Keio Stroud, drummer and session musician, is based in Nashville and has built a diverse career playing live and in the studio with a wide range of country, rock, blues, and Americana artists. Born in 1980 into a musical family in Athens, Georgia, he moved to Nashville in 2000 and soon became an in‑demand drummer for recording sessions, touring, and television performances.
Stroud is perhaps best known for his work touring and performing with Big & Rich, where his versatile, groove‑oriented playing supports the band’s high‑energy shows and varied set lists. In addition to Big & Rich, he has played live or in session with artists including Rodney Crowell, Jake Owen, Deana Carter, Little Big Town, Emmylou Harris, Keith Urban, Hank Williams Jr., Sarah Buxton, Cody Johnson, Frankie Ballard, and Keb’ Mo’, among many others.
In the studio, Stroud’s credits span multiple styles; he appears on recordings such as Blues Americana and TajMo with Keb’ Mo’ and Taj Mahal and has contributed to tracks for Mike Farris, Beth Nielsen Chapman, and other notable artists, reflecting a strong and adaptable musical presence in contemporary American recording.
Stroud’s reputation as a reliable and musical drummer also extends to television and live event work, with appearances on shows and large‑scale music programs that showcase his ability to perform under varied performance conditions. As of 2025 he continues to be active in Nashville’s session scene while maintaining a busy touring schedule with Big & Rich and other artists who call on his seasoned musicianship.
Gear:
DW Drums, Sabian cymbals, Vater drumsticks, and Remo drumheads.
Sources: Innovative Percussion artist page, Drummer Photographer profile, SoundBetter session listing, Dome Headwear Co. feature
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Update 1/19/26