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
Walters, Sutton, Wyatt & Raudabaugh
5:30pm-7:15pm, $15 in advance, $16 at the door
Bassist Brook Sutton leads an all-star quartet featuring pianist Chris Walters, guitarist Zander Wyatt, and drummer Mark Raudabaugh. Drawing on backgrounds in jazz, New Orleans music, blues, Americana, and funk, the group brings together four versatile musicians whose shared approach emphasizes listening, interaction, and spontaneous improvisation.
Collectively, the quartet's members have performed, recorded, or toured with artists including The Wood Brothers, Alabama, Barbara Mandrell, J.D. Souther, Béla Fleck, Jeff Coffin, Sierra Hull, Marcus King, Oliver Wood, Joe Henry, Seth Walker, Larry Fleet, Lady A, Pam Tillis, John Michael Montgomery, Robert Randolph, Sam Bush, Zac Brown, Keller Williams, Peter Rowan, Jim Lauderdale, and many others.
Louisiana native Brook Sutton is a Nashville-based bassist, producer, engineer, and musical director whose work spans jazz, New Orleans music, Americana, and blues. He has performed, produced, and recorded with artists including The Wood Brothers, Joe Henry, Oliver Wood, Steve Poltz, Seth Walker, Cristina Vane, and Brigitte DeMeyer. Brook is also the founder of Rougarou Brass Band and curator of Rudy's Hot Club Happy Hour series.
Originally from New Orleans, Chris Walters is one of Nashville's most respected pianists. His career includes serving as Music Director for Barbara Mandrell and J.D. Souther, touring with Alabama, performing with the Alison Brown Quartet, Jeff Coffin Mu'tet, the Peter Mayer Group, and the Nashville Symphony, and recording with Béla Fleck.
Mark Raudabaugh is one of Nashville's most in-demand drummers, known for his versatility and musical sensitivity. He has performed with Sierra Hull, Marcus King, Oliver Wood, Jeff Coffin, Peter Rowan, Jim Lauderdale, Seth Walker, Lee Fields, Béla Fleck, Sam Bush, Robert Randolph, Zac Brown, Keller Williams, and many others.
A third-generation Nashville musician, guitarist Zander Wyatt has quickly established himself as one of the city's rising jazz talents. In addition to touring with country artist Larry Fleet, he has performed with Lady A, Pam Tillis, John Michael Montgomery, and The Gypsy Hombres, bringing a modern voice and inventive approach to both jazz and contemporary music.
Collectively, the quartet's members have performed, recorded, or toured with artists including The Wood Brothers, Alabama, Barbara Mandrell, J.D. Souther, Béla Fleck, Jeff Coffin, Sierra Hull, Marcus King, Oliver Wood, Joe Henry, Seth Walker, Larry Fleet, Lady A, Pam Tillis, John Michael Montgomery, Robert Randolph, Sam Bush, Zac Brown, Keller Williams, Peter Rowan, Jim Lauderdale, and many others.
Louisiana native Brook Sutton is a Nashville-based bassist, producer, engineer, and musical director whose work spans jazz, New Orleans music, Americana, and blues. He has performed, produced, and recorded with artists including The Wood Brothers, Joe Henry, Oliver Wood, Steve Poltz, Seth Walker, Cristina Vane, and Brigitte DeMeyer. Brook is also the founder of Rougarou Brass Band and curator of Rudy's Hot Club Happy Hour series.
Originally from New Orleans, Chris Walters is one of Nashville's most respected pianists. His career includes serving as Music Director for Barbara Mandrell and J.D. Souther, touring with Alabama, performing with the Alison Brown Quartet, Jeff Coffin Mu'tet, the Peter Mayer Group, and the Nashville Symphony, and recording with Béla Fleck.
Mark Raudabaugh is one of Nashville's most in-demand drummers, known for his versatility and musical sensitivity. He has performed with Sierra Hull, Marcus King, Oliver Wood, Jeff Coffin, Peter Rowan, Jim Lauderdale, Seth Walker, Lee Fields, Béla Fleck, Sam Bush, Robert Randolph, Zac Brown, Keller Williams, and many others.
A third-generation Nashville musician, guitarist Zander Wyatt has quickly established himself as one of the city's rising jazz talents. In addition to touring with country artist Larry Fleet, he has performed with Lady A, Pam Tillis, John Michael Montgomery, and The Gypsy Hombres, bringing a modern voice and inventive approach to both jazz and contemporary music.
