LaMar Merchant
Regional Drumset Artist - United States
Overview
Everyday LaMar Merchant wakes up, he thanks God for his heartbeat. Since, the life-blood flowing through his veins is expressed through his passion on the kit. Flowing out of this phenomenal drummer is a world of musicality. LaMar is a tasteful, funky and extremely versatile drummer, who can play in or out of the pocket. Whether he is playing Gospel, Straight Ahead Jazz, Fusion, Funk, Rock, Hip Hop, R&B or Afro-Cuban, LaMar takes you on a journey.
His own personal journey and discovery of drums and percussion began long before he was even able to form words. As a child, he would pull pots out of his mother's kitchen cabinet and bang away. He was definitely loud as a toddler(smile). However, by age 10, it was clear the Chicago native, who began playing for his church, was not only “loud”, but an “anointed” musician! This “Loud Anointed Musician” honed his craft by participating in Concert, Marching and Jazz Band all throughout high school. After high school, he earned his degree in Business and minored in Percussion Studies at Chicago State University under the direction of Dean of Music Mark Smith. Also during the college years he was mentored by Y.L. Douglas and Khari Parker who are nationally known tour/session drummers and educators.
He obtained his non-traditional education from drummers he admired…soaking up and studying musical textures and colors from Will Kennedy, Dennis Chambers, Tony Royster, Jr., Dave Weckl, Marcus Baylor, Brian Blade, Adonis Rose, Rex Hardy, and many others. He's performed with dozens of national, regional and local artist from around the country. His musical Journey has taken him from Chicago to the Gulf Coast to LA and finally Houston, TX where he currently resides, works and teaches. He’s been blessed to play with some of the top musicians in the area. LaMar is a first call drummer for major festivals, like the Houston Rodeo, churches, studios and club performances. He is the sessions drummer for Edgewater Studios. And, if that isn’t enough…LaMar is mixing business with pleasure.
In 2013, the “Loud Anointed Musician” created something For Loud Anointed Musicians everywhere! He launched FLAM, a successful clothing line aimed at uniting drummers worldwide. And, FLAM…an acronym for For Loud Anointed Musicians has done just that. Drummers and Percussionists from all over the world not only get to rock this one of a kind gear, they join a culture like no other…a culture filled with beats and rhythms on quality Pearl kits. LaMar is , also, endorsed by Soultone Cymbals.
Besides being a dedicated, first call drummer, LaMar is a dedicated father, husband and friend. With every beat of the drum, this “Loud Anointed Musician” gives his heart and soul…to his musical family, his real family and his fans.