Neil LaFortune Bio
Neil began playing drums in the mid-80’s and has covered the gamut of gigs and styles throughout the years. From Classic Rock, Funk, R&B, Country, Latin, Pop, Jazz,
and Blues based cover bands, to original acts, many tribute acts, from divey bars to soft seat theatres, outdoor amphitheaters, TV, studio, Festivals, and an occasional arena,
Neil has been there.
Playing career highlights
Neil is a member of ABBA Revisited, averaging about 100 shows per year across North America and various locales across the globe.
Neil performed with Juno-winning Canadian-American country artist Meghan Patrick.
He has played/toured with such Filipino superstars such as Morrisette, Martin Nievera, Pops Fernandez, Piolo Pascual, Rey Valera, Rico Puno, Joey Albert, and many more.
Neil has been called to play with David Pomeranz, a Broadway, Film, and Television Singer-Songwriter.
Neil plays in “Message in A Bottle,” a tribute to the Police with Gord Deppe of the 80’s Canadian New Wave group, The Spoons, and is in on the ground floor of CCR tribute
“Creedence Clearwater Arrival” and set to play in various Canadian and U.S. cities in 2026!
Educator
Even with his busy playing schedule, from his teaching studio, Neil maintains a roster of 15-20 students per week comprised of both in-person and online students.
In addition, facilities one-to-three-day Drum Camps a few times a year. His space features both recording and video formats allowing student to advance on those skills as well.
Livestream series
In April of 2020 Neil created the “Gretsch Afternoon Drum Break” video podcast series. With 84 episodes to date, visit the Podcast on Facebook, Instagrams and YouTube channel
to hear some of those ‘That Great Gretsch Sound’ lovers like: Steve Ferrone, Hannah Welton, Mark Schulman, Nic Collins, Ash Soan, Cindy Blackman Santana, David Northrup,
Victor Indrizzo, Andrew Shreve, Karl Brazil, Anthony Michelli, Stanton Moore, both Fred and Dinah Gretsch (who honored Neil with a lovely Gretsch Platinum record award)
Ferit Odman, Paul DeLong, Jake Reed, Clive Deamer, Paul Cooper and many more!
Neil’s endorsements include Gretsch Drums USA, Sabian Cymbals and Headhunters Sticks and Creations.