I thought I was the only one who liked the fact that Doug Clifford, the drummer for Creedence Clearwater Revival played huge hi-hats.

I read this about Doug in Modrn Drummer:

Doug: It was pretty much just the way it was. I had a basic four-piece kit with one crash on the left side and a 22″ ride. I used the ride cymbal as a crash quite a bit. Another unique thing that I’ve been doing since 1969: I have 18″ hi-hats. In the old days—drum gear is made much stronger now—I had to go to the hardware store and buy a spring that would hold up their weight. With the storebought stand I couldn’t even open the hats! [laughs]

MD: Did you do it for volume or for a fatter sound?

Doug: A fatter sound. It gave me more options. I did a lot of things between the shank and tip of the stick. When I opened it, it sounded like a ride cymbal, but because the cymbals were touching, part of the sound would be these big cymbals washing back and forth against each other. When I played straight 8ths, it had one effect, but if I alternated between shank and tip it was like a crosscut saw. It added something really different. Most people never figured it out, even drummers! It’s a simple thing that had a life of its own, and I still use it.

I am a big fan of Steve Jordan’s playing. His feel, style  sound and musicality is unparalleled. He has such a unique sound and his selection of gear is a big contributor to what sets him apart.

I’ve haven’t tired bigger hi-hats yet.  I always liked the sound people get when using them. Hey, I might I’ll try some on a future gig.

Steve has lots of words of wisdom here: