Consummate entertainer Victor Wooten, second from left, isn’t the David Copperfield of bass guitar just because of his magical, mind-frying chops. During concerts, the dude has been known to make his instrument actually levitate. Wooten, who came to prominence plucking strings for Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, mixes stunning technical prowess with pure joy for music and life. And while the idea of a bass-centric concert might draw cringes from all but the most dedicated four-string freaks, Wooten and his band elevate the concept. Truly a groove goliath, Wooten has to be seen to be believed.

Michael Deeds