Russ Gilbrook, best known for powering the drums behind British rock icons Uriah Heep, has officially joined the WFL III Drums artist family. The announcement dropped earlier this week, with Gilbrook sharing his excitement on social media and reflecting on what the collaboration means to him.
Known for his powerful, high-energy playing, Gilbrook spoke openly about why sound and tone are so central to his craft. In his words, the feel and character of the drums can make or break a performance, and WFL III delivered exactly what he was after.
“Sound is everything in my playing,” he said. “And the right drums aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. There’s no better brand to provide that than one led by a Ludwig.”
WFL III Drums, founded by Bill Ludwig III, continues a legacy that’s deeply rooted in American drum craftsmanship. That history resonated with Gilbrook, who pointed to both the quality of the drums and the family tradition behind them.
“Working with WFL III isn’t just about great gear—it’s about joining a company that builds drums with purpose and heritage,” Gilbrook added. “I’m proud to be a part of what Bill and his team are doing.”
He also took a moment to thank the people who helped bring the endorsement together, giving a special shoutout to both B3 and Paul McManus. Gilbrook credited McManus as someone who consistently champions the drumming world, calling him a “true driving force” in keeping the spirit of drumming alive and well.
The partnership marks another milestone in Gilbrook’s wide-ranging career. In addition to decades of touring and studio work with Uriah Heep, he’s played alongside legends like Tony Iommi, Van Morrison, and John Farnham. He’s led clinics across Europe, taught on Sky TV’s musician channel, and created educational content for drummers at all levels.
Beyond performance, Gilbrook’s also been hands-on with gear development—helping design bass drum beaters and collaborating with companies like Paiste and Pellwood. His move to WFL III is a natural next step in a career shaped by both innovation and deep respect for the instrument’s roots.
With the endorsement now official, Gilbrook plans to bring WFL III drums into his future recordings and live shows. For fans and fellow musicians, it’s an exciting chance to hear the brand’s sound through the hands of one of rock’s most experienced and expressive players.
