Jay Smith, a Southern California native, sites his musical influences from former instructors like Chuck Flores, Glen Sobel, Andrew Megna, Rob Carson and Jim Chapin. After attending the Musicians Institute's P.I.T. program, he established himself drumming for American Idol's Season 3 finalist, Matt Rogers. Jay has performed with artists such as Mercy Killers, Amanda Kate, Phil Collin (Def Leppard), Matthew Ward, Me and the Captain, Fangs on Fur, among others. His touring credentials feature support for acts like Iron Maiden, Blink-182, Jimmy Eat World, Queensryche, Rob Halford, Green Day and more with performances broadcast live on MTV. Jay's work includes, musical contributions writing and recording for the popular Los Angeles station KROQ's "The Kevin and Bean Show" and has an original song in the Movie “Riding in Vans with Boys." From cruise ship and musical theater performances, Jay has proven his versatility. Currently, he's touring the nation on "The Back in Time Tour," celebrating the music of Huey Lewis and the News with 'The Heart of Rock and Roll' with notable recent performances at Daryl's House in New York and the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Alongside his performance schedule, he remains a dedicated and sought-after teacher.
Jay proudly uses gear from the following companies:
Sonor I Meinl I Meinl Stick and Brush I Remo I Drum Workshop I Gruv Gear