Drummer Ray Brinker is an alumnus of North Texas State University’s Jazz Studies program, having performed with the school’s Grammy Award nominated One O’Clock Lab Band before joining trumpeter Maynard Ferguson on a multi-year world tour.

Residing in Los Angeles since 1986, Ray is active in the LA studio scene. His recording and touring credits include a diverse list of artists: Michel LeGrand, Joe Pass, Jack Sheldon, Woody Herman, Les Brown, Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band, Randy Brecker, Diane Shure, Johnny Mathis, Steve Allen, Frank Gambale, Brian Setzer, David Lee Roth, Cinderella, Pat Benatar, Phil Woods, Natalie Cole.

Ray’s most recent credits include the Christian Jacob Trio CD, Styne and Mine, Ray Charles’ 2005 8-time Grammy Award winning Album of the Year, Genius Loves Company, and Joe Cocker’s 2005 CD release Heart and Soul, as well as film soundtracks Shrek, Chicken Run, The Alamo, Brother Bear, and Ray: The Ray Charles Story.

When not performing, Ray is an active teacher and clinician for Yamaha Drums, Zildjian Cymbals and Vic Firth drumsticks.