Music City's Authentic Jazz Club
Serving classic New Orleans prohibition cocktails, local brews, and New Orleans cuisine.
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS
Sundays-Thursdays: 5pm-7pm $7 Wells, $8 House Wines
Mondays: 9pm-Close $8 Cuba Libres, $12 Estrella & Shot of Lunazul Blanco
TONIGHT'S SHOWS
Open Streets Summer Series w/ Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band
2:00pm-4:00pm, no cover
Open Streets Summer Series closes a five-mile loop to cars and invites Nashville to walk, bike, and explore on August 17. On Sunday August 17 from 2pm-4pm enjoy the Rougarou 6-piece New Orleans brass band at Rudy's Jazz Room for free! Rudy's bar will be open and there will be no admission fees for the show!
The six-piece Rougarou Brass Band, led by Louisianian BROOK SUTTON on bass and New Orleans native CHRIS WALTERS on piano, featuring some of the top brass and musicians in Nashville including JEFF COFFIN on saxophone, RAY MASON on trombone, ANDREW CARNEY on trumpet and CHRIS BROWN on drums! A mix of traditional New Orleans Mardi Gras brass music and New Orleans funk, staples and favorites, drawing on influences such as the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, The Meters, Preservation Hall, Rebirth Brass Band, Dr. John, etc - you'll be bopping in your seats, or on your feet!
FREE SHOW & All ages welcome as always on Sundays, so come join us at Rudy's Jazz Room for Open Streets!
The six-piece Rougarou Brass Band, led by Louisianian BROOK SUTTON on bass and New Orleans native CHRIS WALTERS on piano, featuring some of the top brass and musicians in Nashville including JEFF COFFIN on saxophone, RAY MASON on trombone, ANDREW CARNEY on trumpet and CHRIS BROWN on drums! A mix of traditional New Orleans Mardi Gras brass music and New Orleans funk, staples and favorites, drawing on influences such as the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, The Meters, Preservation Hall, Rebirth Brass Band, Dr. John, etc - you'll be bopping in your seats, or on your feet!
FREE SHOW & All ages welcome as always on Sundays, so come join us at Rudy's Jazz Room for Open Streets!
Sarah Jane Nelson
6:00pm-8:15pm, $18 in advance, $20 at the door
Sarah Jane Nelson was born in Little Rock, Arkansas and raised in Monroe, Louisiana. Her eclectic, early musical influences in country, jazz, blues, musical theater, rock, and gospel had one thing in common: storytelling through song. Ella Fitzgerald, Dolly Parton, Billie Holiday, Eva Cassidy, Carole King and Aretha Franklin all connected to the emotion of a song in a way that made Sarah Jane want to tell stories like her idols.Nelson got her start in musical theater as she headed to NYC at age 17. In a few years, she starred on Broadway and in the 1st National Tour of the Tony Award winning musical, SWING! and critics took notice.
“The show's knock-'em-dead singer is Sarah Jane Nelson, a sultry blonde who can zero in on the ache in a lyric.” - The Miami Herald
“Sultry Jazz Goddess” - RAVE LA
“First Rate Singer” - Hollywood Reporter
“Nelson is sexy, funny, sweet, sultry, and intense all at the same time – a real tomato, as they used to say in the hip vernacular of the era when this music was first popular.” - LA New Times
After her career in theater, film, and television in LA and NYC, Nelson moved to Nashville and pivoted into songwriting and recording country and Americana music. In 2022 she released her 6th studio album and has been featured in American Songwriter, Wide Open Country, Americana Highways, and Country Music People in the UK, to name a few. She won Merefest’s Chris Austin Songwriting Competition, was a finalist for the International Song Competition, and is a two time finalist for the Kerrville Folk Festival Competition for Emerging Songwriters.
Nelson’s debut show at Rudy’s Jazz Room will harken back to her New York City Cabaret shows with an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, gospel, and original songs.
“The show's knock-'em-dead singer is Sarah Jane Nelson, a sultry blonde who can zero in on the ache in a lyric.” - The Miami Herald
“Sultry Jazz Goddess” - RAVE LA
“First Rate Singer” - Hollywood Reporter
“Nelson is sexy, funny, sweet, sultry, and intense all at the same time – a real tomato, as they used to say in the hip vernacular of the era when this music was first popular.” - LA New Times
After her career in theater, film, and television in LA and NYC, Nelson moved to Nashville and pivoted into songwriting and recording country and Americana music. In 2022 she released her 6th studio album and has been featured in American Songwriter, Wide Open Country, Americana Highways, and Country Music People in the UK, to name a few. She won Merefest’s Chris Austin Songwriting Competition, was a finalist for the International Song Competition, and is a two time finalist for the Kerrville Folk Festival Competition for Emerging Songwriters.
