Interview with Bassist Cheikh Ndoye, Laying Down the Genetic Tones

For nearly seventeen years, we’ve followed the ever-evolving journey of bassist Cheikh Ndoye, watching with admiration as his musical vision continues to deepen and expand. Each project has revealed a restless curiosity and a commitment to sound that resists easy categorization.When we last spoke in 2018, Ndoye was already hinting at new directions, and he hasn’t slowed down since.In the years that followed, he’s been quietly and intensely at work, culminating in a new album, Genetic Tones, a project that captures both his roots and his forward-looking approach to music.I recently had the great pleasure of listening to several rough tracks from the album, and, as always, I was both impressed and genuinely excited by what I heard. Genetic Tones feels like a bold and thoughtful statement, rich in texture and intention. Join me as Cheikh shares insights into the making of this upcoming release and reflects on the ways his musical language has continued to transform over the years. This interview first appeared in Bass Musician Magazine in February 2026Go to jazzguitartoday.com and bassmusicianmagazine.com more interviews and lessons.