Cedric Burnside

Cedric Burnside was born and raised in Holly Springs, Mississippi.  Grandson of the legendary R.L. Burnside, son of drummer great Calvin Jackson, is widely regarded as one of the best drummers in the world. Growing up at his grandfather’s side, he began touring at age 13, playing drums for “Big Daddy” on stages around the globe. Cedric Burnside was born in 1978 and raised around Holly Springs, Mississippi.  He has been playing music all his life, developing a relentless, highly rhythmic charged style with strong hip-hop and funk influences.

“I write about my life, my kids, and everyday things. I try to stick to the truth,” Cedric Burnside says. Just 29 years old, he recalls growing up without a radio or a TV. “My granddad used to play out on the porch, and we’d have house parties every weekend.  Johnny Woods would come over and blow harmonica, and he’d drink two or three gallons of corn liquor. We just stomped up dirt.”

Cedric has performed and recorded with:  R.L. Burnside, Burnside Exploration, Jimmy Buffett, T Model Ford, Bobby Rush, Honey Boy Edwards, North Mississippi Allstars, Galactic, Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears, Widespread Panic, John Spencer Blues Explosion.  In 2006 he was featured in the critically acclaimed feature film, Black Snake Moan, playing drums alongside Samuel L. Jackson. (The film is a tribute to R.L. Burnside, and gives many nods to the late bluesman.) 

In late 2006, Cedric & Lightin’ Malcolm teamed up and toured as “The Juke Joint Duo” which produced the award-winning record, "Two Man Wrecking Crew".  In 2010, Cedric collaborated with his younger brother, Cody Burnside, and his uncle, Garry Burnside, to create The Cedric Burnside Project.  They created a new genre of music by infusing Mississippi Hill Country Blues, Funk, R&B, and Soul that will keep your foot stomping all night long! Following the passing of his brother, Cody, Cedric keeps the flame burning, touring with Trenton Ayers.

Cedric won the 2013 Memphis Blues Award for Drummer of the Year. This is the third time Cedric has won this prestigious award.

(Cedric Burnside at 18th Annual Poconos Blues Festival 2009)