MUSE • Musicians United for Social Equity

Biography

Meshach Bonaparte-Coggins, fondly known by family and friends as “Jimmy”, has been immersed in music since he was born. Born on February 28, 1992 in San Diego, CA to two military parents; Jimmy’s ear for music, especially the drums, started in church. From the time he could walk, as soon as the service was over, he would make his way to the drum set. At the age of around 3, Jimmy would take his seat at church near the musicians, watching and listening.  His brother, Bobby, would form a makeshift drum set out of bowls, pots, and spoons until their Aunt Kathi bought them a little white drum set.

At the age of 6 began to take lessons at DePaul University in Chicago IL, and through his life time always sought to improve his craft by taking lessons. Growing up in the church, eventually landed him an opportunity to serve in the music department. As a teenager Jimmy began to expand in his playing by working with R&B groups, rock, and reggae to further his musical mission.

Jimmy currently holds an Associate of General Studies from Joliet Junior College where he took Applied Percussion and also private lessons. As of recent he took lessons with drumming legend Tom Hipskind, who serves as a mentor. Jimmy is a proficient technical and skilled artist.He has an excellent level of musical interpretation to include voice; competent in interpreting several musical styles and blend genres such as Latin/Afro-Cuban, Brazilian drumming and orchestral styles of playing, as well as written or improvised musical parts.  Jimmy has worked with RCA Recording Artist Elaine Robison, productions with Project Two Music, Mary Poppins and the Wiz, The Mix Music Services, and countless other artist and producers.