Gary Ponder, born and raised in South Detroit, the son of
a Great Lakes Steelworker. At the age of 12, he picked up
a pair of drum sticks and hasn’t put them down since. He
bought his first drum set at thirteen and three years later
joined a band. By eighteen, he was working as a full time
drummer, honing his skills in R&B, Motown and Progressive
Rock. After adding electronic drums to his growing collection
of studio equipment, he began recording original projects.
He worked nights in clubs around town so he could practice
and record during the day.

Gary’s aspiration as a young player was to become a
“drummer’s drummer”, to be recognized by his peers as one
of the best talents around. With that goal in mind he knew
where he had to go. So, in 1990, he moved to the mecca of
the music world, Los Angeles. By accepting every chance
to play, he jammed, networked and gradually built a name
for himself, becoming even more versatile, in areas such as
Alternative, Rock, Jazz Fusion, Country and R&B Funk.
Surrounding himself with the best people in the business, he
lives by his own credo:

“You’re only as good as your atmosphere”.

Gary Ponder thrives on the pure adrenaline of drumming, on
the thrill of one more lick, groove and style. Through his
talent, determination and hard work, he’s fulfilling his dream,
becoming a “drummer’s drummer”, a musician with the
respectand recognition of his peers. First and foremost,
Gary is a player, anytime, anywhere.

For more credits and endorsements see resume page.
Gary is available for any pro situation, tour, showcase or recording.

You can contact him at (818) 893-4000.