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 $6 Wells, $8 House Wines
Mondays: 9pm-Close $7 Cuba Libres, $11 Estrella & Shot of Termana Tequila
TONIGHT'S SHOWS
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
6:00pm-8:15pm, $12 at the door
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Enjoy $8 French Quarter inspired cocktails (Sazerac, French 75, Daquiris from 5pm-7pm), 1/2 priced beignets, have a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Enjoy $8 French Quarter inspired cocktails (Sazerac, French 75, Daquiris from 5pm-7pm), 1/2 priced beignets, have a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Cliff Richmond & The CliffNotes
9:00pm-11:15pm, $12 at the door
Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes serve up a unique blend of soulful, swinging & funky jazz, They incorporate a wide range of styles from mainstream jazz, to rhythm & blues, Latin to reggae. Founded by Cliff (guitar & vocals) the CliffNotes always features some of Nashville's most accomplished and versatile musicians and vocalists.
UPCOMING SHOWSFULL CALENDAR
Mar 31
Alec Newnam Quartet
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $14 at the door
The Alec Newnam Quartet, led by bassist Alec Newnam with Kevin Gatzke on tenor sax, Bill Alexson on piano and Nate Felty on drums.
Born in New Jersey to musician parents who worked with Frank Sinatra, Jimmy McGriff, James Brown, Tony Bennett and Ray Charles, bassist Alec Newnam has lived and worked as a performing and session musician and composer in Nashville since 2008. His wide-ranging musical studies and interests have led him to performing and/or recording with Jessi Colter, Rahsaan Barber, Shooter Jennings, Jake Botts, Jim Lauderdale, Duffy Jackson, Trisha Yearwood, Jeff Coffin, Kelsey Waldon, Rory Hoffman, and Brennen Leigh, and he has performed multiple times on the Grand Ole Opry and at the Ryman Auditorium.
Born in New Jersey to musician parents who worked with Frank Sinatra, Jimmy McGriff, James Brown, Tony Bennett and Ray Charles, bassist Alec Newnam has lived and worked as a performing and session musician and composer in Nashville since 2008. His wide-ranging musical studies and interests have led him to performing and/or recording with Jessi Colter, Rahsaan Barber, Shooter Jennings, Jake Botts, Jim Lauderdale, Duffy Jackson, Trisha Yearwood, Jeff Coffin, Kelsey Waldon, Rory Hoffman, and Brennen Leigh, and he has performed multiple times on the Grand Ole Opry and at the Ryman Auditorium.
MTSU Jazz Faculty with Adam Nussbaum
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $20 at the door
World renowned drummer Adam Nussbaum joins the Middle Tennessee State University Jazz Faculty, with Don Aliquo on saxophone, Jamey Simmons on trumpet, Pat Coil on piano and Jonathan Wires on bass.
Adam Nussbaum is considered one of the finest drummers working today. Nussbaum studied at the Davis Center and City College of New York, and by 1978 was making a strong impression in the jazz world, playing regularly with both Dave Liebman and John Scofield (1978-83). Other important associations through the years include Stan Getz (1982-83), Gil Evans, the George Gruntz Concert Jazz Band, Gary Burton, Steve Swallow, Michael Brecker, Don Grolnick, James Moody, Sonny Rollins, Art Pepper, Joe Henderson, John Abercrombie, Sheila Jordan, Kenny Wheeler, Lee Konitz, NHØP and Charles Lloyd, along with countless others. In addition, Nussbaum reaches out to the next generation. He is an in-demand educator doing Clinics and Master Classes, teaching at such institutions as Berklee, NYU, State University of New York, the New School, and at numerous Conservatories around the world.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo continues to be one of the most active artists in the region and beyond. 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.
Arranger, composer, trumpeter, and educator Jamey Simmons grew up in Wisconsin and knew early on that music was his unique gift. He earned his Bachelor of Music at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, and studied under Robert Baca. He earned his Master of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Media at the Eastman School of Music where he studied under jazz composer and arranger Fred Sturm. Simmons is currently Director of Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University where he teaches courses in jazz and directs Jazz Ensemble I. As a trumpet player, Simmons toured internationally with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. He is active on the Nashville professional music scene, and has made appearances with artists as diversified as the Temptations, Dave Weckl, Buddy DeFranco, Lee Konitz, Duffy Jackson, Vince Gill, Debby Boone, and the Nashville Jazz Orchestra. He has written arrangements and compositions that have been performed by the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Symphony Pops, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, Brussels Jazz Orchestra and numerous university and high school ensembles. His first original jazz sextet CD, Gold Refined in the Fire, features New York saxophonist Scott Robinson. His recording of hymns and spirituals called In the Garden: Hymns for Piano , was recorded by pianist Arunesh Nadgir and can be found at your favorite source for downloading music. His Duo/Trio project, featuring guitarist Rory Hoffman and pianist Matt Endahl are archived on youtube, free for the public. Active as a commissioned composer and arranger, Simmons’ published compositions and arrangements are available through Heritage Jazz Works/ Lorenz Music, Sierra Music, ejazzlines.com, and Kjos Music Publishing.
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".
Bassist, composer, and educator Jonathan Wires is originally from New Hampshire, and received his Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from the University of Memphis. In 2011, he pursued a Master's Degree in Jazz Studies from Middle Tennessee State University, which brought him to Nashville, TN. In addition to performing and composing, Jonathan has been an active educator at both Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and Nashville State Community College. Under Jeff Coffin's Ear Up label, Jonathan released his first recording entitled "Weaving" which features Jeff Coffin, Matt Endahl, and Joshua Hunt with guest appearances by Lindsey Miller, Don Aliquo, James Westfall, and Jamey Simmons.
Adam Nussbaum is considered one of the finest drummers working today. Nussbaum studied at the Davis Center and City College of New York, and by 1978 was making a strong impression in the jazz world, playing regularly with both Dave Liebman and John Scofield (1978-83). Other important associations through the years include Stan Getz (1982-83), Gil Evans, the George Gruntz Concert Jazz Band, Gary Burton, Steve Swallow, Michael Brecker, Don Grolnick, James Moody, Sonny Rollins, Art Pepper, Joe Henderson, John Abercrombie, Sheila Jordan, Kenny Wheeler, Lee Konitz, NHØP and Charles Lloyd, along with countless others. In addition, Nussbaum reaches out to the next generation. He is an in-demand educator doing Clinics and Master Classes, teaching at such institutions as Berklee, NYU, State University of New York, the New School, and at numerous Conservatories around the world.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo continues to be one of the most active artists in the region and beyond. 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.
Arranger, composer, trumpeter, and educator Jamey Simmons grew up in Wisconsin and knew early on that music was his unique gift. He earned his Bachelor of Music at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, and studied under Robert Baca. He earned his Master of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Media at the Eastman School of Music where he studied under jazz composer and arranger Fred Sturm. Simmons is currently Director of Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University where he teaches courses in jazz and directs Jazz Ensemble I. As a trumpet player, Simmons toured internationally with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. He is active on the Nashville professional music scene, and has made appearances with artists as diversified as the Temptations, Dave Weckl, Buddy DeFranco, Lee Konitz, Duffy Jackson, Vince Gill, Debby Boone, and the Nashville Jazz Orchestra. He has written arrangements and compositions that have been performed by the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Symphony Pops, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, Brussels Jazz Orchestra and numerous university and high school ensembles. His first original jazz sextet CD, Gold Refined in the Fire, features New York saxophonist Scott Robinson. His recording of hymns and spirituals called In the Garden: Hymns for Piano , was recorded by pianist Arunesh Nadgir and can be found at your favorite source for downloading music. His Duo/Trio project, featuring guitarist Rory Hoffman and pianist Matt Endahl are archived on youtube, free for the public. Active as a commissioned composer and arranger, Simmons’ published compositions and arrangements are available through Heritage Jazz Works/ Lorenz Music, Sierra Music, ejazzlines.com, and Kjos Music Publishing.
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".
Bassist, composer, and educator Jonathan Wires is originally from New Hampshire, and received his Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from the University of Memphis. In 2011, he pursued a Master's Degree in Jazz Studies from Middle Tennessee State University, which brought him to Nashville, TN. In addition to performing and composing, Jonathan has been an active educator at both Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and Nashville State Community College. Under Jeff Coffin's Ear Up label, Jonathan released his first recording entitled "Weaving" which features Jeff Coffin, Matt Endahl, and Joshua Hunt with guest appearances by Lindsey Miller, Don Aliquo, James Westfall, and Jamey Simmons.
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
The Geoff Pfeifer Quartet, gritty, edgy, the real deal NYC style jazz. Saxophonist Geoff Pfeifer brings some of Nashville's top jazz cats out, and you'll be sure to feel the energy. Playing a mix of original material and Wayne Shorter tunes.
Geoff Pfeifer, a Nashville based musician and composer, has been living and performing in Nashville since 2005. Geoff studied saxophone with Ted Nash and Ralph Lalama and composition with Mike Holober and Jim McNeely. He is a saxophonist and arranger with the R&B band Chubby and The Dots and plays the 2nd Tenor Saxophone chair in The Establishment Big Band.
