J. Grant – Drummer | Arranger | Musical Director
J. Grant is a soulful and passionate musician whose remarkable gift captivates audiences everywhere he performs. With years of experience playing, teaching, and recording, his journey has taken him across the country and around the world.
Born and raised in Chicago, J. Grant began his musical journey at the age of five, playing drums at his father’s church. He later continued honing his skills at Lighthouse Church of All Nations. Over the years, J. Grant developed a deep understanding of musical arrangements and an exceptional ability to play by ear across all styles of music.
Known for his unique style, keen musical ear, and boundless energy, J. Grant is recognized as one of the most talented and dynamic drummers in the industry. While his musical background is both exceptional and extensive, it’s his humility, faith, and genuine spirit that truly connect with audiences—commanding attention with every beat of his drum.
Throughout his career, J. Grant has been honored to share the stage with some of the greatest artists in music, including Nick Colionne, Kirk Whalum, Steve Oliver, Peabo Bryson, Eric Roberson, Eric Darius, Michael Lington, Gerald Veasley, CeCe Peniston, Keke Wyatt, Glenn Jones, Jeff Bradshaw, Conya Doss, Steve Cole, Jackiem Joyner, Kim Waters, Najee, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Gerald Albright, Paul Taylor, Brian Simpson, Selina Albright, Peter White, Rick Braun, Vincent Ingala, Euge Groove, Maysa, and many more.
J. Grant’s career is built on a foundation of hard work, integrity, faithfulness, and strong family values—principles that now guide his own family life.
He gives all glory to God, always remembering:
“Without God, I am nothing.”
The J. Grant Experience – Where Creativity Meets the Stage
See it. Hear it. Live it.
Since its formation in 2017, The J. Grant Experience has evolved into one of Chicago’s most dynamic and in-demand live bands. Known for their electrifying musicianship, soulful energy, and innovative approach to live entertainment, this group delivers more than just music—they create moments.
Founded and led by drummer and musical director J. Grant, the band has held residencies and headlined venues across the city and surrounding suburbs, quickly becoming a respected name among both fans and fellow musicians.
Beyond their tight sound and professionalism, what truly sets The J. Grant Experience apart is their original themed concert productions—bold, creative concepts that consistently sell out and elevate the live music experience.
Signature Shows Include:
• A Tribe Called Quest Tribute
A celebration of golden-era hip-hop, this show fuses live instrumentation with the legendary lyricism and beats of Tribe. It’s been sold out four times and continues to be a fan favorite.
• Bandimonium
Two powerhouse bands. One stage. A high-energy tribute to funk and soul legends like The Isley Brothers, The Gap Band, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Frankie Beverly & Maze. A full-scale jam session meets a celebration of Black musical excellence.
• From the Mind of a Musician
A genre-defying concert experience that brings audiences inside the creative process. With original arrangements, storytelling, and improvisation, this show pulls back the curtain on the inner workings of a musical mind.
• The Jay-Z Experience
A unique live-band tribute to one of hip-hop’s most iconic artists. From Reasonable Doubt to The Blueprint and beyond, The J. Grant Experience reimagines Jay-Z’s biggest hits with raw instrumentation, musical nuance, and undeniable swag.
A hip-hop symphony like no other.
These shows, paired with collaborations alongside artists such as CeCe Peniston, KeKe Wyatt, Chante Moore, T.C. Carson, Tony Terry, Nathan Mitchell, Lin Rountree, Jeanette Harris, Adam Hawley, and many others, have positioned The J. Grant Experience as a creative force in live music.
With every performance, their mission is simple: bring people together through music, love, and authenticity—delivered with excellence, heart, and groove.
And at the center of it all is the mantra that fuels it:
“Without God, I am nothing.”