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 $8 Wells, $8 House Wines
Mondays: 9pm-Close $8 Cuba Libres, $12 Estrella & Shot of Lunazul Blanco
TONIGHT'S SHOWS
The Kelli Cox Collaborative
6:00pm-8:15pm, $15 at the door
Kelli Cox continues to be one of the most active musicians in Nashville and is bringing back her Collaborative for a fun show featuring some of Nashville's finest musicians. The sextet will play a wide variety of styles so there will be something for everyone. It will feature Mike Casteel on trumpet, Zach Tyler on tenor sax, Greg Cox on trombone, Danny O' Lannerty on bass, Jeff Lloyd on drums and Kelli Cox on piano. Come join us and get your groove on!!
Rudy's Jazz Jam
9:00pm-11:15pm, $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.
UPCOMING SHOWSFULL CALENDAR
Oct 5
Katie Blomarz-Kimball
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $15 at the door
2024 NIMA Award Winner for Best Jazz Instrumentalist, upright bassist Katie Blomarz-Kimball returns with her quintet to Rudy’s. Bringing influence from straight ahead to modern jazz, Katie will be featuring some of the best musicians in Nashville. Abigail Flowers on vocals, Evan Cobb on saxophone, Josh Karas on piano and Joshua Hunt on drums. She will be bringing a mix of originals and her arrangements to Rudy’s for a well rounded evening of music you don’t want to miss! October 5th, 6-8:15 PM
Katie Blomarz-Kimball - upright bass
Abigail Flowers - vocals
Evan Cobb- saxophone
Josh Karas - piano
Joshua Hunt - drums
Katie Blomarz-Kimball - upright bass
Abigail Flowers - vocals
Evan Cobb- saxophone
Josh Karas - piano
Joshua Hunt - drums
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.
Oct 7
Matt Twaddle Trio w/ Ric Fierabracci & Zach Dubay
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $15 at the door
Matt is an accomplished pianist, keyboard player, composer, arranger, producer and teacher whose work has spanned across a wide variety of genres to include Jazz, R&B/Soul, Rock, Pop, Country and Americana. Growing up in a musical family, Matt developed an interest for music at a very early age. His mother being a music educator, Matt began taking piano lessons at the age of 4. His affinity for music continued to grow throughout his childhood when he started working alongside his father, who owned a professional live sound company; it was from then onward where he was exposed to and met a lot of locally as well as nationally recognized musicians who inspired him to pursue music on his own. Around the age of 10, Matt developed a fascination with learning other instruments and began to pick up the guitar and french horn, as well as the bass and drums a few years later. Matt chose to stick with piano as his primary instrument when he went on to study jazz piano at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, under the instruction of renowned jazz educators Jeffrey Holmes and James Argiro. While attending UMass, Matt had the privilege of performing with the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Jazz Orchestra with guest conductor/vibraphonist Warren Wolf, where he had the opportunity to perform at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. In addition, he was a recipient of several Downbeat student awards to include the 2019 Downbeat Student Award for best Blues/Pop/Rock Soloist.
Upon graduation from UMass, Matt enlisted in the U.S. Army to become an Army Bandsman, serving as a member of and pianist for the 283rd Band at Fort Benning in Columbus, GA. During his time at Benning, Matt had the opportunity to perform as a solo pianist for the Commanding General and other high esteemed officers. He also led the Turning Blues Jazz Combo and served as a staff arranger for the band. While in the service, Matt was awarded The Colonel Finley R. Hamilton Outstanding Military Musician Award, the Army Achievement Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. Matt completed his active duty service in 2023, relocating to Nashville, TN to pursue his music career.
Since moving to Nashville, Matt has performed and collaborated with a wide variety of internationally recognized artists to include Fred Durst, Dennis Chambers, Jeff Coffin, Sofia Goodman, Grace Bowers, Moga Family Band, Altin Sencalar, Paul Hanson, Steve Leslie, Ambrosia, Brad Goode, The Downtown Band, and many others. Additionally, Matt has released 3 solo albums of original music under his name. Matt is also a founding member of the jazz fusion group Mr. Mayo which released their debut album “Food for Thought” in September of 2025.
