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Artist
Otis Brown III
12+ albums
jazzdrumscontemporary jazzpercussionblue note
about
Hackensack, N.J. native, drummer and composer Otis Brown III was destined for success in his field. Born not far from Rudy Van Gelder's legendary recording studio, Otis' mother was working as a vocal music teacher/choir director and his father, a percussionist, at the time of his birth. Hearing music from conception in this fertile, music rich environment would prove to be invaluable for his future. Since his birth in NJ, Otis has traveled a path that has led to him being one of the most in demand, and well respected musicians in the world of music today. Expressing an early interest in music, Otis began his musical studies at the fertile age of 7. By age 12 he was playing lead alto saxophone in the school bands while playing the drums in the Baptist church. After moving to Newark, N.J., home of legendary musicians such as Wayne Shorter, Sarah Vaughn, Larry Young and many others, he continued performing double duty in his school bands playing snare drum in marching band, and alto saxophone in the jazz and concert ensembles all of which were directed by his father Otis Brown Jr. Otis decided to pursue his musical education in college at Delaware State University. It was there where he truly began to develop as a musician. It was also there where he would meet legendary trumpeter Donald Byrd, an encounter that would change his life. He spent countless hours under the wings of Dr. Byrd grasping all that he could. Realizing the potential of the young musician, Donald Byrd sugg
