Biography
Born on December 19, 1949, Lenny White is an esteemed American jazz drummer and composer known for his innovative style and contributions to the fusion genre. Growing up in a musically rich environment in New York City, White started playing drums at a young age, influenced by the vibrant sounds of jazz and rock that surrounded him. He honed his craft studying at the prestigious Juilliard School while playing in various local bands. His dedication to rhythm and experimentation led him to become a prominent figure in jazz fusion, a genre that blends jazz elements with rock and other musical styles, setting the stage for an illustrious career. Lenny White’s career took off when he joined the iconic fusion band Return to Forever in 1973, alongside prominent musicians like Chick Corea and Stanley Clarke. This collaboration defined much of his early work and helped propel him into the jazz world’s spotlight. Over the years, he has also played crucial roles in various bands including Twennynine, Fuse One, the Buster Williams Quartet, and more. His dynamic drumming styles and compositions contributed to projects like
Roles
Drummer, Composer, Producer
Band History
Buster Williams Quartet, Fuse One, A Tribute To Monk & Bird, Corea, Clarke & White, All Stars Band, Vertú, Urbanator, Twennynine with Lenny White, The Stanley Clarke Trio, Echoes of an Era, The Super Premium Band, The Joe Henderson Quintet, Powerhouse, Twennynine
Signature Gear
Drums: Ludwig Legacy Classic Maple
Cymbals: Zildjian K Series 14", Zildjian K Series 20"
Microphones: Shure SM57
Bandmates & Collaborators
Tony Williams, Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Paulinho da Costa, John McLaughlin, Reggie Workman, Joe Farrell, John McLaughlin Trio