This afro-styled conga drummer emerged from the "Black Light Explosion Psychedelic" scene that was happening around the San Francisco Bay area in the early 1970's. Simmons has played with dance classes, drum choirs, dance troupes, acting groups and bands from various genre.

Simmons founded Select Records in 1981 with artists, Masterpiece, Starlite, The Fabulous Playmates and The Original Ladies’ Choice, all featuring his powerful presence on percussion.

Simmons percussion techniques have been preserved and released as "Hot Percussion Licks."   This CD is both conga drum lesson and practice music and features an awesome remix of the rhythm & blues tune "Love And Happiness" originally done by Al Green.

Now for a limited time, Mr. Simmons graciously offers the first two tracks from "Hot Percussion Licks" here as free downloads. 

Track 1 (Love and Happiness Remix)

Track 2

You would do well to surf over to CDBaby or Lulu Press and purchase this CD.  It is enjoyable on multiple levels, not the least of which is its obvious musicality.  The mix places Simmons awesome percussion clearly in the forefront and offers listeners the rare aural treat that only the conga and other select pieces of percussion can afford.  As Simmons CDBaby page points out, this CD can also drive your aerobic exercise regimen.

Be sure to check out Raymond Simmons at the following web addresses.

http://museeks.com/artists/1/Raymond_Simmons.shtml

http://www.lulu.com/raymond

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/raymonds

How do you classify your music?

Rhythm and Blues, Funk and Soul.



Do you target a specific audience? If so, who?

No I don't.

Musical Instruments - Recording - Computer Hardware - Software

What musical instruments do you play?

Congas, Bongos, etc.

Do you record in a home studio?

No. I pay.

Musical Background -Influences

How did you get started playing music?

I started playing for dance performers.



What has influenced your music the most?

Playing from African roots. Mongo Santamaria and Curtis Mayfield.

Music And Internet Marketing

How has the Internet effected you as a musician?

The world has opened up.

When did you start marketing your music on the Internet?

About two years ago. (2004)

What has been the most effective way to market your music on the Internet? While direct mailing the internet serves as the airplay for customers to listen
to the product. Anything else is just fun publicity.

Musicians And The Future


What does the future hold for you?

More opportunities.

Finally, is there anything else you want to say about yourself?

My love for music keeps me going.