Marvin Smith facts for kids
Marvin "Smitty" Smith (born June 24, 1961) is a talented American jazz drummer and composer. He is known for his amazing drumming skills and for playing with many famous musicians.
Marvin Smith was born in Waukegan, Illinois. His father, Marvin Sr., was also a drummer, so "Smitty" grew up surrounded by music. He started learning music formally at the young age of three!
After finishing Waukegan East High School, Marvin went to the Berklee College of Music. He graduated in 1981. Since then, he has recorded on over 200 albums with different artists. He has also released two of his own albums.
Marvin Smith has toured and performed with many well-known musicians. These include Sting, Dave Holland, Sonny Rollins, and Willie Nelson. He was also a member of The New York Jazz Quartet.
One of his most famous roles was being the drummer for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno band. He played with the band, led by Kevin Eubanks, from January 30, 1995, until the show ended on May 29, 2009. He also played drums for Jay Leno Show band in 2009 and 2010.
Marvin's Music: Albums and Collaborations
Marvin "Smitty" Smith has created his own music and played with many other artists.
Albums as a Leader
These are albums where Marvin Smith was the main artist:
- Keeper of the Drums (Concord Jazz, 1987)
- The Road Less Traveled (Concord Jazz, 1989)
Playing with Other Musicians
Marvin has played drums on many albums for other artists. He has worked with a wide range of jazz and other musicians, helping them create their music. Some of the artists he has played with include:
- Terence Blanchard and Donald Harrison
- Hamiet Bluiett
- Joanne Brackeen
- Donald Byrd
- Steve Coleman and M-Base
- Dave Holland
- Sonny Rollins
- Archie Shepp
- McCoy Tyner
- Bobby Watson
