Biography

Born and raised in Chicago IL, Chris began playing drums in church at a very young age. Naturally gifted, Chris was said to have never taken formal lessons and has gained the majority of his inspiration from mentors, Oscar Seaton Jr. and Khari Parker and has admiration for Steve Gadd, Steve Jordan, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Dave Weckl.

Being a Chicago native he too falls into the exclusive group of the city's great musical heritage alongside others such as drummer Mike White (Frankie Beverly & Maze), drummer Felix Pollard (Taylor Hicks), pianist Mike Logan (Will Downing), bassist Richard Patterson (Boz Scaggs, David Sanborn) drummer, Oscar Seaton Jr. (Lionel Richie and George Benson), drummer Khari Parker (Boz Scaggs) and drummer Teddy Campbell (American Idol), who are an extension of his Chicago family.

In 2003, Chris began touring with guitarist Nick Colionne and in late 2006, with smooth jazz artist Brian Culbertson during his Soulful Christmas tour. Chris is currently touring with Brian Culbertson and Dave Koz as well as Patti Austin, Nick Colionne and Boz Scaggs. Chris has also performed with saxophonist Gerald Albright, R&B vocalist Howard Hewett, and saxophonist Boney James just to name a few.

By playing with many musicians, Chris has acquired the ability to play the drums in multiple styles and genres of music. He believes that adapting to the various musical situations is essential to being a well-rounded musician.

When Chris is home between tours, he continues to strengthen his drumming techniques, solos and improvisation by performing in local clubs and participating in jam sessions. According to Chris, "the vibe you receive from playing in local clubs allows you to stretch out and just play! Playing what I feel and being able to transcend my vibe to the fans and get a reaction from them is what makes my job wonderful".

Tour Schedule




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Performed and or Recorded with

Brian Culbertson
Nick Colionne
Boz Scaggs
Heather Headley
Patti Austin
Boney James
Dave Koz
Ray Parker Jr.
Howard Hewitt
Steve Cole
Lake Effect
Eric Darius
Branford Marsalis
Michael Lington
Gerald Albright
Bobby Lyle
Marion Meadows
Peabo Bryson
The Dazz Band
Bobby Caldwell
Craig Chaquico
Warren Hill
Marcus Johnson
Sheldon Reynolds
Alan Hewitt
Adrian B. King and Reverence
Darius Brooks
International House of Blues Foundation
Four 80 East
The Thompson Community Singers
Lil G (Lead singer for Silk)
Malcolm Williams and Great Faith
Poi Dog Pondering
Larry Graham
Gerald Veasley William Smith Jr. & the Renewed Voices of Christ
Jeff Lorber Kirk Whalum
Maysa (Incognito) Kevin Whalum
Eric Benet John Stodart
Avant Lalah Hathaway
Chuck Loeb Otis Clay
Shiltz Terisa Griffen
Marcus Anderson Larry Dunn
George Duke Mike Manson