Chris “Whipper” Layton helped define the sound of modern Texas blues drumming — powerful, swinging, and always locked into the groove. Coming out of the Austin music scene, he became one of the most respected pocket drummers in American roots music.
Layton rose to international recognition as the drummer for Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble, joining the band in 1978 and holding the drum chair through Vaughan’s career until 1990. His playing became a signature part of the Double Trouble identity: big Texas shuffles, heavy backbeat authority, and a natural swing that made the band sound larger than life.
Also known for post-SRV projects, Layton helped form and record with Storyville (including A Piece of Your Soul) and later formed Grady with Gordie Johnson in the early 2000s.
What he’s doing now: Layton remains active as a touring drummer. Current activity includes announced early-2026 dates with Billy F Gibbons’ BFG Band alongside Mike Flanigin, putting him back on major stages in a high-profile Texas-rooted blues/rock setting.
Recordings / credits: His core recorded legacy centers on the Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble catalog, along with Arc Angels’ early-1990s recordings and later work tied to Storyville and Grady.
Gear: Ludwig Drums.
Sources: SRV Archive; Discogs; The Kessler; Pollstar; Ludwig Drums; Experience Hendrix Tour.
Update: 1/22/26