The Immediate Family

Danny Kortchmar formed his first band in the 1960s called The King Bees. The year was 1964 and Danny was already hooked on a career in music. He went on to become one of the most sought after studio musicians in Los Angeles, recording with Linda Ronstadt, Carole King, Carly Simon, James Taylor and Jackson Browne, among others.

Russ Kunkel has had a great influence on young drum students, not just because of his steady playing but because of his willingness to share his techniques and ideas. Russ has performed and recorded with Bob Dylan, Neil Diamond, Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, and the rock band Spinal Tap (he played Stumpy Joe) among others. Over his amazing career, Russ has always taken the time to provide clinics and workshops that have been turning points in the playing of hundreds of drummers and percussionists. He is also a noted NAMM regular as he endorses products made by DW Drums, Pro Mark D

Leland Sklar may be among the top recorded bass players in history. As a studio and film score composer, Leland has recorded with countless performers and for top rated movies since his career began in the 1960s. His album work includes sessions with Reba McEntire, Bette Midler, Graham Nash, Jackson Brown, Phil Collins, Neil Diamond, Diana Ross and James Taylor (among others). Leland’s film work includes Legally Blonde, Coyote Ugly, Sleepwalkers and Conspiracy Theory. Over his long career Leland has been involved with the companies that make his basses and accessories. As a result

Waddy Wachtel is the noted studio musician and songwriter who can be heard on hit records with the likes of Linda Ronstadt, Keith Richards, Jackson Browne and James Taylor, among others. He collaborated with Warren Zevon to write “Werewolves of London” and “Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead.” Waddy grew up in New York and has fond memories of visiting Manny’s Music as well as other retailers and dreaming of owning high-end guitars. As his career got under way he purchased an early Gibson Les Paul and Fender Stratocaster, both of which he uses to this day.