Jon Batiste

Jon Batiste, born November 11, 1986, is a celebrated American musician, bandleader, and television personality. His extensive career has seen him collaborate with a diverse array of musical legends, including Stevie Wonder, Prince, Willie Nelson, Lenny Kravitz, Ed Sheeran, and Mavis Staples. Since 2005, Batiste has consistently released recordings and performed in over 40 countries. He is widely recognized for his role as bandleader and musical director on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," where he performs nightly with his band, Stay Human. Beyond his television work, Batiste holds significant positions as the Music Director of The Atlantic and the Creative Director of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem.

Born in Kenner, Louisiana, Jon Batiste hails from a distinguished musical lineage, with relatives like Lionel Batiste and Harold Battiste. His musical journey began at the age of 8, playing percussion and drums with his family's ensemble, the Batiste Brothers Band. At 11, he transitioned to the piano, guided by his mother. Batiste honed his piano skills through classical training and by transcribing music from video games such as "Street Fighter Alpha," "Final Fantasy VII," and "Sonic the Hedgehog."