First of all, the staff here at Drummer Connection would like to thank Jessie Caraballo for taking the time to come hang out, talk and drum not to mention literally getting a drummer connection with our very own Billy Ashbaugh.

Sponsored by Pearl drums, Remo USA drum heads, Paiste cymbals and Vic Firth drum sticks: 24 year old, Jessie Caraballo, is a professional drummer who plays percussion for Marc Anthony's band which Billy and Keith had the privilege to interview, interact and play some drums with. The buzz is that Jessie is known to be one of the nicest and versatile drummers in the Gospel scene.

Growing up in a musically inclined family, Jessie is one of 7 siblings who all each play an instrument. At one point in his life, he had a family band. Caraballo began playing drums at out the age of 4 or 5 and started playing in church at the age of 6. If you ask me that is pretty gnarly, you know the boy has alent if your first gig is at 6 years old. At any rate, worshiping the lord with his talent has been the Latin musician's most desired gig. He has quoted before: "I have been playing in church all my life and will always play in church, it is my favorite gig." Performing in church is where Jessie learned most, if not all, of his knowledge in drums. I can relate with that because personally, playing at church is my favorite gig as well and had been the biggest learning experience as a drummer interacting with other members of a band.

Versatility, dedication, talent and passion are four qualities a full time professional drummer need to have. Excelling in these qualities to the fullest, Jessie Caraballo earned the gig with Marc Anthony's band. About 6 years ago, Jessie was called in after the "cattle call" audition with 2 or 3 other guys for a second preliminary. Now, word on the street is that he blew away the competition in the auditions. Having started touring at the age of 14, Jessie joined Marc Anthony at 19 years young and hit the road as soon as the position as drummer was acquired. For the past 6 years, this has been Jessie Caraballo's main priority besides his family of course. Starting out as the drummer for the band, our friend then moved on to playing percussion for the fact that the percussionist, Bobby Allende, went out to play with Santana. The transition from drummer to percussionist was made, so the drum set position was filled by the previous drummer. On another note, I heard Jessie plays at Disney in Orlando Florida as well, so if your in town check him out.

With a humble attitude and positive mind set, Jessie Caraballo is an inspiration to many drummers as well as myself. Unfortunately I did not get a chance to meet with Jessie, but I am greatful that he came in and got a chance to meet Keith, Billy and the rest of the crew. With the fun fact that I too grew up playing in church and that he is close to my age, it motivates me to succeed. Sometimes it is hard to stay focused, but the trick is to keep pushing and never feel satisfied.

To wrap things up: Jessie, we thank you once again for your time and we hope to see you in the future.

Make sure to check out all 4 parts of the interview and the Jam sessions that went down as well!

FUN FACTS
Recently Married (Congrats!)
First drum kit MX100 (it cost his dad $100)

Muchas Gracias and God Bless

"There was a blind guy that lived down stairs and he always used to go crazy"

Contact Jessie At:
http://www.myspace.com/drummanjc