Guest
Genius Lee Wesley, hailing from Oakland, was introduced to the world of jazz at a young age by his father, who organized private drum lessons with Jason, a rock musician and record seller. At the age of eight, Wesley had the opportunity to audition for Oaktown Jazz, a jazz program for young musicians in Oakland. Despite being considered too young, he was immediately accepted – marking the beginning of his venture into the realm of jazz. At thirteen, Wesley made the bold decision to leave school. By the age of fourteen, he was touring the entire Bay Area, playing five gigs a week and earning a substantial income. He describes the jazz scene in California as a spiderweb, making it easy for him, as a young musician, to secure gigs with a fixed performance. Reflecting on his formative years, Wesley sought connections with like-minded peers. Luis Peralta, a collaborator and friend, played a pivotal role in linking Wesley with saxophonist Noble and bass player Coyle, former associates from the SFJAZZ High School All-Stars ensemble. Together with guitarist Holtman, a schoolmate recruited into the ensemble, they formed the dynamic Jawn-tet, signifying a new chapter in Wesley's evolving musical narrative. Wesley shared the stage with jazz greats such as Sean Jones, Geechi Taylor, and Marcus Shelby. Monthly performances with Mississippi-born singer Faye Carol in San José, alongside their quintet, expanded Wesley's repertoire beyond traditional jazz, covering artists like Aretha Franklin, Duke Ellington, and Stevie Wonder. His musical horizons broadened as he encountered different people and experienced diverse situations. Inspired by fellow musicians who, like him, started their careers as teenagers and continued touring through their thirties and forties, Wesley expressed his readiness to follow a similar path. He saved money, planned a move to San Francisco, and aimed to teach private lessons alongside his performances. However, fate took an unexpected turn with an encounter with Ambrose Akinmusire. Ambrose Akinmusire, a renowned jazz trumpeter, crossed paths with Wesley during his gigs. Initially unaware of Akinmusire's stature, they soon collaborated on joint performances. In the last two years, Wesley has toured across Europe and even ventured to Israel for a captivating concert. more Genius Lee Wesley here at #geniuswesley #jazz #drummerworld
