Our unsung hero this month is a U.K. born drummer whose rhythmic stylings can be heard on over one hundred recordings, including 56 top ten albums from artists such as Rod Stewart, Cher, Seal, Billy Idol, Robbie Williams, Celine Dion, and Adele, as well as various movie soundtracks, including “Terminator Genisys”, “Mission Impossible Fall Out” (Bongos), “Kung Fu Panda 3” and “The Lion King 2019”. And for 7 years was the house drummer for the U.K. version of “The Voice”
His name is Ashley “Ash” Soan, a much-in-demand session player on the British recording scene.
His passion for the drums started at the age of six when he had friend with a drum kit. He would regularly go to his friend’s house and play the drums. On his 11th birthday his parents bought him his first kit. Ashley went on to study music at Britain’s Salford University, continuing at Drumtech (now BIMM London).
His influences include Steve Gadd, Steve Ferrone, Jim Keltner, James Gadson, Phil Rudd, Art Blakey, and the late Jeff Porcaro. Gadd and Porcaro particularly influenced the “groove” that is one of his trademarks.
Ashley plays Gretsch drums and Zildjian cymbals.