Music City's Authentic Jazz Club
Serving classic New Orleans prohibition cocktails, local brews, and New Orleans cuisine.
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS
Sundays-Thursdays: 5pm-7pm $7 Wells, $8 House Wines
Mondays: 9pm-Close $8 Cuba Libres, $12 Estrella & Shot of Lunazul Blanco
615 Indie Live
615 Indie Live is a celebration of local talent and independent venues, produced by our friends at MVAN and Visit Music City. On February 1 2025 experience the best of Nashville’s local music scene with over 40 artists across 14 independent venues, running from noon to 2am. All for just $15! Proceeds benefit Music Venue Alliance Nashville and their Emergency Relief Fund, supporting our independent music venues community.
The Wooten Brothers, Jeff Coffin, Keith Carlock, Mike Elizondo, Emmanuel Echem, Chris Walters, Don Aliquo and Michael Jefry Stevens
More Info and Tickets
TONIGHT'S SHOWS
Abigail Flowers
5:30pm-7:15pm, $14 at the door
Abigail Flowers is one of Nashville’s finest jazz vocalists and a Lanikai Ukuleles artist. Drawing on vocal influences like Ella Fitzgerald, Chet Baker, and Nat King Cole, her vocal style is smooth and precise. Her shows include Great American Songbook classics, but also include songs in French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and Hawaiian.
After graduating from Belmont University with a degree in commercial vocal performance, she worked as a vocalist at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan for several seasons. Abigail has recorded in collaboration with producers like Charlie Peacock and Cody Fry, and her vocal arrangements have garnered over 2 million streams on Spotify.
After graduating from Belmont University with a degree in commercial vocal performance, she worked as a vocalist at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan for several seasons. Abigail has recorded in collaboration with producers like Charlie Peacock and Cody Fry, and her vocal arrangements have garnered over 2 million streams on Spotify.
The Jamey Simmons Sextet
8:00pm-10:15pm, $22 in advance, $23 at the door
The Jamey Simmons Sextet combines the talent of Nashville’s top jazz musicians using the classic sound of the great 3-horn jazz groups, along with modern compositional sensibilities. Hard bop for the 21st century!
Arranger, composer, trumpeter, and educator Jamey Simmons is currently Director of Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University where he teaches courses in jazz. As a trumpet player, Simmons toured internationally with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and is currently active on the Nashville professional music scene. He has made appearances with artists as diversified as the Temptations, Dave Weckl, Buddy DeFranco, Lee Konitz, Duffy Jackson, and Vince Gill and written arrangements and compositions that have been performed by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Symphony Pops, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, Brussels Jazz Orchestra and numerous university ensembles. His latest CD Push and Pull features the Duo/Trio Project of pianist Matt Endahl and guitarist Rory Hoffman. Find Jamey online at jameysimmons.com.
Jamey Simmons - trumpet & flugelhorn
Don Aliquo - Saxophones
Desmond Ng - Trombone
Pat Coil - Piano
Jack Aylor - Bass
Jordan Perlson - Drums
Arranger, composer, trumpeter, and educator Jamey Simmons is currently Director of Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University where he teaches courses in jazz. As a trumpet player, Simmons toured internationally with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and is currently active on the Nashville professional music scene. He has made appearances with artists as diversified as the Temptations, Dave Weckl, Buddy DeFranco, Lee Konitz, Duffy Jackson, and Vince Gill and written arrangements and compositions that have been performed by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Symphony Pops, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, Brussels Jazz Orchestra and numerous university ensembles. His latest CD Push and Pull features the Duo/Trio Project of pianist Matt Endahl and guitarist Rory Hoffman. Find Jamey online at jameysimmons.com.
Jamey Simmons - trumpet & flugelhorn
Don Aliquo - Saxophones
Desmond Ng - Trombone
Pat Coil - Piano
Jack Aylor - Bass
Jordan Perlson - Drums
Don Aliquo Trio
11:00pm-1:00am, $10 at the door
Saxophonist Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as “smooth as silk...with an unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label.
Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew.
Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label.
Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew.
Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
UPCOMING SHOWSFULL CALENDAR
Jan 4
Bruce Dudley Trio
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $15 in advance, $16 at the door
Featuring Bruce Dudley on piano, Jim Ferguson on bass and Josh Hunt on drums.
Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz piano for over 40 years on concert stages, in clubs, and private residences throughout North and South America. He specializes in the Great American Songbook, as well as in the rich history of American jazz styles, from Ragtime and Stride to Modernism, Post Modernism, and performance of original music. In addition to his work as a solo artist, he leads a trio, quartet, and larger ensembles, with horns and/or strings, while also enlisting the award winning voice of his wife, Sandra Dudley. An active educator, Dudley has presented clinics across Canada, the United States, and in Colombia, South America. His recordings as a leader include DPSW Quartet - Live at the Cave (2019), The Solo Sessions (2012), Mostly Monk (2010), and Semblance (1997). Dudley has also performed with artists Aretha Franklin, Crystal Gayle, Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Herb Ellis, Randy Brecker, Little Anthony and the Imperials, the Ink Spots, and has played keyboards for over 35 touring Broadway shows, including Beautiful, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Guys and Dolls, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Legally Blonde, among others.
Bruce Dudley has published articles for Downbeat magazine and presented scholarly research at conferences in the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States. His book 25 Piano Etudes in Idiomatic Styles was published in 2021 by Keuka Waters Music.
Dudley is Associate Professor of Music at Belmont University. He has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Colorado, a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Business and Technology from New York University.
"Dudley’s well-schooled piano style is guided by dominant but subtle right-hand figures that galvanize one of the most cohesive trios in town." THE NASHVILLE SCENE
"Dudley, whose fluent lines jet around the keyboard, absorbing motifs into the stream, without a split second of hesitation, at any point of rhythm in the bar, are stunning to listen to…" HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD
"Dudley plays the piano with such grace and authority that he has quietly become the pianists that other pianists go to hear." HOUSTON POST
"As the leader, Dudley set the evening’s tone with a supple, rich blend of assertive melodic statements, delightful accompaniment, first-rate phrasing, counterpoint and harmonizing." Ron Wynn - ArtsNash
Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz piano for over 40 years on concert stages, in clubs, and private residences throughout North and South America. He specializes in the Great American Songbook, as well as in the rich history of American jazz styles, from Ragtime and Stride to Modernism, Post Modernism, and performance of original music. In addition to his work as a solo artist, he leads a trio, quartet, and larger ensembles, with horns and/or strings, while also enlisting the award winning voice of his wife, Sandra Dudley. An active educator, Dudley has presented clinics across Canada, the United States, and in Colombia, South America. His recordings as a leader include DPSW Quartet - Live at the Cave (2019), The Solo Sessions (2012), Mostly Monk (2010), and Semblance (1997). Dudley has also performed with artists Aretha Franklin, Crystal Gayle, Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Herb Ellis, Randy Brecker, Little Anthony and the Imperials, the Ink Spots, and has played keyboards for over 35 touring Broadway shows, including Beautiful, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Guys and Dolls, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Legally Blonde, among others.
Bruce Dudley has published articles for Downbeat magazine and presented scholarly research at conferences in the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States. His book 25 Piano Etudes in Idiomatic Styles was published in 2021 by Keuka Waters Music.
Dudley is Associate Professor of Music at Belmont University. He has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Colorado, a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Business and Technology from New York University.
"Dudley’s well-schooled piano style is guided by dominant but subtle right-hand figures that galvanize one of the most cohesive trios in town." THE NASHVILLE SCENE
"Dudley, whose fluent lines jet around the keyboard, absorbing motifs into the stream, without a split second of hesitation, at any point of rhythm in the bar, are stunning to listen to…" HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD
"Dudley plays the piano with such grace and authority that he has quietly become the pianists that other pianists go to hear." HOUSTON POST
"As the leader, Dudley set the evening’s tone with a supple, rich blend of assertive melodic statements, delightful accompaniment, first-rate phrasing, counterpoint and harmonizing." Ron Wynn - ArtsNash
Jody Nardone Trio
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $21 in advance, $22 at the door
"Thanks to a dynamic style that can shift from the whispered beauty of Bill Evans to the percussive flights of McCoy Tyner, Nardone has emerged as one of Nashville's preeminent jazz pianists. His reputation is also blowing up nationwide, where he is receiving raves in Downbeat and Jazziz for his role in the Crimson Jazz Trio, a Nashville-to-L.A. combo led by former King Crimson drummer Ian Wallace and former Vital Information bassist Tim Landers."
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
The Geoff Pfeifer Quartet, gritty, edgy, the real deal NYC style jazz. Saxophonist Geoff Pfeifer brings some of Nashville's top jazz cats out, and you'll be sure to feel the energy. Playing a mix of original material and Wayne Shorter tunes.
