CHARLES, DRUMS

Growing up in the South Side, music was everywhere. Hearing Ella Fitzgerald on WBEZ, however, convinced Charles to become a jazz drummer. To that end, he started gigging at fourteen and, after attending Shaw University on a full music scholarship, commenced his pro career. Piano legend Ramsey Lewis. Earth Wind and Fire’s Philip Bailley. Two years with Oprah Winfrey’s production of the Color Purple. Charles and his trademark yellow kit have played major venues across the country, while still performing regular Chicago slots with C4 or The Charles Heath Quartet at Andy’s and the Green Mill. At Adorn, Charles leads a rotating group that mixes traditional and contemporary jazz in a “one-stop shop” that ranges from Neo-Soul and Miles Davis to Pat Metheny. In addition to the life and energy of the room and the chic clientele, he cites the enthusiasm of the Adorn staff for inspiring the patrons and musicians.