Joining Matt is an all star lineup featuring legendary bassist Ric Fierabracci who has performed with the Chick Corea Elektric Band, Virgil Donati, Frank Gambale, Simon Phillips and many others, and up and coming drummer Zach Dubay. The performance will also feature 2 special guest appearances from Kent Crawley on guitar and Eric Wurzelbacher on tenor sax. The evening will feature a tasteful mix of original repertoire and arrangements ranging from Swing to Latin to Jazz Fusion.
Upon graduation from UMass, Matt enlisted in the U.S. Army to become an Army Bandsman, serving as a member of and pianist for the 283rd Band at Fort Benning in Columbus, GA. During his time at Benning, Matt had the opportunity to perform as a solo pianist for the Commanding General and other high esteemed officers. He also led the Turning Blues Jazz Combo and served as a staff arranger for the band. While in the service, Matt was awarded The Colonel Finley R. Hamilton Outstanding Military Musician Award, the Army Achievement Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. Matt completed his active duty service in 2023, relocating to Nashville, TN to pursue his music career.
Since moving to Nashville, Matt has performed and collaborated with a wide variety of internationally recognized artists to include Fred Durst, Dennis Chambers, Jeff Coffin, Sofia Goodman, Grace Bowers, Moga Family Band, Altin Sencalar, Paul Hanson, Steve Leslie, Ambrosia, Brad Goode, The Downtown Band, and many others. Additionally, Matt has released 3 solo albums of original music under his name. Matt is also a founding member of the jazz fusion group Mr. Mayo which released their debut album “Food for Thought” in September of 2025.
Joining Matt is an all star lineup featuring legendary bassist Ric Fierabracci who has performed with the Chick Corea Elektric Band, Virgil Donati, Frank Gambale, Simon Phillips and many others, and up and coming drummer Zach Dubay. The performance will also feature 2 special guest appearances from Kent Crawley on guitar and Eric Wurzelbacher on tenor sax. The evening will feature a tasteful mix of original repertoire and arrangements ranging from Swing to Latin to Jazz Fusion.
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!
Oct 8
Hot Club Happy Hour - Gypsy Jazz Thursdays
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $14 in advance, $15 at the door
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.
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.
Miguel Alvarado Triafia
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $14 at the door
Mark October 8 at 9pm on your calendar, because Miguel Alvarado is taking over the bandstand at Rudy’s Jazz Room, and he isn't coming to play it safe.
This isn't your granddaddy's quiet dinner jazz. Miguel Alvarado, anchored by his scorching saxophone work is an edgy, fiery force exploring a repertoire that is raw, unapologetic, uncompromising, and relentlessly adventurous. Rooted in rich Afro-Cuban fire and post-bop intensity, he pushes modern jazz to its absolute limits.
And while he burns down the stage, you can settle the eternal Rudy’s debate yourself: Are you coming for the stiff prohibition-era craft cocktails or the authentic NOLA crawfish grilled cheese and gumbo?
Warning: the 9pm set is strictly for those who want their live music uncut and dangerous.
Saxophonist Miguel Alvarado is a dynamic force in contemporary jazz whose artistry has been hailed as “an incendiary soloist of the highest order” by the Huffington Post. A native of Tampa, Florida, Alvarado began his professional music career at just thirteen years old, performing with R&B, Latin, and rock groups before immersing himself in the jazz tradition. He earned his degree from the University of North Florida and has since established himself as an acclaimed performer, composer, and educator, recognized for his commanding sound, inventive improvisation, and deep musicality.
Now based in Middle Tennessee, Alvarado is a leading voice on the regional jazz scene and serves as an adjunct professor at Middle Tennessee State University. His Nashville Industry Music Award for Jazz Performance coincided with the release of his critically acclaimed album Idile on Ear Up Records, further cementing his reputation as one of the area's most compelling artists. Beyond the stage, he is a dedicated educator whose students have earned recognition at major festivals and collegiate programs across the country. Most recently, Alvarado toured throughout South Africa with Standard Bank Artist of the Year Darren English as a member of his quintet. Whether performing original compositions or reimagining jazz classics, Miguel Alvarado brings a rare combination of virtuosity, passion, and creative energy that makes every performance unforgettable.