Geoff Pfeifer, a Nashville based musician and composer, has been living and performing in Nashville since 2005. Geoff studied saxophone with Ted Nash and Ralph Lalama and composition with Mike Holober and Jim McNeely. He is a saxophonist and arranger with the R&B band Chubby and The Dots and plays the 2nd Tenor Saxophone chair in The Establishment Big Band.
Apr 1
Shaun Munday
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $12 at the door
Shaun Munday is a one-of-a kind talent. He blends soul-drenched vocals with show-stopping bass guitar technique. Shaun captures audiences with a full band sound and plays the bass better than most people play a guitar.
He is a graduate of the Berklee School of Music in Boston, MA where he studied and performed with some of the greatest artists and educators in the industry including John Mayer, Esperanza Spalding, Matthew Garrison (Herbie Hancock), Antonio Sanchez (Pat Metheny) and Jetro Da Silva (Whitney Houston).
Shaun has shared the stage with Corinne Bailey Rae, Andra Day, Mary Wilson of The Supremes, blues legend Robert Cray, reggae royalty Aston Barrett and The Wailers (Bob Marley’s band), country music star Collin Raye, Devon Allman and Yonrico Scott of the Royal Southern Brotherhood. His overall music style is inspired by Donny Hathaway, Al Green and Marvin Gaye.
Shaun released his self-titled debut album in March 2017 to rave reviews. Bass Player Magazine said, “Munday proves that he’s going to be a bass heavyweight, as his flawless slap work and his melodically challenging lines are only ever outshined by his buttery crooning.”
shaunmunday.com | YouTube Video
He is a graduate of the Berklee School of Music in Boston, MA where he studied and performed with some of the greatest artists and educators in the industry including John Mayer, Esperanza Spalding, Matthew Garrison (Herbie Hancock), Antonio Sanchez (Pat Metheny) and Jetro Da Silva (Whitney Houston).
Shaun has shared the stage with Corinne Bailey Rae, Andra Day, Mary Wilson of The Supremes, blues legend Robert Cray, reggae royalty Aston Barrett and The Wailers (Bob Marley’s band), country music star Collin Raye, Devon Allman and Yonrico Scott of the Royal Southern Brotherhood. His overall music style is inspired by Donny Hathaway, Al Green and Marvin Gaye.
Shaun released his self-titled debut album in March 2017 to rave reviews. Bass Player Magazine said, “Munday proves that he’s going to be a bass heavyweight, as his flawless slap work and his melodically challenging lines are only ever outshined by his buttery crooning.”
shaunmunday.com | YouTube Video
Jacob Jezioro Quartet featuring Matthew Babineaux
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $18 at the door
Bassist Jacob Jezioro leads the group, presenting an evening of a mix of original material by members of the band, American Songbook repertoire and music by jazz composers.
Jacob Jezioro began studying music with intention at age fourteen. His father an established Nashville bassist, guitarist and producer was his first teacher. Jacob later attended Indiana University, where his mentors were bassists Jeremy Allen and Kurt Muroki. After completing his masters degree at Berklee, Jacob performed with pianist Danilo Perez in Panama and Costa Rica and taught jazz students at the Newport Jazz Festival, Panama Jazz Festival and FiJazz Festival. Since his return to Nashville in 2019, Jacob has performed live with his own bands and records and performs regularly with pianist Pat Coil. Coil’s trio has recorded with guest artists such as vocalist Jaimee Paul and saxophonist Joel Frahm. Jacob has also begun producing his own projects under his label, Green Box Music, and releasing them in collaboration with Burton Avenue Music, Jacob’s father’s label.
Matthew Babineaux is a saxophonist, pianist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist with over 14 years professional experience in multiple genres. An alumnus of the 2013 Student GRAMMY Ensemble, he has composed for ballet, for 2 award-winning short films, and has shared the stage with Chick Corea, Branford Marsalis, Marquis Hill, and Domi & JD Beck, among others. His performance, session work, and writing spans diverse styles including jazz, R&B, classical, pop, country, and beyond.
Jacob Jezioro began studying music with intention at age fourteen. His father an established Nashville bassist, guitarist and producer was his first teacher. Jacob later attended Indiana University, where his mentors were bassists Jeremy Allen and Kurt Muroki. After completing his masters degree at Berklee, Jacob performed with pianist Danilo Perez in Panama and Costa Rica and taught jazz students at the Newport Jazz Festival, Panama Jazz Festival and FiJazz Festival. Since his return to Nashville in 2019, Jacob has performed live with his own bands and records and performs regularly with pianist Pat Coil. Coil’s trio has recorded with guest artists such as vocalist Jaimee Paul and saxophonist Joel Frahm. Jacob has also begun producing his own projects under his label, Green Box Music, and releasing them in collaboration with Burton Avenue Music, Jacob’s father’s label.