Bruce Dudley "We're In This Together" feat.Liz Johnson, Christina Watson & Joe Freel
8:00pm-10:15pm, $22 in advance, $25 at the door
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.
"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
"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
Christina Watson is a Nashville-based vocalist and educator. Since graduating with honors from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts (2001), she has released 4 albums as a leader. Her most recent album of jazz standards is entitled “So This is Love” and features Grammy winner Jeff Coffin on saxophone, Lori Mechem on piano, Roger Spencer on bass, and Duffy Jackson on drums. She has appeared as a guest artist on numerous recording projects, including the Nashville Jazz Orchestra’s acclaimed Gershwin CD, “It Ain’t Necessarily So.” Christina was nominated by the Nashville Industry Music Awards as 2018 Best Jazz Vocalist. She sings soprano in the 4-person vocal jazz group Third Coast Vocals, which released its debut album in 2011. She currently performs at concerts and private events with her jazz trio. Christina teaches private voice lessons at her home studio and online. Christina was on the faculty at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music from 2016 until 2021, where she served as Professor of Jazz Voice and Director of the Blair Jazz Choir. She is on the faculty at The Nashville Jazz Workshop (2008-present). Between 2008 and 2019, she directed a community a cappella group called The Nashville Belles, comprised of women of all ages and backgrounds who performed concerts around the Nashville area. In addition to having graduated from Berklee, Christina holds a Bachelor of Arts (French major) from Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, (1995) and a Master of Arts in French Literature from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1998).
Liz Johnson, is a Nashville based jazz artist, vocologist, and voice teacher. She is a veteran performer and educator of over 20 years, holding appointments as jazz faculty at places like Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music and the Nashville Jazz Workshop. One of Johnson's passions is improvisation, which she discovered through playing alto saxophone in her early years. She also composes and records original music. In her voice habilitation practice she helps people all over the world by blending training in psychology, jazz, and voice science.
Vocalist and music educator Joe Freel has dedicated his life to the pursuit of excellence in vocal performance. His energetic but soothing vocal delivery, punctuated with a candid sense of humor both on and off stage, create long remembered performances. Freel’s primary vocal influences are Al Jarreau, Mark Murphy, Jimmy Scott and Tony Bennett. His personal sound is a unique blend of jazz, pop and intimate speech level singing, focusing on the power of great lyrics to communicate our deepest human emotions. Freel’s album titled All This Love, co-produced by two of Nashville’s finest jazz musicians Roger Spencer and Lori Mechem,features exciting jazz arrangements of classic pop love songs and fresh covers of jazz standards and was nominated for the 2017 NIMA awards for Best Jazz Album. Freel was also nominated in 2017 by NIMA as Best Jazz Vocalist.
"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
"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
Christina Watson is a Nashville-based vocalist and educator. Since graduating with honors from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts (2001), she has released 4 albums as a leader. Her most recent album of jazz standards is entitled “So This is Love” and features Grammy winner Jeff Coffin on saxophone, Lori Mechem on piano, Roger Spencer on bass, and Duffy Jackson on drums. She has appeared as a guest artist on numerous recording projects, including the Nashville Jazz Orchestra’s acclaimed Gershwin CD, “It Ain’t Necessarily So.” Christina was nominated by the Nashville Industry Music Awards as 2018 Best Jazz Vocalist. She sings soprano in the 4-person vocal jazz group Third Coast Vocals, which released its debut album in 2011. She currently performs at concerts and private events with her jazz trio. Christina teaches private voice lessons at her home studio and online. Christina was on the faculty at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music from 2016 until 2021, where she served as Professor of Jazz Voice and Director of the Blair Jazz Choir. She is on the faculty at The Nashville Jazz Workshop (2008-present). Between 2008 and 2019, she directed a community a cappella group called The Nashville Belles, comprised of women of all ages and backgrounds who performed concerts around the Nashville area. In addition to having graduated from Berklee, Christina holds a Bachelor of Arts (French major) from Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, (1995) and a Master of Arts in French Literature from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1998).
Liz Johnson, is a Nashville based jazz artist, vocologist, and voice teacher. She is a veteran performer and educator of over 20 years, holding appointments as jazz faculty at places like Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music and the Nashville Jazz Workshop. One of Johnson's passions is improvisation, which she discovered through playing alto saxophone in her early years. She also composes and records original music. In her voice habilitation practice she helps people all over the world by blending training in psychology, jazz, and voice science.
