Curtis "Papa Bear" Hatcher

Curtis James Hatcher was born in 1929 in the small town of Parksdale outside Little Rock, Arkansas. Around 1932 his mother relocated the family to Chicago to be closer to her kin. Curtis began playing guitar, enriched by the musicality of Chicago's fertile crossroads, and soon thereafter, gravitated to the drums.

By age 16, Curtis had become the house drummer at one of Chicago's most famous Clubs - The Blue Note. It was here that his playing truly ascended, drumming behind some of the greatest talent the world has ever known: Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Charlie Parker, Lester Young, Dexter Gordon, Etta James, Miles Davis, and Dizzy Gillespie, to name a few.

Curtis's outstanding talent and professionalism also caught the attention of both Count Basie and Lionel Hampton; from 1954 1960 he toured with both their big bands, entertaining folks all over the world.

Curtis's 6'4" stature earned him the nickname "Papa Bear". He settled in Fresno in the early 60's, to be close to his mom. "Papa Bear & Friends" was born and became very popular, playing jazz, ballads, and the new sounds of Motown. By the 1970's "Papa Bear & Company" was the next generation, delivering outstanding R &B, Funk, Soul in addition, and performing all over the Central Valley thus securing a unique & genuine spot in our local musical history.

"Papa Bear" is undoubtedly one of Fresno's most precious musical treasures, still performing and teaching drums at age 84. He has helped countless musicians spread their wings and reach heights they had only imagined, and has given freely of his talent when asked for assistance.

"Papa Bear" & "Mama Bear," his lovely and supportive wife Velma, have been married for 33 years, spreading love, joy, & happiness as they move through the rhythms of life.