![]() Gene Okamoto has left the building! Tomorrow will start his retirement from a monumental career as Product Specialist for Pearl Corporation. Starting in Sales at Drum World in CA, Gene would become a global figure in the drum industry.
standard noun \ˈstan-dərd\ 1. a level of quality or attainment. 2. an idea or thing used as a measure or model in comparative evaluations. This is the word that comes to mind when I think of Gene Okamoto. Over the last 18 years, I’ve witnessed Gene’s constant endeavor to make things better. There’s a reason his knowledge of drum history is revered throughout the industry (and is amazing to witness in person). I’m eternally grateful for everything I’ve gained from simply being in his presence. His retirement is greatly deserved and I wish him a long and adventurous life.
It would be really difficult for me to choose one story that encompasses Gene setting the standard… it’s just something he did every day.
1 Comment
Eddy Joseph Dishart
11/2/2020 06:42:35 pm
Drum World in San Francisco was like Willy Wonka's to me when I was a kid. Mesmerizing. Gene was always there.. no nonsense but really helpful. I was probably 12 when I brought my snare drum in for an overhaul (new bottom top & chain) I did the 'work' putting the bottom and chain on (of course he was monitoring me from afar)..after i finger tightened the top on... Gene stopped me..took the drum.. put it on the floor, and i watched in shock (and admittedly, horror) as he stepped right onto the top head and put his full weight into the center of the drum. It crackled n popped..he picked it up, put it on the counter and finished tuning it. It sounded AWESOME. I was bummed when he left Drum World, but as I understood it, he had gone to Pearl.. I felt like he got '1st round draft picked' to the 49ers... He was my hero.
Reply
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Categories
All
|