Darrell Jumper 

Darrell “Tutu” Jumper was a first-call drummer, soulful vocalist, teacher, and mentor whose career spanned more than four decades. Beginning as a high-school musician with Columbus soul group The Four Mints, he became a trusted rhythmic foundation for many of Central Ohio’s best-known blues acts.

Jumper performed with Ray Fuller and the Bluesrockers, Willie Pooch, Teeny Tucker, Dave Workman, Patrick McLaughlin, Shaun Booker, Hot Rod and the Blues Devilles, The Columbus Jets, and many others. His work carried him throughout the United States and Canada and to European stages, and he represented the Columbus Blues Alliance at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis on multiple occasions. Just as important as his touring and recording was his influence on younger players. Through years of drum instruction and informal mentorship, he helped aspiring musicians find confidence, discipline, and joy in the music. Jumper’s musicianship, warmth, and unmistakable groove made him an essential part of Columbus blues history.