BassX

“BassX reclaims the sousaphone's historic role at the foundation of the New Orleans jazz ensemble.” - Julius McKee

Sousaphone-Led New Orleans Jazz Collective

Rooted in tradition. Pushing it forward.

BassX is a New Orleans jazz collective founded by GRAMMY-nominated sousaphonist Julius McKee. Rooted in the city's rich brass band and traditional jazz heritage, the ensemble reimagines New Orleans classics through a progressive lens while creating original music that pushes the tradition forward. At the heart of the band's sound is the sousaphone—not only as the rhythmic foundation, but as a dynamic melodic and harmonic voice that gives BassX its unmistakable identity. Featuring some of New Orleans' finest musicians, BassX delivers dynamic performances that connect audiences to both the legacy and the future of the city's music.

Press photos

Videos

Interviews

1

NPR's The Joy of Music's Lower Frequencies - Interview with Julius McKee 5:22
NPR's The Joy of Music's Lower Frequencies - Interview with Julius McKee
by NPR
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2

Tom Saunders interviews Julius McKee on WWOZ 90.7 49:34
Tom Saunders interviews Julius McKee on WWOZ 90.7
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0:00/49:34