Vocalist and music educator Joe Freel has dedicated his life to the pursuit of excellence in vocal performance. His energetic but soothing vocal delivery, punctuated with a candid sense of humor both on and off stage, create long remembered performances. Freel’s primary vocal influences are Al Jarreau, Mark Murphy, Jimmy Scott and Tony Bennett. His personal sound is a unique blend of jazz, pop and intimate speech level singing, focusing on the power of great lyrics to communicate our deepest human emotions. Freel’s album titled All This Love, co-produced by two of Nashville’s finest jazz musicians Roger Spencer and Lori Mechem,features exciting jazz arrangements of classic pop love songs and fresh covers of jazz standards and was nominated for the 2017 NIMA awards for Best Jazz Album. Freel was also nominated in 2017 by NIMA as Best Jazz Vocalist.
Don Aliquo and the "Feel Good Trio"
11:00pm-1:00am, $10 at the door
Saxophonist Don Aliquo continues to be one of the most active artists in the region and beyond. Don Aliquo on saxophone, Charles Treadway on organ and Chris Brown on drums. The "Feel Good Trio" will be performing classic tenor saxophone/organ trio pieces from the likes of Stanly Turrentine, Shirley Scott, Jimmy Smith and Groove Holmes. The event promises to groove hard and be a romp through some favoritews of jazz musicians and listeners alike.
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.
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.
UPCOMING SHOWSFULL CALENDAR
Aug 2
Jimmy Sullivan's Swingin' Scene
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 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.
Aug 3
Daniel Kuk Quartet
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Daniel Kuk is a young, up-and-coming pianist who has lived in Nashville for most of his life. Starting at a young age, music has always been a part of his life, and having a musical family led him to his love for playing a few different instruments. But the piano was his primary passion, along with his love for composing and arranging. Daniel played extensively in school and learn from some of the great local pianists, such as Rick Jackson, Pat Coil, Lori Mecham, Jon Cowherd, etc. He has also played with musicians such as Jeff Hamilton, Dave Potter, Don Aliquo, Joel Frahm, Tamir Helndelman, etc.
Daniel's influences come from great pianists such as Bud Powell, Bill Evans and Mccoy Tyner, and he plays a varied set of styles in his music, with many of his his own compositions and arrangements. Daniel plays around Nashville at various venues, featuring different iterations of his trio/quartet.
Daniel Kuk - piano
Baily Johnstone - bass
Marlon Patton - drums
Dan Hitchcock - saxophone
Daniel's influences come from great pianists such as Bud Powell, Bill Evans and Mccoy Tyner, and he plays a varied set of styles in his music, with many of his his own compositions and arrangements. Daniel plays around Nashville at various venues, featuring different iterations of his trio/quartet.
Daniel Kuk - piano
Baily Johnstone - bass
Marlon Patton - drums
Dan Hitchcock - saxophone
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.
Aug 5
Jody Nardone Trio
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $14 in advance, $15 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
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!
Aug 6
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.
Rougarou 7-Piece New Orleans Brass Band
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 in advance, $17 at the door
The French Quarter landed in the Gulch and it's a party on the 1st & 3rd Thursday every month 9pm at Rudy's with the Rougarou 7-piece New Orleans brass band! Nashville's only dedicated brass band night for New Orleans music.
The Rougarou Brass Band is a Nashville-based, New Orleans–inspired ensemble built around a rotating lineup of some of the city’s most in-demand musicians. Founded and led by Brook Sutton (bass, sousaphone, tuba) and Chris Walters (piano, musical direction), the group blends the deep traditions of New Orleans brass music with a flexible, modern approach to instrumentation and performance.
At the heart of the crew, you’ll catch Jérôme Degey (guitar) laying down some swampy grease, Chris Brown (drums) second-lining like he’s born to it, Andrew Carney (trumpet) with bright, brassy fire, Josh Scalf (trombone) sliding and growling in the pocket, and Chris West (saxophone) testifying on the horn. Together, they cook up a sound that is like a second line rolling down Frenchmen Street—loose, loud, and built to move.
Rougarou isn’t a stiff, stand-still outfit—it’s a living, breathing krewe. Some nights it’s a lean street-band setup with the tuba booming and the drums cracking, other nights it stretches out with a full stage presence. Either way, it’s all about the groove, that sweat, and that feeling you get when the band hits just right and the whole room (or street) starts moving together.
