Robert L. Boyce[1] (August 15, 1955 – November 9, 2023) was an American blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist born and raised in Como, Mississippi.[2]
Boyce began his career in the early 1960s playing drums for his uncle, the fife and drum performer Othar Turner.[4] Later he was the drummer for Jessie Mae Hemphill and is heard on her 1990 album, Feelin' Good.
His second album release, Roll and Tumble, was released on September 8, 2017, on Waxploitation Records. The album included the father and son double drumming team of Cedric Burnside (R. L. Burnside's grandson and drummer) and Calvin Jackson. The album was produced by Luther Dickinson and David Katznelson.[6] It was nominated for a 2018 Grammy Award in the Best Traditional Blues Album category.[7]
The cover of Roll and Tumble is a portrait of R. L. Boyce, painted by the contemporary artist James Jean.[8]
Boyce died in Como, Mississippi, on November 9, 2023, at the age of 68, following a diagnosis of lung cancer.[10] His death was announced in a press release by the National Endowment of the Arts on November 14.[11]
Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues: A Musical Journey (2003) featured the song "Shortnin'" / "Henduck Traditional" by Otha Turner which included Boyce on bass and snare drums.[12]
M for Mississippi (2008) included an interview with Boyce[13]
Moonshine & Mojo Hands (2014) included an interview with Boyce[14]
I Am The Blues (2015) included a performance by Boyce[15]