Matthew Babineaux is a saxophonist, pianist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist with over 14 years professional experience in multiple genres. An alumnus of the 2013 Student GRAMMY Ensemble, he has composed for ballet, for 2 award-winning short films, and has shared the stage with Chick Corea, Branford Marsalis, Marquis Hill, and Domi & JD Beck, among others. His performance, session work, and writing spans diverse styles including jazz, R&B, classical, pop, country, and beyond.
The Joni Letters
11:00pm-1:00am central, $12 at the door
Liz Kelley and Alex Murphy Present: The Joni Letters, featuring the music of Joni Mitchell as interpreted by Herbie Hancock. Liz Kelley (vocals, guitar), Alex Murphy (piano), Jackson Mayhall (bass) and Ian Strobino (drums).
Liz Kelley is a composer, vocalist, guitarist and music technologist based in Nashville, TN. A multi-cultural multi-instrumentalist, she grew up between Tokyo and the American South, homeschooled by her musician parents. During her time in college she received a DownBeat Student Music Award, performed at Montreux, Umbria and Vienne jazz festivals in Europe, and shared the university stage with artists such as Victor Wooten, Jeff Coffin & Steve Bailey. Occasions of note since entering the professional sphere include an opening set for Nate Smith, an opening set for Makaya McCraven, multiple opening performances for Lalah Hathaway, endorsements from Gator Cases, Traveler Guitar and Aston Microphones, a performance at NAMM, a European tour, and a recent listing on DownBeat's "What to Stream This Week". Her recent work includes remote recording in her home studio, volunteer composition for a neuroscience firm, and sound design in generative music technology.
Hailing from Chicago, Alex Murphy grew up in a family of musicians with parents who emphasized musical exploration at an early age. In high school, he had the opportunity to study under many distinguished jazz performers and educators at Birch Creek Jazz Camp, continuing his education at DePaul University in Chicago where he was under the tutelage of Ron Perrillo and Dana Hall. He has performed at Chicago classics including the Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, Green Mill, and was featured in a master class at Symphony Center with jazz piano great Bill Charlap. He has been featured in the Chicago Jazz Festival and other area jazz festivals throughout the Midwest. Alex has had the opportunity to share the stage with jazz artists Nicholas Payton, Dave Douglas, Bobby Broom, Chester Thompson, Joel Frahm, Dezron Douglas, Pharezz Whitted, Mark Colby, Matt Ulery, Dennis Carroll, Roger Ingram, and Joe Grandsden. From a growing studio portfolio with jazz and hip hop artists as well as his continued pursuit of live jazz performance, Alex is excited to expand his talent into the Nashville area.
Liz Kelley is a composer, vocalist, guitarist and music technologist based in Nashville, TN. A multi-cultural multi-instrumentalist, she grew up between Tokyo and the American South, homeschooled by her musician parents. During her time in college she received a DownBeat Student Music Award, performed at Montreux, Umbria and Vienne jazz festivals in Europe, and shared the university stage with artists such as Victor Wooten, Jeff Coffin & Steve Bailey. Occasions of note since entering the professional sphere include an opening set for Nate Smith, an opening set for Makaya McCraven, multiple opening performances for Lalah Hathaway, endorsements from Gator Cases, Traveler Guitar and Aston Microphones, a performance at NAMM, a European tour, and a recent listing on DownBeat's "What to Stream This Week". Her recent work includes remote recording in her home studio, volunteer composition for a neuroscience firm, and sound design in generative music technology.
Hailing from Chicago, Alex Murphy grew up in a family of musicians with parents who emphasized musical exploration at an early age. In high school, he had the opportunity to study under many distinguished jazz performers and educators at Birch Creek Jazz Camp, continuing his education at DePaul University in Chicago where he was under the tutelage of Ron Perrillo and Dana Hall. He has performed at Chicago classics including the Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, Green Mill, and was featured in a master class at Symphony Center with jazz piano great Bill Charlap. He has been featured in the Chicago Jazz Festival and other area jazz festivals throughout the Midwest. Alex has had the opportunity to share the stage with jazz artists Nicholas Payton, Dave Douglas, Bobby Broom, Chester Thompson, Joel Frahm, Dezron Douglas, Pharezz Whitted, Mark Colby, Matt Ulery, Dennis Carroll, Roger Ingram, and Joe Grandsden. From a growing studio portfolio with jazz and hip hop artists as well as his continued pursuit of live jazz performance, Alex is excited to expand his talent into the Nashville area.
