TEZ SHERARD

Born to Bernard and Frances Sherard on January 18, 1982, Markeya C. Sherard was destined for musical greatness. Known as “Big Tez,” this South Carolina native has built an extraordinary career as a percussionist, bassist, vocalist, and music manager, starting his journey with Southern gospel at the age of five. His roots deepened during an eight-year tenure with the regional favorites Still Cruzin, which paved the way for a 19-year tenure (and counting) as the drummer for platinum artist Edwin McCain.

Throughout his impressive, nearly two-decade run with The Edwin McCain Band, Tez has shared stages or collaborated with a staggering array of talent, including Flat Front Tire, Gypsy Soul, Groove Planet, Chocolate Thunder, Rickey Godfrey, Wanda Johnson, Jamie Wright, Paula Harris, Loretta Holloway, Combo Kings, Carolina Coast Band, Dr. Mac Arnold & Plate Full of Blues, J. Rozelle, Max Hightower, Mac McCloud, Brandon Stevens, Craig Sorrells Project (CSP), Nathan Angelo, The Jake Bartley Band, J-E-T, Zataban, The Eric Weiler Band, Michael Blythe Conspiracy, The Crystals, The Drifters, Darius Rucker, Steve Watson, Solution Band, and The Professors of Soul.

Beyond the stage, Tez is a dedicated educator and entrepreneur, founder and operator of the Big Tez House of Drums in Greenville, SC, where he mentors the next generation of musicians. He is also the co-founder of S&W Music, a music and entertainment company created to bridge the gap between talented musicians and venues seeking quality live entertainment. Through S&W Music, Tez has helped build a network of more than 50 bands and more than 25 vocalists, soloists, and performing duos, creating new opportunities for artists while helping venues connect with the right talent.

His vision for S&W Music extends beyond booking, with plans to support artist development, music recording and distribution, promotion, and eventually artist management. Through this work, Tez continues to use his experience and industry relationships to help musicians recognize their value, grow their brands, and find meaningful ways to turn their talent into opportunity.

His incredible contributions were officially recognized with his 2026 induction into the South Carolina Music Hall of Fame. Currently serving on the board of Greenville Music Preservation, Tez continues to influence the industry locally and globally, driven by a lifelong musical journey that only continues to gain momentum.