A native to New England, Aj was born into a musical family. Playing the piano was often a favorite past time. At age three a cousin introduced him to the drums. Recognizing the synergy, his mother purchased a small drum kit shortly thereafter. Classical music was the staple at home, but at age eight the heavy sounds of Rock ‘n Roll ignited a life-long passion. Lessons followed, and after a referral from his teacher, Aj joined the club circuit at age sixteen. In 1989 he received a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and earned a degree in music performance. By the mid 1990’s Aj was making his way through the cities of Los Angeles and Chicago performing with various groups in venues such as The Whiskey, The Roxy, The Double Door, The Metro, and (little known fact) obtained a street performer license from the city of Chicago, performing anywhere he could to make ends meet.
In 2004 Aj had the opportunity of meeting long-time childhood mentor Jakson Spires, drummer/songwriter of Atlantic recording artist’s Blackfoot (Train Train, Highway Song) Jakson, an unforgettable spirit and powerful drummer pulled Aj aside offering some inspiring words after witnessing his performance. It was a pivotal and defining moment. A year later Jakson passed away on March 16th 2005 (Aj’s deceased father’s birthday) After a referral Aj was asked to tour with S.R.A. catapulting him into the national scene.
To date Aj has toured and/or recorded with Carmen and Camille (Billboard, MTV , Stuff magazine) The Southern Rock All Stars (Molly Hatchet, Blackfoot, Marshall Tucker) Starr Faithfull (Jodee Frawlee) State of The Art (Tantric, Dramagods) The Peacheaters, Rainshine, J.P. Jones, Art Fiction, to name a few. Aj has had the pleasure of working with producers Johnny K (Disturbed) Anthony Resta (Duran Duran, Collective Soul, Megadeth) John Ellis (Godsmack, Soul Sirkus) and has released three albums with the group Starr Faithfull, who’s accolades include five song placements on ABC and NBC television and three international tours.
Tigerlily is extremely excited to have AJ join the band! He's a lover of Jagermeister, and the show is SCARY GREAT with AJ on board!!