Apr 2
Sully's Swingin' Sunday Supper
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Join us for Sully's Swingin' Sunday Supper, where one of Music City's top jazz and instrumental bassists Jimmy Sullivan leads a swingin' band with different special guest artists and Rudy's serves up a unique and delectable supper special just for the show!
Harmonic adaptability and rhythmic flexibility are the key attributes of any first rate bassist. Though a native born Virginian, Jimmy Sullivan has ascended to the top ranks of Music City's rhythm section comrades, proving himself a versatile and imaginative bassist on multiple occasions. He's excelled in numerous idiomatic sessions, though jazz remains a priority and key musical love. Still, he's flourished while working, recording and/or performing with such top country, rock and pop stars as Lee Ann Womack, Mandy Barnett, Mark Collie, Jason Petty, Becky Warren, Anne McCue. Calbe Caudle and Ben De La Cour among others. But most recently he's become an area favorite backing one of Nashville's most popular and beloved jazz vocalists, Stephanie Adlington.
Sullivan grew up in Reston, Virginia. Despite not having any musicians in the family, Sullivan still became enamored with music at an early age. Teaching himself to play by ear, his early apprentice came as both a singer and instrumentalist. He performed in a choir while also playing piano and clarinet. But his primary instrument became bass at 15, where he began on electric. Soon came formal jazz studies at Northern Virginia Community college, where he obtained a two-year degree before transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
At VCU not only did Jimmy receive the seasoning and grounding from an exceptional program founded by the late, great, pianist/composer Ellis Marsalis, he was required to master the acoustic. That was the final step in Sullivan becoming a full-time bassist. Over the next six years, while living in Richmond, he worked in multiple settings and with a host of bands playing the full musical spectrum from classical and jazz to soul, gospel and hip-hop.
Interestingly, upon initially moving to New York, Sullivan didn't initially immerse himself in jazz like many new arrivals. Instead, folk and the gamut of styles known as Americana were how he made his livelihood for much of the next decade, while also getting married. It wasn't util 2017 that he arrived in Nashville, still married and not really even contemplating being a full-time musician much longer. But while his then wife was pursing a singer/songwriting career, a funny thing happened to Jimmy Sullivan. He moved from trying to decide whether to sell his bass to attending jam sessions, meeting fellow players and re-discovering his love for music. The flexibility that he had previously acquired made it easy for him to fit into all the contexts and situations that one encounters in a city like Nashville. Not only did he begin attracting attention from the country and western swing world, but also discovered a growing and intense jazz scene.
While he's now working regularly with Stephanie Adlington, he's also played with other Music City jazz stalwarts like Annie Selleck, Laura Mayo and Jamie Paul as well as international artists Laila Biali and Carol Welsman. He's become good friends and consistently shared the bandstand with Andy Reiss, Marcus Finnie, Geoff Pfiefer and Don Aliquo.
Jimmy Sullivan's now acclaimed not only in Nashville but throughout the region and state as a topflight player. He's already won one Nashville Music Industry Award as Best Jazz Instrumentalist in 2018, and others are sure to follow. But most importantly, Jimmy Sullivan's ferocity on the bandstand, and joy and love of playing music are infectious, and anyone who sees and hears him will immediately discover it as well as the inspiring and motivational power of great performance.
Harmonic adaptability and rhythmic flexibility are the key attributes of any first rate bassist. Though a native born Virginian, Jimmy Sullivan has ascended to the top ranks of Music City's rhythm section comrades, proving himself a versatile and imaginative bassist on multiple occasions. He's excelled in numerous idiomatic sessions, though jazz remains a priority and key musical love. Still, he's flourished while working, recording and/or performing with such top country, rock and pop stars as Lee Ann Womack, Mandy Barnett, Mark Collie, Jason Petty, Becky Warren, Anne McCue. Calbe Caudle and Ben De La Cour among others. But most recently he's become an area favorite backing one of Nashville's most popular and beloved jazz vocalists, Stephanie Adlington.
Sullivan grew up in Reston, Virginia. Despite not having any musicians in the family, Sullivan still became enamored with music at an early age. Teaching himself to play by ear, his early apprentice came as both a singer and instrumentalist. He performed in a choir while also playing piano and clarinet. But his primary instrument became bass at 15, where he began on electric. Soon came formal jazz studies at Northern Virginia Community college, where he obtained a two-year degree before transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
At VCU not only did Jimmy receive the seasoning and grounding from an exceptional program founded by the late, great, pianist/composer Ellis Marsalis, he was required to master the acoustic. That was the final step in Sullivan becoming a full-time bassist. Over the next six years, while living in Richmond, he worked in multiple settings and with a host of bands playing the full musical spectrum from classical and jazz to soul, gospel and hip-hop.
Interestingly, upon initially moving to New York, Sullivan didn't initially immerse himself in jazz like many new arrivals. Instead, folk and the gamut of styles known as Americana were how he made his livelihood for much of the next decade, while also getting married. It wasn't util 2017 that he arrived in Nashville, still married and not really even contemplating being a full-time musician much longer. But while his then wife was pursing a singer/songwriting career, a funny thing happened to Jimmy Sullivan. He moved from trying to decide whether to sell his bass to attending jam sessions, meeting fellow players and re-discovering his love for music. The flexibility that he had previously acquired made it easy for him to fit into all the contexts and situations that one encounters in a city like Nashville. Not only did he begin attracting attention from the country and western swing world, but also discovered a growing and intense jazz scene.
While he's now working regularly with Stephanie Adlington, he's also played with other Music City jazz stalwarts like Annie Selleck, Laura Mayo and Jamie Paul as well as international artists Laila Biali and Carol Welsman. He's become good friends and consistently shared the bandstand with Andy Reiss, Marcus Finnie, Geoff Pfiefer and Don Aliquo.
Jimmy Sullivan's now acclaimed not only in Nashville but throughout the region and state as a topflight player. He's already won one Nashville Music Industry Award as Best Jazz Instrumentalist in 2018, and others are sure to follow. But most importantly, Jimmy Sullivan's ferocity on the bandstand, and joy and love of playing music are infectious, and anyone who sees and hears him will immediately discover it as well as the inspiring and motivational power of great performance.
Rudy's Jazz Jam
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $10 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.
Apr 3
Re-Evolution
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Re-Evolution is heavily influenced by traditional and classic jazz cutting edge artists such as John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, Elvin Jones, Thelonious Monk and many more. Featuring Brian Cornish on saxophone, Regi Wooten on bass, Daryl Johnson on drums, Adam Charney on guitar and Alex Murphy on piano.
Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $12 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. Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Jesus Agreda (Timbales), Lorenzo Molina Ruiz (Trumpet), Manuel 'Manotas' Ramierez (multi-Percussion), and Giovanni Rodriguez (bass/vocals).
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.
Apr 5
Wendell "Bizz" Bigsby
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $15 at the door
Bizz is an accomplished artist and songwriter who has played on Nashville stages and shows around the country and Canada for more than 20 years. The eldest son of Nashville legend Jimmy Church, Bizz has opened up for The Godfather of Soul James Brown, The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, The King of Rock and Roll, Little Richard and many more.
“I remember when I was 4 or 5 years old my grandmother would let me stay up and watch my dad on ‘Night Train’. I said to myself then “I want to do that, that looks like fun’”. He started his first group at 9 doing Jackson 5 covers while in middle school and winning most of The High School talent shows they entered. He then realized he was actually pretty good at this.
Bizz developed several bands while in high school, and after college, he put a band together called “Bizz and The Crew”. They gained local popularity in local clubs while he was honing his skills and writing songs.
While running lights in his dads’ band, the lead singer got sick, and his dad asked him could he fill in for a show or two. Those two shows turned into 5 years. They traveled the country playing, from Clint Eastwood’s home in Carmel, California, to Diana Ross’s in Greenwich, Connecticut. That year they were also named "The #1 Wedding Band in America" by Vouge magazine. “Those were the best 5 years of my life”, says Bizz. I learned so much about business, showmanship, and the importance of branding”.
About 6 years ago, he started a cover band called "Bizz and Everyday People” that has become one of the premier cover bands in Nashville and the country, but his first love has always been to create and perform program music. His first project, ‘Love Izz” has been critically acclaimed by the music community as well as the general public.
Bizz currently works with multi Grammy award winning producer and writer Tommy Sims on a yet entitled EP. “These songs are special because they are mostly about what we’re going through as a country and our struggles as a nation dealing with its past and looking to is future, and the growing pains associated with all that. They are just my thoughts, my feelings and a few emotions put into song. Sort of a catharsis for me. Of course, there’s a love song in there’. I’ve always believed that if you write from your heart, your truth, it will touch someone’s heart as well. I just wanna…. make a difference. Leave it better than I found it.”
“I remember when I was 4 or 5 years old my grandmother would let me stay up and watch my dad on ‘Night Train’. I said to myself then “I want to do that, that looks like fun’”. He started his first group at 9 doing Jackson 5 covers while in middle school and winning most of The High School talent shows they entered. He then realized he was actually pretty good at this.
Bizz developed several bands while in high school, and after college, he put a band together called “Bizz and The Crew”. They gained local popularity in local clubs while he was honing his skills and writing songs.
While running lights in his dads’ band, the lead singer got sick, and his dad asked him could he fill in for a show or two. Those two shows turned into 5 years. They traveled the country playing, from Clint Eastwood’s home in Carmel, California, to Diana Ross’s in Greenwich, Connecticut. That year they were also named "The #1 Wedding Band in America" by Vouge magazine. “Those were the best 5 years of my life”, says Bizz. I learned so much about business, showmanship, and the importance of branding”.
About 6 years ago, he started a cover band called "Bizz and Everyday People” that has become one of the premier cover bands in Nashville and the country, but his first love has always been to create and perform program music. His first project, ‘Love Izz” has been critically acclaimed by the music community as well as the general public.
Bizz currently works with multi Grammy award winning producer and writer Tommy Sims on a yet entitled EP. “These songs are special because they are mostly about what we’re going through as a country and our struggles as a nation dealing with its past and looking to is future, and the growing pains associated with all that. They are just my thoughts, my feelings and a few emotions put into song. Sort of a catharsis for me. Of course, there’s a love song in there’. I’ve always believed that if you write from your heart, your truth, it will touch someone’s heart as well. I just wanna…. make a difference. Leave it better than I found it.”
Nioshi Jackson Presents: Nio’s 46th Birthday Jamboree
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $14 at the door
One of Nashville’s most spirited, funky, multilayered and dynamic Grammy nominated drummers, Nioshi Jackson, leads a jazzy R&B group with some of Nashville’s most groovy musicians, performing R&B, Soul and Funk classics. Miqui Gutierrez on saxophone, Manny Cole on bass, Ping Rose on guitar and vocals, Lance Lucas on piano and keyboards, Samantha Seay on vocalsa, Marlon Woods on vocals and Nioshi Jackson on drums.
Drummer Nioshi Jackson moved to Nashville in 1997 and has since then toured with Trisha Yearwood, Michael McDonald, and Ricky Skaggs. He has worked with Dr. Lonnie Smith, Chester Thompson from Tower of Power/Santana fame, Frank Morgan and Rod McGaha, Steve Cropper.
Drummer Nioshi Jackson moved to Nashville in 1997 and has since then toured with Trisha Yearwood, Michael McDonald, and Ricky Skaggs. He has worked with Dr. Lonnie Smith, Chester Thompson from Tower of Power/Santana fame, Frank Morgan and Rod McGaha, Steve Cropper.
Apr 6
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Enjoy $8 French Quarter inspired cocktails (Sazerac, French 75, Daquiris from 5pm-7pm), 1/2 priced beignets, have a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Enjoy $8 French Quarter inspired cocktails (Sazerac, French 75, Daquiris from 5pm-7pm), 1/2 priced beignets, have a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Rory Hoffman, Alec Newnam & Nate Felty
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
Spectacular and masterful jazz trio with the incredible award-winning multi-instrumentalist Rory Hoffman joined by bassist Alec Newnam and drummer Nate Felty.
Rory Hoffman is a Nashville based multi-instrumentalist. Raised on a small ranch in North Dakota, Rory grew up recording and touring with the family Gospel band. He started teaching himself to play guitar and piano at age 3. By age 5 he was the drummer in the family band. He currently plays over a dozen stringed, keyboard and wind instruments.
Rory has played the Grand Ole Opry numerous times, as a soloist and as a sideman with Ricky Skaggs, Kathy Mattea and John Cowan. Working with these stars and others has enabled him to play several notable festivals, including Telluride with John Cowan, and Djangofest as part of the John Jorgenson quintet. Kacey Musgraves has asked Rory to play on her Christmas album, and to be part of the 2016 tour promoting that release. He has performed in Norway, Italy and Jamaica thus far and deeply enjoys any opportunities to travel the world, experiencing the culture and sharing music. When not out on the road touring, Rory is proud to be in several local Nashville bands, including 50 Shades of Hay, and the Gypsy hombres.
"Just Jazz Guitar" and "Guitar Player" magazines have written feature articles about Hoffman's unique guitar style. Rory is 2-time winner of Musician of the Year from Nashville's ICMA, and is a 2012 inductee into the South Dakota Country Music Hall of Fame.
Alec Newnam
Born in New Jersey to musician parents who worked with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Jimmy McGriff, James Brown, Tony Bennett and Ray Charles, bassist Alec Newnam has lived in Nashville since 2008. His wide-ranging musical studies and interests have led to him being active in the city's many various music scenes. Alec has performed and/or recorded with with Kelsey Waldon, Duffy Jackson, Jim Lauderdale, Marcus Finnie, Trisha Yearwood, Paul Horton, Greg Garing, Jeff Coffin, The Nashville Jazz Duo, and many others.
