Gareth Haze: 18 Interesting Facts You Might Not Know

South African-born multi-instrumentalist Gareth Haze is more than just a talented drummer—he’s a passionate performer with a story full of quirky facts, emotional resilience, and a deep dedication to his craft.

From early childhood antics to sharing stages with international legends, Gareth’s journey is filled with moments that reveal both his human side and musical brilliance.

Here are 18 Interesting Facts You Might Not Know about Gareth Haze

1. Gareth began drumming at around three years old, using colouring pencils as drumsticks and cooking pots as his first “drum kit.” He received his first real kit at age eleven and hasn’t stopped playing since.

2. Despite his musical talents, Gareth has never properly learned to ride a bicycle. He believes he could pick it up if he tried—but has never felt motivated to do so as an adult.

3. During a demanding 2007 summer tour with 12th Avenue (the band he played in with his brother Mark Haze), Gareth performed nine shows in seven days. At the eighth gig, he briefly nodded off behind his drum kit due to extreme exhaustion—waking after about five seconds from a jolt of adrenaline.

4. While supporting Bon Jovi in 2013 with Mark Haze, Gareth chose not to approach the band out of respect for their privacy. In contrast, during a 2008 support slot with Seether, he struck up friendships with their crew—particularly drummer John Humphrey and guitarist Troy McLawhorn (now with Evanescence), whom he still stays in touch with.

5. After injuring his right shoulder, Gareth adapted by switching his computer mouse to his left hand, eventually becoming proficient with everyday tasks using his non-dominant side.

6. A proud tech geek, Gareth Haze has held IT positions in the logistics and video game sectors. Today, he uses that expertise for cloud-based music production and international collaboration.

7. At just eighteen, a week after emergency surgery to remove his appendix, Gareth returned to the stage—painkillers and stitches in place—thanks to the support of his bandmates, who helped set up his kit.

8. His first solo live performance took place at The Red Lion in Isleworth, West London, opening for friends Dem Blues Men. Despite battling food poisoning, he delivered a flawless set, unnoticed by the audience.

9. Gareth is a multi-instrumentalist skilled in guitar, drums, piano, marimba, xylophone, timpani and various percussion instruments.

10. In 2017, he moved to London to pursue a solo career. His upcoming debut album, Stranger in a Strange Land, draws on years of personal and musical experiences.

11. His debut solo single, “Home,” features his brother Mark Haze and was co-produced by the pair, highlighting their strong musical and family connection.

12. Musical influences include the Beatles, Queen, Frank Turner, Dashboard Confessional, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan. His sound blends elements of folk, rock, blues and pop.

13. Gareth takes a punk-inspired DIY approach to recording and performing, favouring emotional authenticity over technical perfection.

14. He regularly performs at open mic nights and small gigs throughout London, where he continues to refine his sound and connect with audiences.

15. Gareth is currently finalising his debut solo album Stranger in a Strange Land, with his brother Mark once again involved in production.

16. The loss of their father in 2023 deeply impacted Gareth and Mark, inspiring songs like “Never Have I Ever”, which explore themes of grief, memory and healing.

17. He’s a strong advocate for supporting independent artists—urging fans to attend live shows, buy merch, and share music to help keep creative communities thriving.

18. Here are Gareth’s Favourite Things: