Jonathan Joseph started drumming in church services at the age of six, all while gaining a solid music background through the choir director, his mother. Having such strong progressive roots in gospel meant that during his high school years he found it easy to transition into jazz.

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After attending the University of Miami, Frost School of Music, Jonathan formed and directed the modern jazz band Decision. In fact, his first real break came when Decision opened for Dizzy Gillespie at the legendary trumpeter's seventieth birthday celebration. Later, while working as a freelance musician he found himself on stage with top-flight artists including Stanley Turpentine, Monty Alexander, Lou Donaldson, and Mongo Santamaria. 

Jonathan has also worked with musical heavyweights like Jeff Beck, Alexander O'Neal, Al Jarred, Mike Stern, The Yellowjackets, Betty Wright, Beverly Knight, Bill Brecker, while playing on Ricky Martin's Livin' La Vida Loca tour served as a reminder that Joseph's diversity is one of his numerous assets. 

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On the topic of being successful musical, he says, "Being able to adapt play effectively with others is what has defined my career. I study, I learn...but ultimately it doesn't matter how good any musician is if they can't co-exist as people and play with others. So know your instrument and how to play your parts. But most importantly, know yourself, because if you don't others will tell you who you are, and for some folks that won't be good news. So after practicing your rudiments and grooves, give yourself some time to consider the real meaning and application of respect." 

In addition to music, Jonathan has written a book called "Exercises in African-American Funk:" Mangambe, Bikutsi and the Shuffle. To learn more go to www.jonathanjosephdrums.com

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FamilyUnited Entertainment is proud and honored to have Mr. Joseph and we look forward to seeing you there!