Freezer Sazerac drink specials, red beans and rice, gumbo and shrimp po-boys and other New Orleans fare! Service industry workers show any documentation or evidence online of your employer at the door for our 1/2 price SIN door ticket discount and 1/2 price draft beer!
The Rougarou Brass Band is a Nashville-based, New Orleans–inspired ensemble built around a rotating lineup of some of the city’s most in-demand musicians. Founded and led by Brook Sutton (bass, sousaphone, tuba) and Chris Walters (piano, musical direction), the group blends the deep traditions of New Orleans brass music with a flexible, modern approach to instrumentation and performance.
At the heart of the crew, you’ll catch Jérôme Degey (guitar) laying down some swampy grease, Chris Brown (drums) second-lining like he’s born to it, Andrew Carney (trumpet) with bright, brassy fire, Josh Scalf (trombone) sliding and growling in the pocket, and Chris West (saxophone) testifying on the horn. Together, they cook up a sound that is like a second line rolling down Frenchmen Street—loose, loud, and built to move.
Rougarou isn’t a stiff, stand-still outfit—it’s a living, breathing krewe. Some nights it’s a lean street-band setup with the tuba booming and the drums cracking, other nights it stretches out with a full stage presence. Either way, it’s all about the groove, that sweat, and that feeling you get when the band hits just right and the whole room (or street) starts moving together.
Freezer Sazerac drink specials, red beans and rice, gumbo and shrimp po-boys and other New Orleans fare! Service industry workers show any documentation or evidence online of your employer at the door for our 1/2 price SIN door ticket discount and 1/2 price draft beer!
Aug 7
Pat Bergeson Organ Trio feat.Charles Treadway
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $15 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.
Charles Treadway is considered the top organist in Nashville. He has played with the finest jazz and blues musicians and beyond in various settings and is reminiscent of Jimmy Smith, Joey DeFrancesco, Jimmy McGriff, and other greats.
Charles Treadway is considered the top organist in Nashville. He has played with the finest jazz and blues musicians and beyond in various settings and is reminiscent of Jimmy Smith, Joey DeFrancesco, Jimmy McGriff, and other greats.
Andy Reiss & Joe Settlemires Quartet
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $21 in advance, $23 at the door
Andy Reiss
Guitarist Andy Reiss has now been an active member of the Nashville community for more than 35 years. He left his hometown of San Francisco to pursue his passion for music as a career in 1980. He was brought up in a household listening to mainly traditional classical music (he even has an ancestor that was a German composer and guitarist in the 1700s!) He began his formal music education with the piano at age 7, moving to the guitar at 10. Being lucky enough to have grown up in in San Francisco during the 1960s, he would forever be influenced by the thriving music scene of the time. Some of the many concerts that were complete eye-opening experiences were B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, and of course, pyschedelic luminaries such as The Grateful Dead and The Jefferson Airplane. This is also when he discovered jazz, and his guitar work became heavily influenced by greats such as Charlie Christian, Joe Pass, and Kenny Burrell.
After arriving in Nashville, he was fortunate enough to have two influential A-Team advocates, the legendary producer and steel guitarist Pete Drake, and the visionary Harold Bradley, the guitarist who, along with his brother Owen, built the first recording studio on Nashville’s Music Row, and served as a long time President of the local Musician’s Union. Andy’s first recording session was for the actor Slim Pickens, a session that was an overwhelming initiation, involving many A-Team pickers such as Drake, Charlie McCoy, Bob Moore, Pete Wade, Pig Robbins and the Jordanaires.
He has since become a studio mainstay, playing on hundreds of records, with artists including Miranda Lambert, John Oates, Amy Grant, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers and Leon Russell. Returning to his early jazz influences, he also has recorded with many jazz greats, including Pete Christlieb, Beegee Adair, Benny Golson, and as a member of “Bad Rhythm“, an exciting trio with drummer Danny Coots and pianist Brian Holland. He has also toured extensively with both the legendary Slim Whitman and Reba McEntire, and is a member of the Time Jumpers, a Western Swing Super Group on Rounder Records. The Time Jumpers have enjoyed a 20 year Monday night residency at various night clubs in Nashville, and have been nominated for six Grammy awards, winning one in 2017, for Roots Song of the Year. The band has also toured internationally, playing venues as diverse as Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa and Carnegie Hall.
