HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (June 1, 2007) – Yamaha Drums and drummers electrified the stage at the 42nd Annual Academy of Country Music® Awards on May 15, as they performed with the industry's biggest names. The star-studded ceremony was broadcast live from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on the CBS Television Network.
"We are thrilled that so many of our Yamaha drummers and drum kits were showcased on this special night for country music. It is an honor that the most successful artists in the genre rely on Yamaha Drums for their live performances," comments Joe Testa, international artist relations manager for Yamaha Drums.
Yamaha Drummers included
Sean Paddock with country megastar Kenny Chesney, who walked away with Entertainer of the Year for the third consecutive year.
Andy Hubbard backed Little Big Town, who won their first-ever Academy of Country Music® Award for Top New Duo or Vocal Group. Country icon George Strait performed with Yamaha Drummer
Mike Kennedy. Strait went on to win Single Record of the Year and Song of the Year for his hit "Give It Away."
Tommy Harden backed the evening's hostess, country music legend Reba McEntire. Also
Dave McAfee and
Shannon Forest performed with superstars Toby Keith and Faith Hill respectively. Rodney Atkins' drummer Kevin Rapillo also played a Yamaha kit during the show.
The Academy of Country Music® is an artist and industry-driven organization that produces the annual awards show and associated events. It is comprised of more than 4,500 professional members and more than 48,000 associate members. The organization also sponsors the Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund, which promotes and supports music education and humanitarian programs.
Yamaha Drums is currently celebrating its 40th anniversary. Since 1967, the brand has been synonymous with quality and durability. Yamaha Drums can be heard on countless recordings and is the touring drum of choice for top artists in a variety of musical styles. For more information on Yamaha Drums or artists, please visit
www.yamahadrums.com.
