Drummer/percussionist in the Chicagoland area with over 25 years of live and session experience. My playing focuses on making people move, groove, and dance, and I'm at home in many styles, including rock, blues, jazz, funk, Latin (Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, etc.) and more.
My formal training allows me to be comfortable as a backline player in a band, a solo vibraphone for a wedding reception, or playing congas and batá in a Afro-Cuban folkloric performance. I also teach private studies to all skill levels and encourage my students to learn the fundamentals while developing their own voice and playing with confidence.
He jumped in and did very well with our band. He has great skillls and creativity. He was very likable as well. I would ask him to play anytime.
Response from Eric Pancer:
Stephen was a great host and and was very clear in his communication with me throughout the planning process!
Price Range: Contact for rates
My goal is to perform in an engaging manner to all audience members and follow the mantra "no groove, no move". I'm comfortable as a backline player to give your rhythm section a solid foundation or acting as music director during rehearsals or performances. I show up prepared for performances and have a battery of professional grade instruments. My career has allowed me to experience hundreds of venues and I know how to work with stage hands, house managers, and crew to ensure delivery of a smooth performance.
I am a drummer/percussionist based in Chicago with over 25 years of performing and session experience focusing on jazz, funk, rock, Latin (Afro-Cuban, Bossa, Samba etc.), orchestral, and other styles. I'm able to sight-read charts, play stylistically, improvise, and keep a solid groove on drum set, mallet keyboard instruments (vibraphone, marimba, etc.), congas, bongos, batá, timbales, and other percussion instruments.
| August 06, 2023 • 9:00am - 10:30am | Worship Service |
| June 11, 2022 • 6:00pm - 11:00pm | House Party |
| August 15, 2019–August 19, 2019 • 12:00am - 12:00am | Cuba |
I'm influenced by a variety of jazz, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, funk, and rock musicians.
Stage setup and configuration will depend on the event, ensemble, or location.
Chicago, IL 
Drummer
1 Verified Booking My name is Rodney Smith and I'm interested in Drumming Positions. As a musician, I have traveled across the United States with my gift and am willing to share…
Chicago, IL
Dancer
19 Verified Bookings Jerm said “I really enjoyed the performance very fun & engaging!”
Chicago, IL
Latin Band
2 Verified Bookings K. A. said “I booked this band for my daughter's graduation party and they were so good! Highly professional and skilled, easy to work with.”
Chicago, IL
Samba Dancer
12 Verified Bookings Marian A. said “Thata was amazing and very fast at responding. The drummers were on time and did a great job. Would 100% use again and highly recommend”
List your services
Log In
