Clifton "CJ" Spikes | SoultoneCymbals.com

Clifton "CJ" Spikes

Clifton "CJ" Spikes

Although blindness consumed the first 4 years of his life, Houston-native Cliffton "CJ" Spikes has shown that even now with only partial sight, much can be accomplished. New to the world of professional drumming, he has captured the attention of many gospel music industry heavy hitters including Michael "Big Mike" Clemons (drummer for Israel & New Breed).

CJ is currently the full-time drummer for Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, in Chesapeake, VA, where he is playing under the direction of Minister of Music/Gospel recording artist Earl Bynum. He is also the full-time drummer for the Chesapeake, VA based group, Kenny Mayo and God's Praize, and the stand-in drummer for Contemporary Christian artist, Karen Poole. He was recently featured as the guest drummer on the live recording for Pastor Kerry Smith and the Discipleship Tabernacle Choir (CD release TBA). CJ also participated in the 2008 Guitar Center Drum-Off Competition, held in Virginia Beach, VA, where he was selected as one of the six best drummer's in the competition.

CJ has had the opportunity to perform with gospel recording artist Kathy Taylor (Houston, TX), Nikita Clegg (of the Kurt Karr Singers; Houston, TX), Norman Hutchins, Lemmie Battles, Nikki Ross (Houston, TX), George Huff (Season 3 American Idol semifinalist), Lady Tibba Gamble, Peggy Britt (Norfolk, VA), and Kim Thomas (Portsmouth, VA).

Regarded as one of Hampton Road's best kept secrets, CJ's spirit of attentiveness, perfection, perseverance, and humility makes his success imminent.