Calvin L. Baxter II, professionally known as CL, is a Grammy Award-winning drummer, producer, audio engineer, songwriter, and musical director based in Charleston, South Carolina. A versatile and accomplished musician, CL has built a reputation for excellence both on stage and in the studio, working with some of the industry’s most respected artists across gospel, jazz, R&B, and pop.
Music has been a part of CL’s life since childhood. He was heavily influenced by his family, especially his uncle, 2x Grammy Award-winning musician and producer Quentin E. Baxter, whose mentorship helped shape his passion for performance, production, and musical excellence.
CL graduated from the Charleston County School of the Arts in 2011 before attending the Conservatory of Recording Arts & Sciences (CRAS) in Phoenix, Arizona, where he earned a degree in Audio Engineering. Since then, he has established a successful career as an audio engineer, music producer, songwriter, and touring musician.
As a producer, CL has worked with an impressive roster of artists, including Grammy- nominated saxophonist Marcus Anderson, Duranice Pace, Grammy Award-winning gospel legend Jacky Clark Chisholm, Grammy Award Winning group – Maverick City, Chandler Moore, B.Slade, and many others. Most recently, he produced the hit single “Kyrie” by Clay Aiken, further showcasing his versatility and ability to create music that resonates across genres.
In addition to his production work, CL serves as the Musical Director and drummer for Clay Aiken. The band recently completed their successful “Christmas in July” concert engagement at Harrah’s Las Vegas and is scheduled to continue touring throughout the fall.
As a highly sought-after live performer, CL also tours with the 2x Grammy Award-winning band Ranky Tanky, performing on select tour dates and continuing his association with the group as one of its featured drummers and received Grammy recognition as a songwriter on their album, Good Time.
Expanding his artistic vision even further, CL recently launched The Gullah Collective, a dynamic nine-piece band celebrating the rich musical heritage of the Gullah Geechee
culture through original music and contemporary arrangements. Since its debut, The Gullah Collective has been booked at festivals across the Southeast and has sold out two
independently produced concerts in Charleston, South Carolina.
Whether behind the drum kit, in the producer’s chair, or leading a band from the stage, Calvin L. Baxter II continues to push creative boundaries while representing Charleston’s
vibrant musical community on a national stage.
