[1] Stevens was born on 8 January 1982 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and studied piano and guitar at a young age.

Since graduating from Berklee College of Music in 2004, Stevens has established himself in the contemporary jazz scene performing and recording with numerous artists including Christian Scott,[2] Terri Lyne Carrington,[3] and Esperanza Spalding.

[4] Regarded to be one of the "most exciting up-and-coming jazz guitarists" in his generation, Stevens was placed in the Rising Star Guitar Category of the 63rd Annual DownBeat Critics Poll.

[10] His debut album as a leader, Woodwork, received stellar reviews from critics including Down Beat,[11] All About Jazz,[12] and the Ottawa Citizen.

[13] LA Weekly describes the album as "an amalgamation of modern jazz and neo-fusion elements which showcase ... sonic versatility and savvy producing chops".