Sturgis began drumming at the age of ten and from 1982 to 1986 attended the University of Miami, where he received a degree in studio music and jazz.

From 1986 to 1987, he toured with Norwegian band A-ha and played on "The Swing of Things", "I've Been Losing You" and "Soft Rains of April" from the album Scoundrel Days.

During that time he was asked by Phenomena co-producer Wilfried Rimensberger to join the superstar rock project, where he played drums on the Phenomena II: Dream Runner album and got to know Scott Gorham and John Wetton, who both participated in that recording.

He has performed live or recorded with such major pop, rock and jazz names as David Bowie, Elton John, A-ha, Asia, Jack Bruce, Steve Winwood, Tom Jones, Wishbone Ash, Bob James, Randy Brecker and Bob Mintzer.

Sturgis was head of drums at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford for 13 years.