Drummer • Producer • Touring Musician
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Mario Dawson began playing drums in the Apostolic Church at just six years old. His natural talent and powerful sense of groove quickly led to opportunities performing with Gospel groups and Blues artists throughout Chicago.
After being discovered by legendary Chicago musician Phil Upchurch, Mario began touring professionally and continued developing his career after graduating high school. He later earned his degree from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, before relocating to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he became deeply involved in the city’s legendary music scene.
With the influence of his uncle, Garry “Jellybean” Johnson of Morris Day and The Time, Mario performed and recorded with an impressive roster of artists connected to Prince, The Family/Fdelux, Paisley Park artists, and others in the Minneapolis music community.
He also worked at Flyte Tyme Studios with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, recording drums for artists including Mary J. Blige, James Grear & Company, and Excelsior Choir.
Mario has toured and performed with artists including Prince, Bernard Allison, Eric Gales, Mike Zito, Fdelux (formerly The Family), Larry Graham, Alexander O’Neal, Mint Condition, and others.
Now based in Las Vegas, Mario continues to perform, record, and tour with Franky Perez & The All Nighters, Jimmy Carpenter, and Eric Sardinas.
Known for his power, precision, versatility, and deep pocket, Mario Dawson brings decades of experience and a lifetime of passion to every stage and studio session.
GEAR
Gretsch Drums • Istanbul Mehmet Cymbals • Evans Drumheads • Promark Drumsticks • Alclair Audio • Sonic Revision
FEATURED VIDEO
SELECTED DISCOGRAPHY
James Grear & Company
The Next Level
What Will Your Life Say
A Special Place
James Grear & Nu Friends
He Kept Me
Jamar Esaw & Triad 4 Christ
Prepare Me
Bernard Allison
Chills and Thrills
In The Mix
Let It Go
Cruisin’ for Bluesin’ — Written and Produced
Songs from the Road (Live)
Larry Graham
Raise Up
fDelux
Live and Tight as a Funk Fiends Fix
AM Static
Liv Warfield
The Unexpected — Blackbird, Don’t Say Much, Freedom
Seinabo Sey
Pretend — Younger and You (Producer)
Emmanuel Live
What We Hope For (Live)
Just Want You
Mike Zito, Bernard Allison & Vanja Sky
Blues Caravan 2018
The Galactic Cowboy Orchestra
Lost in the Numbers — Letter to Mom (Written and Produced)
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