Sakae confirms new lineup of UK endorsees
Sakae Drums has unviled Ash Soan and Neal Wilkinson as its first product endorsees for the UK.
Since entering the market back in 1967, Sakae had, until now, been responsible for manufacturing drums for Yamaha, who are now investing in a new purpose-built facility in China. As a result, Sakae has now begun marketing its own range of products, which has been picked up in the UK by Soar Valley.
Leading the UK endorsee line for the firm are Soan and Wilkinson, who, between them, boast a long list of high-profile credits. Soan’s live and studio work has seen him perform with the likes of Adele, Nelly Furtado, Robbie Williams, Cee Lo Green, Seal, Enrique Iglesias, Tom Robinson and Del Amitri, while Wilkinson has toured and recorded with such artists as Van Morrison, Paul Carrack, Mike and the Mechanics, Ray Charles, Maceo Parker, Sir Paul McCartney, Westlife, Ronan Keating, Joan Armatrading, Veronique Sanson, Gil Evans, Michel Legrand and James Morrison.
“We are incredibly honoured to have an artist of Ash’s calibre to choose to play our instruments,” said Eizo Nakata, third generation president, Sakae Drums. “Ash’s contributions to the music industry are undeniable. Knowing Sakae is the sound he is choosing as his musical voice brings us all enormous pride.”
Soan added: “The natural progression for me is to play Sakae’s Trilogy Drums. Based on a three-ply model, this kit produces the sound that best represents me at this stage of my musical journey.”
Nakata also commented on the firm’s delight at acquiring Wilkinson as an endorsee, stating: “When the result of our artistry attracts the greatness of a player such as Neal Wilkinson, there are no proper words to express our pride. Neal’s musical accomplishments speak to his incredible talent, so knowing that his future endeavours will be on a Sakae kit going forward is very humbling. We are honoured to welcome him into our artist family.”
“I’ve been waiting to play these drums for a long time. The classic 3-ply shell with reinforcement rings has been heard for decades and is by far my favourite drum sound,” said Wilkinson. “Stylistically, they are perfect for any music, as they sound great at any tuning. Beautiful drums to play, hear and see.”