E'lon JD
Bass-forward progressive jazz and soul — virtuosic low end under soulful, socially minded songwriting, in the Thundercat school of lead-instrument bass.
E'lon JD is a bassist and songwriter from Asheville, North Carolina, who puts the bass out front as a lead voice rather than a support instrument. Alongside performing, he works as an educator, passing on the same technique and approach he brings to his own bands.
The playing draws on jazz technique and gospel-soul phrasing, and the songs carry lyrics about community and social conditions, sung over grooves that stay loose enough to open into improvisation. Each song works from his own life, setting triumphs against setbacks rather than staying purely celebratory.
He has recorded with the group Phony Ppl and with The Gregory Bros, work that sits alongside his own songwriting and performing.
He has shared stages with Bela Fleck, members of Snarky Puppy, Victor Wooten, and Weedie Braimah. He currently plays bass in Jonathan Scales Fourchestra, a band that tours internationally.
E'lon JD at a glance
What kind of music does E'lon JD play?
E'lon JD is tagged progressive jazz and soul.
What festivals has E'lon JD played before?
E'lon JD has played Hopscotch 2026.
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Sonny MilesDexter and the MoonrocksMommaLiz CooperLeo Brooks BandCory WongDUCKWRTHThee SinseersButcher BrownKing PrincessSoccer MommyWILLIS
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