008 - Lee Kelley: Taking Chances, Pro Playing Without Formal Training, Carolina Beach Music

Lee Kelley has learned to adapt his drumming style to fit whatever gig has come his way. Lee's range of gigs have included backing up many artists in Nashville including Gary Allan, Mark Chestnut, Heidi Newfield as well as alt-country singer Chris Knight. Originally from the Charlotte North Carolina area, Lee learned drumming from his neighbor at an early age and continued his informal education working with and learning from popular local bands such as Sugar Creek and Too Much Sylvia. Encouraged by Eddie Bayers to move, Lee hit the streets of Nashville in 1996. After embracing the drumming style of classic country music, Lee quickly found himself working with country artist Gary Allan. Lee talks about the many artist gigs that followed and how he has continued to stay busy in the Nashville music scene. This interview was recorded February 3rd 2015. See photos here.