Simon Phillips, English drummer, composer, and producer, has built one of the most influential careers in modern drumming, bridging rock, jazz fusion, progressive music, and high-level studio production. Born February 6, 1957, in London, he became known early for his technical precision, musical authority, and open-handed approach, later performing and recording with a long list of major artists, including Toto, The Who, Jeff Beck, Judas Priest, Pete Townshend, Mike Oldfield, Joe Satriani, and many others.
Phillips is widely respected not only as a drummer but as a musical director, engineer, and producer. His work reflects a rare combination of high technical command and deep musical taste, and his studio experience has made him a trusted voice in arranging and capturing performances at a world-class level. Alongside major touring work, he has maintained a parallel career leading his own projects, particularly his long-running instrumental fusion band Protocol, which showcases his writing, orchestration, and compositional voice.
Recent activity through 2024 and 2025 shows Phillips fully active in both performance and recording. He continues touring internationally with Protocol V, including U.S. appearances such as Blue Note New York in March 2025 and an extensive European tour schedule during 2025. He also remains active as an educator, offering clinics and masterclasses, including a confirmed drum clinic event in Mesa, Arizona in July 2025. In the studio, Phillips expanded his producer and collaborator role with progressive rock supergroup DarWin, contributing as co-producer, arranger, and drummer on their recent album Distorted Mirror. He also recorded drums for the upcoming Karmakanic album Transmutation, demonstrating that major artists continue seeking his sound and musical judgment for new releases.
Phillips remains active both as a touring artist and as a creative force behind the scenes, balancing band work, education, and high-end studio production. His work continues to influence drummers worldwide through performance, recording, writing, and his ongoing role as a model of musical professionalism.
Gear:
Tama drums, Tama hardware, Iron Cobra pedals, and Remo drumheads.
Sources: Simon Phillips official website, Tama artist page, MusicRadar interviews, Louder (Prog) news, Drummerworld tour coverage, Beatit.tv event coverage, venue event listings.
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Update 1/20/26