Remembering Randy Reeves – A Tribute from J. P. Morrison

Nineteen years ago, I lost a dear friend, and the music world lost an incredible talent. Randy Reeves wasn’t just an extraordinary drummer — he was one of my greatest influences and an irreplaceable mentor in my journey as a musician.

I first met Randy shortly after he returned from touring with Johnny Lee. Back in the Houston area, he began playing with a local band made up of top-notch studio musicians — a group I would later be fortunate enough to work with myself.

At the time, I was very young and incredibly blessed that Randy took me under his wing. He didn’t just teach me about drumming; he taught me about musicianship, professionalism, and life. I followed him and that band everywhere, sitting right behind him during performances so I could soak up everything he did.

I asked question after question — probably to the point of exhaustion — but Randy was always gracious. Even during his breaks, when I know he would have rather been relaxing, he patiently answered every question from that eager kid who wouldn’t leave him alone.

Lessons from a Master Drummer

Randy Reeves taught me so much about the craft:

• How to work in the studio without stepping on the vocals

• How to truly listen to the band

• How to use dynamics to shape a song

• And of course, the legendary “Reeves Shuffle” (if you know, you know)

Outside of music, we bonded over Astros baseball. We’d go to games, hang out, and talk about life in general. Randy had a quick wit, a big heart, and a great sense of humor.

The Astros Game Story

One of my favorite memories happened during an Astros game at the Astrodome. At the time, Kroger grocery stores in Houston had the slogan “Let’s go Krogering!” — and Astros’ closer Dave Smith was the face of the campaign. His face and voice were everywhere, from billboards to TV commercials.

During a close game, we were seated right next to the bullpen. As the tension built in the late innings, Dave Smith got up to warm up right in front of us. When the crowd quieted for a moment, Randy seized the opportunity.

He yelled out, “Hey Dave… let’s go Krogering!”

The entire section erupted in laughter — even Dave Smith himself cracked up. It was pure Randy: quick, funny, and perfectly timed.

A Lasting Impact

We shared countless fun times until Randy moved away to work with David Lynn Jones. Later, when he returned to Houston, we picked up right where we left off — until I eventually moved away.

I miss our conversations, the music, and those everyday moments that now mean so much. Randy Reeves was more than a mentor; he was a true friend whose generosity, humor, and talent left an everlasting mark on my life.

Rest easy, Reeves. You are missed — always.

Take Care and keep groovin'!

J. P. Morrison
jp@jpmorrisondrums.com

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