Bela Fleck & The Flecktones

Béla Fleck & The Flecktones formed in 1988, originating from an invitation for Béla Fleck to perform on the PBS series ‘The Lonesome Pine Specials,’ immediately establishing themselves as a unique force in jazz fusion. The initial lineup, featuring Fleck on banjo, Victor Wooten on bass guitar, Roy Wooten (Future Man) on Drumitar, and Howard Levy on harmonica and keyboards, developed a distinct musical identity. Their debut album, ‘Béla Fleck and the Flecktones’ (1989), garnered critical acclaim and received a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Jazz Album in 1990. This success was quickly followed by their second album, ‘Flight of the Cosmic Hippo’ (1991), which earned another Grammy nomination for Best Jazz Instrumental Album and a nomination for Best Instrumental Composition for the track ‘Blu-Bop.’ In 1992, the band released ‘UFO Tofu,’ featuring a collaboration with Grammy-winning artist Bonnie Raitt.

In 2019, Béla Fleck & The Flecktones embarked on a highly anticipated 30th Anniversary North American Tour, featuring the original acclaimed lineup. Their commitment to innovation, distinct sound, and ability to seamlessly merge diverse genres has solidified their place as a consistent draw for audiences globally and a valuable partner for creative collaborations, marking them as one of the most influential instrumental groups of their generation.