Jon Batiste Leaves ‘Late Show With Stephen Colbert’ After Seven Years as Bandleader
etonline.comJon Batiste has bid farewell to -- as bandleader, that is. The GRAMMY winner has stepped down from his musical role on the late-night show, host Stephen Colbert confirmed on Thursday's show. «Jon has decided to leave the show,» Colbert said. «It’s for all the best reasons, including to continue sharing his art with the world.»While it was the host's intention to give him an in-person send-off, Colbert noted Batiste is not in town. «We have been so lucky to have a front-row seat to Jon’s incredible talent for the past seven years,» Colbert said. «Will we miss him here?
Yeahhhh,» he added, imitating the musician. Colbert sweetly added, «We’re happy for you, Jon, and I can’t wait to have you back on as guest with your next hit record.
I love you.»Fortunately, Colbert had more than sad news to share during the show. «As happy as I am for Jon, I am thrilled for us because I have the privilege to announce that this incredible band is staying right there and that our new bandleader is the one, the only, Mr.
Louis Cato.»He hailed the North Carolina native as a «musical genius» and said Cato «can basically play every instrument on that stand over there.» Sounds like is in good hands!As for Batiste, he has not personally addressed his exit.
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