At a young age Chris Ralles was introduced to the world of music. By the time he was fifteen, the self-taught drummer began emulating the drum lines of his favorite songs. Chris was "discovered" by his parents while playing along with David Bowie's "Rebel Rebel." Upon hearing that, his father knew that Chris wouldn't be following in his footsteps and pursuing a career in law. 

By age 17, Chris began his career and was soon playing with local bands throughout Los Angeles. 

He then took his show on the road as a drum technician, and proved his versatility by touring with artists such as Madonna ("Blond Ambition" and "The Girlie Show" tours), Chicago, Art Garfunkel and George Benson. 

Chris has since played with top recording artists such as Pat Benatar, Don Felder, Kenny Loggins, Jimmy Messina, Christopher Cross, Michael McDonald, Javier Colon, Josh Kelley, Mark Bryan (Hootie And The Blowfish), Colt Ford, Bruce Greenwood, Poco, The World Classic Rockers, Dave Koz, Ambrosia, Badfinger, Percy Sledge, Maia Sharp, Peter & Gordon, Skrapp Mettle, Expose, Richie Furay, Barry Ryan, Les McKeown's Bay City Rollers, Ian Whitcomb, Spencer Davis, John Walker, Kate Taylor, Erica Nicole and Dave Mason. He has made numerous television appearances on "NBC The Today Show," "The Tonight Show," "The Arsenio Hall Show," "The Dennis Miller Show," "ABC In Concert," VH1, TNN, The Disney Channel, Fox News Channel and CSPAN. 

Developing a reputation for his professionalism, strong work ethic, and technical experience, Chris Ralles will consistently deliver a rock solid groove. When collaborating with a band, Chris is expert at taking direction, playing to complement the ensemble, and providing a creative angle to make the songs "feel good." He is a seasoned professional, and now considered one of the most talented and sought after drummers in the industry. 

Here are some quotes from a few artists Chris has had the pleasure of working with: 

"Chris Ralles is one of those rare combinations of a great guy and great talent. He has the musical sophistication to be able to morph into whatever style of drumming I might need to feel for each song, a particularly challenging request on my gig, as I range from R&B to Country to straight ahead rock within a two hour show." - Kenny Loggins 

"Chris is a gifted player, with an innate sensibility for working with songwriters. His playing is dynamic, and stylistically unique, but he has a 6th sense for playing exactly what the song needs. A rare talent, reminiscent of my friend, the late, great Jeff Porcaro." - Christopher Cross 

"Chris Ralles puts the song first. He's a great drummer who has the chops to take over the stage but he'd always rather serve the ensemble than his own ego. The huge bonus for musicians who tour with him is that he's like that offstage as well." - Maia Sharp 

Throughout his career, Chris has been inspired by the work of other performers including Neil Finn, Chris Cornell and XTC. 

Endorsements include Pearl Drums, Remo drumheads, Zildjian Cymbals, Vater Drumsticks, Latin Percussion Products, Drumkat electronic percussion, Protection Racket Cases and The Kelly Shu Pro. 

With so much musical experience behind him, Chris looks forward to the future, as a believer that his greatest musical accomplishments are still to come.

 

Click here to visit Chris Ralles' website