Jon Batiste

Jon Batiste is an acclaimed American musician, composer, and bandleader, celebrated for his dynamic fusion of jazz, soul, pop, and R&B. Born on November 11, 1986, in Metairie, Louisiana, Batiste hails from the renowned Batiste musical family of New Orleans. He honed his craft at the Juilliard School in New York City, later becoming the bandleader and musical director for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert from 2015 to 2022 .

In 2020, Batiste co-composed the score for Disney-Pixar's animated film Soul, earning him an Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Critics' Choice Award—making him the second Black composer in history to win an Oscar for composition . His 2021 album We Are garnered five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and was praised for its vibrant blend of genres and poignant social commentary .

Beyond his musical achievements, Batiste is known for his philosophy of "Stay Human," emphasizing the importance of genuine human connection and the unifying power of music. He has stated, “Music is a tool that brings people together” , and “You can’t hate the person next to you when you’re laughing and dancing together” . In 2025, he performed the national anthem at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, showcasing his deep-rooted connection to his hometown and its musical heritage .