Biography
From the rhythmic beats of grade school to the vibrant stages of Colorado and beyond, Robert Vernon’s musical journey is a symphony of passion and versatility. His journey began with a pair of drumsticks in grade school, leading him to become the first chair by his senior year in high school. His dedication saw him performing with every school band available, culminating in his first band experience as a senior.
College introduced Robert to the world of country music with the Marlin Rice Trio, setting the stage for a diverse musical career. Post-college, he explored the Colorado music scene, from Colorado Springs to Denver, where his path crossed with John Faris of Zephyr fame. This meeting birthed Najani, a Boulder-based jazz fusion band, where Robert’s drumming resonated for three impactful years.
The evolution of his musical expression continued with One World, a concept band co-founded with Ray Laucella, known for its original compositions. The Vernon McMahon band followed, a venture with Jerimiah McMahon, where Robert’s drumming energized the ski area circuit in Colorado and Wyoming then on to Arizona, and Kansas with southern rock and popular hits.
A shift in focus led Robert to composing and recording, collaborating with various artists and achieving 3rd place in a national R&B competition. His musical repertoire expanded into Gospel and Christian music, playing alongside Richie Furay of Buffalo Springfield and Poco fame.
In New Jersey, Robert’s talent found a home in houses of worship, leading to the founding of Hallel Music and Hallel Music Radio. Here, he nurtured artists like Rainy Garay, daughter of Kool and the Gang’s Charles Smith, and produced albums for emerging talents. Despite the challenges of streaming and market timing, Robert’s passion for music remained unshaken, as he also embraced the bass guitar.
2019 marked a new chapter with a move to Idaho, closer to family. Here, Robert continued to share his musical gifts in local houses of worship before returning to his band roots.
Robert’s musical odyssey is a testament to his adaptability and passion for various genres, from the heartbeats of jazz fusion to the soulful strums of Gospel. His journey is not just about the music he plays but the lives he touches and the legacy he continues to build. Currently he is holding down the drum chair in Three Day Weekend.