Geoff Pfeifer, a Nashville based musician and composer, has been living and performing in Nashville since 2005. Geoff studied saxophone with Ted Nash and Ralph Lalama and composition with Mike Holober and Jim McNeely. He is a saxophonist and arranger with the R&B band Chubby and The Dots and plays the 2nd Tenor Saxophone chair in The Establishment Big Band. Geoff has shared the stage with David Liebman, Jim McNeeley, David Amram, Chico O’Farrill, Arturo O’Farrill, Frank Kimbrough, Ben Allison, Michael Blake among many other musicians.
Geoff Pfeifer, a Nashville based musician and composer, has been living and performing in Nashville since 2005. Geoff studied saxophone with Ted Nash and Ralph Lalama and composition with Mike Holober and Jim McNeely. He is a saxophonist and arranger with the R&B band Chubby and The Dots and plays the 2nd Tenor Saxophone chair in The Establishment Big Band. Geoff has shared the stage with David Liebman, Jim McNeeley, David Amram, Chico O’Farrill, Arturo O’Farrill, Frank Kimbrough, Ben Allison, Michael Blake among many other musicians.
Jan 5
Sully's Swingin' Sunday Supper
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Join us for Sully's Swingin' Sunday Supper, where one of Music City's top jazz and instrumental bassists Jimmy Sullivan leads a swingin' band with different special guest artists and Rudy's serves up a unique and delectable supper special just for the show!
Harmonic adaptability and rhythmic flexibility are the key attributes of any first-rate bassist. Though a native-born Virginian, Jimmy Sullivan has ascended to the top ranks of Music City's rhythm section comrades, proving himself a versatile and imaginative bassist on multiple occasions. He's excelled in numerous idiomatic sessions, though jazz remains a priority and key musical love. Still, he's flourished while working, recording and/or performing with such top country, rock and pop stars as Lee Ann Womack, Mark Collie, Ashley Campbell, and Mandy Barnett among others.
Sullivan grew up in Reston, Virginia. Despite not having any musicians in the family, Sullivan still became enamored with music at an early age. Teaching himself to play by ear, his early apprentice came as both a singer and instrumentalist. He performed in a choir while also playing piano and clarinet. But his primary instrument became bass at 15, where he began on electric. Soon came formal jazz studies at Northern Virginia Community college, where he obtained a two-year degree before transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
He's now a regular performer at Rudy’s Jazz Room working regularly with Music City jazz stalwarts like Stephanie Adlington, Annie Sellick, PT Gazell and Andrew Carney as well as international artists such as Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Alexis Cole, Carol Welsman and Matt Panayides. He's become good friends and consistently shared the bandstand with world class musicians such as Joel Frahm, Andy Reiss, Jody Nardone, Pat Bergeson, Marcus Finnie and Jordan Perlson.
Jimmy Sullivan's now acclaimed not only in Nashville but throughout the region and state as a topflight player. He's already won one Nashville Music Industry Award as Best Jazz Instrumentalist in 2018, and others are sure to follow. But most importantly, Jimmy Sullivan's ferocity on the bandstand, and joy and love of playing music are infectious, and anyone who sees and hears him will immediately discover it as well as the inspiring and motivational power of great performance.
Harmonic adaptability and rhythmic flexibility are the key attributes of any first-rate bassist. Though a native-born Virginian, Jimmy Sullivan has ascended to the top ranks of Music City's rhythm section comrades, proving himself a versatile and imaginative bassist on multiple occasions. He's excelled in numerous idiomatic sessions, though jazz remains a priority and key musical love. Still, he's flourished while working, recording and/or performing with such top country, rock and pop stars as Lee Ann Womack, Mark Collie, Ashley Campbell, and Mandy Barnett among others.
Sullivan grew up in Reston, Virginia. Despite not having any musicians in the family, Sullivan still became enamored with music at an early age. Teaching himself to play by ear, his early apprentice came as both a singer and instrumentalist. He performed in a choir while also playing piano and clarinet. But his primary instrument became bass at 15, where he began on electric. Soon came formal jazz studies at Northern Virginia Community college, where he obtained a two-year degree before transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
He's now a regular performer at Rudy’s Jazz Room working regularly with Music City jazz stalwarts like Stephanie Adlington, Annie Sellick, PT Gazell and Andrew Carney as well as international artists such as Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Alexis Cole, Carol Welsman and Matt Panayides. He's become good friends and consistently shared the bandstand with world class musicians such as Joel Frahm, Andy Reiss, Jody Nardone, Pat Bergeson, Marcus Finnie and Jordan Perlson.
