"I am blessed to have had long-standing relationships with the following companies and craftsmen, all of whom strive every day to bring the finest quality products to the stage and studio. These are my tools for self-expression, and I rely on them to help me deliver the music that flows through me. My sincerest thanks to all of them." - John Van Ness

John currently performs and records with the following gear: 

Gretsch Broadkaster Drums in Purple Diamond Pearl (22", 10", 12", 15").

Dunnett Classic Snare Drums My “go-to” for most music is my 6.5x14 High Carbon Steel snare drum with a matte black finish. This drum has no "ceiling". It will get as loud as you want with a structural rigidity and stiffness to the shell that transmits energy rather than choke. I also have a Cask-Craft solid Maple drum lovingly crafted by Micah Doering. It utilizes Ronn Dunnett's throwoff, butt, tube lugs, and hoops. Jeff at Woods Custom Drums crafted a lovely Maple/Poplar/Maple 7.5 x14 snare with Ronn's patented wood/metal hybrid hoops. The vertical grain orientation on the inner plies translates to less tension on the shell so it can be tuned tightly, but still retain a mid-range warmth! It is an easy drum to love because it just feels great. This drum has become the absolute favorite for the rockabilly project!

DW Pedals & Hardware I have been using DW Pedals and Hardware for decades now. Some hesitate at the premium price-tag, but I never have to question if it will hold up. It's pretty much bulletproof. The chrome finish on the stands is awesome, and I've had the same stands for about 10 years now. My single and double pedals work flawlessly. They are smooth and well-built and just feel "right".

Paiste Cymbals My love affair with Paiste products started in high-school. While I have played and worked for many cymbal companies as a traveling sales rep (including Paiste), owning and playing a lovely set of primarily 602 and Signature Paiste Cymbals again felt like "returning home". They are a big part of my sound. 

Evans Drumheads I have been using Evans Drumheads for decades. They've always been durable and consistent. Every drum has a "sweet spot" and it does not take long to find it with Evans Drumheads. Steve Lobmeier at Evans is attentive, knows the product, and is one of the few friends who writes just to check on me!

Dauz Trigger Pads So happy to be working with Dan Dauz and his products after knowing him for 3 decades!