Nelson’s debut show at Rudy’s Jazz Room will harken back to her New York City Cabaret shows with an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, gospel, and original songs.
Rudy's Jazz Jam
9:00pm-11:15pm, $12 at the door
Rudy's hosts the official pro jazz jam. Come out and experience some of music city's best as they take the stage with Nashville's next generation of jazz performers! You will hear a variety of young, old, new and undiscovered players showing what they can do on stage. Part of the jazz tradition and what jazz embodies is the unknown and spontaneous exploration of new musical territory with new musicians sitting in live on stage; you never know who or what to expect other than the unexpected!
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
UPCOMING SHOWSFULL CALENDAR
Aug 18
Nate Spratford Trio
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Chicago native saxophonist and composer Nate Spratford relocated to Nashville in 2023 to study jazz performance and composition with Jeff Coffin at Vanderbilt, and quickly turned heads in the city’s tight-knit jazz scene as an empowered young improviser. He has played at Nashville venues such as City Winery, Rudy’s Jazz Room, SoHo House, Americano Lounge, Urban Cowboy, and Analog at Hutton Hotel. Through Vanderbilt, he has brushed paths with jazz luminaries such as Wadada Leo Smith, Jonathan Barber, John Fedchock, and Sean Jones. Nate has shared the stage with Jeff Coffin, Rod McGaha, Jeff Bradshaw, Ari Hoenig, and numerous Nashville-based jazz artists. He has studied primarily with Coffin and Chicago saxophonist Nate Lepine, while also receiving instruction from former Miles Davis band saxophonist Bill Evans and NEA Jazz Master George Coleman. He was also recently named a semi-finalist in the 2025 Yamaha Young Performing Artists Competition.
Nate Spratford - alto saxophone
Leland Nelson - bass
Danny McGonegle - drums
Nate Spratford - alto saxophone
Leland Nelson - bass
Danny McGonegle - drums
Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
A Nashville favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene and electric night of Salsa dancing! Multi-instrumentalist Giovanni Rodriguez, one of Nashville's leading percussionists, bassists and favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene, plays the sounds of salsa, bachata and percussion-driven rhythms with some of the most seasoned veterans in the Nashville Latin music scene. Giovanni Rodríguez timbales/vocals, Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Yosvany Cordero (conga/bongo), Michael S. Morton (flute/vocals), Isoel Villarrubia (bass).
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
Aug 20
Bizz Bigsby
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $16 at the door
Join Wendell "Bizz" Bigsby for an evening of engaging stories and great songs sharing his life’s journey. Happy, sad, good times, bad times. His songs tell his story.
For Bizz, music has been a lifeline—a source of expression and strength through a childhood marked by tragedy and hardship. Born in North Nashville, Bizz was raised by his grandmother and her sisters, with his father - a successful musician who performed with legends like Little Richard — remaining a distant yet profound influence. Tragically, Bizz witnessed his mother being shot at age four, setting the stage for a tumultuous life that has included overcoming a lifelong battle with addiction, surviving cancer, and several near-death experiences. From an early age, music became his guiding light, and these struggles explain his unique style as a songwriter and performer.
The striking way in which he blends the soul and R&B legacy of North Nashville’s Jefferson Street with the story-telling traditions of country and blues creates a new sound that can best be described as "Urban Americana", drawing listeners in with its raw emotion and authenticity. Today, Bizz is an accomplished artist, entertainer, and songwriter, whose music is influenced by everyone from Sam Cooke to George Jones to James Taylor.
Bigsby is the eldest son of Nashville R&B icon Jimmy Church, who invited a young Bizz to tour with him and his band. While running lights for his dad’s show, the lead singer got sick, and his dad asked Bizz to fill in for two nights. Those two shows turned into five years, opening for such artists as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Little Richard. This experience on stage helped shape Bizz's musical career and introduced him to a life on the road, performing in front of massive crowds.
Bigsby has found his unique voice as a songwriter since overcoming his battle with cocaine and alcohol addiction twelve years ago, and his music tells the story of his journey with at times brutal honesty. And yet, ultimately, he inspires with his message of hope and faith, leaving the listener feeling positive and inspired by the possibility of redemption.
