Jesse Boyd is one of the busiest players with one of the most impressive resumes on the New Orleans music scene. His flawless technique, flowing lines and great sensitivity combine to deliver raw and dynamic live performances. He is also a very much in-demand studio bassist. His incredible skills for improvisation had their roots in Church, where his father was a minister. At the age of 12 years, Jesse recorded his first album with his family. The same year he also recorded several other gospel albums. At age 18, he moved to Los Angeles, where he discovered the possibilities of rock and played with many touring bands. Back in New Orleans , he went back to a more acoustic sound and started to play upright bass again. Not only did he return to play Jazz, but also classical music. During his time as an undergraduate in Loyola University New Orleans he studied with Betsy Heston. He studied with Bill Huntington and Ellis Marsalis at University of New Orleans , where he obtained a Master degree in Jazz Studies.
Currently he is a professor at Loyola University New Orleans, both in the Jazz and Music Industry departments .He performs regularly with Charmaine Neville, Ingrid Lucia, Leah Chase, Bob French, Michael Pellera, Al Belletto, Ellis Marsalis, Topsy Chapman, and Larry Sieberth to name just a few. He also spent several years performing as a member of Jeremy Davenport’s band.
Jesse Boyd has also kept busy as an in-demand studio bassist. Recent recordings include two complete albums with Ingrid Lucia. The first was only Ingrid and John Fohl (Dr. John’s guitarist) and Jesse on bass. The latter was a live recording with Ingrid’s full band ("Don't Stop", CD that has just been released). Another forthcoming CD is with pianist Michael Pellera and a brilliant young drummer named Joe Dyson. Jesse will also start recording a CD of only original compositions in August under his own label Contrabass Music .
Jesse playing with Ingrid Lucia at DBA:
Playing with Ellis Marsalis, Troy Davis and Roman Skakun at Dixon Hall, Tulane University 01/11/07:
Check out this video of Jesse playing "Manhã de Carnaval" with Steve Blailock and Devon Scott:
Jesse Boyd Trio can be booked through A to Z Artists Management. Submit your information to [email protected] to receive an electronic press kit and high resolution images. To contact Jesse Boyd: [email protected]. Check out www.jesseboydmusic.com.