Charles Heath

Biography

Originating from Chicago,IL Charles "Rick" Heath IV is a versatile and renowned musician, educator, and producer from local to international levels. Mr. Heath served as the drummer for piano jazz legend Ramsey Lewis for over 10 years. Currently, Heath leads his own quartet performing throughout the world and has a residency with his band located at Andy's Jazz Club in Chicago, IL. Charles endorses Sabian Cymbals, Evans Drum Heads, Vic Firth Drumsticks, and Rhythm Tech Percussion.Mr. Heath taught music in Chicago Public Schools from 1999-2007 before being asked to serve as the principal drummer for Oprah Winfrey and Quincy Jones national touring production of the Broadway hit musical "The Color Purple"  featuring Fantasia and Michelle Williams of Dentiny's Child" from 2007-2010. Heath then began touring the world with pianist Ramsey Lewis from 2010 until the retirement of Mr. Lewis in 2021. Charles is now an adjunct  professor of drumset at Columbia College, UIC, and Director of Music at Epic Academy High School.Although Charles is dedicated to educating the youth and serving the music community, he is just as passionate and dedicated to his music performance capabilities on the drums, playing everything from Gospel to Blues and Jazz to Latin music. Heath has performed, toured, and recorded with Ramsey Lewis, Phillip Bailey of Earth Wind and Fire, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Ken Chaney, Donald Byrd, Robert Irving III, McCoy Tyner, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra and many others.Charles "Rick" Heath IV is continuously breaking barriers in his career as a musician, mentor, educator producer and humanitarian. He is always leading with a cutting a edge approach with a passionate heart and professional class. Mr. Heath has obtains a BA in Music Performance with a minor in Education