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http://www.mikesmithpercussionist.com

About Me:

First, thank you for visiting Mike's page. All the music here are short samples of tracks he played percussion on w/various Artists. There are many photos to view and you can watch several videos seeing Mike "in action" as well, please enjoy. Also, check out his blog post for other news & events.

Mike was born in New York City, he began playing congas at age 8 and drums at age 15. Encouraged by older more seasoned musicians, Mike never looked back, he continued to play and develop. Soon he was playing with local bands and artists and began expanding into other percussion instruments as well as exploring various musical forms including African, Latin, Jazz, Classical, R&B and Rock.

Upon graduating from Erasmus Hall High School, known for its music program, he intensified his musical studies learning advanced theory and harmony, sight singing, drum rudiments and continued his orchestral experience. Timpani, marimba, vibes, big band music, gospel music, jazz ensemble, jazz improvisation, jazz history, western music history and keyboard harmony, were instruments and art forms from which he gained proficiency and fluency. He also studied conducting and arranging.

By a recommendation from one of his college professors, Mike played Carnegie Hall in the opera “Le Cid”, starring world-renowned opera singers Placido Domingo and Grace Bumbry. He was only 18 years old at the time.

Mike attended college at Howard University. During that time he performed at a myriad of concert venues, theaters and clubs. He was part of the opening act for the electrifying Patti Labelle and worked with the great Lionel Hampton. Between immersing himself in school and studio work, an audition presented itself, and soon Mike was touring Europe with the Broadway musical, “Raisin.”

After graduating from Howard, Mike’s hard work, persistence, talent and reputation began to pay off. His move back to New York yielded opportunities with Shelton Becton, The Manhattans, legendary bassist Reggie Workman, and the renowned jazz drummer Charli Persip.

Mike was called to play jingles, TV telethons, and classical concerts. He even had a solo part in Verdi’s “Requiem”. During that time, he continued to develop his talent, studying Latin percussion with Ricardo Torres.

Mike eventually moved to Los Angeles, and planted himself in L.A.’s music scene. He began to study at the Billy Moore Studio of Percussion. Soon after he was working with the Billy Moore Ensemble. As his career escalated, Mike’s presence was felt on the music scene, and he has since worked with: Alicia Keys (Demo Recording), Macy Gray, Gladys Knight, Patti Austin, Lalah Hathaway, James Ingram, Luther Vandross, El Debarge, Jon B., Freda Payne, Kirk Whalum, George Duke, Doc Powell, Kevin Toney, Phil Upchurch, Marc Antoine, Rick Braun, Justo Almario, Horace Silver, Jody Watley, Marilyn McCoo, Phil Perry, Kenny Rankin, Trini Lopez, The Emotions, Helen Baylor and the list goes on and on.

Mike has appeared in or recorded on the soundtracks of various films including “Remember The Titans,” “Disney’s Fantasia 2000,” “Inspector Gadget,” “What’s Love Got To Do With It?”, "The Bodyguard,” “Hocus Pocus,” “Angie,” and “For The Boys.” He has recorded on numerous CD’s and performed on many TV shows as well.

It is said that true art has no form. Mike has proven time and again that he is a true artist, adapting and adorning musical forms, floating in and out of styles, yet never compromising his talents and abilities. He is an example that hard work, talent and persistence do pay off in the end.

Where do you find your music?

Going to concerts, festivals, clubs to see artists & hear their music, going online & watching programs on TV.