Sonny is equally in demand for studio work as for what's delivered during live performances. This former member of the legendary group Earth, Wind, and Fire held down the drum seat for thirteen years. Also, Sonny has additional credits that include Bruce Hornsby, Jennifer Lopez, Lee Ritenour, and Steely Dan to name a few. Currently, he is gigging with Bette Midler and Bruce Hornsby while working on his own solo album. Recently, Sonny was invited to perform as the headliner for opening night of the 28th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival. Now, he leads his own ultra funky progressive aggregation, State of the Art formerly known as Hypnofunk.
PROFESSOR
With a wealth of teaching experience, Sonny is committed to balancing academics and entertainment. He serves as an Adjunct Professor of Applied Percussion at Georgia State University. Additionally, Sonny teaches private lessons to assist students in developing their craft and setting long-term goals in order to be successful in their chosen musical endeavors.
CLINICIAN
Sonny has performed countless clinics and master classes in academic settings, drum stores, and during national music conferences, both independently and for his endorsers YAMAHA Drums, ZILDJIAN Cymbals. He recently performed a clinic in Melbourne, Australia and is currently finalizing plans for the beginning phase of Emory Performing Arts Center through a partnership with Deerwood Academy in Atlanta, Georgia.
COMPOSER/MOVIE CREDITS
Sonny co-wrote the tune "Crusin", which can be heard on the score to Spike Lee's 1998 film "Get on the Bus". Also, he worked on the "Lethal Weapon II" soundtrack with Eric Clapton and David Sanborn. In 1996, Sonny released "Hypnofunk", a solo project produced by Earth, Wind and Fire's founder, Maurice White. He is currently putting the finishing touches to his fourth solo project entitled "Love's Pure Light" which is schedule for release June 2005.
ENDORSEMENTS
Sonny is endorsed by YAMAHA Drums, ZILDJIAN Cymbals and Drumsticks, Shure Microphones, Meyers Sound Systems, Toca Percussion, and LP Percussions.