ABOUT
Jefferey Clayton, a Cape Cod–raised musician, educator, and music director, founded PanNeubean Steel to share his deep passion for music and his Jamaican heritage. Through dynamic performances, PanNeubean Steel highlights the versatility of the steelpan across Caribbean, Afro-Caribbean, jazz, soul, fusion, contemporary, and classical styles.
Clayton’s musical journey began in the U.S. Army as a trumpet player, where he also emerged as a featured steelpan artist. He holds a BA in Sociology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, focused on equity and inclusion, and a Master’s in Music Education from the New England Conservatory. A certified Massachusetts music teacher, Clayton has spent 17 years educating students with social and emotional challenges. After overcoming childhood hearing loss, music became his voice and creative outlet, shaping his lifelong commitment to education, expression, and inclusive musical experiences.
Jefferey Clayton chose the steelpan for its rich history, cultural significance, and unique sound. Originating in Trinidad and Tobago and first crafted from discarded oil drums, the steelpan has evolved into a professional instrument and a powerful symbol of resilience, freedom, and the overcoming of social oppression.
Clayton has performed with legendary calypso, reggae, and soca artists including Shadow, The Mighty Sparrow, King Barron, Iwer George, Rupee, and Denise Belfon, among others, and has opened for renowned performers such as Stephen Marley, Bruce Hornsby, Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, and the Duke Ellington Band. As a Music Ambassador, he has toured Germany and the Netherlands and performed for U.S. presidents, major sports teams, international sporting events, and millions of fans worldwide. Most recently, PanNeubean Steel has been featured at the MGM Springfield opening gala and the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston.
PanNeubean Steel is dedicated to celebrating the steelpan’s versatility while creating “an oasis of musical moods” through engaging, high-quality performances. With an energetic, positive, and empathetic approach, the group strives to inspire audiences of all ages and serve as a model of professionalism and excellence. Collaborating with top musicians from New England, PanNeubean Steel delivers unforgettable Caribbean music experiences throughout New England, welcoming audiences into the PanNeubean Steel family.
PanNeubean Steel QUINTET
PanNeubean Steel SOLO
PanNeubean Steel DUO
This Caribbean steel drum band brings the vibrant spirit of the islands to every performance. Rooted in tradition and driven by joy, the group blends the bright, melodic sound of steel pans with infectious rhythms that instantly lift the mood and move the crowd.
Drawing from classic calypso, soca, reggae, and island-inspired favorites, the band delivers music that feels like sunshine—celebratory, soulful, and full of life. Each performance reflects years of musicianship, cultural pride, and a deep love for sharing Caribbean music with audiences of all ages.
Perfect for festivals, concerts, cultural events, private celebrations, and waterfront gatherings, the band creates an atmosphere that’s welcoming, upbeat, and unforgettable. Whether setting the tone with smooth island grooves or energizing the room with dance-ready rhythms, this steel drum ensemble turns every event into a true Caribbean experience.