Richard van Leeuwen is a Dutch rock drummer and in-demand session musician. In addition to his technical precision, he is widely respected for his powerful grooves, musical sensitivity, and distinctive playing style. Since the early 1990s, Richard has built a strong live reputation, touring with artists such as Within Temptation, Frozen Sun, and legendary U.S. guitar shredder Adam Bomb. His discography includes albums with Rebelstar, Xeno, Threnody, and many others.

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Born in Vlaardingen / The Netherlands, Richard began playing drums at the age of 13. Within just a few years, he was touring the local club circuit with his band Vulture and gained national exposure through a prime-time television documentary on underground music. After several attempts to pursue a music career in the UK, he returned to the Netherlands and joined the melodic rock band Flyer, which soon secured a major record deal with Dureco.

A major turning point in Richard’s career came in 1995, when he became a member of the progressive death metal band Threnody. Their second album, Bewildering Thoughts, achieved international success and is still regarded as a genre-defining classic. Richard’s flamboyant and technically daring drumming on the album drew immediate attention from the international press, earning him recognition as a “super drummer.” One year later, he joined Frozen Sun, who were signed to DSFA Records and Mojo Concerts. This collaboration resulted in two albums, three MTV videos, and a full live concert broadcast on TMF.

Today, Richard is a first-call drummer for the Legends of Rock Tribute Tour, performing internationally in large venues and theaters with acts such as The Ultimate Guns N’ Roses, Rumours Unchained, and Absolutely Floyd. In addition, he can be heard on the latest albums by Xeno and August Life, projects for which he was specifically invited because of his progressive rock expertise.

For several consecutive years, Richard has been ranked #4 “Best Hard Rock/Metal Drummer in the Benelux” by Slagwerkkrant Magazine. He has also received a five-star rating (out of five) from DrummersZone.