Kevin Eubanks Abandoning ‘Tonight Show’ Ship?

The good ship “Tonight Show” may be looking for a new bandleader soon. Very soon.

Outlets from Extra to the New York Times are reporting that Kevin Eubanks “wanted a change” — the entertainment-industry equivalent of a politician wanting to “spend more time with family”. NBC will neither confirm nor deny, saying only, “Kevin has expressed interest in pursuing personal touring and recording opportunities; however, he will be with the show when it returns.” They don’t, however, say whether he’ll forcing laughs at Jay Leno monologues on March 2, or any time thereafter. We’ll likely get more information on this as more sources get more disgruntled.

It also appears that John Melendez will be dropping his on-mic role, though he’ll likely remain on the writing staff. Cruise directors tiring of the naval life are advised to send their resumes to Burbank.