Tama Drums — Metal Drummers Who Use Tama | MetalForge
Which metal drummers use Tama drums? See every pro in MetalForge's database who endorses or plays Tama gear — kit specs and prices.
About Tama
Tama has been at the forefront of drum manufacturing since 1974, becoming the go-to choice for metal drummers worldwide. Founded in Japan by Hoshino Gakki, Tama revolutionized the industry with innovations like the Iron Cobra pedal and Starclassic shell construction.
Why Metal Drummers Choose Tama:
- Durability – Built to withstand the punishment of metal drumming
- Consistency – Precision manufacturing ensures reliable performance
- Innovation – Pioneered features like Star-Cast mounting and Air-Ride snare system
- Versatility – From the affordable Imperialstar to the flagship Starclassic Bubinga
Signature Lines:
- Starclassic Maple – Warm, versatile tones favored by thrash drummers
- Starclassic Walnut/Birch – Balanced attack and projection for modern metal
- Starclassic Bubinga – Deep, powerful sound for extreme genres
Notable Metal Artists:
From Lars Ulrich's iconic thrash sound, Tama drums have defined the sound of metal for decades.
Tama History
Tama's history begins with Hoshino Gakki, a Japanese musical instrument company founded in Nagoya in 1908 that started out selling books before moving into instrument sales and, eventually, manufacturing.
Hoshino Gakki built its early reputation making guitars — the company would later launch the Ibanez brand — before turning its attention to drums. In 1974, Hoshino Gakki launched the Tama name specifically for its drum line, giving that side of the business its own dedicated identity.
Tama grew quickly through the 1970s and 80s by pairing Japanese manufacturing precision with steady hardware innovation, developing mounting systems that set it apart from rival Japanese and American drum makers.
That innovation reached a milestone in 1993 with the launch of the Iron Cobra bass drum pedal, which became one of the most widely used double pedals in professional drumming and remains a metal-industry standard today.
Tama has continued to expand its Starclassic shell lineup and hardware systems since, building a reputation as a first-call brand for touring metal drummers who need both reliability and a powerful, focused low end.
Tama Milestones
- 1908: Hoshino Gakki is founded in Nagoya, Japan.
- 1974: Hoshino Gakki launches the Tama name as a dedicated drum brand.
- mid-1980s: Lars Ulrich (Metallica) becomes an official Tama artist, building his kits around Tama shells and, later, the Iron Cobra pedal.
- 1993: The Iron Cobra bass drum pedal launches and becomes a metal-industry standard.
Tama in Metal
Lars Ulrich has been an official Tama artist since the mid-1980s, building his Metallica kits around Tama shells and the Iron Cobra pedal — one of the most visible metal endorsements in drum-brand history. Other extreme metal drummers have since relied on Tama's Starclassic shells and Iron Cobra pedals for the speed and durability blast-beat drumming demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Tama drums do metal drummers use?
Most professional metal drummers use Tama Starclassic series drums - either Maple for warmer tones (Lars Ulrich) or Walnut/Birch for more attack (Dave Lombardo). The Starclassic Bubinga is popular for its deep, powerful sound.
Why is Tama popular in metal?
Tama's reputation in metal comes from their durability, consistent quality, and innovations like the Iron Cobra pedal. Artists like Lars Ulrich and Dave Lombardo helped establish Tama as the metal standard.
What's the best Tama kit for metal?
The Tama Starclassic Walnut/Birch is widely considered the best Tama kit for metal due to its powerful attack, projection, and versatility across subgenres. For budget options, the Superstar Classic offers excellent value.