thank you for you giving us this chance!
I’m From Brazil!
I am a long time fan of Carter Beauford. I had always respected his unmatched talent and amazing percussion ability, until I met him. Then my respect grew exponentially! He is so down to Earth, accommodating and easy to hang out with. My favorite Carter groove is actually two grooves. First: a classic, “Where Are You Going”. And from last season’s tour: Two Step into Time Bomb! That was great to hear, especially at Wrigley Field! I like the new Carter signature stick and feel honored that it is very similar to the Vic Firth 5B Nylon that I have always used.
Most notably, Carter is a phenomenal musician, but the reason I’m such a big fan of him and his work is his personality. I’ve been to many DMB shows, and you look for key highlights… Boyd rocking his dreadlocks as he sways during his violin solos, Dave’s goofy dances, and my favorite, Carter’s big, broad smile, blowing bubbles. He always has a positive persona that you can’t help but be drawn to. You often see musicians get lost in the spotlight of fame, but Carter has remained true to his passion of percussion and remains committed and focussed to his music. It’s very refreshing to see someone like Carter on stage, losing himself in the music night after night. You know you’ve got a dedicated musician when he engages so fully not only with his music/career, but most importantly, his fans. Each night Carter showers his fans with sticks, reciprocating admiration. I have a deep set respect for Carter, and as a result I have a deep respect for the quality with which VF builds their foundation.
I love the addition of Carter to the VF family, and the stick looks great. I’m one of the lucky DMB fans who has caught a drumstick and aside from the fact that they were Carter’s, his old Pro-Mark sticks were generic. Not at all reflective of Carter, by any means. Finally, VF has captured Carter’s essence and his sticks match his personality, and drumming style. He’s not flashy, but definitely draws and maintains one’s attention, and that is perfectly reflected in his new stick. I like that yellow was incorporated because of Tony Williams’ impact on Carter’s style and passion for drumming. It gives me as a drummer a deeper appreciation for drumming and it’s evolution through history. In the videos of Carter using the new VF sticks, his hands almost glow as he rhythmically makes his way around his kit. It’s a great effect to the already incredible craftsmanship of his original sound.
My favorite Carter groove is definitely “Say Goodbye,” particularly the introduction, followed closely by his solos on “Jimi Thing” when he plays off of Jeff Coffins riffs and the two duel with one another other. Carter always looks like he is having the best time during each performance. His work, in short, is inspiring and fun. His work is original, and has no doubt influenced the great success of the Dave Matthews Band.
I know the VF family can’t be any happier with the drummer they have teamed with in Carter Beauford. iStick with Carter.
Carter you rock. Really like your drummin…..give me some
Take care
Carter rocks local jerseys as hard as Rapunzel on the double bass.
Beaford
#36
I have been a die hard Carter Beauford and DMB fan my entire life. I’ve been to over 30 DMB shows and only wish I could see more. Carter has been an inspiration for me to not only begin drumming in the first place, but to continue playing for all these years. I eat, sleep, and dream Carter. I actually had the privelege to meet him once while stalking his hotel room he was staying at while playing at Alpine last year. I love Carter’s playing style because it is unique and innovative. Carter has the deepest pocket but plays very busy at the same time. If I had to name my favorite carter groove it would be say goodbye. Carters work on that song is outstanding and I have been trying to sould like that for years. Im glad carter is on vic firth because I buy what he uses and have always had a secret preference for Vic Firth. The sticks look awesome and can’t wait to give em’ a twirl. Thanks for reading!
JUST ORDER TWO PAIRS CANT WAIT TO TRY THEM OUT. I’M SURE THEY WILL WORK OUT GREAT.
Looking forward to watching Carter using the new sticks at the shows this summer, maybe I will be lucky enough to win these, or catch some at the shows…
Carter even supersedes Clapton in ‘God-likeness’.
In my opinion, Carter Beauford is the coolest drummer on the planet. He is my favorite drummer because of his laid back personality and the intensity and complexity he demonstrates in his playing. Further more, I am a huge fan of all the little snaps and pops and splashes he throws into his complex grooves; just stuff an average drummer wouldn’t even think of adding. Hes got style to say the least. His hi hat work may be what impresses me the most. Just so crisp and intricate sounding, yet never too much! And of course I love DMB…that goes without saying! Carter has been an enormous inspiration for my nine years of drumming so far.
My Favorite Carter groove: #41. Always has been my favorite song, and I have studied that groove for years attempting to perfect it like he has. It just has everything “Carter” in it and is so smooth sounding it gives me shivers every time.
I love that Carter has moved on to Vic Firth. I have been playing Vics all my life and I just have not found a stick that does a better job. I have sampled Carter’s original stick by Promark and was not really impressed. Vic Firth all the way baby. Its what any drummer needs to be completely rockin and grooving, and now that Carter has a pair in his hands…well…its safe to say he is truly the best now!
I have watched videos of Carter Beauford since i was five. I always sat on the drums with the TV infront of me and all i did was to watch and play.
I love the “Marching Ants” drum cover which was on one of the videos by Carter. Its from the videos i watched that i learned the Hi-Hat approach.
If i could say anything about Carter, it is the he was there (video form) at the start of my drumming life.
There’s no better inspiration to go out and find something that you love doing and to excel at it than looking at Carter smile, chew his gum, and absolutely own his drums at every performance. His work can be best summarized by a quote I overheard by a first-time DMB concert attendee- “yeah I had fun but even when things were slower, damn, did that drummer play things that absolutely blew my mind”
Vic Firth and carter Beauford…what a combination!!! I named my son after you….serve me up another, Bartender!
Carter is a real inspiration for me. Great chops, always seems to having fun (something some musicians do not do), and he adds so much texture to the music of DMB. Almost caught a stick once at a show – so close!! Looking forward to seeing them on their next full tour!!!
Carter is ridiculously amazing! I’m constantly blown away by everything he plays with DMB. I’ve been to 10+ concerts, and I’m always amazed by his energy and precision. Also, I use Vic Firth snare and timpani sticks!
It is great to see Carter finally endorsing Vic Firth! I have always played Vic Firth sticks and Dave Matthews Band is one of my favorite bands. I have seen them 20 times, and Carter never stops amazing you with what he does and never stops smiling.
Carter plays so fun, he make good beat with lots fun. He bring new good beat every song. Different beat.
I <3 Carter. I wish he my dad. I can learn good beat too!!
Carter and band please return Spain!! I miss you.