Ray Parker Jr., Nathan Watts and Ollie Brown

Sponsored by Samson, Hartke and Zoom, the International Bassist Award (IBA) was given to legendary bassist Nathan Watts. This special award was presented by Samson Vice President, Operations, Jack Knight and bassist Victor Wooten on Friday night during the  2010 NAMM Convention in Anaheim CA. The event included an evening of extraordinary musicians and featured hit songs that Nathan has produced, recorded and played on during his 32 year career as Stevie Wonders sideman and musical director.

CEO and President of Samson, Scott Goodman gave Nate a wonderful introduction. Stevie Wonder then opened the evening ranting Nate’s name, got the party started and segued into the opening song “I Wish”.  During the show Nathan was accompanied on stage by Stevie’s full band, featuring the talent of bassists Marcus Miller and Stu Hamm, lifelong friends guitarist Ray Parker Jr. and drummer Ollie Brown. Guest appearances followed by Byron Miller, Ndugu Chancler,  “Ready” Freddie Washington, J.D. DeServio, Vincent Bonham and sax man Mike Phillips.

Tags: Hartke, International Bassist Award, Marcus Miller, Nate Watts, Nathan Watts, Ollie Brown, Ray Parker Jr., Samson, Stevie Wonder