Chris Maas came to wider attention through his work with Sting, bringing a modern, electronic-influenced approach into a band built on precision, dynamics, and song-first playing. His role sits less in traditional rock drumming and more in texture, programming, and hybrid performance, supporting Sting’s later-era material and live arrangements.
Maas’s background centers on electronic music, production, and hybrid drumming rather than a straight acoustic path. That foundation made him a strong fit for Sting’s evolving live sound, where acoustic drums, electronics, samples, and loops operate together. His playing emphasizes control, restraint, and adaptability, often blurring the line between drummer and electronic musician.
In live settings, Maas has handled both drum kit and electronic elements, integrating triggers, pads, and programmed components while maintaining the flexibility required for Sting’s wide-ranging catalog. The approach supports songs originally recorded across decades while allowing newer material to sit comfortably alongside classic repertoire.
Outside his work with Sting, Maas has remained active as a producer and electronic musician, contributing to projects that prioritize sound design and rhythmic architecture over traditional drummer-centric roles.
Recent activity: Maas continues working in hybrid performance and production contexts, with his association with Sting representing his most visible large-scale touring role.
Gear: Roland; Ableton; acoustic/electronic hybrid setups (artist-specific configurations).
Sources: Sting touring band documentation; live performance credits; interviews and production-related materials.
Update: January 23, 2026
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