Andy has also “given back” to the community with a leadership role in the Nashville Musician’s Association, and as an educator with the Nashville Jazz Workshop and other venues.
Joe Settlemires
Joe Settlemires is one of Oklahoma’s most prolific and celebrated musicians. Joe began playing guitar professionally at the age of 14. He began his career in local bars around the Oklahoma City Stockyards and by 15 years old, you would find Joe on the road with the Ozark Jubilee band.
Joe landed one of country music’s most prestigious gigs, playing with the legendary Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, at the age of 19 when friend and regular guitarist Tag Lambert fell ill with pneumonia and couldn’t go out on the road. At Lambert’s suggestion, the Playboys’ tour bus rolled into Guthrie to pick up the young string slinger and the rest, as they say, is history as Settlemires became known as “The Youngest Texas Playboy.”
In the years that followed, Settlemires played with a “Who’s Who” of country music legends including Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, Red Foley, Tex Ritter and many others. When not playing country, Joe would be playing in the jazz clubs.
Joe is known across the world for his jazz expertise and is currently restoring a recording of Joe Settlemires and Joe Pass, 1966, to be released in the future. He has also worked with Howard Roberts, Harold Bradley, Pat Martino, Chester Thompson (Tower of Power), Jamie Aebersold, Marian McPartland, Della Reese, Frankie Lane, Bob Hope, Rosemary Clooney, Ray McKinley Band, and many others. Joe was also guest artist with the Oklahoma City Symphony.
Though he is well known for his technical prowess on the guitar, Joe is the complete musician, having written arrangements for thousands of songs and passed his musical legacy along to hundreds of aspiring guitar players down through the years through private instruction. Joes students have gone on to play with musicians and groups like Merle Haggard, George Strait, Neil Diamond, Restless Heart, the Judds, Charlie Hall, Hayes Carll and others.
Joe Settlemires has recorded two jazz albums, Canadian Sunset and Sugarfoot Rag. Sugarfoot Rag was nominated for two Grammy awards in 2008. Joe and Andy Reiss are currently completing their album to be released in the near future. The western swing albums are Remember Me and Northfield Swing which features Hank Adam Locklin.
Settlemires’ unmistakable contribution to American music has been recognized by 9 halls of fame across the country and in 2006, the Oklahoma State Legislature recognized him for his 50 years of contribution and dedication to both the Oklahoma music industry and music education in the private and public sector.
Guitarist Andy Reiss has now been an active member of the Nashville community for more than 35 years. He left his hometown of San Francisco to pursue his passion for music as a career in 1980. He was brought up in a household listening to mainly traditional classical music (he even has an ancestor that was a German composer and guitarist in the 1700s!) He began his formal music education with the piano at age 7, moving to the guitar at 10. Being lucky enough to have grown up in in San Francisco during the 1960s, he would forever be influenced by the thriving music scene of the time. Some of the many concerts that were complete eye-opening experiences were B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, and of course, pyschedelic luminaries such as The Grateful Dead and The Jefferson Airplane. This is also when he discovered jazz, and his guitar work became heavily influenced by greats such as Charlie Christian, Joe Pass, and Kenny Burrell.
After arriving in Nashville, he was fortunate enough to have two influential A-Team advocates, the legendary producer and steel guitarist Pete Drake, and the visionary Harold Bradley, the guitarist who, along with his brother Owen, built the first recording studio on Nashville’s Music Row, and served as a long time President of the local Musician’s Union. Andy’s first recording session was for the actor Slim Pickens, a session that was an overwhelming initiation, involving many A-Team pickers such as Drake, Charlie McCoy, Bob Moore, Pete Wade, Pig Robbins and the Jordanaires.
He has since become a studio mainstay, playing on hundreds of records, with artists including Miranda Lambert, John Oates, Amy Grant, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers and Leon Russell. Returning to his early jazz influences, he also has recorded with many jazz greats, including Pete Christlieb, Beegee Adair, Benny Golson, and as a member of “Bad Rhythm“, an exciting trio with drummer Danny Coots and pianist Brian Holland. He has also toured extensively with both the legendary Slim Whitman and Reba McEntire, and is a member of the Time Jumpers, a Western Swing Super Group on Rounder Records. The Time Jumpers have enjoyed a 20 year Monday night residency at various night clubs in Nashville, and have been nominated for six Grammy awards, winning one in 2017, for Roots Song of the Year. The band has also toured internationally, playing venues as diverse as Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa and Carnegie Hall.
