Steve Smith

Steve Smith (born August 21, 1954, in Whitman, Massachusetts) is a virtuoso American drummer renowned for his technical mastery and versatility across jazz, fusion, and rock. Best known for his tenure with the iconic rock band Journey across three stints (1978–1985, 1995–1998, and 2015–2020), Smith was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the group in 2017. His performance on classics like "Don't Stop Believin'" is celebrated for its intricate, open-handed patterns. Smith's musical journey began at age two, receiving his first drum kit and later studying with big band era teacher Bill Flanagan. He attended the Berklee College of Music in the early 1970s, studying under Alan Dawson and later Freddie Gruber. He began his professional career touring with jazz violinist Jean-Luc Ponty in 1977 and recording with the band Focus. Since 1983, he has led the acclaimed fusion group Vital Information, which has spanned over 40 years and featured various lineups, including collaborations with musicians like Mike Stern, Tim Landers, and currently keyboardist Manuel Valera and bassist Janek Gwizdala. Beyond Journey and Vital Information, Smith has been a member of Steps Ahead and has collaborated with a vast array of jazz luminaries including Ahmad Jamal, Zakir Hussain, Dave Liebman, Hiromi, and Randy Brecker. As a prolific session musician, his credits include recordings for Mariah Carey, Bryan Adams, Andrea Bocelli, Savage Garden, and Zucchero. He has also explored South Indian rhythmic art (konnakol) and released numerous award-winning educational DVDs, such as "Steve Smith Drumset Technique – History of the U.S. Beat." Modern Drummer magazine has named him one of the "Top 25 Drummers of All Time" and voted him into their Hall of Fame in 2002. His most recent project, "New Perspective" (2025) with Vital Information, continues his legacy of reinventing jazz and rock standards through a contemporary lens.