Clarence Penn is one of the busiest jazz drummers in the world, a leader of multiple bands, a composer, a prolific producer, and an educator. He’s composed music for films and commercials, produced tracks for numerous singers in the pop and alternative arenas, and played with an amazing array of artists including Ellis and Wynton Marsalis, Stanley Clarke, Steps Ahead, Makoto Ozone, Luciana Souza, Richard Galliano, and Fourplay. 

 

Clarence joins The Playful Musician to discuss his transition from touring to going back to school to get his Master’s Degree. We chat about the impact Ellis and Wynton Marsalis had on his music career and playing his first gig with Ellis. Clarence shares his transcribing process and the advice he has for young musicians. He tells stories from touring with Michael Brecker and his experience preparing for gigs in just a few hours. Clarence shares where he’s currently finding inspiration and what he likes to do when he’s not playing music.