Tony “Toca” Carpenter is an award-winning percussionist from Chicago, celebrated for his extraordinary skill and versatility. His musical journey began in the 1970s, when he mastered traditional West African rhythms such as the rumba and 6/8 patterns before expanding to mambos, quaquaco, sambas, and other complex rhythms. Early in his career, he honed his craft with renowned African dance troupes Julian Swain's Inner-City Dancers and the Najwa Dance Troupe, developing expertise in ethnic rhythms.

Since then, he has collaborated with Conga legends including Mongo Santamaria, Armando Peraza, and Giovanni Hidalgo, and performed and recorded with Jerry Butler, Ramsey Lewis, Pharaoh Sanders, Maurice White, Angela Bofill, and the late Bernie Mac, among others. His career includes performances with The Emotions, Soul Children of Chicago, Donald Lawrence, Sounds of Blackness, Judy Roberts, and Ramsey Lewis, and his work has been featured in commercials and jingles and on popular programs like the Tom Joyner Morning Show and Oprah Winfrey's Get with the Program. 

Carpenter’s innovative approach and vast collection of percussion instruments bring unparalleled depth and creativity to every one of his musical endeavors. Creator of the unique “Cultural Jazz” genre, he blends R&B, gospel, and jazz to craft a signature sound, brought to life by his world-class ensemble, TocaLive!