A renowned bassist and member of the David Letterman Show's CBS Orchestra, known for his versatile and dynamic playing style that has backed a wide range of musical acts.
Will Lee is the renowned American bassist behind the iconic rhythms of the Late Show with David Letterman and the CBS Orchestra, as well as the esteemed Worlds Most Dangerous Band during Letterman's tenure on NBC's Late Night. With a career spanning decades, Lee has solidified his position as one of the most sought-after session musicians in the industry.
Lee's musical journey began at home, where his parents instilled in him a deep passion for music. His father, William Franklin Lee III, was a multi-instrumentalist who played professionally, while his mother, Lois, was a singer with big bands. This rich musical heritage sparked Lee's interest in music, with the Beatles' appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show being a pivotal moment that led him to take up drums at a young age.
As a 12-year-old, Lee formed his first band in Miami, earning a modest $6 per night playing surfing tunes characteristic of the 1960s. However, with the abundance of drummers in Miami, Lee made the pragmatic decision to shift to bass, an instrument that offered more opportunities. This switch proved to be a defining moment in his career, as he went on to study French horn for a year before switching to a bass major.
Lee's move to New York City marked the beginning of his professional music career. A chance call from trumpeter Randy Brecker led to an audition for the jazz-rock group Dreams, which resulted in Lee joining the band as a bassist and vocalist. After Dreams disbanded, Lee's career as a session musician flourished, with him touring and recording with numerous artists.
In 1998, Lee co-founded The Fab Faux, a Beatles tribute band that has gained a loyal following. This labor of love has allowed Lee to pay homage to the band that inspired him to pursue music in the first place.
Throughout his illustrious career, Lee has received numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy nominations for his work on the Late Show with David Letterman.
Will Lee's contributions to the world of music cannot be overstated. As a bassist, he has had a profound impact on the Late Show with David Letterman, helping to shape the program's iconic sound. His work with The Fab Faux has also ensured the continued popularity of Beatles music among new generations of fans.
"The bass is the glue that holds the band together. It's the foundation, the heartbeat of the music." - Will Lee
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