138 – Jeremy Roberson: Drumming for Chase Rice, Protege of John Blackwell, Deflecting Stereotypes

For more than 24 years, Jeremy Roberson has been perfecting his precise, unpredictable, high-energy style of drumming. Using a combination of techniques, he has developed his own original style, which is as exciting to listen to as it is to watch. His ability to adapt to any genre of music while maintaining precision, timing, and his uniquely smooth style has earned him numerous accolades, and has led him to be known by musicians and fans alike as none other than “Mr. Finesse.” At the age of 3, Roberson, born in Columbia, SC, began honing his skills on the drum set, emulating the style of his older brother Tony, nine years his senior. Before long he began marching with the W.J. Keenan High School Band- at age 11. He continued marching with the band throughout his high school career, eventually gaining regional recognition and numerous awards. After high school he attended Johnson C. Smith University where he furthered his studies and marched on the University’s band. After college he rapidly began to merge into the local, regional, and nation scene, playing with acts such as Tony Terry, Wycliffe Gordon, Crossfade, Weaving The Fate, to name a few. Currently Roberson is touring with country artist Chase Rice.

In this episode, Jeremy talks about:

The importance of knowing how to running tracks and loops

His experience performing in Korea for the troops

Knowing John Blackwell growing up and the influence that he had

Touring with Chase Rice

His approach to soloing

Deflecting stereotypes

Being selfless on stage

The origin of his nickname – Jeremy “Finesse” Roberson

Getting the Chase Rice gig

Grooving with tracks

Jeremy endorses: Zildjian Cymbals, Vater Sticks, Tama Drums, Evans Drumheads, Gibraltar Hardware

This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums