Gullah Collective is a 9 piece band founded by drummer, percussionist, and producer Calvin “CL” Baxter II with a mission to preserve and promote the sounds of the Gullah Geechee culture. Rooted in the rich musical traditions of the Lowcountry, the group blends jazz, roots, R&B, and gospel while honoring the deep West African rhythms and storytelling that define Gullah music.

Inspired by his time touring as a fill in drummer with 2x Grammy Award winners Ranky Tanky, Baxter envisioned the collective as a platform to elevate Gullah Geechee music on the global stage. The ensemble is made up of accomplished musicians who have performed with Grammy Award winning and nationally recognized artists such as A$AP Ferg and Maverick City Music, as well as gospel artist Kelontae Gavin. Members have toured internationally, maintain weekly residencies at prominent Charleston venues, and include leadership such as the Director of Charleston Jazz Academy, bringing both global experience and deep local roots to the stage.

Gullah Collective over the past year has be afforded the opportunity to host Masterclasses at Coastal Carolina University, featured at Food and Wine opening event, sold out Dock Street Theater during Piccolo Spoleto and debut at Suwannee Amp Jam #2 in Live Oak, FL. They are excited to be joining a great roster of artist on Darius Rucker's Riverfront Revival in October 2026 and debuting at Boomtown Festival in Asheville, NC in September 2026. 

Featuring drums, hybrid drums, traditional Gullah drums, organ, keys, bass, guitar, trumpet, and trombone, Gullah Collective embodies the soul and spirit of the Sea Islands, bridging heritage and innovation to share the powerful and resilient sound of the Lowcountry with audiences worldwide.