the trippin billies

Kelsey Tarver, a skilled musician, has been a professional drummer in the city of Chicago for over 17 years. His experience includes all genres of music including Gospel, Latin, Reggae, Funk, R&B, Jazz, Blues, Country, Rock, and Neo-Soul. Also known as “Father of Time” or “Arsenist”, is currently the lead drummer for the Apostolic Church of God, Random Noyse, and the Trippin’ Billies.

In May of 1998, Kelsey earned his associates degree from Loyola University in Music. As a student Kelsey distinguished himself and excelled in courses such as music theory, jazz improvisation, & The Art of Listening. While he has formal musical training, Kelsey is most comfortable learning musical compositions by ear. He has a rapid ability to hear & learnvariations of music while providing his own high-quality improvisations.  

After earning his degree from Loyola University , Kelsey taught lessons in percussion arrangement & improvisation for Muziknet. He also taught with Urban Gateways, a non-profit organization that taught young adults and children in inner city schools Afro/Cuban percussion arrangements.    

Kelsey’s past performance experience includes opening for Prince, Jeff Coffin, Gladys Knight, Take 6, Chaka Khan, Dwele, Chrisette Michele, Michelle Branch, and Jude. He also has performed for various gospel recording artists such as CeCe Winans, BeBe Winans, The Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Vickie Winans, Three Mo Tenors, Kirk Whalum, Yolanda Adams, Vickie Yohe, & JourneySong. His recording experience includes working with Dr. Willeta Green Johnson & JourneySong, Appointed by God, & Odium Nation.

In addition to performing Kelsey has had TV appearances on the Chicagoing, Channel 7 news, and currently has weekly appearances on Sunday mornings with the Apostolic Church of God. While his experience performing and recording for an array of multi-talented recording artist has influenced his career, none have compared to his most recent experience playing for the legendary Stevie Wonder in September of 2008.

Kelsey has also been recognized for his stellar musical performances and dedication to music. He has received three Chicago Music Awards with his reggae band “Indika”, and two Jazz band solo awards while attending Loyola University .

Currently, Kelsey is the musical director & arranger for his band Random Noyse. He also performs yearly with the Chicago Symphony & Orchestra, and has multiple performances with his band Tripping Billies. In addition to Kelsey’s responsibilities he also provides musical clinics and performance consulting to clientele.

Kelsey Tarver “Father of Time”, has passionately given to the music industry with his time and dedication to “real” music. His future plans include recording his own album with multiple recording artists, owning h