Jimmy Sullivan's now acclaimed not only in Nashville but throughout the region and state as a topflight player. He's already won one Nashville Music Industry Award as Best Jazz Instrumentalist in 2018, and others are sure to follow. But most importantly, Jimmy Sullivan's ferocity on the bandstand, and joy and love of playing music are infectious, and anyone who sees and hears him will immediately discover it as well as the inspiring and motivational power of great performance.
Rudy's Jazz Jam
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $12 at the door
Rudy's hosts the official pro jazz jam. Come out and experience some of music city's best as they take the stage with Nashville's next generation of jazz performers! You will hear a variety of young, old, new and undiscovered players showing what they can do on stage. Part of the jazz tradition and what jazz embodies is the unknown and spontaneous exploration of new musical territory with new musicians sitting in live on stage; you never know who or what to expect other than the unexpected!
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
Jan 6
Viktor Krauss
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $10 at the door
Eclectic composer bassist Viktor Krauss was born in Champaign, IL, in 1969. His youth was spent listening to soundtracks and instrumental music, eventually leading him to the piano and trumpet. After witnessing the power and ominous presence of the double bass at a middle school concert, he found his true calling. Krauss has been a presence in Nashville Tennessee since 1992 with nearly 600 album credits as either a bassist, composer/songwriter or producer. Starting with 1996's "Nashville", Krauss began a long tenure with Jazz great Bill Frisell. Other albums with Frisell include "Gone, Just Like a Train", "Good Dog, Happy Man", "East/West" and "Disfarmer." Other artists over his recording and touring career have included Lyle Lovett, James Taylor, Tom Jones, Shawn Colvin, Sheryl Crow, Carly Simon and Jerry Douglas. Since 2022, Viktor has been seen on tour with Robert Plant and Alison Krauss as a multi-instrumentalist (electric guitar, piano).
In 2004, Krauss recorded his solo debut of his original compositions, Far From Enough featuring an all-star band consisting of Frisell, Jerry Douglas, Steve Jordan, and sister Alison (peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard® Contemporary Jazz Chart). Krauss' second album, II , which featured core band guitarist Dean Parks and drummer Matt Chamberlain emerged three years later. Last year, new duo recording of original material with lever harpist extraordinaire Maeve Gilchrist "Vignette". Primarily instrumental music, Viktor cites that this music could be described as "a soundtrack without a movie with nods to 'jazz and classic rock'." In 2006, Viktor was awarded a fellowship for the prestigious Film Composers' Lab at the Sundance Institute and his film composing credits include music for directors Ken Burns and the late Robert Altman. Viktor's original compositions from his solo recordings are used daily as musical "bumpers" for National Public Radio between programs.
In 2004, Krauss recorded his solo debut of his original compositions, Far From Enough featuring an all-star band consisting of Frisell, Jerry Douglas, Steve Jordan, and sister Alison (peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard® Contemporary Jazz Chart). Krauss' second album, II , which featured core band guitarist Dean Parks and drummer Matt Chamberlain emerged three years later. Last year, new duo recording of original material with lever harpist extraordinaire Maeve Gilchrist "Vignette". Primarily instrumental music, Viktor cites that this music could be described as "a soundtrack without a movie with nods to 'jazz and classic rock'." In 2006, Viktor was awarded a fellowship for the prestigious Film Composers' Lab at the Sundance Institute and his film composing credits include music for directors Ken Burns and the late Robert Altman. Viktor's original compositions from his solo recordings are used daily as musical "bumpers" for National Public Radio between programs.
Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
A Nashville favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene and electric night of Salsa dancing! Multi-instrumentalist Giovanni Rodriguez, one of Nashville's leading percussionists, bassists and favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene, plays the sounds of salsa, bachata and percussion-driven rhythms with some of the most seasoned veterans in the Nashville Latin music scene. Giovanni Rodríguez timbales/vocals, Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Yosvany Cordero (conga/bongo), Michael S. Morton (flute/vocals), Isoel Villarrubia (bass).
