Drumming

Playing the drums always makes me think of dancing, my first love. The beat has always intrigued me. Back in 1997, I attended a singing camp at U of I, where I met some drummers, and it just clicked for me- I wanted to learn how to recreate the beats that I love to dance to. My parents were gracious and gave me a beginner drum set and some lessons. I'm grateful for their support despite the noise in a house with thin walls. In high school, I saw a drumline up close and was mesmerized by the sound. I decided to switch from playing a drumset to rudimental snare drum. I've been fortunate to have fantastic teachers who have become my friends. My drumming journey has led me to play eight seasons with the Chicago Bulls Drumline, and now, I'm on my 11th season with the Chicago Bears drumline, playing alongside artists like Kygo, Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, and Chance the Rapper.