Miguel Alvarado - saxophone
Rob Linton - bass
Jordan Perlson - drums
This isn't your granddaddy's quiet dinner jazz. Miguel Alvarado, anchored by his scorching saxophone work is an edgy, fiery force exploring a repertoire that is raw, unapologetic, uncompromising, and relentlessly adventurous. Rooted in rich Afro-Cuban fire and post-bop intensity, he pushes modern jazz to its absolute limits.
And while he burns down the stage, you can settle the eternal Rudy’s debate yourself: Are you coming for the stiff prohibition-era craft cocktails or the authentic NOLA crawfish grilled cheese and gumbo?
Warning: the 9pm set is strictly for those who want their live music uncut and dangerous.
Saxophonist Miguel Alvarado is a dynamic force in contemporary jazz whose artistry has been hailed as “an incendiary soloist of the highest order” by the Huffington Post. A native of Tampa, Florida, Alvarado began his professional music career at just thirteen years old, performing with R&B, Latin, and rock groups before immersing himself in the jazz tradition. He earned his degree from the University of North Florida and has since established himself as an acclaimed performer, composer, and educator, recognized for his commanding sound, inventive improvisation, and deep musicality.
Now based in Middle Tennessee, Alvarado is a leading voice on the regional jazz scene and serves as an adjunct professor at Middle Tennessee State University. His Nashville Industry Music Award for Jazz Performance coincided with the release of his critically acclaimed album Idile on Ear Up Records, further cementing his reputation as one of the area's most compelling artists. Beyond the stage, he is a dedicated educator whose students have earned recognition at major festivals and collegiate programs across the country. Most recently, Alvarado toured throughout South Africa with Standard Bank Artist of the Year Darren English as a member of his quintet. Whether performing original compositions or reimagining jazz classics, Miguel Alvarado brings a rare combination of virtuosity, passion, and creative energy that makes every performance unforgettable.
Miguel Alvarado - saxophone
Rob Linton - bass
Jordan Perlson - drums
Oct 9
Guitar & B3 Night feat. Bob Sabellico & Kyle Lehning
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $14 in advance, $15 at the door
The Veteran guitarist Bob Sabellico, a master of multiple genres, has one of the most incredible musical origin stories. At just 16, on the outskirts of Philadelphia, he was called to replace the iconic Randy Bachman in The Guess Who, right as “American Woman” was skyrocketing up the charts. Since then, Sabellico has kept the music alive and evolving, touring with his bands and collaborating with legends like Dennis Chambers, Gerald Albright, Will Kennedy, Andy Snitzer, and Pat Martino. In the early 80s, he even helped pioneer the use of electronics and synths in live performances and recordings. You can find his albums Groove Station, Child’s Play, and Influence on all major streaming platforms. For more info go to bobsabellicomusic.com
Three-time Grammy winner Kyle Lehning is a seasoned figure in the Nashville music scene. His impressive discography reflects his enduring talent, production skills, and deep passion for music. Kyle has worked with a host of recognizable artists from his early collaborations with Waylon Jennings in the '70s to his extensive work with Randy Travis and recent projects featuring Kenny Rogers and Michael Feinstein. Beyond his studio expertise, he's also an accomplished jazz musician, showcasing his skills on the Hammond B3, influenced by legends like Jimmy Smith and Dr. Lonnie Smith. His jazz group, The Leonard Small Situation, has released four albums highlighting his musical influences.
Rounding out the band is Raymond Massey, a powerhouse drummer whose expertise has made him a cornerstone of the Nashville music scene. With years of experience in both live performances and studio recordings, Raymond’s versatile skill set spans across multiple genres, from Jazz to rock and everything in between. Known for his impeccable timing, creative fills, and dynamic range, Raymond has contributed to countless recording projects and is featured prominently on Bob's last two releases. When he's not on stage or in the studio, Raymond serves as the Director of R&D for Pearl Drums, where he shapes the future of percussion gear. His dedication to both his craft and the industry has cemented his reputation as one of the top drummers in the business.