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
Jan 8
Pat Bergeson Trio w/ Charles Treadway & Chris Brown
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $13 at the door
Guitarist, Harmonica player Pat Bergeson grew up in Batavia Illinois and moved to NYC where he honed his Jazz skills for 10 years. He was brought to Nashville by Chet Atkins in 1993 after hearing him on a demo tape. Pat recorded was featured on two of Chet's recordings "Read My Licks" and "Sneaking Around" with Jerry Reed. He has since worked with Lyle Lovett, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Suzy Bogguss, Tommy Emmanuel, Joey DeFrancesco, Annie Sellick, Alison Krauss ,Bill Frisell, Michael McDonald, Madeleine Peyroux, Benny Golson, etc.
Regi Wooten & Friends
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
Known as “The Teacha”, Regi Wooten is one of the most innovative, talented and dynamic musicians around the scene, and has pushed the boundaries of jazz, funk, soul, R&B, rock, and even bluegrass to some of the most extreme musical limits. From picking, slapping, strumming, thumping, and tapping to some of the most ear bending advanced chords you’ll hear on any instrument, Regi has earned world-wide notoriety and comparisons to other innovators such as Jimi Hendrix, Frank Zappa and Chuck Berry. Perfecting, creating and discovering new techniques and jazz theory while incorporating and layering into strong funk grooves for keen listeners to uncover and pick up on is one of his many notable fortes.
At only nine years old Regi started teaching his younger brother Victor Wooten bass guitar and Joseph Wooten keyboards, and soon the Wooten Brothers Band was formed featuring; Regi on ukelele, Roy on drums, Rudy on Saxophone, Joe on Keys and Victor on bass. Regi was ten years old at the time, Roy was nine, Rudy was eight, Joseph was five and Victor was two. The rest, as they say, is Musical History.
Assembling a cast of Nashville's best, Regi Wooten and Friends dig deep into the roots of funk, jazz, blues, rock, and soul. You never know who might jump on stage! Don't miss a beat!
At only nine years old Regi started teaching his younger brother Victor Wooten bass guitar and Joseph Wooten keyboards, and soon the Wooten Brothers Band was formed featuring; Regi on ukelele, Roy on drums, Rudy on Saxophone, Joe on Keys and Victor on bass. Regi was ten years old at the time, Roy was nine, Rudy was eight, Joseph was five and Victor was two. The rest, as they say, is Musical History.
Assembling a cast of Nashville's best, Regi Wooten and Friends dig deep into the roots of funk, jazz, blues, rock, and soul. You never know who might jump on stage! Don't miss a beat!
Jan 9
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $14 at the door
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Imbibe French Quarter inspired cocktails or a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo and beignets, while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Imbibe French Quarter inspired cocktails or a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo and beignets, while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
"Jazz Fusion" with Mr. Mayo
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $14 at the door
When traditional jazz music mixed with popular styles like rock and funk, it birthed a new style called jazz fusion. Jazz fusion music came of age in the late 1960s as prominent jazz musicians began experimenting with new technology and idioms from popular styles like rock and R&B. Nearly all of the early purveyors of jazz fusion were, or had been, collaborators with legendary jazz trumpeter Miles Davis. Jazz fusion arrangements vary in complexity. Some employ groove-based vamps fixed to a single key or a single chord with a simple, repeated melody. Others use elaborate chord progressions, unconventional time signatures, or melodies with counter-melodies. These arrangements, whether simple or complex, typically include improvised sections that can vary in length, much like in other forms of jazz.
Playing some jazz fusion classics such as repertoire from the likes of Allan Holdsworth, Marcus Miller, Herbie Hancock and others, as well as original jazz fusion compositions, Mr. Mayo stretches music just a little beyond comprehension. With their wide array of musical influence spanning over countless genres including Jazz, Rock, R&B, Gospel and even Hip Hop, their live sound leaves you on the edge of your seat, wondering what may happen next. From sheering guitar solos to tight unison hits, to delicate melodic moments, Mr. Mayo captures the true essence of jazz fusion and what it means to make music together as a band and leave the audience craving more.
Kent Crawley - guitar
Matt Twaddle - keys
Leland Nelson - bass
Jake Robinson - drums
Playing some jazz fusion classics such as repertoire from the likes of Allan Holdsworth, Marcus Miller, Herbie Hancock and others, as well as original jazz fusion compositions, Mr. Mayo stretches music just a little beyond comprehension. With their wide array of musical influence spanning over countless genres including Jazz, Rock, R&B, Gospel and even Hip Hop, their live sound leaves you on the edge of your seat, wondering what may happen next. From sheering guitar solos to tight unison hits, to delicate melodic moments, Mr. Mayo captures the true essence of jazz fusion and what it means to make music together as a band and leave the audience craving more.
