Jerome Gillespie Jr.

Drummer, composer, and bandleader Jerome Gillespie Jr. brings a deeply rooted yet forward-moving sound to his debut residency at Black Cat. Raised in Houston, Texas and now based in New York City, Gillespie’s playing blends the feeling of the church, the fire of hard bop, and a modern sense of storytelling—creating music that is as intentional as it is alive in the moment. A graduate of Manhattan School of Music, the University of Iowa, and The Juilliard School, Gillespie has shared the stage with artists such as Vincent Herring, Reggie Workman, Mark Gross, and Bobby Watson, and has held the drum chair in multiple Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers tribute ensembles. That lineage is central to his approach: honoring tradition while pushing it forward with his own voice. Gillespie is no stranger to the Black Cat stage, having previously performed here alongside pianist Joe Block with the Open Heart Trio and with tenor saxophonist Isaiah Collier. Those appearances offered a glimpse into his versatility—equally at home supporting, shaping, and driving the music from the bandstand. As a leader, his music focuses on strong, memorable ideas, group chemistry, and a sense of narrative that unfolds over time. This residency marks a new chapter—an opportunity to stretch out, build with the band, and invite listeners into a sound that grows deeper each night. Band Lineup: Jerome Gillespie Jr., drums Marvin Truong, alto saxophone Wilfie Williams, piano Marcos Varela, bass