E.J. Strickland

Enoch Jamal “E.J.” Strickland is a world-class, world-traveled drummer, composer and artist heard on over 60 albums in the last 10-plus years. The Miami native grew up in a creative household, where his dad was a percussionist and his twin brother Marcus played the saxophone. “Growing up, we listened to all kinds of music in the house,” he says. “Miles, Stevie; just good music.”

E.J. quickly graduated into New York’s gigging jazz scene, playing with the greatest names in contemporary music: Herbie Hancock, Cassandra Wilson, Terence Blanchard, Wynton Marsalis, Ravi Coltrane, David Sanchez and many others. Influenced by great drummers (Elvin Jones, Philly Joe Jones, Roy Haynes, Jimmy Cobb, Tony Williams, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Brian Blade), he rapidly developed his own eclectic and creative style. Variety—of influence and interest—might be the key word for E.J. in his musical approach.

He reminds us: “You’re not going to hear a traditional jazz drummer. You’re going to hear someone who’s drawing from many different styles, many different approaches. That’s what my true voice is. And I always try to remember that music is fun!”

His most recent release, "The Undying Spirit" positively glows… its success comes largely from the leader’s ability to inspire the best in his fellow musicians and demonstrate that a drummer-led jazz record gives listeners a unique opportunity to get their groove on.”

Armed with the power and complexity of his sound, E.J. Strickland continues to clear a path for himself in the jazz world, and beyond! A path that can only grow wider in the years to come.