Stephen Colbert Names Late Show Bandleader

This September Stephen Colbert begins his term as host of CBS’s Late Show. Today, Colbert has announced the band leader for his show -New Orleans musician Jon Batiste. Batiste and whomever he names to his band has big shoes to fill after Paul Shaffer and the CBS Orchestra’s long and storied run as former host David Letterman’s house band.

“His music makes the audience feel so good, we may have to install a ‘Do Not Make Love’ sign,” said Colbert. “I’m thrilled! This is a match made in heaven. Get ready for a love riot in late night,” added Batiste. Jon Batiste is best known for his work around the world with his band, Stay Human, and has collaborated with acclaimed musicians, including Prince, Wynton Marsalis and Lenny Kravitz. Batiste hails from a long line of celebrated musicians. He grew up playing percussion and then piano in his family’s band before studying at the Juilliard School, where he received his undergraduate and master’s degrees.

Here’s a video showing Jon Batiste & Stay Human’s stellar 2014 performance on Colbert Report:

The Colbert Report
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes, The Colbert Report on Facebook,Video Archive

Enjoy this promo video in which Stephen introduces the bandleader:

Watch a video Colbert shared yesterday about his preparations for the show: