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Clyde Lightning George

Lightning George is the world's greatest straight ahead jazz steeldrum player

About Me

Clyde 'Lightning' George is known as the steelpan king of straight ahead jazz. He is the pan master at improvisation on jazz standards. He grew up in the same place, Laventille, Trinidad, and same time as the pan (steeldrum). His high caliber of musicianship, vast repertoire and natural rhythm solidify his passion for jazz with a Caribbean flare. He is one a few pan players using 3 or 4 sticks when performing. This makes for a piano like sound with chords and beautiful harmonies that delight audiences of all ages. Lightning has been a visiting artist at the University of Northern Texas, Eastern Illinois University, the University of Illinois among others. Along with his wife, Cathy, they have presented seminars of the history, creation and ongoing development of the steelpan to high schools and primary schools in both Chicago and Trinidad.

Lightning’s band, Steelin’ Jazz, emerged in 1990 from the Chicago jazz scene. They have performed at festivals throughout the USA, Canada and the Caribbean. They have recorded 4 cds and Lightning is featured in 3 films. They present a variety of musical styles including calypso, latin, pop, reggae, jazz and originals. Their music is classical, tasteful, professional, danceable and delightful.