Photo credit PaulaFOD

Percussionist: Steven J. Robinson

When I began to research percussionist/actor/singer/songwriter and producer, Steven J. Robinson, I found very little on the web. But I noticed that he’s active on Twitter where he’s very popular with the fans. I took a leap and decided to tweet him for some help. It soon became apparent why he’s so popular; he’s a delightful guy, very easy to talk to and really friendly. Bursting with excitement, he graciously answered all my questions and then some, without hesitation. 😀

Born in 1989 in Los Angeles, California, Steven Robinson comes from a family of performers. His Mom and Dad were singers and ministers in the Pentecostal church. It was only a matter of time before Steven set his sights on a similar career.

How did you become interested in music and particularly percussion?

“Drums was the very first thing that intrigued me. I was very small-around the age of 2-in church. I didn’t know anything about drumming, or what it’s main purpose was in a musical setting. All I remember is that the sound and physical nature of the instrument grabbed my attention, and never let go! The more I got into drums as time went on, the more I got into music.

Funny story-because I was so deeply rooted in church, and gospel music, my first time hearing secular music was in 3rd grade. The kids at school would bring their CD’s. Around that time, Britney Spears, NSync, Christina Aguilera, 98 Degrees, and Spice Girls were HUGE. I knew the sound wasn’t gospel, but I liked it! It was simpler, and most of the time, less dramatic. ha ha It was a nice change. But now I incorporate my gospel roots into my pop/r&b gigs, and people love it. :)”

According to his bio, Steven started playing drums professionally as early as junior high school!

When did you start playing professionally and getting gigs?

“In my sophomore year of high school, I was asked to play behind Marie Wise-Hawkins, a local country singer. I played with her for a year or so, doing local gigs and demo recordings. From her, I went on to playing in a rock band called NuLvL.“

After high school, he won a music scholarship to Berklee College of Music in Boston. While in Boston, he auditioned at a local theater and began to get interested in every aspect of the entertainment industry including acting. He also worked in the studio with Japanese artist Sylvia Lynn and singer/songwriter Tori Salisbury. He has graced the stage musically and theatrically, in various productions from one coast to the other.  His artistry grows from writing, recording and performing his own material.

Were you in a band in college?

“During college, I played in an R&B band called “Aftershock”. We were a 20-piece band! This was my first experience playing r&b in a huge setting. I learned so much! From this opportunity, I was given my first semi high profile gig, with Universal Motown’s Devin Johnson. Devin sang and played keyboards in Aftershock. During these playing experiences, a good buddy of mine named Andre Brown shaped and molded the raw talent inside of me. Andre taught me how to play to a click track (much different than practicing to cd’s!), and showed me different ways to approach r&b drumming. I thank God for having Andre placed in my life.”

Have you had prior band experience?

“While in LA, I’ve been on the hustle as a drummer and an actor, looking for the next great opportunity. I played for a number of up and coming acts before landing the gig with David. At the end of the day, it’s all about networking, and building relationships with fellow entertainers. That’s how I got the recommendation for David’s new band. :)”

Which brings us to this week’s Twitter parties. Enthusiastic fans asked Steven all kinds of cool questions to which he so generously obliged. 😉 Names of tweeters have been removed to protect our innocence. LOL.  Steven’s replies are in italics.

How did U come about joining @DavidArchie’s band? Did U know about him before joining his band?
His last drummer was an acquaintance of mine…he called me in to audition.

How’s the music coming along?
The music is great! Cant wait to get back to work!

Luv new vibe- David Archuleta’s band with your bongos adds new flavor & vibe.
Awesome! That was the plan!

Who are some of your favorite gospel artists?
GREAT question-Hezekiah Walker, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, John P. Kee, Doobie Powell, Tye Tribbett, Skillet, the list goes on!

What’s David doing today?
Not sure….lol check his tweets

You are so sweet. ‘family’ .. you have such a positive, sunny attitude..I love that. no wonder David chose you.
Thank you so very much! 🙂

Are we getting any closer to Tour news???
Everyday that passes gets closer to news. 🙂

Any more ‘sexy acoustic sets’ in the works? Loved the last one!!
Oh yeah! Much more sexy acousticness in the works!

“Much more sexy acousticness in the works!” Lord have Mercy on us all. Imma start prayin now.
Talk to the Lord!! Lol

How do you transport those big drums?
A car, and lots of patience lol

*cough* going to Asia soon? *cough*COUGH*
ha ha ha dont know yet…hopefully!

Morning! Do u guys rehearse in a set studio or do u pack up ur drums each day & travel around?
We’re in a set studio.

Any particular reason for choosing drums as your instrument? Do you have a favorite drummer?
I was chosen by God to play drums. 🙂 For whatever reason! Fav drummers-brook alexander, teddy campbell, aaron spears

Will david’s tour start in June!?
June? Who said that?

Have u ever heard @davidarchie sing some Prince?
We’re trying to convince him actually! #iloveprince

I have all the tamales you need. just need tour dates and you can have them all 😛
ha ha ha ha you little sneak!! Lol

ooh rehearsals tonight eh? i raise my bribe by 10 tamales if you agree to cellcast the rehearsals tonight 😉
ha ha ha ha!!!!!! I really cant wait to meet you! Ha ha what show are you coming to?

You skipped over my tweet about “full set at Myrtle Beach”??? but I’ll forgive you this time! LOL
Oh Im sorry!!! Yes full set!!

or we can meet in INDONESIA in JULY 😛
ha ha ha!

oh yeah! My man, Steven, is a clever dude! Not gonna get one over on him! But good try! haha ♥ you guys 🙂

Good Place Good Place Good Place (trying subliminal mind control) Good Place Good Place Good Place
ha ha ha!

Hi! Question, don’t know if it’s been answered… Whose brilliant idea was it to mash up Gotta Get Thru This & Msg in a Bottle?!
All collaborative my friend 🙂

Thanks 4the twitter party & info about the Cajon, my music shop closed in the neighborhood 😦 Boo hope we didn’t overwhelm U 🙂
Not at all! I throw the twitter parties cause yall are awesome!

We do know for sure that there is a summer tour, right?
Not confirmed yet.

Hmmm….boss man just called me. Indonesia. 🙂

Call me ignorant but do you mean David by “boss man”? Don’t want to assume!
Yep. That’s David!

Tell @DavidArchie that we love when he adds lots of na na na’s, yeah yeahs and humming in his songs! 🙂
He knows, that’s why he does it! Ha ha

Yeah, that @DavidArchie acts so innocent, but he KNOWS what he’s doin’! haha
Agreed!!!

Uh oh. With that last reply, I think we’re headed for Trouble with a capital T.

http://twitter.com/#!/StevenJRob
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1578400912