Chester Thompson is a renowned drummer and percussionist, highly regarded for his ability to move seamlessly between genres. 

Born and raised in Baltimore, Chester started playing at local night clubs at 13.

Thompson is known best for his work with Genesis and Phil Collins, with whom he shared the stage and studio with for over 30 years worldwide. Other noteable legends Chester has worked with on stage/studio include artists such as Frank Zappa, Weather Report, John Fogerty, Santana, Michael McDonald, Freddie Hubbard, Ahmad Jamal, Kirk Whalum, Taj Mahal & Keb' Mo', and most recently he had the honor of recording on the 2018 Grammy Award winning CD called "TajMo."

In 2015, The Chester Thompson Trio released their second album, "Simpler Times", which rose to #4 on the JazzWeek Charts. Their first CD, "Approved" (2013), made a memorable first impression rising to #6 on the JazzWeek Charts. It exemplifies Thompson's create direction as bandleader nd prompted a successful European tour. The trio formed after being hired as the rhythm section for the International Trombone Festival.

Most recently he has recorded a new album, "Steppin", at Sweetwater Music as part of their Recording Workshop Series. It was released on May 1st, 2019. The album features Alphonso Johnson on bass, Joe Davidian on piano and keyboards, Rod McGaha on trumpet and flugelhorn and Tony Carpenter on percussion. He is currently finishing an album, "Seven Chambers", with Australian Prog Rock group, Unitopia.

Chester was also an adjunct professer at Belmont University from 1998-2018, teaching drumset.

He is a well regarded clinician and can be found teaching classes at the Nashville Jazz Workshop. Thompson was honored in 2008 with the Sabian Lifetime Achievement Award at the 32nd Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC).  This award recognizes the contributions of the most highly regarded leaders in percussion education. 

Chester Thompson currently endorses DW Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, and Innovative Percussion Drumsticks.