Three-time Grammy winner Kyle Lehning is a seasoned figure in the Nashville music scene. His impressive discography reflects his enduring talent, production skills, and deep passion for music. Kyle has worked with a host of recognizable artists from his early collaborations with Waylon Jennings in the '70s to his extensive work with Randy Travis and recent projects featuring Kenny Rogers and Michael Feinstein. Beyond his studio expertise, he's also an accomplished jazz musician, showcasing his skills on the Hammond B3, influenced by legends like Jimmy Smith and Dr. Lonnie Smith. His jazz group, The Leonard Small Situation, has released four albums highlighting his musical influences.
Rounding out the band is Raymond Massey, a powerhouse drummer whose expertise has made him a cornerstone of the Nashville music scene. With years of experience in both live performances and studio recordings, Raymond’s versatile skill set spans across multiple genres, from Jazz to rock and everything in between. Known for his impeccable timing, creative fills, and dynamic range, Raymond has contributed to countless recording projects and is featured prominently on Bob's last two releases. When he's not on stage or in the studio, Raymond serves as the Director of R&D for Pearl Drums, where he shapes the future of percussion gear. His dedication to both his craft and the industry has cemented his reputation as one of the top drummers in the business.
Pat Coil's "Music For Humans" feat. Pat Bergeson, Evan Cobb, Adam Nitti & Wes Little
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $21 in advance, $22 at the door
Pianist Pat Coil has toured Japan, South America, Europe and the U.S. with such artists as Michael McDonald, Carmen McCrae, Olivia Newton John, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Woody Herman and many others. Pat has recorded with many artists including Natalie Cole, Trisha Yearwood, Ernie Watts, Carmen McCrae, BeBe & CeCe Winans, Kenny Rogers, Travis Tritt, Peter Cetera, Woody Herman, Scott Henderson, and Michael McDonald.
During his L.A. years, Pat played on many movie and TV scores, including Star Trek - Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Murphy Brown, Dionne Warwick & Friends, Growing Pains, Major Dad, Spencer For Hire, The Grammy Awards and many more. He played for various artists on the Tonight Show, Arsenio Hall, & Conan O’Brien. Living now in Nashville TN, Pat continues his successful career composing, recording, performing, producing, arranging and teaching. He has composed, produced and performed on hundreds of underscores heard on a variety of media all over the world. Pat taught jazz piano, combos, and improvisation at Middle Tennessee State University, and was an Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at the University Of North Texas.
Pat has recorded six solo jazz albums of his own, the third one being a collaboration with Lyle Mays. “True North” and his new album “Birdhouse” are available at patcoil.com, cdbaby.com and I-Tunes. Pat currently tours with Michael McDonald and Lynda Carter. He also makes numerous appearances with his own group. Pat has a new release of his original music, “Music For Humans...and Other Species”. For more information, please visit patcoil.com.
Guitarist and harmonica player Pat Bergeson grew up in Batavia, Illinois, studied music at the University of Illinois and jazz at William Paterson University, and spent ten years honing his craft in New York City before Chet Atkins brought him to Nashville in the early 1990s after hearing him on a demo tape. Bergeson went on to record and tour with Atkins and was featured on projects including Sneakin’ Around with Jerry Reed and Read My Licks. Equally accomplished on guitar and both diatonic and chromatic harmonica, Bergeson has built a remarkably diverse career spanning jazz, blues, country, soul and pop, performing and recording with artists including Lyle Lovett, Dolly Parton, Alison Krauss, Michael McDonald, Tommy Emmanuel, Bill Frisell, Joey DeFrancesco, Benny Golson, Madeleine Peyroux, Suzy Bogguss, Peter Frampton and many others. He has also toured extensively with Lyle Lovett’s Large Band and Madeleine Peyroux and remains one of Nashville’s most versatile and respected instrumentalists.
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.
Nashville-based Adam Nitti balances his roles as a solo artist, sideman, and educator. He has filled the bass chair for Kenny Loggins, Carrie Underwood, Dave Weckl Band, Michael McDonald, Susan Tedeschi, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mike Stern, Brent Mason, Wayne Krantz, and Christopher Cross, while also releasing five solo CDs to date. As a Nashville session bassist he has played on multiple Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated albums, and is also the founder of AdamNittiMusicEducation.com.
