Arthur Thompson is more than a drummer — he’s a visionary whose rhythm moves more than music. A Tulsa native now based in Nashville, Arthur has built an extraordinary career that spans continents, classrooms, and concert halls. For over 40 years, he’s been a drummer, percussionist, vocalist, songwriter, producer, author, educator, and humanitarian — an artist with purpose. His brand “Arthurized” is a true representation of his works.

Arthur’s signature groove and magnetic energy have made him a standout performer around the world. His albums — Kwanzaa, Message from the King, Worship, and Drums Speak — reflect a sound that fuses jazz, soul, and storytelling with spiritual depth. His upcoming project, Keep on Dreaming: Arthurized Volume 1, continues that legacy of positivity and empowerment. In 2023, Arthur was named Smooth Jazz Network’s Breakout Artist of the Year, a testament to his artistry and impact.

But Arthur’s mission extends far beyond the stage. As a lifelong educator and band director, he has pioneered music programs from the ground up — creating marching bands and jazz bands at elementary and middle schools that had never before offered music education. His innovative Math & Music© curriculum teaches rhythm through numbers, blending creativity with core academics to inspire students worldwide.

At the heart of Arthur’s humanitarian work is his 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Build a Life, Save a Life©, a movement that unites music, compassion, and education to reach children in need across the globe. Deeply moved by the struggles faced by at-risk youth and the decline of arts education, Arthur travels wherever the need exists — bringing instruments, lessons, and joy to students from Oklahoma to Uganda and beyond. Through his foundation, he has provided summer camps and school programs for children with incarcerated parents, supported classrooms with musical resources, and worked directly with young people to ignite creativity and confidence through rhythm.

Each year, Arthur joins medical missions to Uganda, teaching his Math & Music© curriculum to children while their communities receive care, and his foundation donates books and educational materials to local schools. Build a Life, Save a Life© reflects Arthur’s belief that music is more than performance — it’s a pathway to healing, hope, and human connection.

As an author, Arthur’s creative voice shines through his works like Fables, a collection of African-inspired moral tales; Professor Brown, a globe-trotting children’s series; and his latest novel Lion in the Mason Jar, which follows a family from Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District to South Africa. Each story reflects his belief in the power of family heritage, imagination, and resilience.

Arthur’s advocacy continues through his two major causes: “We Can BEAT Cancer”, raising breast cancer awareness through music and community action, and “It’s OK to Not Be OK”, a movement for mental health awareness inspired by his own personal battles and his desire to encourage others going through challenges to seek the help they need. 

Arthur Thompson is more than a musician. He’s a force. An artist with heart. A rhythm-maker with a mission. And he’s just getting started.

Learn more at www.arthurthompsondrums.com