"My son Wesley has just turned 13. He was 12 during the recording of this record and he is quite a drummer already and has been studying drums since he was four, but he's also very interested in African percussion and studies percussion"

Lee Ritenour’s words provide a glimpse into the musical journey of his son Wesley, marking a proud parental milestone as Wesley transitions from childhood into his teenage years. He shares that Wesley has just celebrated his thirteenth birthday, interestingly noting that during the making of the referenced album, Wesley was only twelve. This temporal detail suggests not only the swift passage of time in a young person’s life, but also underscores Wesley’s precociousness as a musician, having contributed to the recording process at such a young age.

Wesley’s enthusiasm and natural talent for drumming emerge clearly. Ritenour points out that Wesley is “quite a drummer already,” a description that carries the weight of both admiration and a little astonishment, considering Wesley’s age. The phrase hints at Wesley’s ability and skill level being well beyond what might be expected of someone so young, suggesting dedication and perhaps a touch of innate musicality. The mention of Wesley having studied drums “since he was four” further solidifies this image of an exceptional young musician. Eight or nine years of training in childhood reflects deep commitment, both on Wesley’s part and, likely, on his family’s as facilitators of his education.

Yet, what deepens Wesley’s musical journey is his curiosity beyond the standard drum kit, the reference to West African percussion signals Wesley’s openness to broader traditions and rhythms. Rather than restricting himself to Western drumming techniques or genres, Wesley already seeks to understand and absorb global musical styles. This indicates a maturity in his approach to music, suggesting he sees music not merely as technical skill or performance, but as a vast, interconnected world worth exploring. By noting his son’s interest in African percussion specifically, Ritenour highlights a cultural appreciation and artistic curiosity, laying the groundwork for a musician who values diversity in influence. Wesley’s journey, as described by his father, is both an achievement and an ongoing evolution, promising creative expansion in the years to come.