Emanuel J Burton

Emanuel J Burton, former BIMM Manchester student, is making waves in the music industry as a drummer, musical director, creative entrepreneur, bandleader, and songwriter. 

Emanuel specialises in blending spoken word and storytelling with drumming, and he’s showcased his skills in performances for Sports Relief, BBC 6 Music, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Manchester Jazz Festival, and Manchester International Festival, as well as in a headline slot at Band on the Wall.  

He has toured and collaborated with the likes of Little Simz, Steve McQueen CBE, FKJ, Guetts, Tom Misch, SAULT, Children of Zeus, and Yazmin Lacey. In his solo career, he has supported The Midnight Hour, Steam Down, 30/70 Collective, and KOKOROKO. 

While studying Professional Musicianship, Emanuel teamed up with world-class musicians to run masterclasses, private clinics, and jam sessions. Guests included Brian Frasier-Moore (Justin Timberlake’s drummer), Rico Nichols (Kendricks Lamar’s drummer) and Adrian Bent (Drake’s drummer), George ’Spanky’ McCurdy (drummer for Ms. Lauryn Hill), and Sharay Reed (Bassist for Chaka Khan and Aretha Franklin). 

As Little Simz’ drummer, Emanuel performed alongside her on her world tour, as well as in various TV appearances such as Fallon Tonight, The BRIT Awards, and Later… With Jools Holland. Additionally, he joined her onstage for her fantastic headline set on Glastonbury’s West Holts Stage in 2022.  

Emanuel’s music career is going from strength to strength, but he is also known for his charity work. In 2022, he started The Abundance Foundation, a non-profit organisation that aims to help young people build careers in the creative industries. The company facilitates panels in schools and universities across the UK, providing guidance and resources for aspiring creatives.  

He’s got so many strings to his bow, and we’re eager to see what his next project will be.