Kent Crawley - guitar
Matt Twaddle - keys
Leland Nelson - bass
Jake Robinson - drums
Jan 10
Ellisa Sun
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $15 at the door
Ellisa Sun cuts her heart out and leaves it on the stage, which is why she never wears white.
Originally from Los Angeles, she decided to hit the road in 2018 and embarked on her nationwide Dreamboat tour, playing 170 shows in 365 days while living in a 30-foot Winnebago. After the tour, Ellisa relocated to Nashville, Tennessee.
Inspired primarily by R&B, soul, jazz, and bossa nova, Ellisa’s music is a unique blend of genres that creates a textured sound with raw, heartfelt lyricism. Ellisa’s music can be heard on the Sony Pictures Television show L.A.’s Finest, starring Gabrielle Union and Jessica Alba and the Hulu show Dollface starring Kat Dennings and Brenda Song. Her song “Evening” was featured in the show Kung Fu on the CW.
In 2022, Ellisa launched a wildly successful crowdfunding campaign with ifundwomen and successfully raised $15,000 to support her full length album Sarabi, which features 8 original songs and a team of Nashville’s finest musicians and songwriters. Sarabi was released in February 2024 and has received acclaim from outlets such as Lefuturewave, calling it “deeply soulful”
Originally from Los Angeles, she decided to hit the road in 2018 and embarked on her nationwide Dreamboat tour, playing 170 shows in 365 days while living in a 30-foot Winnebago. After the tour, Ellisa relocated to Nashville, Tennessee.
Inspired primarily by R&B, soul, jazz, and bossa nova, Ellisa’s music is a unique blend of genres that creates a textured sound with raw, heartfelt lyricism. Ellisa’s music can be heard on the Sony Pictures Television show L.A.’s Finest, starring Gabrielle Union and Jessica Alba and the Hulu show Dollface starring Kat Dennings and Brenda Song. Her song “Evening” was featured in the show Kung Fu on the CW.
In 2022, Ellisa launched a wildly successful crowdfunding campaign with ifundwomen and successfully raised $15,000 to support her full length album Sarabi, which features 8 original songs and a team of Nashville’s finest musicians and songwriters. Sarabi was released in February 2024 and has received acclaim from outlets such as Lefuturewave, calling it “deeply soulful”
ACE Horns
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $22 in advance, $23 at the door
Nashville's Roy Agee, Evan Cobb, and Emmanuel Echem have worked together as a touring and session horn section for years. The ACE Horns is a creative project spotlighting original tunes and arrangements from the imaginations of all three hornists, featuring a funky rhythm section with Jon Cowherd, Akil Thompson and Marcus Finnie and a comedic old lady named Memaw* (*nope).
Woodwind specialist Evan Cobb is a leading force in Nashville’s vibrant musical scene. Known foremost for his saxophone playing, Cobb is adept at the flute, oboe, and clarinet. Evan Cobb is in demand as a jazz player, session player, and horn section member. He has performed with a wide array of artists including Lauren Daigle, Steven Tyler, Chris Stapleton w Maren Morris & Mavis Staples, Aretha Franklin, Brett Eldredge, Cage the Elephant, Dr. John, Irma Thomas, and the Nashville Symphony. He has numerous television appearances and as a Nashville session player, Evan Cobb can be heard on dozens of recordings ranging from funk to country to Netflix comedies, movies, and everything in between. Cobb has been an active music educator of private lessons in Nashville for 15 years and created the original Nashville Jazz Workshop Summer Camp for teenagers. Currently Evan tours with Eric Church and spends his down time at home with his loving wife Erin and two children.
Emmanuel Echem is a trumpeter, composer, and arranger living and working in Nashville, TN. A rare native to the area, Echem has firmly established himself in the music community as a capable lead and section player, as well as an adept soloist with a unique and soulful improvisational style which frequently draws comparisons to trumpet masters such as Clifford Brown, Freddie Hubbard, and Roy Hargrove. The sound of his trumpet has been heard at venues and festivals around the world, including the North Sea Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Radio City Music Hall, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, and more, in addition to a number of televised performances that have aired nationally and internationally on PBS, ABC, Late Night with Seth Meyers, the JUNO Awards, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and The Marilyn Denis Show. His list of performance and recording credits span a wide range of genres, and include artists such as Boyz II Men, Patti Labelle, Justin Timberlake, Sister Sledge, Kirk Franklin, Dolly Parton, Eric Church, Lauren Daigle, Brett Eldredge, Joss Stone, Charlie Wilson, Maren Morris, Lady A, LeAnn Rimes, Lukas Nelson, Darius Rucker, Dumpstaphunk, Dan + Shay, Tony Vega, Frankie Negrón, the Neal Morse Band ft. Mike Portnoy, Roy "Futureman" Wooten and the Circle of Harmony Orchestra, and the Nashville Jazz Orchestra.