Andy has also “given back” to the community with a leadership role in the Nashville Musician’s Association, and as an educator with the Nashville Jazz Workshop and other venues.
Joe Settlemires
Joe Settlemires is one of Oklahoma’s most prolific and celebrated musicians. Joe began playing guitar professionally at the age of 14. He began his career in local bars around the Oklahoma City Stockyards and by 15 years old, you would find Joe on the road with the Ozark Jubilee band.
Joe landed one of country music’s most prestigious gigs, playing with the legendary Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, at the age of 19 when friend and regular guitarist Tag Lambert fell ill with pneumonia and couldn’t go out on the road. At Lambert’s suggestion, the Playboys’ tour bus rolled into Guthrie to pick up the young string slinger and the rest, as they say, is history as Settlemires became known as “The Youngest Texas Playboy.”
In the years that followed, Settlemires played with a “Who’s Who” of country music legends including Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, Red Foley, Tex Ritter and many others. When not playing country, Joe would be playing in the jazz clubs.
Joe is known across the world for his jazz expertise and is currently restoring a recording of Joe Settlemires and Joe Pass, 1966, to be released in the future. He has also worked with Howard Roberts, Harold Bradley, Pat Martino, Chester Thompson (Tower of Power), Jamie Aebersold, Marian McPartland, Della Reese, Frankie Lane, Bob Hope, Rosemary Clooney, Ray McKinley Band, and many others. Joe was also guest artist with the Oklahoma City Symphony.
Though he is well known for his technical prowess on the guitar, Joe is the complete musician, having written arrangements for thousands of songs and passed his musical legacy along to hundreds of aspiring guitar players down through the years through private instruction. Joes students have gone on to play with musicians and groups like Merle Haggard, George Strait, Neil Diamond, Restless Heart, the Judds, Charlie Hall, Hayes Carll and others.
Joe Settlemires has recorded two jazz albums, Canadian Sunset and Sugarfoot Rag. Sugarfoot Rag was nominated for two Grammy awards in 2008. Joe and Andy Reiss are currently completing their album to be released in the near future. The western swing albums are Remember Me and Northfield Swing which features Hank Adam Locklin.
Settlemires’ unmistakable contribution to American music has been recognized by 9 halls of fame across the country and in 2006, the Oklahoma State Legislature recognized him for his 50 years of contribution and dedication to both the Oklahoma music industry and music education in the private and public sector.
The Joshua Constantine Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Joshua Constantine is a tenor saxophonist from Birmingham Alabama. Joshua is a former member of the prestigious and Grammy-nominated UNT One O’Clock Lab Band®, and student of world-renowned saxophonist Brad Leali. Along with his musical success, Joshua has gained a considerable following on social media and Youtube with his cover of “Just the Two of Us” reaching over 3 Million views! Joshua is currently an active performer and professor in the Nashville music scene.
Striving to honor the history of jazz music, Joshua intends to provide Rudy’s Jazz Room with an enriching and spiritual experience by playing the works of great composers such as John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington. In his efforts to invest in the future of jazz, Joshua intends to perform his very own original compositions.
Joshua Constantine - Tenor Saxophone
Sam Smith - Bass
Michael Green - Drums
Dan La Maestra - Piano
Striving to honor the history of jazz music, Joshua intends to provide Rudy’s Jazz Room with an enriching and spiritual experience by playing the works of great composers such as John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington. In his efforts to invest in the future of jazz, Joshua intends to perform his very own original compositions.
Joshua Constantine - Tenor Saxophone
Sam Smith - Bass
Michael Green - Drums
Dan La Maestra - Piano
Aug 8
The Marc Payne Quartet
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $15 in advance, $16 at the door
One of the most talented young up and coming jazz pianists in Nashville, Marc Payne dazzles with beautiful chords, lines, rhythms, and harmonies. Young at heart and old in soul, Marc has soaked up some of the most influential pianists' styles and harmonics and is able to deliver; from Art Tatum to Oscar Peterson, Sony Clark, Thelonious Monk to Hank Jones, James P. Johnson and more.
Born in Virginia and having moved to north Nashville at a very young age, Marc soaked up the sounds of jazz from his father playing jazz records as he grew up. Marc began playing music when he was 11 years old on a light up keyboard and then studied gospel which led him to playing for the Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church when he was 13. In his junior year at Pearl-Cohn high school Marc really started to develop an intense interest and more serious pursuit of jazz piano. From there he ended up going to Nashville School for the Arts where he graduated in 2017 to begin his professional career in music.
