The Ludwig Book: A Business History and Dating Guide

The Ludwig Book by Rob Cook is the definitive business and historical guide to this legendary drum manufacturer. Includes dozens of interviews, a 64-page color section, a dating guide including every catalogued Ludwig snare drum and outfit, and a handy CD-ROM. Interview sections include the top executives from Ludwig's heyday in the 1960s: Karl Dustman, Frank Baxpehler and Dick Schory, as well as todays leaders: William F. Ludwig III, Todd Trent and Jim Catalano. There are also special segments on Ludwig Electronics, Phase II, and detailed sections about the gear used by famous drummers such as John Bonham and Ringo Starr.

Rob Cook is the founder and proprietor of Rebeats, a publisher of materials related to percussion history. Cook has written books on all of the major American drum brands of the 20th century as well as numerous drummer biographies. Rob Cook also produces the Chicago Drum Show; the largest and longest-running event of it's type. The 30th Chicago Drum Show was held in 2021.