Bio
Marlon Patton’s drumming transcends conventional rhythm, weaving a sonic tapestry that blurs the lines between tradition and innovation. With a masterful command of dynamics and texture, he merges the pulse of jazz with experimental soundscapes, creating an almost pointillistic approach to percussion. Each strike of the drum or cymbal is deliberate yet fluid, evoking emotions that resonate deeply with listeners. Whether driving the groove in LiV Warfield’s band or exploring atmospheric improvisation with Lonnie Holley or his duo Nelson Patton, Marlon’s artistry is a dialogue—equal parts instinct and precision—that is always redefining what it means to be a modern drummer. He currently is a member of Liv Warfield’s band, Lizz Wright’s band, Slowspin, Nelson Patton, and Lonnie Holley.
He has toured, performed and/or recorded with Mitski, Sufjan Stevens, Lizz Wright, Lyle Lovett, Margo Price, Nels Cline, Larry Goldings, Emmet Cohen, Sullivan Fortner, Adam Levy, Chris Bruce, Josh Johnson, Jon Cowherd, Shaun Martin, Robert Finley, Cory Wong, Jim White, Larkin Poe, Liv Warfield, Lonnie Holley, Houston Person, Jeff Coffin, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, MJ the Musical on Broadway, Shahzad Ismaily, Col. Bruce Hampton, Takana Miyamoto, John Patitucci, Lew Soloff, Randy Brecker, Bobby Shew, Rufus Reid, Marcus Printup, Wycliffe Gordon and Russel Gunn. He has recorded for labels such as Sony, Universal, Jagjaguwar, Dead Oceans, Yep Roc, Ropeadope plus many more independent releases. His drumming has been in soundtracks on Adult Swim, ABC, HBO, Hulu.
In the studio, Marlon has carved a name for himself recording, mixing, producing and composing. Some recent projects he's worked on: Nelson Patton’s Lost In a Nation, Lonnie Holley’s MITH, music for PUMA’s Devine 9 campaign, Liv Warfield’s The Edge, Jim White's Precious Bane.
Marlon plays Canopus Drums
For information on drumming, mixing, drum tracking, engineering and/or production rates and availability please contact me: marlonpatton at mac dot com
“While he’s known mostly as a phenomenal drummer, he’s also a badass bass player, an amazing engineer and all around musical whiz. Throw in the fact that he’s easygoing, modest and eminently sane and you can understand why when someone approaches me to produce their record the first thing I do is check if Marlon is available. Same with my personal recordings. He’s just utterly indispensable.”
“Marlon is my favorite drummer on the planet and one of the best musicians I know.”
“so thoughtful, inspiring, imbued with serious listening and focus”
“Marlon Patton is one of the most supportive and innovative musicians we’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. His creative sensibilities and instrumental skills are formidable and world class - literally, he’s toured with and recorded on countless projects worldwide. Whether he’s pushing the limits of drumming, composing, or engineering and mixing records, Marlon is inexhaustible - always working to achieve the next level of excellence.”