In the eclectic city of Berkeley, California, where the streets resonate with a diverse symphony of life, James “StickNasty” Small emerges as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of music. Born on November 27, 1992, this Grammy-nominated drummer, producer, and actor encapsulate the rich tapestry of musical influences that have woven together to shape his extraordinary career. In this comprehensive exploration, we embark on a captivating journey through the beats of his life, the harmonies of his experiences, and the melody of his latest creation, “A Universal Love Language.”
The Rhythmic Genesis: Early Years and Influences
From the very outset, James Small’s life has been interwoven with the cadence of music. At the tender age of two, he received his first drum set, a harbinger of the rhythmic journey that lay ahead. Growing up in Berkeley, California, Small’s parents, deeply involved in the church, provided the initial notes of his musical education. His mother, now a pastor, directed the church choir, while his father accompanied her on the piano. Together, they formed the backdrop against which Small’s musical prowess would unfold.
Gospel, with its soul-stirring melodies and spiritual resonance, became Small’s initial introduction to the world of music. Playing alongside his parents in the church, he developed not only a love for music but also a profound understanding of its emotional depth. These early experiences set the stage for a lifelong connection between Small and his drum kit.
Berklee Beckoning: A Leap of Faith
As Small matured, his musical palette expanded. His parents were selective in the music they exposed him to, leading to an upbringing infused with smooth jazz, gospel, and even the enchanting tunes of Radio Disney. However, it was only when he enrolled at Willard Middle School that Small’s musical horizons truly broadened.
Berkeley High School became the crucible where Small’s musical identity solidified. Initially hesitant to join the Jazz Band, fate intervened in the form of Charles Hamilton, the Jazz Band Director. Hamilton, having worked with Small at Willard, recognized his prodigious talent and was relentless in his efforts to ensure Small reached his full potential. Under Hamilton’s guidance, Small played with the Berkeley High Jazz Ensemble for three years, winning numerous outstanding musicianship awards and embarking on his first European tour. This period proved transformative, shaping Small into the versatile musician – a drummer, pianist, and producer – that he is today.
Crossroads and Community Uplift: Post-Bedroc Chapter
Despite the accolades and accomplishments in high school, Small faced a crossroads upon the dissolution of Bedroc, the group that took him away from Berklee. Out of school, out of a band, and residing in Cleveland without a job, Small found himself at a critical juncture. However, in the face of adversity, he turned his attention to another passion – uplifting his community, particularly the youth.
Small took on the role of an after-school program counselor at The Haley School of the Performing Arts for a year. It was a period of not only personal recalibration but also a commitment to the betterment of the community. The experience served as a testament to Small’s resilience and his dedication to making a positive impact beyond the stage.
Fantastic Negrito: A Transformative Partnership
The turning point in Small’s post-Bedroc journey came in 2016 when he auditioned for Fantastic Negrito. This marked the beginning of a transformative partnership that would take Small to international stages and solidify his place as a sought-after drummer. The collaboration included performances at prestigious venues such as Red Rocks, Radio City Music Hall, The Greek Theater, and the Boston Symphony Hall.
However, Small’s journey with Fantastic Negrito was not without its challenges. Two years into touring, he faced the need to step back and focus on his recovery from substance abuse. It was a period of personal struggle and introspection, but one that ultimately led to his triumphant return. After two hard-fought years of re-grounding and achieving sobriety, Small was welcomed back into Fantastic Negrito’s band with open arms.
His tenure with Fantastic Negrito has been marked by international tours and significant milestones, including appearances on Late Night TV shows like Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert. Small’s resilience and dedication to his craft have been central to his successful reintegration into the music scene.
From Recovery to Resurgence: A Sober Return
The challenges Small faced during his hiatus from touring with Fantastic Negrito were substantial. Substance abuse is a formidable adversary, and Small’s decision to confront and overcome it speaks volumes about his strength of character. In the aftermath of his recovery, Small not only returned to the stage but did so with a renewed sense of purpose.
His triumph over personal struggles has become an integral part of his narrative. Small’s journey through recovery, marked by four years of sobriety, is a testament to the resilience that defines not only his musical career but also his personal life. His experience serves as an inspiration to those facing similar battles, highlighting that recovery is not just a return to the status quo but an evolution towards a stronger and healthier self.
Multifaceted Artistry: Teacher, Musician, Visionary
Small’s artistic journey transcends the confines of being just a musician. His roles as an after-school teacher, bandleader, music director, and studio musician showcase a multifaceted approach to artistry. Small’s commitment extends beyond the spotlight to the nurturing of future generations and the continued development of the musical landscape.
Currently an after-school teacher at Emerson Elementary School, Small imparts his knowledge not only in drumming but also in drama and dance. His contribution to the educational sphere reflects a commitment to fostering creativity and expression in young minds. Small’s influence as a visionary extends beyond the stage, contributing to the holistic development of aspiring artists.
