Born in Hibbing, Minnesota, on September 8, 1953, Jeff moved to California in 1963 and grew up in Granada Hills, where he started playing drums at age 11 in 1964.

He joined an original band, Methuselah, playing local clubs for 8 years. He then joined an R&B band with Bobby King and Terry Evans and toured the U.S. for approximately three years.

Working with various country bands, Jeff then joined The Geary Hanley Band in backing up such noted artists as Eddie Raven, Sylvia, Rebeca Lynn, Johnny Russell, Johnny Tilotson, and Billy Armstrong.

In 1983 he became a member of John Schneider's band, where he remained for three years. During that time he performed at the first two Farm-Aid concerts and performed on such programs as the Nashville Network's New Country, The Wheeling, and West Virginia Jamborree & Radio Show. With Schneider he opened for such artists as Conway Twitty, Alabama, The Judds, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash. On June 14, 1985, he performed with Willie Nelson before a crowd of 80,000 people at the June Jam in Alabama's home town, Fort Payne, Alabama.

He has continued working various clubs, civic and private events and has additionally worked with various up-and-coming artists such as Rangewar, The Horns, Rick Tucker, Rocky Burnette and Keith Barber in showcases and studios.

Jeffs hard work and experience has garnered him endorsements with Gretsch Drums and Sabian Cymbals.

His music education includes two years of study at Pierce College; one and a half years with the L.A.C.C. Percussion Ensemble; and two and a half years of private instruction from Freddie Gruber.