Victor Wooten

The Profile

Victor Lemonte Wooten (born September 11, 1964) is an American electric bassist, known for his work with Béla Fleck and the Flecktones and for his solo recordings. Acclaimed for his slap technique and virtuosity, he has released solo albums that range from solo-bass showcases to experimental funk-jazz fusion.

Born in 1964 in Virginia; began playing with his brothers' group (The Wootens) as a child; joined Béla Fleck and the Flecktones in 1988; noted for innovations in slap bass and for solo albums including A Show of Hands and Palmystery.

Two DeBaser reviews discuss Victor Wooten's solo records and technique. Palmystery is praised for experimentation and family-vocal arrangements. A Show Of Hands is a solo-bass showcase noted as essential for bassists but divisive for general listeners. Both emphasize his exceptional slap technique and fusion/funk approach.