Jay Bellerose

Jay Bellerose is an American drummer and percussionist known primarily for his session and live performance work. He has contributed to the work of many well-known artists. Bellerose was born in Maine. A jazz enthusiast, he attended the Berklee College of Music where he worked with Paula Cole, Torsten de Winkel and others, and eventually went Los Angeles where he was part of Joe Henry's band.Bellerose has been influenced by blues and jazz, and his sound is in part derived from his vintage 1940s Slingerland Rolling Bomber kit. He often performs with shakers strapped to his ankles. He often uses a shallow 32-inch bass drum.Bellerose is a member of the Band of Sweethearts, which includes Brad Meinerding (guitar), Eric Heywood (pedal steel guitar) and Bellerose's long-time partner, Jennifer Condos (bass guitar). They frequently accompany Over the Rhine and other artists.Bellerose performed on the 2007 Raising Sand album by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss and supported them on tour in 2008.Bellerose supported Robert Plant and Alison Krauss at Glastonbury 2022.