Some of Marc’s mentors include Jody Nardone, Imer Santiago, Lady Chapman, Chazen Brown, Nioshi Jackson, and Rob Butts. Marc has shared the stage with many great artists such as Bobby Watson, Regi Wooten, Curtis Lundy, Roy Wooten, Duffy Jackson and more, and has played on two of Shannon Callihan’s releases. Marc has played numerous venues in and around Nashville including the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, Jazz on the Cumberland, Historic 15th ave Baptist church, and Rudy’s Jazz Room.
One of the most energetic and diverse young pianists living in Nashville, Marc always keeps the music flowing and lively with varying dynamics and interludes mixed and woven into compositions that keep pieces fresh and lively.
Born in Virginia and having moved to north Nashville at a very young age, Marc soaked up the sounds of jazz from his father playing jazz records as he grew up. Marc began playing music when he was 11 years old on a light up keyboard and then studied gospel which led him to playing for the Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church when he was 13. In his junior year at Pearl-Cohn high school Marc really started to develop an intense interest and more serious pursuit of jazz piano. From there he ended up going to Nashville School for the Arts where he graduated in 2017 to begin his professional career in music.
Some of Marc’s mentors include Jody Nardone, Imer Santiago, Lady Chapman, Chazen Brown, Nioshi Jackson, and Rob Butts. Marc has shared the stage with many great artists such as Bobby Watson, Regi Wooten, Curtis Lundy, Roy Wooten, Duffy Jackson and more, and has played on two of Shannon Callihan’s releases. Marc has played numerous venues in and around Nashville including the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, Jazz on the Cumberland, Historic 15th ave Baptist church, and Rudy’s Jazz Room.
One of the most energetic and diverse young pianists living in Nashville, Marc always keeps the music flowing and lively with varying dynamics and interludes mixed and woven into compositions that keep pieces fresh and lively.
Margherita Fava Quartet feat. Bob Reynolds, Ken Perkerwicz & Madison George
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $22 in advance, $25 at the door
Margherita Fava, born in Follina, Italy, moved to the U.S. in 2016 and has since earned a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies from Michigan State University and a Master of Music in Jazz and Studio Music from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She is now a full-time musician, educator, arranger, and composer based in Tennessee, collaborating with numerous artists including Gregory Tardy, Rodney Whitaker, Randy Napoleon, and Gina Benalcazar. Margherita also joined the staff at WUOT 91.9 FM, producing the radio show "On Keys" which airs every Friday at 8pm.
Her debut album "TATATU," featuring Greg Tardy and produced by Rodney Whitaker, was released in March 2023 and received a four-star review in DownBeat Magazine. In October 2025, she released her second album "Murrina," featuring Bob Reynolds, Taber Gable, Jonathan Barber, and Brandon Rose. Both albums are available on all streaming platforms.
Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Bob Reynolds is one of the leading voices in contemporary jazz, celebrated for his lyrical improvisation, warm tone, and adventurous compositions. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Reynolds first gained international recognition through his longtime work with John Mayer before joining the acclaimed jazz collective Snarky Puppy, earning multiple Grammy Awards as a member of the group. An accomplished bandleader and recording artist with more than a dozen solo albums to his name, he has also collaborated with artists including Brian Blade, Michael Bublé, Larry Carlton, and The 1975. Whether performing intimate acoustic jazz or genre-blending originals, Reynolds brings virtuosity, creativity, and a deeply expressive musical voice to every performance.
Bassist Ken Perkerwicz is one of Nashville's most sought-after musicians, recognized for his expressive playing on both upright and electric bass. A graduate of the renowned Jazz Studies program at the University of North Texas, he has built a reputation as a versatile performer equally at home in straight-ahead jazz, soul, funk, Americana, and R&B. Since relocating to Nashville, Perkerwicz has become a first-call bassist for live performances and studio sessions, bringing a deep groove, melodic creativity, and collaborative spirit to every performance. Whether leading his own projects or performing with some of the city's finest musicians, Ken delivers a dynamic and engaging musical experience.
Drummer Madison George is a rising force in Nashville's jazz community, known for his inventive playing, deep groove, and dynamic musicality. Equally comfortable in straight-ahead jazz, modern improvisation, and groove-oriented styles, George has become a sought-after collaborator for live performances and recording sessions throughout Music City. His responsive interplay, creative approach to the drum set, and energetic stage presence make him a compelling voice among Nashville's next generation of jazz musicians, bringing both precision and spontaneity to every performance.