The Bay Area Symphony: Collaborative Ventures
Small’s return to the Bay Area after his post-Bedroc journey marked a period of prolific collaboration. He became an integral part of several bands, including Sal’s Greenhouse, Kezar, STANG, Mama’s Soup, and Liberation Movement, each contributing to the rich musical tapestry of the Bay Area.
These collaborations underscore the diversity of Small’s musical influences. Moving seamlessly between genres and musical projects, he has become a dynamic force in the Bay Area music scene. Whether in the studio or on stage, Small’s ability to adapt and contribute to a myriad of projects speaks to the depth of his musical expertise.
A Universal Love Language: The Birth of an Album
On May 3rd, 2023, Small unveiled his debut album, “A Universal Love Language.” This release marked a significant milestone in his career, a culmination of experiences, influences, and a creative process that evolved amidst the challenges of the COVID pandemic.
The album draws inspiration from a multitude of genres, including gospel, hip-hop, and pop. Small’s ability to seamlessly weave these diverse influences into a cohesive musical narrative is a testament to his artistry. “A Universal Love Language” is not merely an album; it’s a sonic journey that reflects the nuances of Small’s life, from the blossoming stages of his relationship to the societal movements and the isolating effects of the pandemic.
Pandemic Musings: Crafting Art in Isolation
The onset of the COVID pandemic brought the world to a standstill, but for Small, it became a period of intense creativity and introspection. Locked away from the external chaos, he found solace and inspiration within the confines of his own creative space.
The evolving tones and textures of the album echo the myriad emotions experienced during this period. Small used the album as a form of meditation, a way to process and release his feelings. From the highs of newfound love to the momentum of the Black Lives Matter movement and the fear and isolation induced by the pandemic, “A Universal Love Language” encapsulates a spectrum of human experiences.
Family Affair: Collaborative Harmony
The album is aptly described as a “family affair.” Small brought together Bay Area musicians he has known and loved for years, creating an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity. The collaborative spirit infuses the project with a sense of shared creativity and community, transcending the traditional boundaries of a solo album.
The choice to collaborate with familiar faces reflects Small’s commitment to the interconnectedness of the Bay Area music scene. Each track becomes not just a musical expression but a collective endeavor, a celebration of the shared passion that unites the artists involved.
Love, Resilience, and Community: Album Themes
“A Universal Love Language” serves as a musical journey through the highs of new love, the waves of societal change, and the introspective moments induced by the pandemic. Small’s intention is clear – to inspire connection and unity through the universal language of music.
The thematic depth of the album resonates with listeners on a personal and collective level. It becomes a soundtrack for navigating the complexities of the human experience, a testament to the power of music to bridge gaps and transcend individual narratives.
Musical Roots and Influences: From Jazz Ensemble to International Stages
Small’s roots in the Berkeley High Jazz Ensemble are foundational to understanding the depth of his musicality. Playing with the ensemble for three years not only honed his technical skills but also exposed him to the complexities of jazz, a genre known for its improvisation and intricate rhythms.
The international stages that Small has graced, from Afro Punk in Paris to the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Fest, are a testament to the universal appeal of his art. Sharing the stage with celebrated artists such as Train, Lyrics Born, and Taj Mahal, Small’s drumming prowess has left an indelible mark on some of the most iconic venues around the world.
Late Night Spotlight: Television Appearances
Small’s talent has not gone unnoticed on the global stage. His appearances on Late Night TV shows like Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert showcase not only his technical proficiency but also his ability to command attention in the mainstream media.
These televised performances underscore the universal language of music. Small’s drumming becomes a form of communication that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries, reaching audiences on a broad scale. It’s a testament to the impact that an individual artist can have when their artistry speaks to the collective human experience.
Teaching the Rhythm of Tomorrow: Educational Pursuits
Small’s foray into education adds another layer to his multifaceted career. As an after-school teacher at Emerson Elementary School, he imparts not only the technicalities of music but also the broader concepts of drama, dance, and musicals.
His role as an educator showcases a commitment to passing on the torch of creativity to the next generation. Small’s influence extends beyond the stage; it permeates the classrooms where young minds are nurtured, providing a foundation for future artists to flourish.
Symphonic Legacy: StickNasty’s Ongoing Impact
In the grand symphony of his life, James “StickNasty” Small has composed a narrative that goes beyond the beats of a drum. It’s a story of resilience, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to the universal language of love. From the church pews of Berkeley to the grand stages of the world, Small’s beats echo the journey of an artist who has not just played music but lived it.
His ongoing impact is evident in the way he seamlessly moves between roles – the drummer, the producer, the actor, the educator. Small’s legacy is not confined to the accolades on stage or the notes in his album; it’s the ripple effect of inspiration he leaves in his wake. As he continues to shape the melodies of tomorrow, StickNasty’s rhythmic journey promises to be a symphony of inspiration for generations to come.
