Elé Salif Howell

Ravi Coltrane, Chief Adjuah (FKA Christian Scott)

On a jazz scene brimming with exceptionally gifted young drummers, Elé Salif Howell is rapidly earning a spot in the crowded top tier. The San Francisco native has thrived since moving to New York City in 2016, forging deep creative connections with leading contemporaries, revered veterans, and mid-career masters like Ravi Coltrane, who recruited the drummer in 2021 forvarious projects including Cosmic Music: Revisiting the Music of John and Alice Coltrane and a newer electric Trio. He also can be seen performing with trumpeter Chief Adjuah (FKA Christian Scott) Elé (pronounced e-LAY) credits his father, powerhouse saxophonist/composer Richard Howell, as an abiding source of inspiration.


As a young drummer, Elé continues to write and compose, creating with inspirations from his immersive cultural experiences, travels and people who he meets along the way. Some notable artists that he has worked with include Stanley Clarke, John Scofield, Gill Goldstein, Brandee Younger, David Gilmore, Elena Pinderhughes, Weedie Braimah, Mike Rodriguez, Jeff Chambers, Alex Sipiagan, and more.

Elé
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Howell's
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Elé Salif Howell's
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  • WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

    One of my most unforgettable Next-Level performances occurred at The Village Vanguard with the Ravi Coltrane Trio, featuring myself and Gadi Lehavi on keys. The Vanguard's legacy coupled with the intimacy of the setup made this experience profoundly special. Taking place in 2022, it marked the inception of a new Trio project that has since soared. The set was characterized by its freedom, dynamism, and intensity. This intensity propelled us to play with fervor and listen with acute attention. Even now, whenever the three of us reunite, I'm continually inspired by the magic we create together.

  • WORDS OF WISDOM FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF DRUMMERS

    I draw inspiration from the many diverse cultures, enriching my music with new rhythms and stories. I find fulfillment in helping the next generation of young musicians, passing on the joy and healing of music while honoring my teachers and musical lineage. Through mentorship and collaboration, I sustain the legacy of musical expression and empathy, fostering creativity wherever I go. It is ever inspiring to collaborate with like minded musicians who share a similar drive for connecting on a sincere level.

  • FAVORITE ZILDJIAN CYMBAL/COMBO

    I choose Vic Firth for its amazing quality and legacy in the drumming world. Since I was a kid, Vic Firth has always been the stick of choice for me, influenced by many of my heroes including one of my teachers, Lenny White, whose signature stick I still use at times today. Vic Firth's sticks have always felt like the perfect fit for me, both in weight and size. As a taller person, finding sticks with the right length and weight combination always felt easier with VF selection. I feel their sticks allow me to express myself fully on the drums.

Elé Salif Howell’S GO-TO’S

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