Drummer/Composer/Producer Stockton Helbing has had a very busy last few years. Immediately after completing his undergraduate degree from the University of North Texas in 2003, Helbing was hired by his longtime hero, jazz trumpet legend Maynard Ferguson.
Helbing spent almost four years touring around the world with his friend and mentor until Ferguson's sudden passing in August 2006. In addition to holding the drum chair, Helbing served as Music Director as well as Producer for Ferguson's final Grammy nominated studio album, The One and Only, which was recorded only four weeks before the icon's death.
In September 2006, Helbing was music director and drummer for the Maynard Ferguson Tribute concert in St. Louis, MO. The star-studded event featured a big band comprised of some of the best musicians in the business paying tribute to Ferguson's entire musical history. The event (which also featured Helbing conducting the band) was released on DVD in 2007.
In the aftermath of losing his friend and hero, Helbing focused on his own album project, For Nothing is Secret (Armored Records). The all original music album features Helbing's drumming, producing, composing, and arranging skills. In reviewing the album, AllAboutJazz.com commented "When the grade is entered, it's no Secret that Helbing has passed this latest test with room to spare and continues to show promise as a drummer and leader."
For Nothing is Secret is the follow up to Helbing's 2005 release Lodestar (NohJoh Music) which was selected by Maynard Ferguson to be a part of his MF Presents series, a selection that made Helbing both the only drummer and the youngest musician ever to hold such honors.
Stockton maintains a full schedule of performing, composing, teaching, producing, and recording. In addition to his own groups, Stockton performs and records with trumpeter Ken Edwards, saxophonist Chip McNeill, trombonist Steve Wiest, and saxophonist Tyler Summers among others. Stockton also owns and operates his own record label, Armored Records, which focuses on all original jazz releases.
Stockton lives in Dallas, TX, with his wife Denise and their turtle Aquarius.
