Nick Menza
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Nick Menza (born 23 July, 1968 in Munich, Germany) is a drummer. As the son of jazz musician Don Menza (who is famous for playing the saxaphone introduction in the Pink Panther theme), Nick began playing drums at the age of two, at which age he performed at his first public concert when during the intermission someone sat him down on Jack DeJohnette's drums and he proceeded to play.
Nick was nurtured around the tutelage of such notables as Buddy Rich, Steve Gadd, Nick Ceroli, Jeff Porcaro and Louie Bellson.
Beginning his professional musical career at the age of 18 drumming in the band Rhodes featuring singer Kelly Rhoads, brother of the late Randy, Nick released his first record with Rhoads called "Into The Future" in Europe. The band hit the road with Foghat for a short time.
Moving on to session playing including styles ranging from R&B to Gospel, Funk and Heavy Metal recording with the likes of John Fogerty, Nick caught the attention of then Megadeth drummer Chuck Behler and became his tech. When Megadeth needed a drummer, Nick Menza was asked to join the band.
External links
- menza.com (http://www.menza.com)