Nesbert "Stix" Hooper, a celebrated jazz drummer and founding member of The Crusaders, has left an indelible mark on the music world with his pioneering jazz-funk sound. With a career spanning several decades, Hooper is recognized for his exceptional drumming, composition, and production, influencing generations of musicians and shaping contemporary music.
Nesbert "Stix" Hooper is a significant figure in the jazz world, particularly known for his drumming prowess and as a founding member of the influential group The Crusaders. Born on August 15, 1938, in Houston, Texas, Hooper's musical journey began at a very early age when he developed an interest in music, drums, and percussion.
Hooper's formal musical education began in junior high school, where he devoted considerable time to studying various aspects of music, including composition and songwriting. During his high school years, he formed his first band called "The Swingsters," which later evolved into the Modern Jazz Sextet.
His musical education continued at Texas Southern University, where he received coaching from members of the Houston Symphony Orchestra and mentorship from other professional musicians. After relocating to Los Angeles, Hooper furthered his musical training at Cal State Los Angeles while simultaneously laying the groundwork for what would become his most famous musical endeavor.
Stix Hooper is best known as one of the founders of the seminal jazz group "The Crusaders," which he formed with his old friend from Texas, pianist Joe Sample. Originally called "The Jazz Crusaders," the group went on to have an incredible 30-year career, during which they garnered numerous platinum and gold albums.
The Crusaders are credited with pioneering the original jazz-funk sound that ultimately became the foundation for much of contemporary music today. Hooper remained with the group until his retirement in the early 2000s, making him and Hubert Laws (who left the group to attend Juilliard in 1960) the only surviving members of the original Jazz Crusaders.
Beyond his work with The Crusaders, Hooper pursued a solo career. In 1982, he released the album "Touch The Feeling," which featured tracks like:- "Especially You"- "Let's Talk It Out"- "Feeling Happy"- "I Touched A Dream"- "You're My Spring"- "Gimme Some Space"
As a musician, Hooper is considered by many to be a world-class master percussionist. His talents extend beyond drumming to include composition, production, management, and songwriting. He has been nominated for multiple Grammy awards throughout his career, further cementing his status as an influential figure in jazz music.
Stix Hooper's contributions to music, particularly through his work with The Crusaders, have had a lasting impact on the jazz genre and beyond. His pioneering jazz-funk sound has influenced countless musicians and has become a cornerstone of contemporary music.
His innovative approach to drumming and percussion has earned him recognition as one of the most influential and innovative musical artists of our time. Despite retiring from The Crusaders in the early 2000s, Hooper's legacy continues through his recorded works and the enduring influence of the musical styles he helped develop.