Nashville, TN based trombone player Roy Agee is a musical phenom, an absolute powerhouse! Trombonist for the late musical genius Prince from 2012 until his tragic death in 2016, Roy Agee continues to stun audiences with his raw power and ability to connect on a deeply emotional musical level. Two-time Grammy winning vocalist Lauren Daigle knows all about Roy’s talents as he has been the Musical Director of her horn section since 2018. During his 20+ year career, Roy has had the opportunity to play with some of music’s greatest pioneers including The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, Motown legend Stevie Wonder, bassist Esperanza Spalding, saxophonist Maceo Parker, vocalist Natalie Cole, blues virtuoso Keb Mo, pop artist Cee-Lo Green, The Black Keys guitarist/producer Dan Auerbach, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members The Who, jam band gurus Phish, and the genius of the modern banjo Bela Fleck.
Woodwind specialist Evan Cobb is a leading force in Nashville’s vibrant musical scene. Known foremost for his saxophone playing, Cobb is adept at the flute, oboe, and clarinet. Evan Cobb is in demand as a jazz player, session player, and horn section member. He has performed with a wide array of artists including Lauren Daigle, Steven Tyler, Chris Stapleton w Maren Morris & Mavis Staples, Aretha Franklin, Brett Eldredge, Cage the Elephant, Dr. John, Irma Thomas, and the Nashville Symphony. He has numerous television appearances and as a Nashville session player, Evan Cobb can be heard on dozens of recordings ranging from funk to country to Netflix comedies, movies, and everything in between. Cobb has been an active music educator of private lessons in Nashville for 15 years and created the original Nashville Jazz Workshop Summer Camp for teenagers. Currently Evan tours with Eric Church and spends his down time at home with his loving wife Erin and two children.
Emmanuel Echem is a trumpeter, composer, and arranger living and working in Nashville, TN. A rare native to the area, Echem has firmly established himself in the music community as a capable lead and section player, as well as an adept soloist with a unique and soulful improvisational style which frequently draws comparisons to trumpet masters such as Clifford Brown, Freddie Hubbard, and Roy Hargrove. The sound of his trumpet has been heard at venues and festivals around the world, including the North Sea Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Radio City Music Hall, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, and more, in addition to a number of televised performances that have aired nationally and internationally on PBS, ABC, Late Night with Seth Meyers, the JUNO Awards, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and The Marilyn Denis Show. His list of performance and recording credits span a wide range of genres, and include artists such as Boyz II Men, Patti Labelle, Justin Timberlake, Sister Sledge, Kirk Franklin, Dolly Parton, Eric Church, Lauren Daigle, Brett Eldredge, Joss Stone, Charlie Wilson, Maren Morris, Lady A, LeAnn Rimes, Lukas Nelson, Darius Rucker, Dumpstaphunk, Dan + Shay, Tony Vega, Frankie Negrón, the Neal Morse Band ft. Mike Portnoy, Roy "Futureman" Wooten and the Circle of Harmony Orchestra, and the Nashville Jazz Orchestra.
Nashville, TN based trombone player Roy Agee is a musical phenom, an absolute powerhouse! Trombonist for the late musical genius Prince from 2012 until his tragic death in 2016, Roy Agee continues to stun audiences with his raw power and ability to connect on a deeply emotional musical level. Two-time Grammy winning vocalist Lauren Daigle knows all about Roy’s talents as he has been the Musical Director of her horn section since 2018. During his 20+ year career, Roy has had the opportunity to play with some of music’s greatest pioneers including The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, Motown legend Stevie Wonder, bassist Esperanza Spalding, saxophonist Maceo Parker, vocalist Natalie Cole, blues virtuoso Keb Mo, pop artist Cee-Lo Green, The Black Keys guitarist/producer Dan Auerbach, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members The Who, jam band gurus Phish, and the genius of the modern banjo Bela Fleck.
The Jose Gobbo Trio
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
The Jose Gobbo Trio is a Central Illinois based group formed by guitarist Jose Gobbo with bassist Max Beckman and drummer Jay Ferguson.
