Born in the Bronx, NY and raised in Michigan J.R. is a self-studied musician. He has played drums for his church for most of his 20-year career, and continues to play for numerous jazz artists in Orlando. His talents and experience have included work in pop, Latin jazz, rock, alternative and hip-hop musical genres. He has performed for the Howie Dorough (Backstreet Boys) annual benefit concert in 2000, performed in a theatrical production and also in the Florida Music Festival. As a session musician, J.R. has recorded with various artists in Orlando. While pursing a degree in Psychology, he performed in the jazz band, jazz combo, worship choir, two different touring bands and other countless music-major recitals. J.R.'s musical influences include Tower of Power, Phil Collins, Sting, The Police, and James Brown. Drummers that have had a powerful impact on J.R.'s development include Stewart Copeland, Dave Weckl, Jeff Watts, Steve Smith, Bill Stewart, Dennis Chambers, as well as pianists Michle Camillo, Chick Corea and Joe Sample. The jazz super group Fourplay has been a major influence in his music. My goal for this group is to reach for stars and for us not to ever settle for mediocre music.