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Ron Wikso – Drummer & Producer
Ronald "Ron" Wikso (born 1959) is an American drummer, producer, and session musician. Known for his versatility across rock, pop, blues, and Latin styles, he has performed and recorded with some of the biggest names in music, including Cher, Steve Miller Band, Foreigner, David Lee Roth, and Richie Sambora.
He’s recognized for his precise timing, groove, and decades of top-tier touring and studio work.
Official site: ronwikso.com
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Early Life & Education
Ron was born in Dover, Delaware, and raised on Long Island, New York. He began drumming at age 7 and was playing professionally by age 12. He studied briefly at Berklee College of Music in Boston before moving to L.A. to pursue music full-time.
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Career Highlights
Touring & Recording Credits:
Cher – Global tours, including “Extravaganza – Live at the Mirage” (1992)
The Storm – Supergroup featuring members of Journey
Foreigner – Touring drummer (1995–1998)
Richie Sambora – Drummer for “Undiscovered Soul” tour
David Lee Roth – Late ’90s touring lineup
Gregg Rolie – Co-producer and drummer on “Sonic Ranch” (2019)
Creedence Clearwater Revisited – Live sub for Doug Clifford
Steve Miller Band – Official touring drummer since 2021
Ron has also toured alongside:
Bryan Adams, Deep Purple, Peter Frampton, The Doobie Brothers, REO Speedwagon, and John Fogerty.
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Production & Session Work
Ron runs a private recording studio where he tracks live drum sessions remotely for artists and producers. He also co-founded Total Control Audio, a sound library company creating drum loops and samples for music and film.
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Style & Influences
Ron’s style blends technical skill with musicality. His influences include:
John Bonham
Jeff Porcaro
Steve Gadd
Vinnie Colaiuta
Buddy Rich
Dave Grohl
Todd Sucherman
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Personal Life
Ron lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife Debbie and their children. He also has a son, Jesse, from a previous relationship.
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Gear & Endorsements
Drums: Sonor Drums (since 1990)
Cymbals: Zildjian (since 1986)
Drumheads: Remo (since 1990)
Drumsticks: Innovative Percussion (since 2022)
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Selected Discography
Albums / Performances:
1992 – Cher: “Extravaganza – Live at the Mirage” (Live)
1995 – The Storm: “Eye of the Storm”
1998 – Foreigner: “Live at Deer Creek”
1998 – Richie Sambora: “Undiscovered Soul” tour
2019 – Gregg Rolie: “Sonic Ranch” (Drums, Co-producer)
2021–present – Steve Miller Band: Live touring
Sound Libraries: Total Control Audio drum loop/sample collections.
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More Info
• Website: ronwikso.com
• Sonor Artist Page: Sonor Drums Profile
• Interview: Modern Drummer Interview
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