Wes Little is one of Nashville’s most adaptable and multi-faceted drummers, as well as a top flight arranger, producer and songwriter. Formally trained in performance and composition at the Manhattan School of Music and shaped by years of studio and stage work with major acts from across the spectrum, Little brings complete musicality to every kind of gig. Currently a first call session drummer in Nashville, Little has also performed or recorded with Chuck D, Stevie Wonder, Sting, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, John Legend, Melissa Etheridge, Robben Ford, Michael and Randy Brecker, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. He works in Nashville, where he lives and records daily in the studio.
During his L.A. years, Pat played on many movie and TV scores, including Star Trek - Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Murphy Brown, Dionne Warwick & Friends, Growing Pains, Major Dad, Spencer For Hire, The Grammy Awards and many more. He played for various artists on the Tonight Show, Arsenio Hall, & Conan O’Brien. Living now in Nashville TN, Pat continues his successful career composing, recording, performing, producing, arranging and teaching. He has composed, produced and performed on hundreds of underscores heard on a variety of media all over the world. Pat taught jazz piano, combos, and improvisation at Middle Tennessee State University, and was an Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at the University Of North Texas.
Pat has recorded six solo jazz albums of his own, the third one being a collaboration with Lyle Mays. “True North” and his new album “Birdhouse” are available at patcoil.com, cdbaby.com and I-Tunes. Pat currently tours with Michael McDonald and Lynda Carter. He also makes numerous appearances with his own group. Pat has a new release of his original music, “Music For Humans...and Other Species”. For more information, please visit patcoil.com.
Guitarist and harmonica player Pat Bergeson grew up in Batavia, Illinois, studied music at the University of Illinois and jazz at William Paterson University, and spent ten years honing his craft in New York City before Chet Atkins brought him to Nashville in the early 1990s after hearing him on a demo tape. Bergeson went on to record and tour with Atkins and was featured on projects including Sneakin’ Around with Jerry Reed and Read My Licks. Equally accomplished on guitar and both diatonic and chromatic harmonica, Bergeson has built a remarkably diverse career spanning jazz, blues, country, soul and pop, performing and recording with artists including Lyle Lovett, Dolly Parton, Alison Krauss, Michael McDonald, Tommy Emmanuel, Bill Frisell, Joey DeFrancesco, Benny Golson, Madeleine Peyroux, Suzy Bogguss, Peter Frampton and many others. He has also toured extensively with Lyle Lovett’s Large Band and Madeleine Peyroux and remains one of Nashville’s most versatile and respected instrumentalists.
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.
Nashville-based Adam Nitti balances his roles as a solo artist, sideman, and educator. He has filled the bass chair for Kenny Loggins, Carrie Underwood, Dave Weckl Band, Michael McDonald, Susan Tedeschi, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mike Stern, Brent Mason, Wayne Krantz, and Christopher Cross, while also releasing five solo CDs to date. As a Nashville session bassist he has played on multiple Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated albums, and is also the founder of AdamNittiMusicEducation.com.
Wes Little is one of Nashville’s most adaptable and multi-faceted drummers, as well as a top flight arranger, producer and songwriter. Formally trained in performance and composition at the Manhattan School of Music and shaped by years of studio and stage work with major acts from across the spectrum, Little brings complete musicality to every kind of gig. Currently a first call session drummer in Nashville, Little has also performed or recorded with Chuck D, Stevie Wonder, Sting, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, John Legend, Melissa Etheridge, Robben Ford, Michael and Randy Brecker, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. He works in Nashville, where he lives and records daily in the studio.
Miles Damaso Trio
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Miles Damaso is a percussionist, music educator, and composer-arranger based out of Nashville, Tennessee. In addition to leading his own group, he recently has been the drummer for the Hickey-Shanafelt 9ollective and the J.C. Clements Band. Miles also frequently performs with groups throughout the south and midwest playing a wide variety of music. He's had the chance to perform at world renowned venues, such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Lincoln Center, and alongside great musicians including Clayton Anderson, Joel Frahm, Emmet Cohen, Yasushi Nakamura, Heather French Henry (Miss America 2000), Pat Coil, Charlie Ballantine, John Raymond, Greg Ward, Frank Glover, Mark Buselli, and Kevin Burt
Miles is privileged to have had won numerous awards, including the NYJE Composition Contest twice, which aims to promoting the creation of new, fun, and educational jazz big band music. Miles has also been given the Austin B. Caswell Award, given annually to the best undergraduate music history project at Indiana University, as well as the Outstanding Instrumentalist Award at Kirkwood Community College.
