Born Richard Winfield, Smoke was raised in Philadelphia. He graduated high school as Captain of the drum line lettered in music.  Additionally, Smoke was a Who’s Who Amongst American High School Students as well as the recipient of the National Band Association’s Distinguished Musician’s Certificate for dedication and musical excellence as a performing High School Bandsman and Soloist.

After High School, Smoke attended a local college becoming the Manager of it’s radio station: WDCR 640 AM.  Concurrently, he was a member of both the Widner College Pit Orchestra supporting musical productions as well performing with the local rock band Zephyr.

From 1977 to 1998, Smoke traveled he world on active duty with the U.S. Army.  Milestones during this time include performing as featured artist with both the Ft Dix and Ft Meade U.S. Army Bands.  Smoke also performed and recorded as guest artist with Exile, a Philadelphia New Age band.

In 1997, Smoke returned from overseas assignment, one year out from retirement.  Within 3 weeks, Smoke was hired to play drums and has been playing since. 

Active in the Northwest Blues Scene, Smoke has performed with numerous noted Seattle blues artists.  He has both performed as a member The Steamers as well as doing casuals, subbing, and working throughout the South Sound area.  These include Washington Blues Societies Entertainers of the Year Randy Oxford, Nicole Fornier, and Jude Bowerman.  Smoke routinely subbed for: The Blues Torpedoes, The Brian Feist Band, and The Chebon Tiger Band.

Smoke is currently performing as a founding member of the Blues Attitude.  For the past five consecutive years this band has hosted a weekly blues jam in the Olympia, WA area.  He also hosts his own Smoke N Blues ALLSTAR Jam on Thursday night at The Junction Sport Bar on Old Hwy 99 in Grand Mound, WA.  Smoke routinely visits musical venues along the I-5 corridor both performing and as the South Sound Area Representative for the Washington Blue’s Society.

Smoke endorses Saluda Cymbals and Iron City Drumworks.  Saluda is the only custom cymbal company in America.  Iron City Drumworks  produces the finest quality hardwood hoops and Smoke’s Hoopknocker.  Smoke’s Hoopknocker is a hand crafted accessory that produces the sweetest cross stick in town.