​While most toddlers worked to perfect standing, walking and talking, Julian Addison was already working on licks and experimenting with sounds – drumming spoons, pencils and anything else he could get his little hands on.  Recognizing his love for percussion, Julian’s parents bought him a drum kit and at just four years of age, his life as a drummer began.  Julian loved music and played anywhere and anytime he could.  His earliest influences were found in his older brother's music collection which included albums from Metallica to Michael Jackson.  And though still young, it was his time playing for his church that Julian began to develop his effortless ability to fluently play many musical genres and wow audiences with his unique style.



Julian’s dedication to his music was clear, forgoing any sport or activity that could injure his hands.  He practiced daily and was inspired by the talents of Dave Weckl through his secondary education.  At Central State University, his knowledge and passion for music expanded.  Julian was further influenced by drummers like Tony Williams, Dennis Chambers, Jonathan Moffett, Calvin Rogers, Chris Dave and more.  He was eager to forge a career in music.  He took gigs playing all over his home state of Ohio.  But he still had to work regular jobs to make ends meet.  Julian longed for more.

Wanting a change of venue and more opportunity, Julian headed south to New Orleans.  There he teamed up with friends and fellow musicians and in 2008 formed Street Gumbo.  The band quickly gained notoriety and played venues in The French Quarter and throughout New Orleans.

Today, Julian continues to amaze with his incredible ability as a drummer.  He has performed with such notables as Grammy Award winner Bill Summers, trumpeter and vocalist Jeremy Davenport, songstress, Sasha Masakowski and with the Alexey Marti Quintet.  Julian performs regularly with Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Pat Casey and the New Sound and Dominick Grillo and the Frenchmen Street All-Stars.  He has also made his way to television.  Julian was handpicked by creator, Julie Plec to appear on her show, "The Originals" after seeing him perform at The Spotted Cat Music Club.  He has since appeared on Jeep and Zatarain's national commercials and the feature film, The Best of Me.  A dynamic and diverse drummer, Julian’s future looks bright and his star will undoubtedly continue to rise.