Having recently completed a MM degree at Middle Tennessee State University and BM degree at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Miles is continuing a full-time career composing, performing, and privately teaching in the Nashville area.
Miles is privileged to have had won numerous awards, including the NYJE Composition Contest twice, which aims to promoting the creation of new, fun, and educational jazz big band music. Miles has also been given the Austin B. Caswell Award, given annually to the best undergraduate music history project at Indiana University, as well as the Outstanding Instrumentalist Award at Kirkwood Community College.
Having recently completed a MM degree at Middle Tennessee State University and BM degree at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Miles is continuing a full-time career composing, performing, and privately teaching in the Nashville area.
Oct 10
Dolly Tribute Show
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $30 in advance, $35 at the door
Please join us for a very special night at Rudy’s Jazz Room honoring and celebrating the music, life, and legacy of Dolly Parton.
From her childhood in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee to her arrival in Nashville in 1964, Dolly’s story has become an inseparable part of Tennessee music history. Over the decades, songs like “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “9 to 5” have made her one of the most beloved songwriters and performers in American music, while her generosity and philanthropy have made her legacy extend far beyond the stage.
Dolly also holds a special place in the history of Rudy’s Jazz Room. In 2021, Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire chose Rudy’s as the setting for the music video for their duet of “Does He Love You.” During the filming, both Dolly and Reba were every bit as warm, gracious, humble, and down-to-earth as people have long known them to be, and we remain deeply honored that they chose Rudy’s to be part of that special moment.
That history makes this celebration especially meaningful as a group of Nashville musicians gathers in the same room to pay tribute to Dolly and her extraordinary catalog.
The evening will feature local artists including Crystal Miller, Sarah Jane Nelson, Wendy Burns, Dallas Starke, Marc Payne, Courtney Boyd, Pat Bergeson, Jacob Jezioro and Shannon Schneeberger, along with Dolly-inspired drink specials and Dolly Bingo.
Come celebrate the songs, stories, and spirit of Dolly Parton at Rudy’s Jazz Room, where we are honored to have played a small part in her Nashville story.
$5 from every ticket sold will be donated to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
* No passes or memberships for this show
From her childhood in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee to her arrival in Nashville in 1964, Dolly’s story has become an inseparable part of Tennessee music history. Over the decades, songs like “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “9 to 5” have made her one of the most beloved songwriters and performers in American music, while her generosity and philanthropy have made her legacy extend far beyond the stage.
Dolly also holds a special place in the history of Rudy’s Jazz Room. In 2021, Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire chose Rudy’s as the setting for the music video for their duet of “Does He Love You.” During the filming, both Dolly and Reba were every bit as warm, gracious, humble, and down-to-earth as people have long known them to be, and we remain deeply honored that they chose Rudy’s to be part of that special moment.
That history makes this celebration especially meaningful as a group of Nashville musicians gathers in the same room to pay tribute to Dolly and her extraordinary catalog.
The evening will feature local artists including Crystal Miller, Sarah Jane Nelson, Wendy Burns, Dallas Starke, Marc Payne, Courtney Boyd, Pat Bergeson, Jacob Jezioro and Shannon Schneeberger, along with Dolly-inspired drink specials and Dolly Bingo.
Come celebrate the songs, stories, and spirit of Dolly Parton at Rudy’s Jazz Room, where we are honored to have played a small part in her Nashville story.
$5 from every ticket sold will be donated to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
* No passes or memberships for this show
Don Aliquo Quartet w/ Marc Payne, Jack Aylor & Ryan Brasley
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $20 in advance, $21 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.
