During his time at Liberty, Clayton didn’t just play in the Grenadier Band — he led it as Band Sergeant Major his senior year. In addition to playing in the band, Clayton sang in choir, small voice ensembles and was a regular participant of the Liberty theater program.
After graduation, Clayton continued to pursue his passions at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Music in 2006 and his Master’s degree in Music Education in 2021.
Clayton’s professional journal is quite extensive. He spent seven years touring the globe as the trumpet player in John Legend’s band, performing at Madison Square Garden, the Super Bowl, and at President Barack Obama’s Inaugural Ball. In 2010, he signed a publishing deal with John Legend, and by 2012, he teamed up with Ne-Yo to co-produce three songs on Ne-Yo’s R.E.D. album.
Throughout his career, Clayton has worked with some of the biggest names in music — Stevie Wonder, Patti LaBelle, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, Kanye West, Miguel, TLC, Ledisi, and John Legend. Clayton earned recognition as a 3-time Grammy-nominated, Double Platinum-certified music producer and songwriter, and winner of a Soul Train Award.
Today, Clayton continues to perform both locally and internationally. He’s a consultant, mentor, and private instructor, teaching students throughout the Lehigh Valley and abroad. And right here at home, he proudly serves as the Instrumental Music Director for Spring Garden and Hanover Elementary Schools, inspiring the next generation of young musicians to dream big, work hard, and use music as a bridge to something greater.
