Kendall Kay (Drums). Born in Durban, South Africa, Kay showed an interest in the drums at an early age. He pursued this interest, eventually playing and recording with many of the region’s major artists, including Steve Kekana, Johnny Fourie, and Izzio Gross. In 1983, Kay moved to Texas and studied at North Texas State University, graduating with a degree in jazz studies. Kay arrived in Los Angeles in 1987 and has been playing and recording in the city ever since. In addition to holding the rhythmic foundation for Diane Schuur, his credits include work with Kenny Burrell, Rickie Lee Jones, Kyle Eastwood, Alan Broadbent, Clare Fischer, Mary Wilson, and Jack Jones. According to Jack Jones, “Kendall Kay is a drummer who, if the rest of us can swing, gives us the permit. He is solid and tasteful, with a great sense of time.”