Biography
Jharis Yokley displays his range as a nimble drummer across jazz, R&B, hip-hop, folk, and rock through collaborations with DJ Premier, Ani DiFranco, Solange, Chance the Rapper, and José James. Since 2020 he has maintained a close tie to James, joining the vocalist for repeated tours and contributing to the studio albums On & On and 1978, before issuing his own debut, Sometimes, Late at Night, in 2024. Issued by James’ Rainbow Blonde imprint, the distinctive breakup record introduced Yokley as an earnest singer and songwriter while underscoring his masterful drumming technique.
A native of St. Louis, Yokley began drumming in church at age three and joined school ensembles in sixth grade. During high school he performed in the concert, jazz, and marching bands, an experience that guided him to Berklee College of Music, where he trained with Terri Lyne Carrington and Danilo Pérez. Following graduation he relocated to New York, establishing himself through sessions with various artists, and in 2020 secured a permanent spot in James’ group for both live and recorded work. James’ first project to include Yokley was the double album New York 2020 (Live); Yokley remained with the band for the 2023 release On & On and the 2024 album 1978. Only weeks after 1978 appeared, Yokley presented his own full-length Sometimes, Late at Night. Although James issued the record, served as executive producer, and guested on it, the material originated chiefly from Yokley and fellow band member BIGYUKI, who played keyboards and shared compositional duties.
A native of St. Louis, Yokley began drumming in church at age three and joined school ensembles in sixth grade. During high school he performed in the concert, jazz, and marching bands, an experience that guided him to Berklee College of Music, where he trained with Terri Lyne Carrington and Danilo Pérez. Following graduation he relocated to New York, establishing himself through sessions with various artists, and in 2020 secured a permanent spot in James’ group for both live and recorded work. James’ first project to include Yokley was the double album New York 2020 (Live); Yokley remained with the band for the 2023 release On & On and the 2024 album 1978. Only weeks after 1978 appeared, Yokley presented his own full-length Sometimes, Late at Night. Although James issued the record, served as executive producer, and guested on it, the material originated chiefly from Yokley and fellow band member BIGYUKI, who played keyboards and shared compositional duties.
Albums
Singles
