Christian McBride, a Philadelphia bassist revered in jazz, is always focused on the future and fresh collaborations, writes Hank Shteamer for The New York Times.

At age 50, he is currently preparing for the release of his 18th album as a band leader this month.

He boasts a truly impressive resume. He already won eight Grammys, has hundreds of recording credits alongside musicians such as Willie Nelson, Paul McCartney, Abbey Lincoln, and Queen Latifah, and has played many prominent roles in the business, including as the host of NPR’s Jazz Night in America.

He is also the artistic director of the Newport Jazz Festival.

McBride leads a portfolio of groups, including the quartet New Jawn, who can be heard on his new album, Prime.

“Christian is among the cats who are sure about things,” said guitarist Pat Metheny, one of McBride’s collaborators. “There isn’t a moment of indecision or waiting around with Christian. He’s on it and aware of everything that is happening and adjusting and allowing for the moment, but always with a vision of the tune, the changes, the time, and most importantly, the spirit of it all.”

Read more about Christian McBride in The New York Times.

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Back in 2012, bassist Christian McBride stopped by the KNKX performance studios for a mini-concert with pianist Peter Martin.