As many of you may have gathered from my online presence or our friendships, discussions, or collaborations, I feel compelled to share a bit about my background and the diverse influences that have shaped my musical journey. Like many of you, I bring a rich tapestry of experiences to the table, and I take pride in being the sum of those influences. My love for music and drumming knows no bounds; I have an appreciation for rhythms and melodies from across the globe!
I don’t claim to be anything beyond what I am today, a product of the myriad sounds and styles that have influenced me over the years. Growing up in the vibrant 1960s was crucial in forming my musical identity. It was a time filled with the revolutionary spirit of hippie music, the raw energy of early heavy metal when it was still in its infancy, and the groundbreaking sounds of artists like Santana, Osibisa, and Olatunji, who expanded my understanding of rhythm and cross-cultural influences.
As my musical explorations deepened, I ventured into the realms of rock bands, where the electrifying performances ignited my passion even further. My journey then led me to jazz fusion and the rich textures of salsa, genres that added intricate layers to my understanding of rhythm and improvisation. Throughout this evolution, I was fortunate to forge friendships with musicians from all walks of life—each one enriching my musical palette and broadening my horizons.
As a studio musician, I’ve had the unique opportunity to collaborate on recordings that span an eclectic range of genres, from rock and heavy metal to the intricate grooves of African music. This diversity only deepened my appreciation for the art form and helped me understand the universal language of music that transcends cultural boundaries.
I share this narrative not only to celebrate the journey I’ve undertaken but also to underscore a vital message: it is entirely possible to be drawn to musical traditions outside of one’s own while remaining true to oneself. Everyone has a unique story, and embracing that individuality is crucial in the creative process. However, those who may resist or suppress their own identities might miss the beauty of this journey towards self-expression. In my experience, humility and self-awareness are the cornerstones of studying music effectively.
Throughout my life, I have had the honor of traveling to various corners of the world, immersing myself in Afro-Cuban rhythms in Cuba, mastering the djembe in Guinea and Mali, and exploring a multitude of styles from Brazil, India, and beyond. Each of these experiences has profoundly influenced my musical philosophy, reminding me of the interconnectedness of diverse traditions.
As my late mentor Yagbe Onilu often stated, “Drumming is music.” This simple yet profound insight reinforces the idea that when we dive into different musical traditions, we begin to see the threads that weave them together. Specializing in one area is undoubtedly a beautiful pursuit, but my path has been enriched by exploration and fusion.
I believe it’s essential to strike a delicate balance between remaining authentic to ourselves and honoring the teachings embedded in the diverse traditions we’ve encountered. I write this for those who are currently studying and seeking to express their own unique voices within this rich tapestry of music. Each of us has our distinct style to offer, and yet, I maintain that understanding the fundamentals and rudiments of hand drumming forms the bedrock of our development as musicians. It’s about that equilibrium—where individuality coexists harmoniously with the profound respect for the artistry and heritage that has come before us.