Keith Moon’s Drumkits: Endorsements and Signature Series

Endorsements

Premier Drums

A likely incomplete listing of promotional endorsements for Premier drums by Keith Moon. Keith signed an exclusive endorsement agreement with Premier on 6 September, 1965.

Syndrums

In 1978, Moon had started using Syndrums, a synthesized computer drumpad, and was listed as such in advertisements.

Signature Series

‘Spirit of Lily’

In January 2006, Premier have announced the release of a “Pictures of Lily” tribute kit, a replica of Keith’s “Pictures of Lily” Premier kit used 1967–68.

From the Premier site:

Premier announces limited edition Keith Moon ‘Pictures of Lily’ tribute kit

Premier has announced the introduction of a very special limited edition drumset in tribute to the legendary “Pictures of Lily” kit that the company made for Keith Moon of the Who in the 1960s. Named the “Spirit of Lily,” the new kit features faithful recreations of the unique artwork that adorned the original kit and the original drum sizes used by Moon.

Premier has painstakingly researched the original “Pictures of Lily” kit to ensure absolute authenticity in the recreation of the original artwork. Premier was given unique access to photograph and examine the original drums in detail, most of which are currently stored at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Premier also worked with Roger Daltrey of The Who and John Wolfe[sic], Keith Moon’s chauffeur and Who “roadie” at the time, who had intimate knowledge of the original kit.

The “Spirit of Lily” drumset features Premier Series Birch drums with authentic replica artwork finish with Premier Series lugs, fittings and die-cast hoops. The setup emulates the original 8-pc setup and comprises three 14″ × 8″ mounted toms, two 16″ × 16″ floor toms, two 22″ × 14″ bass drums and 14″ × 5.5″ steel snare drum. The kits will only be available for a period of 14 months, one month to represent each of the 14 years of Keith Moon’s relationship with Premier.

The “Spirit of Lily” Drumset is officially authorised by the estate of Keith Moon and also by Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend of The Who. The first set made by Premier will be donated for auction to raise funds for The Who’s Teenage Cancer Trust charity.

See the Premier site for more information.

Report on 2006 NAMM show in Los Angeles, from mikedolbear.com

Biggest news from Premier is the “Spirit Of Lily” drum kit. This is a modern recreation of the classic Keith Moon drum kit. Premier spent months analysing the remaining drums and all photos they could find to recreate the finish of the drums onto a wrap that they could copy to build multiple kits. The kits will be built to order for only 14 months (one month for every year that Moon was associated with Premier) and are built with the blessing of Keith’s daughter and the Who. The kit has three 14×8″ toms, two 16×16″ floor toms, two 22×14″ bass drums and a Modern Classic 2000 steel snare. The shells are modern Premier Line birch models with Premier Line lugs and the finish looks stunning.

Photos of the Spirit of Lily kit from NAMM 2006

Click to view larger version. Images courtesy of mikedolbear.com.

Vic Firth Keith Moon Signature Sticks

In January 2016, Vic Firth introduced Keith Moon Signature Sticks, model SKM, based on the Premier “C” sticks Keith used, with full cooperation of Keith’s daughter, Amanda DeWolf (née Mandy Moon).

Per longtime Whotabs site contributor Stuart Ritchie, these are a very faithful reproduction of the sticks Premier “C” sticks Keith used throughout his career.

From the Vic Firth site:

At the invitation of and in consultation with the Keith Moon Estate, Vic Firth is excited and proud to immortalize Keith’s drumming legacy. The new Keith Moon signature model matches the exact specifications of the stick used by Keith throughout his storied career.

The Keith Moon Signature Stick is unique in its design with the combination of a medium shaft, fast-sloping medium taper and a length just short of 16″. Crafted in hickory with an oval wood tip, this stick packs plenty of punch when needed and can work in a variety of musical settings.

“We wanted this new Keith Moon model to be made by the very best drumstick company,” states Keith’s daughter Amanda DeWolf. “By choosing Vic Firth, we have accurately replicated the design and provided the enhanced quality that Vic Firth is renowned for.”

Specs

• Diameter: .560″ ( 1.42cm)
• Length: 15^13/16″ (40.17cm)
• Medium Taper
• Material: Hickory
• Surface coating: Lacquer
• Tip:
  • Type: Wood
  • Shape: Oval
  • Surface area: Medium
• MSRP: US$18.00

 

See: vicfirth.com