Norman Connors

Norman Connors is an American jazz drummer, composer, arranger, producer, and artist. Born on 1 March 1947 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, he developed a passion for jazz at a young age and began playing drums. Influenced by notable musicians such as Lex Humphries and Elvin Jones, Connors pursued his musical education at Temple University and Juilliard.

Connors' career took off when he recorded with Archie Shepp and Pharoah Sanders before signing to Buddah Records sublabel Cobblestone. He released his first album as a bandleader titled "Dance of Magic" in 1972. As the A&R manager for Buddah Records, he shifted his focus towards R'n'B material in the mid-1970s.

Throughout his career, Norman Connors collaborated with renowned artists including Carlos Garnett, Gary Bartz, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Herbie Hancock. His work encompassed both jazz fusion and soul genres with guest singers like Michael Henderson, Jean Carn, Phyllis Hyman, Al Johnson, and The Jones Girls contributing to his albums. Notable tracks from this period include "You Are My Starship" (1974) and "Captain Connors" (1977).