Nate Felty
Originally from Syracuse, New York, Nate Felty is an experienced live/session drummer and educator who enjoys performing a wide range of musical styles. Nate has been living and working in Nashville, Tennessee since 2012 and earned his Masters in Commercial Music at Belmont University in 2014.
Nate is the drummer for Nashville-based, nationally touring country/roots artist, Kelsey Waldon. With Waldon, he has shared the stage on tour with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives, and John Prine.
Since his arrival in Nashville, Nate has performed and recorded with notable touring bands from Nashville. Among these are The Amanda Broadway Band, Abby Anderson, Devon Gilfillian, Marquee Mayfield, and 9-piece funk/fusion Dynamo. While with Dynamo, the group earned Nashville Industry Music Awards (NIMA's) in 2015 for "Best Funk/Fusion Band" and "Album of the Year" for their 2015 release, Find Your Way.
When not on tour, Nate is an adjunct professor of drum set at Sewanee University of the South and performs with The Emerald Empire Band for corporate events. Nate continues to make his imprint on Nashville's local music community, performing with notable musicians such Roy Agee (Prince), Jeff Coffin (Dave Matthews Band), Micah Hulscher (Margo Price), Jay White (Amos Lee, Cory Henry), Mike Hicks (Rascal Flatts), David Rodgers (Keb Mo), De Marco Johnson (Marc Broussard) and Paul Horton (Alabama Shakes).
Rory Hoffman is a Nashville based multi-instrumentalist. Raised on a small ranch in North Dakota, Rory grew up recording and touring with the family Gospel band. He started teaching himself to play guitar and piano at age 3. By age 5 he was the drummer in the family band. He currently plays over a dozen stringed, keyboard and wind instruments.
Rory has played the Grand Ole Opry numerous times, as a soloist and as a sideman with Ricky Skaggs, Kathy Mattea and John Cowan. Working with these stars and others has enabled him to play several notable festivals, including Telluride with John Cowan, and Djangofest as part of the John Jorgenson quintet. Kacey Musgraves has asked Rory to play on her Christmas album, and to be part of the 2016 tour promoting that release. He has performed in Norway, Italy and Jamaica thus far and deeply enjoys any opportunities to travel the world, experiencing the culture and sharing music. When not out on the road touring, Rory is proud to be in several local Nashville bands, including 50 Shades of Hay, and the Gypsy hombres.
"Just Jazz Guitar" and "Guitar Player" magazines have written feature articles about Hoffman's unique guitar style. Rory is 2-time winner of Musician of the Year from Nashville's ICMA, and is a 2012 inductee into the South Dakota Country Music Hall of Fame.
Alec Newnam
Born in New Jersey to musician parents who worked with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Jimmy McGriff, James Brown, Tony Bennett and Ray Charles, bassist Alec Newnam has lived in Nashville since 2008. His wide-ranging musical studies and interests have led to him being active in the city's many various music scenes. Alec has performed and/or recorded with with Kelsey Waldon, Duffy Jackson, Jim Lauderdale, Marcus Finnie, Trisha Yearwood, Paul Horton, Greg Garing, Jeff Coffin, The Nashville Jazz Duo, and many others.
Nate Felty
Originally from Syracuse, New York, Nate Felty is an experienced live/session drummer and educator who enjoys performing a wide range of musical styles. Nate has been living and working in Nashville, Tennessee since 2012 and earned his Masters in Commercial Music at Belmont University in 2014.
Nate is the drummer for Nashville-based, nationally touring country/roots artist, Kelsey Waldon. With Waldon, he has shared the stage on tour with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives, and John Prine.
Since his arrival in Nashville, Nate has performed and recorded with notable touring bands from Nashville. Among these are The Amanda Broadway Band, Abby Anderson, Devon Gilfillian, Marquee Mayfield, and 9-piece funk/fusion Dynamo. While with Dynamo, the group earned Nashville Industry Music Awards (NIMA's) in 2015 for "Best Funk/Fusion Band" and "Album of the Year" for their 2015 release, Find Your Way.
When not on tour, Nate is an adjunct professor of drum set at Sewanee University of the South and performs with The Emerald Empire Band for corporate events. Nate continues to make his imprint on Nashville's local music community, performing with notable musicians such Roy Agee (Prince), Jeff Coffin (Dave Matthews Band), Micah Hulscher (Margo Price), Jay White (Amos Lee, Cory Henry), Mike Hicks (Rascal Flatts), David Rodgers (Keb Mo), De Marco Johnson (Marc Broussard) and Paul Horton (Alabama Shakes).