Her debut album "TATATU," featuring Greg Tardy and produced by Rodney Whitaker, was released in March 2023 and received a four-star review in DownBeat Magazine. In October 2025, she released her second album "Murrina," featuring Bob Reynolds, Taber Gable, Jonathan Barber, and Brandon Rose. Both albums are available on all streaming platforms.
Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Bob Reynolds is one of the leading voices in contemporary jazz, celebrated for his lyrical improvisation, warm tone, and adventurous compositions. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Reynolds first gained international recognition through his longtime work with John Mayer before joining the acclaimed jazz collective Snarky Puppy, earning multiple Grammy Awards as a member of the group. An accomplished bandleader and recording artist with more than a dozen solo albums to his name, he has also collaborated with artists including Brian Blade, Michael Bublé, Larry Carlton, and The 1975. Whether performing intimate acoustic jazz or genre-blending originals, Reynolds brings virtuosity, creativity, and a deeply expressive musical voice to every performance.
Bassist Ken Perkerwicz is one of Nashville's most sought-after musicians, recognized for his expressive playing on both upright and electric bass. A graduate of the renowned Jazz Studies program at the University of North Texas, he has built a reputation as a versatile performer equally at home in straight-ahead jazz, soul, funk, Americana, and R&B. Since relocating to Nashville, Perkerwicz has become a first-call bassist for live performances and studio sessions, bringing a deep groove, melodic creativity, and collaborative spirit to every performance. Whether leading his own projects or performing with some of the city's finest musicians, Ken delivers a dynamic and engaging musical experience.
Drummer Madison George is a rising force in Nashville's jazz community, known for his inventive playing, deep groove, and dynamic musicality. Equally comfortable in straight-ahead jazz, modern improvisation, and groove-oriented styles, George has become a sought-after collaborator for live performances and recording sessions throughout Music City. His responsive interplay, creative approach to the drum set, and energetic stage presence make him a compelling voice among Nashville's next generation of jazz musicians, bringing both precision and spontaneity to every performance.
Colleen Orender
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
"Nashville Recording Artist Colleen Orender's new music is a sultry jazz dream with pop sensibilities and a touch of James Bond.” - NPR
A touring jazz and blues artist for decades, Orender turns your hometown venues into smoldering 1930's Mississippi juke joints. She teamed up with Michael Davey (Martina McBride, Angie Aparo)in Nashville to produce her new sound that many are comparing to Amy Winehouse with Julie London's essence. “The Mouth You Feed” written by Orender and Greg Becker (Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts), Michael Davey was featured on NPR’s “10 Artists to Add from Nashville” list. Her latest single “Company of Older Men” Written by Orender, Greg Becker, Nikki Williams and Michael Davey released January 8, 2020 and was quickly scooped up by Apple Music adding it to their New Music Daily Playlist. Orender is a regular on AAA radio stations with her last single “Love Me Harder” WMOT Root’s Radio in Nashville features Orender’s singles on the Local Brew, and she recently recorded four of her songs for NPR Sessions in a 1940’s cotton mill in Tupelo, MS. Orender’s band features Roy Agee (Prince, Lauren Daigle, Keb Mo, Bela Fleck) on Trombone.
A touring jazz and blues artist for decades, Orender turns your hometown venues into smoldering 1930's Mississippi juke joints. She teamed up with Michael Davey (Martina McBride, Angie Aparo)in Nashville to produce her new sound that many are comparing to Amy Winehouse with Julie London's essence. “The Mouth You Feed” written by Orender and Greg Becker (Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts), Michael Davey was featured on NPR’s “10 Artists to Add from Nashville” list. Her latest single “Company of Older Men” Written by Orender, Greg Becker, Nikki Williams and Michael Davey released January 8, 2020 and was quickly scooped up by Apple Music adding it to their New Music Daily Playlist. Orender is a regular on AAA radio stations with her last single “Love Me Harder” WMOT Root’s Radio in Nashville features Orender’s singles on the Local Brew, and she recently recorded four of her songs for NPR Sessions in a 1940’s cotton mill in Tupelo, MS. Orender’s band features Roy Agee (Prince, Lauren Daigle, Keb Mo, Bela Fleck) on Trombone.