The History of Tama Drums: From Humble Beginnings to Global Icon

When you think of powerful, innovative drum kits, Tama is a name that always stands out. Known for their craftsmanship, reliability, and forward-thinking designs, Tama Drums have become a staple for drummers across genres—from jazz greats to heavy metal legends. But where did this iconic company get its start, and how did it rise to the top of the drumming world? Let’s take a journey through the history of Tama Drums.

Early Origins: The Hoshino Family Legacy

The story of Tama Drums begins in Japan with the Hoshino family, the founders of Hoshino Gakki, a company originally established in 1908 as a bookstore. By the 1920s, the business shifted toward importing and selling musical instruments. Over time, Hoshino Gakki grew into a respected manufacturer, producing guitars (most famously Ibanez) and eventually percussion instruments.

In the 1960s, Hoshino saw an opportunity in the growing popularity of rock music worldwide and began producing drums under the name Star Drums. These early kits were reliable but not yet recognized as world leaders in design. However, they laid the foundation for something much greater.

The Birth of Tama Drums

In 1974, Hoshino Gakki officially launched Tama Drums, named after the founder’s wife, Tama Hoshino. From the beginning, Tama positioned itself as a brand committed to quality and innovation, distinguishing itself from other mass-produced drum companies of the era.

One of their first major breakthroughs was the Imperialstar and Royalstar drum lines, which were sturdier and more professional compared to earlier Star kits. These drums quickly attracted the attention of working musicians worldwide.

Revolutionizing Drum Hardware

Where Tama truly carved its reputation was in hardware innovation. During the 1970s and 1980s, drummers struggled with flimsy stands, weak pedals, and unreliable gear. Tama stepped in with rugged, roadworthy hardware designed to withstand the punishment of touring.

The Iron Cobra bass drum pedal, first introduced in the early 1990s, became a game-changer. Known for its smooth action, adjustability, and power, it remains one of the most popular pedals among drummers today. Tama also pioneered double-braced stands, drum racks, and locking tom mounts, features that are now standard across the industry.

Signature Artists and Global Growth

Tama’s rise coincided with endorsements from some of the world’s top drummers. Heavy hitters like Billy Cobham, Simon Phillips, Lars Ulrich (Metallica), Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater), and Stewart Copeland (The Police) all became Tama players, giving the brand unmatched credibility in both rock and fusion circles.

By the 1980s and 1990s, Tama had cemented itself as one of the “big three” drum manufacturers, alongside Pearl and Yamaha. Their drums were known for their power, durability, and stage presence—making them a favorite in hard rock and metal, but versatile enough for jazz and funk.

Iconic Kits and Modern Innovations

Some of Tama’s most legendary kits include:

• Artstar Series – High-end drums favored by professional players in the late 1970s and 1980s.

• Starclassic Series – Introduced in the 1990s, these became flagship kits, known for their premium woods and wide tonal range.

• Silverstar & Superstar – Affordable yet professional-level kits that brought Tama quality to a wider audience.

• Star Series – Tama’s current premium line, showcasing hand-crafted excellence for today’s top drummers.

Beyond kits, Tama continues to refine hardware, with the Iron Cobra evolving into the Speed Cobra for even faster playing. Their focus on combining tradition with cutting-edge design keeps them ahead of the curve.

Tama Today: A Global Powerhouse

Today, Tama Drums are played on stages and in studios all over the world. From small clubs to massive stadiums, their reputation for durability, sound quality, and drummer-first innovation has never been stronger.

What started as a small Japanese family business has grown into one of the most respected drum companies in the world—proving that dedication to musicianship and craftsmanship always pays off.

Final Thoughts

Tama Drums are more than just instruments; they’re tools that have shaped modern drumming. Whether you’re a beginner buying your first kit or a touring professional looking for reliability, Tama’s legacy of innovation ensures they’ll always have something to offer.

As their slogan proudly states: “The Strongest Name in Drums.”