Ronn Dunnett | Continuing Tradition
Ronn Dunnett is a colorful character who I had the great pleasure to finally meet at Victoria Drum Festival this year. He is a one-man show who is responsible for some of the finest instruments crafted in our industry today. Both with his Dunnett Classic Drums line and his continuation of the George Way legacy, Ronn pours love and care into each creation. He has high standards and does not sway off the path of excellence, as he has been known to be quite outspoken about certain aspects of the drum industry on social media and is misunderstood sometimes in the tone of his message. As we said (off-air) in our pre-chat, he is the guy who kicks the ball when others stand around waiting for someone else to take action.
The bulk of our conversation is focused on his revival of George Way Drum Company. In 2006, Ronn decided to restore the old company and honor its roots and tradition. Ronn is very interested in the history of the man, the story of the company and George Way, and the brand both in its innovation and focus on quality and sincerity of the products. Ronn realizes just how much responsibility he is faced with and he holds a high standard to honor what George might have wanted in regards to what the company would eventually evolve into if George were still alive. Listening to Ronn speak on this is very interesting and it says a lot about his character and what he values.
Beyond that we talk some shop, have some good laughs, discuss his lifetime acheivement, and contemplate the future of Ronn's companies and when he may decide that it is time to live out the rest of his days outside of his "factory".
Audio is taken from Carter McLean's Drumeo lesson and a demonstration of the George Way birthday kit, played by Carter McLean.
Ronn's Socials
Instagram | Facebook | Website
DrumGAB's Socials