New York City
Musician · Educator · Composer
A hard-swinging, powerhouse drummer and composer bringing a soulful vision to the New York jazz scene — rooted in straight-ahead tradition, infused with African and Gospel influences.
ExploreDebut Album
Beck's debut album showcases his unique ability to honor the classic straight-ahead style of jazz while weaving in threads of his African roots and Gospel upbringing. Available now on all major platforms.
About
"A hard-swinging, powerhouse drummer with a refreshing and soulful vision."
Born in Philadelphia into a musical family, Chris Beck's journey began on the trombone before finding his natural home behind the drums. Shaped by his grandfather Elder Charles Beck and gospel producer father Tony Beck, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Music from Temple University and a Master's from Rutgers University's Mason Gross School of the Arts, studying under Victor Lewis and Michael Carvin.
After becoming the first-call drummer on the Philadelphia jazz scene, Beck moved to New York in 2006. He currently performs with Cyrus Chestnut, Oliver Lake, and Grammy-nominated Rufus Reid, and has shared the stage with McCoy Tyner, Wynton Marsalis, Macy Gray, Roy Hargrove, and many others worldwide.
Selected Collaborations
Upcoming Dates
Gallery
Photos by Gulnara Khamatova
Videos
A documentary portrait of Chris Beck — his approach to drumming, his influences, and the making of The Journey.
The Making of The Journey
Press
"A seasoned straight-ahead drummer… this recording has lots of lateral range: there's gospel-tinged balladry, standard-issue bebop and smart reworkings of mid-1960s Wayne Shorter classics."
"The Journey establishes Chris Beck as a leader with a personal vision, and as one of the most important voices of his generation."
"Full of rhythm… Beck has given us a recording that honestly expresses his emotions and his respect for the straight-ahead jazz tradition."
"The hard hitting, swinging drummer picks the right time and place for his solo debut as he comes roaring out of the gate… on point and on the money throughout, this is a most impressive debut."
"Beck's refreshing and soulful vision as an artist is on full display, as is his unique ability to pay homage to the classic straight-ahead style of jazz while infusing elements of his African roots and Gospel upbringing."
Sneek City
EPK
Downloadable press materials for booking agents, promoters, and media.
Documents
Press Photos — Gulnara Khamatova
Contact
Booking & Press
For booking inquiries, press requests, or general information, please use the contact form or reach out directly.
Based in New York City
Available for performances worldwide