Jose Gobbo is a Brazilian jazz guitarist. He moved to Iowa City in 2011 to pursue his master's degree in Jazz Performance, and soon took a leadership role in the city`s musical scene. His debut album as a leader was released in 2013, titled “Zé“, featuring Brazilian legendary multi-instrumentalist Roberto Sion. Other activities during that time include: performances at the Iowa City Jazz Festival; International clarinet convention with Dr. Maurita Marx; John Rapson's recording of “The Night Sky and Turquoise Sea”.
Moving to Illinois in 2014, Jose kept a busy performance schedule while pursuing his doctoral degree, completed in 2020. He appears regularly with the Brad Wheeler Quartet and the Chip Stephens Organ Trio, which opened a Steely Dan concert and recorded the album "Transgressions" in 2019. In 2020 Jose co-founded The House Trio with Ben Taylor and Nikola Djokic, which performed 52 consecutive weekly live streams on their YouTube Channel, and recorded the album "Live From Home", featuring 10 of Jose's original compositions. Jose also performs with his UIUC mentors Chip McNeill, Tito Carrillo, Larry Gray, Jim Pugh and Ron Bridgewater.
In 2018, Jose was a finalist at Chicago's Luminarts Jazz Competition, winning popular vote, and was a semi-finalist at Milwaukee's Wilson Center Guitar Competition. He worked as producer and performer in two Brazilian Tours with Jim Pisano and Damani Phillips. He was selected amongst applicants from all fields of the arts as Artist in Residency at Allerton Park in 2022, where he developed and recorded 6 solo guitar pieces to be released as the Allerton Suite. In 2022 alone Jose performed in major cities such as New York, Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville and Cincinnati.
Jose's teaching experience includes two years as a Teaching Assistant in the Jazz Department at The University of Iowa, and two years at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He also worked for two years in the Latin American Studies Department at UIUC. He has been featured as a guest artist at Belmont University, Millikin University, Western Illinois University, University of Iowa, State University of Campinas (Brazil), and Federal University of Uberlandia (Brazil). Jose taught at Lincoln College, in Lincoln, IL, University of Illinois Springfield, and currently teaches at the Eastern Illinois University and the Arthur School District.
Jose Gobbo is a Brazilian jazz guitarist. He moved to Iowa City in 2011 to pursue his master's degree in Jazz Performance, and soon took a leadership role in the city`s musical scene. His debut album as a leader was released in 2013, titled “Zé“, featuring Brazilian legendary multi-instrumentalist Roberto Sion. Other activities during that time include: performances at the Iowa City Jazz Festival; International clarinet convention with Dr. Maurita Marx; John Rapson's recording of “The Night Sky and Turquoise Sea”.
Moving to Illinois in 2014, Jose kept a busy performance schedule while pursuing his doctoral degree, completed in 2020. He appears regularly with the Brad Wheeler Quartet and the Chip Stephens Organ Trio, which opened a Steely Dan concert and recorded the album "Transgressions" in 2019. In 2020 Jose co-founded The House Trio with Ben Taylor and Nikola Djokic, which performed 52 consecutive weekly live streams on their YouTube Channel, and recorded the album "Live From Home", featuring 10 of Jose's original compositions. Jose also performs with his UIUC mentors Chip McNeill, Tito Carrillo, Larry Gray, Jim Pugh and Ron Bridgewater.
In 2018, Jose was a finalist at Chicago's Luminarts Jazz Competition, winning popular vote, and was a semi-finalist at Milwaukee's Wilson Center Guitar Competition. He worked as producer and performer in two Brazilian Tours with Jim Pisano and Damani Phillips. He was selected amongst applicants from all fields of the arts as Artist in Residency at Allerton Park in 2022, where he developed and recorded 6 solo guitar pieces to be released as the Allerton Suite. In 2022 alone Jose performed in major cities such as New York, Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville and Cincinnati.
Jose's teaching experience includes two years as a Teaching Assistant in the Jazz Department at The University of Iowa, and two years at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He also worked for two years in the Latin American Studies Department at UIUC. He has been featured as a guest artist at Belmont University, Millikin University, Western Illinois University, University of Iowa, State University of Campinas (Brazil), and Federal University of Uberlandia (Brazil). Jose taught at Lincoln College, in Lincoln, IL, University of Illinois Springfield, and currently teaches at the Eastern Illinois University and the Arthur School District.