He has played or recorded with many notable artists including Rufus Reid, Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Jim McNeely and Obed Calvaire. Don has been described as a "fluid and articulate player with a flow of always surprising ideas complete with a dexterous technique and an incredibly smooth tenor sound." His most recent cd release (The Innocence of Spring) was recorded live with pianist Michael Jefry Stevens at Hinton Hall on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University where Aliquo is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies.
Rounding out the rhythm section is pianist Marc Payne, Jack Aylor on bass & Ryan Brasley on drums
“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.
He has played or recorded with many notable artists including Rufus Reid, Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Jim McNeely and Obed Calvaire. Don has been described as a "fluid and articulate player with a flow of always surprising ideas complete with a dexterous technique and an incredibly smooth tenor sound." His most recent cd release (The Innocence of Spring) was recorded live with pianist Michael Jefry Stevens at Hinton Hall on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University where Aliquo is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies.
Rounding out the rhythm section is pianist Marc Payne, Jack Aylor on bass & Ryan Brasley on drums
The Jason Johnson Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Nashville-native saxophonist, woodwind doubler, and composer Jason Johnson grew up immersed in the city's rich tapestry of sounds, and now he is quickly becoming one of the most promising and versatile young voices in the Nashville scene. Throughout high school, Jason studied under the incredible Nashville saxophonist Evan Cobb before continuing to his studies at Vanderbilt University, now studying jazz performance and composition under legendary Saxophonist Jeff Coffin.
Through Vanderbilt, he has had the rare privilege of brushing paths with some of the most celebrated names in jazz, including Sean Jones, Brian Blade, Ignacio Berroa, The New York Voices, Ari Hoenig, John Batiste, and many more. He has also recently been named a semi-finalist in the 2026 Yamaha Young Artists Competition.
Jason Johnson - saxophone
Eli Ibrahim - piano
Joe Bonvissuto - bass
Miles Buchmann - drums
Through Vanderbilt, he has had the rare privilege of brushing paths with some of the most celebrated names in jazz, including Sean Jones, Brian Blade, Ignacio Berroa, The New York Voices, Ari Hoenig, John Batiste, and many more. He has also recently been named a semi-finalist in the 2026 Yamaha Young Artists Competition.
Jason Johnson - saxophone
Eli Ibrahim - piano
Joe Bonvissuto - bass
Miles Buchmann - drums
Oct 11
Jimmy Sullivan's Swingin' Scene
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 in advance, $14 at the door
Experience electrifying, hard-swinging jazz led by one of Nashville's most exciting bassists. Nashville’s own Jimmy Sullivan has been captivating audiences for years with his bi-monthly residency at Rudy’s Jazz Room! Born and raised in Reston Virginia, Jimmy studied jazz performance at Virginia Commonwealth University and spent years in New York City before making his mark in Nashville. Blending East Coast jazz and Southern soul, he's earned his spot as one of the Music City's premier bassists.
A versatile powerhouse, Jimmy has shared the stage with top-tier jazz talents like Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Joel Frahm, and Alyssa Allgood. His musicality and feel have also caught the ears of country and Americana legends including Lee Ann Womack, Mark Collie and Ashley Campbell. He's also known for his work with the genre-blending jazz collective Postmodern Jukebox.
Backed by a rotating cast of world-renowned musicians, Jimmy leads a show that's as musically rich as it is joyfully unpredictable. Whether wowing the room with his solos, stepping out front to sing, or keeping the crowd laughing with his off-the-cuff charm, Jimmy’s presence is always inspired — and always worth the listen. Don’t miss the chance to catch one of the most entertaining and swinging shows Nashville has to offer.
A versatile powerhouse, Jimmy has shared the stage with top-tier jazz talents like Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Joel Frahm, and Alyssa Allgood. His musicality and feel have also caught the ears of country and Americana legends including Lee Ann Womack, Mark Collie and Ashley Campbell. He's also known for his work with the genre-blending jazz collective Postmodern Jukebox.
Backed by a rotating cast of world-renowned musicians, Jimmy leads a show that's as musically rich as it is joyfully unpredictable. Whether wowing the room with his solos, stepping out front to sing, or keeping the crowd laughing with his off-the-cuff charm, Jimmy’s presence is always inspired — and always worth the listen. Don’t miss the chance to catch one of the most entertaining and swinging shows Nashville has to offer.
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.