“Solo Artist”, Michael Brecker, David Sanborn, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Mike Stern, Michele Camilo, Trilok Gurtu, Bireli Lagrene, John Scofield, Kenny Garret,, CMD & “the Nomads” and more.
Chris Minh Doky has redefined the upright bass, transforming it into a bold, expressive, and melodic voice with his unmistakable personal sound. Born in Denmark and shaped by the vibrant New York jazz scene, he blends Nordic serenity with American soul, creating a sound that is both deeply rooted and uniquely his own. A platinum and gold award-winning artist, Grammy nominee, and knighted musician, he has been the bassist of choice for legends like Michael Brecker, Randy Brecker, Bill Evans, Mike Stern, David Sanborn, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Trilok Gurtu, Vince Mendoza, Michel Camilo, David Sylvian, Kirk Whalum, and Bireli Lagrene.
As a testament to his deep rhythmic chemistry, he became part of heralded rhythm section backbones alongside Dave Weckl, Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts, and Dennis Chambers—groove constellations in constant demand.
Chris quickly rose to prominence when Mike Stern handpicked him at just 20 years old, launching his career on the world stage. Coming up in the vibrant New York jazz scene, he played alongside peers like Larry Goldings, Adam Rogers, Clarence Penn, and Joey Calderazzo—a generation that would shape modern jazz. These experiences not only established him as one of the most sought-after bassists but also set the stage for his own successful career as a solo artist and
bandleader. Beyond his deep collaborations, he has also worked with icons like George Benson, John Scofield, Jimmy Cobb, Kenny Garrett, Brian McKnight, Lalah Hathaway, Dianne Reeves, and Al Jarreau, further cementing his reputation as one of the most versatile and in-demand bassists across genres.
From these deep collaborations, he naturally evolved into a bandleader and composer, leading projects like The Nomads and New Nordic Jazz, and composing for film, symphony, and ballet, including work with the Royal Danish Ballet and Twyla Tharp.
Whether on stage or in the studio, Chris Minh Doky’s playing is instantly recognizable, balancing technical mastery, raw emotion, and melodic depth, earning praise from DownBeat, The New York Times, Jazz Times, and Billboard, and solidifying his status as one of the leading bass solo artists
on the global music scene.
With his signature Yamaha Silent Bass, Chris continues to explore new sonic landscapes, pushing the boundaries of what the bass can be. “Powerful yet intimate, bold yet lyrical—this is bass like you’ve never heard it before.”
“My amp is the connection between my instrument and the band & audience.” says Doky, “The Mini CMD 121 PURE combo (gotta love the initials!) is perfect for my acoustic. Sounds full, strong and natural – yet it is light and very portable. It even has an XLR input for my DPA-4099 microphone, and the Little Mark Tube 800 head is unbelievable and just what I need as a touring musician. Warm and powerfull yet small and light! I hook it up to the MB58R 102 PURE cabinet for the best possible match for my SLB200 upright electric – and with the Standard 104HR for optimal “oomph” with my electric. Thank you, Markbass! I love what your amps and cabinets do for me!”
photo credit: Camilla Winther
