With bass in hand, Richard Bona speaks many languages—but catch him in the middle of a heartfelt phrase, and it’s as if his notes are chosen just for your ears. Add his haunting falsetto vocals, and now you’re listening to arguably the most identifiable, soul-stirring voice on the bass guitar since Jaco Pastorius. It’s no wonder that since his 1995 arrival in the U.S., the 39-year-old native of Cameroon has become one of the most in-demand sidemen for a daunting range of artists. Of course, that’s only part of the picture. While Richard’s fluid fingerboard navigation, multi-layered rhythmic approach, and sheer lyricism have earned him bass hero status, he has parlayed his singular vocals, unique guitar style, and sonorous songs steeped in traditional African tales into a career as a globally successful solo artist, selling tens of thousands of CDs worldwide.