Biography

Vince Maccarone is a sought after performer and studio musician on both drum set and hand percussion. He is also a band leader, writer and conducts master classes and workshops. Vince is best known for his unique “world music” approach and is well versed in all styles of music. He has studied Jazz, African, Afro-Cuban and Brazilian rhythms and combines all of his influences into a very diverse and compelling style. His live performances display an unbreakable link between traditional music and cutting-edge contemporary. Vince is a Dream Cymbal Endorsee.

Originally from the mining town of Sudbury, ON Canada, he is based in Etobicoke, ON and has done tours throughout Canada, United States, Australia the Caribbean and Europe.

After a 25 year absence from post secondary education, Vince earned his under-graduate Music Specialist degree and a Bachelor’s of Teaching from Humber College and York University with plans to obtain a Master’s Degree in Musicology starting in September 2016.

Vince’s drumming and compositions have been featured on commercials for many Fortune 500 clients such as GlaxoSmithKline, Coca Cola, TD Bank and many more. Some artists Vince has worked with include: Colin Linden, Denny Doherty of The Mammas and Pappas, Deanna Bogart, Gregory Hines, Jim Belushi and New Orleans great Earl King who commented “that drummer is hot!” he also has been with Paul Reddick and The Sidemen for the past 20 years. He has shared the stage with many blues/Roots greats such as BB King, Junior Wells, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Joe Louis Walker, Maria Muldaur, John Mayall and The BluesBreakers, Koko Taylor, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Colin James and a 2 week tour backing blues legend Buddy Guy.

In 2012 Vince decided it was time to step up from his usual drummer role and also show his composition and producing side. In 2013 Vince released his first solo project under the name Vince Maccarone’s Los Variants. It was a way for him to work with many of his favorite established Canadian artists and a host of young talent. The CD was very well received and is still played in a regular rotation on CBC’s World and Blues satellite stations and on various overseas radio stations.

 

Awards | Nominations

Maple Blues Nomination – Drummer of the Year 2012

JUNO Nominations – Johnny Max Band, producer, writer, drummer 2011, The Sidemen, Rhythm and Truth Brass Band

Maple Blues Awards – (9) Nominations 3 awards won – Best Live Band, Best Recording, and Songwriting

Johnny Max Band – Kings of Beale Award, International Blues Competition Memphis, TN February 2009

Paul Reddick and the Sidemen

WC Handy Award Nomination – Best Debut 2002 Memphis, TE

Canadian Music Award – JUNO nomination “Best Blues Artist” “Rattlebag” 2002

Jazz Report Magazine’s – “Best Live Band” 1997

JUNO Nomination – Best Blues/Gospel Artist 1995

Canadian Independent Music Awards – nominated for “Blues Album of the Year”