Oliver Lawford grew up in Poole and has been playing drums since 2001. He has been studying with Paul Brady (previously of the BBC Big band) and Cynthia Mason, both of whom have been the sources of most of his inspiration over the last few years.



Oliver Lawford has been involved predominantly with Christian bands and groups playing all over the south of England including large Christian events in London with his band and good friends, Unite.



Oliver Lawford has also been involved with school jazz, percussion and wind ensembles and with many local orchestras. Some of Oliver's greatest inspirations include Jeff Porcaro, Keith Carlock, Dave Weckl, Bill Summers, Benny Greb and many more. He has been influenced not just by musicians and drummers but styles and groups also from Herbie Hancock to the John Butler Trio, from Steely Dan to Weather Report all of which have affected his drumming, performance and musical expression.



In January 2006 Oliver Lawford was one of the finalists of the Young Drummer of the Year (YDOTY), organised by mikedolbear.com.