In New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz and the city of family music traditions, Gerald French hails from one of the pioneering families of Traditional Jazz. French is known as "The Giant," not just for his imposing presence on the band stand, but also for his original style of drumming that has him traveling the world and playing all types of music.

For more than 15 years, French has been the drummer for Charmaine Neville. He also holds the drum seat for the internationally known group The Dixie Cups. In addition, French has traveled and performed with Harry Connick, Jr’s Big Band, Leroy Jones, Dr. John, Dr. Michael White, Lillian Boutté, Jeremy Davenport, Big Chief Bo Dollis, the Wild Magnolias, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and others.

Importantly and as a source of immense personal pride, since December 2011, Gerald has been leader of the oldest continuously performing jazz band, The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band. The band traces its roots to 1910 when jazz was gathering steam in the byways of New Orleans. French is the fifth leader in the band’s history. He also works with The Joe Ashlar Organ Trio, Fritzel’s Jazz Band, and his own original bands Abstract and Déjà Vu. In addition to his drumming skills, French is an accomplished vocalist and sings lead in all of his own bands. French is an endorser of Sabian Cymbals and Taye Drums.