Emerging from three years with René's mentoring and my practising on the drums, I had gained a lot of knowledge and learning, but no experience in how to put it to use with live bands. This was a new level of skill I needed to develop. By attending auditions, I came to meet Dave Brookes, a renowned London saxophone and bagpipe player. Dave saw some promise in me, asked me to join his band, and we started gigging on the vibrant 1970s London pub circuit.

Eventually, through meeting other established London musicians, I was introduced to the Station Tavern, which was the home and meeting place of the London and UK blues scene. I began receiving more gig offers and learned what was required to play in working bands. My musical world expanded, and I was invited to play with some top bands in many styles, including blues, soul and funk, African music, and more. I accepted every opportunity I could to develop my drumming and earn some money. All the hard work I had put into studying and playing was starting to pay off.

As I built a solid reputation, work offers included more bands and travel, including UK and Ireland tours and trips to Europe, which involved clubs, concerts, and big festivals.

Gigging, of course, is mostly nighttime work, and I was lucky to be asked to share the drumming skills I’d acquired through teaching in youth clubs and schools during the day, which helped support my growing family commitments.

Having played drums consistently over a period of 50 years, I have been lucky and privileged to earn my living and to travel all over the UK and Europe—and as far east as Japan and west to Mexico. I'm a boy who had a dream, and it more or less came true.

The lovely people and excellent musicians I’ve had the pleasure of working with are too many to mention—but you all know who you are. THANK YOU!