Simon Phillips

Simon Phillips is by far one of the world's most renowned and respected drummers, whose style not only reflects his technical gift but also his distinct musical sensibility. Whether it is Rock, Fusion or Jazz, Simon applies the same precision and intensity to his drumming, which is never lacking in emotion and feel.

World-renowned drummer, Simon Phillips (The Who, Jeff Beck, Peter Gabriel, Al DiMeola, Toto, etc.) has much to celebrate this year- the 30th Anniversaryof his project, PROTOCOL and a GRAMMY AWARD® nomination for his latest Protocol release, Protocol IV. In honor of this very special year, Simon is releasing a 6 CD Box Set consisting of 4 remastered Protocol releases and 2 CDs of never-before released demos and plans to tour extensively with his new Protocol line-up. This new line up offers Venezuelan keyboard maestro, Otmaro Ruiz and long-time compadre Ernest Tibbs on electric bass. Simon also invited young Los Angeles-based rising stars with fresh and commanding voices to fill in the guitar and sax chairs. The new members are Alex Sill and Jacob Scesney.

Simon's professional musical career began at the early age of twelve, performing and recording with his father's - Sid Phillips – Dixiel and band until he turned sixteen. With an offer to play in the musical Jesus Christ Superstar, his path was marked and his career in full bloom. Simon soon became one of London's most celebrated session drummers. In his early twenties he was well on his way to having a musical career nothing short of brilliance. To date he has toured and recorded with many bands and artists, including: Mick Jagger, The Who, Jeff Beck, Jack Bruce, Peter Gabriel, Joe Satriani, Tears for Fears, Judas Priest, Roxy Music, Michael Schenker, Nik Kershaw, Phd., Al DiMeola, 801, Pete Townshend, Russ Ballard, Robert Palmer, Stanley Clarke, The Pretenders, Jon Anderson, Whitesnake and Dave Gilmour... to name but a few.

In 1992 Simon decided to move to the USA, coinciding with being asked to join Toto for their world tour. He has remained a full time member ever since. After recording the Toto album "Tambu" in 1995, another year of touring followed in 1996, covering Europe, Japan, SE Asia and South America.

In 1997 Simon took a break from Toto in order to reach a personal milestone: He took his own band on tour, and for the first time he was the bandleader, and it was his music. This great year included tours of Europe, Japan and The United States, and a performance at The North Sea Jazz Festival.