Wayman Tisdale - Starship May 2026

The song helped propel the Way Up album to the #1 spot on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts. Why It Works

🏀 As a former NBA star, Wayman proved his musicality wasn't a "hobby" with this track; it solidified him as a top-tier jazz bassist. Wayman Tisdale - Starship

Wayman uses his signature five-string fretless bass. The song helped propel the Way Up album

Tisdale’s lead bass playing mimics a vocal performance. Performance Highlights Tisdale’s lead bass playing mimics a vocal performance

✨ The arrangement is airy and spacious, living up to the "Starship" name by feeling atmospheric and light.

Wayman Tisdale's "Starship" is a hallmark of contemporary jazz and urban AC radio. Released in 2004 on his album Way Up , it is a cover of the 1977 classic by the soul-funk band Norman Connors and The Starship Orchestra. Smooth jazz with heavy R&B undertones. Energy: Sophisticated, nocturnal, and deeply melodic.

He successfully translated the lush vocal harmonies into instrumental lines.