"Chizzy" Chuck has been playing Reggae in Pittsburgh for over 21 years, starting in 1987 when he became a member of Pittsburgh-based original reggae band DUB SQUAD. The band gained notoriety in 1990 when it's debut CD, "Big Town", was selected as one of the top ten American reggae releases that year by Reggae Report, the major reggae industry publication at that time. The band played locally and toured regularly throughout the Northeast and Midwest for 8 years.
In 1996, Chuck organized and co-led the band TALAWAH, a horn-led 8-member reggae showcase band. Despite developing a loyal following in the Pittsburgh reggae/dancehall community, the band suffered one too many personal changes and in 1999, disbanded. Chuck then changed directions and joined popular blues/r&b band STRANGE BREW and continued to play regularly, at the same time freelancing with various blues and reggae bands whenever possible. During this time, Chuck also made time to play off and on with alt-jazz fusion collective CATTYWAMPUS as well as recording tracks for Pop singer-songwriter AMANDA FORD's solo CD.
In late 2001, Chuck was asked to become a member of the FREEDOM. With original members Les Bowe and Donnie "Dread " Cyrus, the music just flowed-pure vibes!!! In 2008, as the band progressed, FREEDOM is now co-led by both Chuck and Donnie "Dread" Cyrus.
In 2006 and 2007, Chuck also appeared on several tracks from fellow band member Les Bowe's two solo CDs, "Through My Eyes" and "Angel", working with Grammy Award-winning staff at Audible Images studios.
Chuck's first steady professional gig began in 1983 with the Top 40 band ARTISTRY, although his first "paid gig" was on New Years Eve 1979. His first recording experience was in 1982 with noted accordian player/pioneer Mario Mosti. It's just natural that Chuck comes from a musical family and has been playing drumset since the age of 9.
Throughout his development as a drummer, he's thankful to have had the opportunity to study with some of Pittsburgh's greatest drum instructors.
