In Memoriam: Bradley Simmons (November 14, 1951 – May 22, 2025)

Bradley Simmons, director of the Duke Djembe and Afro-Cuban Ensembles, passed away on May 22, 2025. Since 1998, Simmons taught West African and Afro-Cuban music at Duke, using instructional methods steeped in a rich oral tradition passed down through generations of musicians.  

“We are deeply saddened,” said Verena Mösenbichler-Bryant, chair of the department of Music. “Bradley’s extraordinary passion, rhythmic brilliance and generous spirit left an indelible mark on generations of students and on our department. We are profoundly grateful for the artistry he shared with our community and for his enduring legacy.” 

In addition to his work in the Music department, Simmons was also a beloved collaborator in the Duke Dance Program, providing music and mentorship to colleagues and students. 

“Bradley Simmons’ profound expertise in West African and Afro-Cuban drumming traditions deeply enriched the intellectual and creative fabric of the Duke Dance Program,” said Ava LaVonne Vinesett, professor of the practice of Dance. “A generous and perceptive educator, Bradley brought his lived experiences into every classroom, studio and performance space. His passion for learning and his reverence for the cultural roots of music and dance fostered vibrant collaborations among students, professional artists, emerging voices and the broader community.” 

A native of New York City, Simmons began playing Afro-Cuban and African percussion when he was 9 years old. Growing up in the city, he was able to seek out percussion teachers from Haiti, Cuba and Africa. He soon became a consistent and sought-after conguero and shekere player, often performing at community and religious events including weekend-long bembés and weddings. 

In his long performing career, Simmons participated in on- and off-Broadway productions, including “Timbuktu” with Eartha Kitt and Melba Moore, Billy Wilson's version of “Guys and Dolls” starring Robert Guillaume, and “Reggae” with Calvin Lockhart and Philip Michael Thomas. He also performed in clubs with Eartha Kitt, Gregory and Maurice Hines, Miles Jaye and Oba Babatunde. He recorded and played with The Fatback Band and with drummer Norman Connors. In 1990, Simmons directed his own production, "Cultural Journey: The Elements of Percussion," at the National Black Arts Festival in Atlanta, GA. He revived the production in 1996 here in Durham, NC. 

For many years, Simmons was the music director of Chuck Davis’s African American Dance Ensemble and taught throughout the United States, including at the Larocque Bey School of Dance and the Gloria Jackson School of Dance in New York City. In 1997, he founded “The Elements of Percussion,” an Afro-Cuban and Djembe/Djunjun ensemble based in Durham, NC, which toured locally and nationally. 

In addition to serving on the faculty in the Duke University Department of Music, Simmons taught percussion classes and drum clinics at the Berklee School of Music, Texas Southern University, Wichita State University and North Carolina State University. 

“Bradley Simmons was a brilliant percussionist, a dedicated educator, and above all, a cherished friend,” said Vice Provost for the Arts John V. Brown, director of the Jazz Program and professor of the practice of Music. “His warmth and generosity touched everyone who was privileged to know him, and his music was a reflection of his deep passion and joyous spirit. He uplifted his students and colleagues with his kindness and wisdom, and he was always eager to share his love for rhythm and life. His absence leaves an indescribable void, but his legacy as a musician and as a remarkable human being will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. Brad was a gentle giant who left an indelible mark on everyone he met, and he will be sorely missed.” 

All are welcome to attend a celebration honoring Bradley Simmons’ life and music on June 14 at 2:00 PM at the Hayti Heritage Center (804 Old Fayetteville St, Durham).