Corey and I explored the complexity of navigating the life of a creative in 2018. He shed light on the process of developing a business model that has helped him build a following for his band "Butcher Brown". This business model has also set him and his bandmates up to continue traveling and recording around the world for. Fonville also spoke about the challenges of maintaining focus and recognizing that you can only fail if you give up. Per usual, he and I also dove deep into the topic of politics, racial, profiling and how he manages to rise above these challenges and more. I hope you all enjoy this episode of The Working Artist Project.
Connect with Corey Here: http://www.butcherbrown.com/
Bio:
Corey Fonville, an influential drummer in today's music scene, has dedicated his life to learning the craft and its history in order to be one of the best drummers of his time. As an artist and music-enthusiast, he studied a variety of genres, mostly through his father’s music collection, which generally consisted of jazz, R&B, alternative, and funk. His skills are rooted in an eclectic background and call attention to the fact that music is hard to typify.
Originally from Virginia Beach, VA, Corey has played with recognized musicians who have not only helped him develop as a drummer but also introduced him to the life of a touring artist. Since the age of 2, Corey hasn’t been able to put the sticks down -- music was always his passion. He first started creating a buzz after high school when he attended New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. While he lived in New York City, he played almost every night with prominent artists from the city and quickly made close connections with influential musicians. He eventually left New School to study at the Dave Brubeck Institute in Stockton, CA where he received a full scholarship to play the drums. The Brubeck Institute gave Corey the opportunity to network with many artists whom he aspired to be and to whom he listened when he was a child.
Almost immediately after completing his studies at The Brubeck Institute, he began traveling the world with notable artists such as Nicholas Payton, Jacky Terrasson, and Christian Scott. Now, at the age of 27, Corey is currently touring with Christian Scott. Additionally, Corey has his own band Butcher Brown which recently completed their first European tour. He plans to continue recording with them and hopes to keep building a international fan base.
Corey has proved that his skills make him one of the most recognizable and accomplished contemporary drummers. Through his touring experiences, he wants to continue to develop his technique and sharpen the skills he already possesses in order to continue playing for audiences whom truly appreciate the artform.
