The Evolution of Double Tom Drums in Drum Sets

The modern drum set, or kit, has undergone numerous changes since its inception. One significant development in drumming history is the addition of double toms to the drum set. This article explores the origins and evolution of double toms, from their early adoption by jazz drummers in the 1960s to their widespread popularity among rock drummers and their influence on drum manufacturing.

Predecessors and Early Innovations

Before the advent of double toms, the drum kits featured a variety of drums and cymbals, but were typically limited to a basic configuration. Drummers like Dee Dee Chandler played a pivotal role in expanding the capabilities of the drum set in the late 1800s. Chandler is often credited with being the first to add a pedal to the bass drum, a technology that revolutionized drumming and paved the way for the future.

Dee Dee Chandler was not just a drummer; he was also a vaudeville performer known for his humor and timekeeping skills. In vaudeville shows, drummers were expected to be talented performers beyond just playing the drums. Chandler is said to have juggling, singing, and maintaining a witty dialogue with bandmates, all while playing in time. This versatility and innovation underscore the creative spirit of early drummers and their impact on the evolution of the drum set.

The Birth of Double Toms

The arrival of double toms can be traced back to the 1950s, when drum manufacturers began to recognize the growing demand for more versatile drum kits. Both Ludwig and Rodgers featured double tom drum sets in their 1957 catalogues, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the drum set. These early double toms were essentially an afterthought, enhancing the versatility and sound of the drum kit, but they didn't become widely popular until later.

Expansion in the 1960s and Beyond

The widespread adoption of double toms among jazz drummers in the 1960s saw the drums become a more integral part of the musical ensemble. Jazz drummers like Art Taylor and Elvin Jones pioneered the use of double toms, expanding the dynamic range and complexity of their playing. This period marks a pivotal moment in the history of drumming, as jazz drummers were not only creating intricate rhythms but also pushing the boundaries of what was possible with the drum set.

As the popularity of rock music grew in the 1960s and 1970s, double toms became a standard feature in the drum sets of rock drummers. Drummers like Neil Peart and John Bonham incorporated double toms into their kits, contributing to the thunderous sound that defined the era. These rock drummers revolutionized the way the drums were used in rock music, leading to a demand for more robust and versatile drum sets in the industry.

The Influence on Drum Manufacturers

The increasing demand for double tom kits among both jazz and rock drummers led to a significant shift in the manufacturing and marketing strategies of drum companies. Drum manufacturers began to focus more on producing drum sets with multiple toms, recognizing the versatility and marketability of these configurations. This led to the shift in inventory, as manufacturing companies aimed to meet the growing demand for more complex and versatile drum sets.

The evolution of the drum set with the addition of double toms has had a lasting impact on the world of drumming. From the early innovations of performers like Dee Dee Chandler to the widespread adoption in jazz and rock music, double toms have played a crucial role in shaping the modern drum set. Today, double toms are an essential component of many drum kits, allowing drummers to achieve a wide range of sounds and rhythms in their performances.

While the origins and evolution of double toms in drum sets have been fascinating, it is clear that their impact on the world of drumming has been profound. From vaudeville to jazz and rock music, double toms have revolutionized the way drummers play and the sounds they create.

For more information on the history of the drum set and the evolution of drumming, you can visit Wikipedia for in-depth articles and resources.