"CJ"
The Rhythm
Name: Charles Bennett, Jr.
Native: Baltimore, MD, USA
Stage Name: "CJ" aka "Old Man"
High School: Polytechnic Institute
College: Morgan State University
Influences: God, Questlove, Stevie Wonder, D’Angelo, MuteMath
Accomplishments: Written over 200 songs with & performed over 10 years with M&TT - 7 years recording experience
Music Contributions to M&TT: Wrote drumline music for entire album - "Symbols". Also lyrical vamp for Wish you were here...
Time with M&TT: Aug ‘99 – present
Marcell's Thoughts on CJ
Mr. Consistency
This cat to me is not just a drummer, he’s a technician. We’ve played together for 10 years, and honestly, I’ve never had to worry about the rhythm section with him back there. His philosophy he often shares with the band is, “I’m interested in what the song needs the most; everything else is probably unnecessary”. There have been times in the recording where people have asked me did I use midi drums, and I always say, “Naw, it’s just CJ”. For years we would argue about feels I wanted in a song and CJ was the exact opposite. If he felt he could accomplish the same feel with less hits, he would often fight for his position. Over time we learned to compromise. He has changed my mind on the term "playing drums". CJ and Gerald are cousins so I feel they know each other musically better than any other chemistry in the band, which is beyond a blessing in my eyes. But, he and I are probably the most locked when it comes to songwriting, dynamics and song structure. His instinct in following me live and in the studio is incredible. I feel he will be one of those drummers that many young drummers will emulate when it comes to writing, recording and even performing. He’s bringing back the art in Neo-Soul & R&B of "playing", not just "banging".
THANK YOU'S from CJ
First and foremost, I want to thank and give praise to God, Jesus Christ, who is the most amazing friend. Without him and the ability that he has given me, this would not be in the least bit possible. I want to thank my wife, Shana Bennett, who is a woman of great character and strength, and is the love of my life. Honey, the sacrifices you've made for me pertaining to this music and the support that you've provided are very instrumental in this project. I love you so much. Your friendship and support mean the world to me. I thank my parents who have been open-minded about this musical endeavor of ours and have raised me well, and instilled strong values and principles into my life. I thank my sister, Brittany, for her continual support and high praise of the band (you are so talented yourself and I know great things are in store for you-only if I had a voice like yours sis). To all of my friends who have been supportive of me and my music and who, maybe unbeknownst to some of you, have helped me become the musician that I am. Thanks goes to Cornell Showell, Michael Simon, and Gerald Richardson for all of the thought provoking conversations that have helped me along the way. Love you guys. Thanks Micah Smith for your genuine friendship bro. Much love and I know it's just a matter of time for you. Thanks to Marcell Russell for taking a chance on me and trusting me with your vision. Marcell, thanks for ALL that you do for this band, including those awesome lyrics, concepts, and ideas. Love you bro. Thank you Bags, you'll always have a special place in the history of the band. Thanks to "The Truth". Wow, what can I say? It is an honor to play and create music with you guys. Your talent and creativity is so inspiring and God has blessed you all immensely. Never take it for granted. Thank you Charrisse and Erica for your love and support. Thanks to all those that support us, have supported us, and will support us. Thank you to all the wonderful musicians who have inspired me: Questlove, Stevie Wonder, Darren King, MuteMath, D'Angelo, Lewis Taylor, and others.
