Drummer · Composer · Producer · Educator
Chicago · Cameroon · France · The World
From studying master drummers in Cameroon to composing over 90 songs for the Oprah Winfrey Show, Earl Talbot has spent a lifetime proving that rhythm is the universal language. Multi-platinum recording artist. International performer. Dedicated educator.
The Journey
Earl Talbot started piano at age four and switched to drums at ten. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, he was performing in bands and clubs alongside mentor Charlie Caston — and had a Polygram recording contract before he graduated high school.
At Lawrence University's Conservatory of Music, Earl shifted his focus to mastering complex rhythmic techniques. That path led him to France, where he met Christian Bourdon — a drummer from Cameroon who would change everything.
Earl traveled to Cameroon and studied for months under Bourdon and the master drummers of West Africa. That experience — immersive, transformative, spiritual — became the foundation for everything that followed.
"A pivotal time in my life that forever changed me as a producer, teacher, and performer."
Career
Achieved Diamond Record status as drummer for The Nomads. Their hit "Yakalelo" dominated across Central Europe and North Africa, launching an international touring career that took Earl to stages worldwide.
Wrote and produced over 90 original songs broadcast regularly on one of the most-watched television programs in history. Brought his rhythmic vocabulary and global influences to a mainstream audience of millions.
Touring drummer for the beloved Chicago band. From festival stages to studio sessions, Earl brought his signature groove and world-music sensibility to one of the city's most eclectic acts.
Produced songs for Katt Williams' American Hustle. Worked with Maya Angelou, Patrick Stump (Fall Out Boy), Cyndi Lauper, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Sinfonietta, and house legends Derick Carter and Mark Farina.
Performed & Recorded With
Teaching
Earl founded The Drum School to share the rhythmic traditions he learned across three continents. Whether a student is picking up sticks for the first time or preparing for performance, Earl brings the same depth, patience, and global perspective to every lesson.
"My greatest reward is enjoying the success of my students."
— Earl TalbotHe teaches private lessons at Ellman's Music Center in Naperville and in students' homes. He directs the jazz band at Naperville Central High School, leads group classes at the Alive Center, and is currently developing a documentary exploring Cameroonian rhythms and their influence on modern music.
Private and group drum instruction for all ages and skill levels. Lessons at Ellman's Music Center, in-home, and at the Alive Center. Curriculum spans rock, jazz, African, Latin, and world percussion.
Director of the jazz band program at Naperville Central High School, mentoring young musicians in improvisation, ensemble playing, and the art of swing.
Currently in production — a documentary exploring Earl's journey from Chicago to Cameroon, and the deep connections between West African rhythmic traditions and the music we hear today.
An upcoming series of drum master classes bringing world rhythm techniques to students, schools, and communities across the Midwest and beyond.
Influences
Contact