Abe Laboriel Jr. (born 23 March 1971, Boston, Massachusetts, USA) is an acclaimed drummer and session musician whose dynamic style and versatility have made him a sought-after collaborator in the music industry. As the son of legendary bassist Abraham Laboriel, Abe grew up surrounded by music, beginning his drumming journey at the age of four. His mother, a classically trained singer, also influenced his early musical development.
Laboriel honed his craft under the mentorship of renowned percussionists such as Jeff Porcaro, Chester Thompson, and Alex Acuña. He attended the Dick Grove School of Music and later graduated from Berklee College of Music in 1993. His career took off when he joined Steve Vai on tour, followed by stints with Seal and k.d. lang. These opportunities showcased his talent and led to session work with prominent artists.
Abe Laboriel Jr.’s connection to Eurythmics and Annie Lennox is a notable highlight of his career. He contributed his drumming expertise to Lennox’s solo projects, including her critically acclaimed album Bare. In addition, he provided drums for SlyFi, a project led by Dave Stewart, adding his characteristic energy and precision to its tracks.
Laboriel’s creative energies have also been channelled into his power trio, The Raging Honkies, where he performs alongside Michael Landau and Teddy Landau. The group blends rock and funk with an aggressive and commanding style, showcasing Laboriel’s versatility and passion for live performance.
Beyond his work with Lennox, Stewart, and The Raging Honkies, Laboriel has collaborated with an impressive array of artists, including Scritti Politti, Michele N’dgeocello, Duran Duran, Big Mountain, Juliana Hatfield, Dianne Reeves, and Joe Sample. Since 2001, he has been a key member of Paul McCartney’s touring band, delivering powerful performances that have become a hallmark of McCartney’s live shows.
Abe Laboriel Jr.’s career is a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication. His contributions to music, from his work with Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart to his collaborations with global icons, continue to inspire and elevate the art of drumming.