For Bizz, music has been a lifeline—a source of expression and strength through a childhood marked by tragedy and hardship. Born in North Nashville, Bizz was raised by his grandmother and her sisters, with his father - a successful musician who performed with legends like Little Richard — remaining a distant yet profound influence. Tragically, Bizz witnessed his mother being shot at age four, setting the stage for a tumultuous life that has included overcoming a lifelong battle with addiction, surviving cancer, and several near-death experiences. From an early age, music became his guiding light, and these struggles explain his unique style as a songwriter and performer.
The striking way in which he blends the soul and R&B legacy of North Nashville’s Jefferson Street with the story-telling traditions of country and blues creates a new sound that can best be described as "Urban Americana", drawing listeners in with its raw emotion and authenticity. Today, Bizz is an accomplished artist, entertainer, and songwriter, whose music is influenced by everyone from Sam Cooke to George Jones to James Taylor.
Bigsby is the eldest son of Nashville R&B icon Jimmy Church, who invited a young Bizz to tour with him and his band. While running lights for his dad’s show, the lead singer got sick, and his dad asked Bizz to fill in for two nights. Those two shows turned into five years, opening for such artists as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Little Richard. This experience on stage helped shape Bizz's musical career and introduced him to a life on the road, performing in front of massive crowds.
Bigsby has found his unique voice as a songwriter since overcoming his battle with cocaine and alcohol addiction twelve years ago, and his music tells the story of his journey with at times brutal honesty. And yet, ultimately, he inspires with his message of hope and faith, leaving the listener feeling positive and inspired by the possibility of redemption.
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 21
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $14 at the door
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz Thursdays; Rudy’s French Connection
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Imbibe French Quarter inspired cocktails or a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo and beignets, while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Imbibe French Quarter inspired cocktails or a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo and beignets, while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Beatle Jazz - Beatles Songs Reimagined
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
Beatles songs reimagined with jazz arrangements written and lead by drummer Miles Damaso and his Quartet, featuring Pat Coil on piano, Don Aliquo on saxophone and Brian Allen on bass.
Miles Damaso is a percussionist, music educator, and composer-arranger based out of Nashville, Tennessee. As a bandleader, he has led groups at many reputable venues including City Winery Nashville and Rudy’s Jazz Room. His shows featuring original arrangements of songs by The Beatles and Walt Disney have been highly popular. As a sideman, Miles has played with a large variety of artists and groups including Clayton Anderson, Joel Frahm, Pat Coil, and Heather French Henry (Miss America 2000). His drumming has taken him to several well-known stages, such as Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Grand Ole Opry. Having recently completed a MM degree at Middle Tennessee State University and BM degree at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Miles is continuing a full-time career composing, performing, and privately teaching in the Nashville area. For more information, visit milesdamaso.com
Pat is an accomplished pianist, composer, producer, arranger, teacher, and highly respected studio musician. His credits span the musical spectrum of jazz, R&B, pop, country and gospel. Touring Europe, Japan, South America, Australia, Canada and the United States with exceptional artists; Pat has toured with Michael McDonald, Carmen McCrae, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Woody Herman, Larry Carlton and Olivia Newton John. Partial recording credits include: Natalie Cole, Carmen McRae, Trisha Yearwood, Ernie Watts, Michael McDonald, George Strait, Peter Cetera, Scott Henderson & Tribal Tech, Barry Manilow, Michael Feinstein, Kenny Rogers, Travis Tritt, Clay Aiken, Kristen Chenowith, Mandy Barnett, Bill Medley, Woody Herman..etc. Pat has also played on hundreds of commercials, televisions shows and film scores, and composes for several library and TV/Film companies, including music for Entertainment Tonight, Dr. Phil, Rachael Ray, Drew Barrymore and Inside Edition. Living now in Nashville, Tennessee; when not touring and working on others' projects, Pat continues to compose and produce original music, underscores and musical projects which are heard worldwide in a variety of media. Additionally, Pat served as an Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at the University Of North Texas (UNT). He currently teaches jazz piano and improvisation at Vanderbilt Blair School Of Music. Pat has recorded several solo albums including his newest releases "Music For Humans & Other Species”. Other releases include “Schemes & Dreams” (produced by Lyle Mays), “How Deep Is The Ocean” and “Everything I Love” on the Burton Avenue Music label, featuring his trio with Danny Gottlieb on drums, Jacob Jezioro on bass, , and Joel Frahm on sax. These are available at patcoil.com and all music media sites.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as “smooth as silk...with an unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”. “Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition. Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire. Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Hailing from Columbus, Indiana, Brian Allen started playing the bass at age eleven. His playing won him several awards throughout high school, including the prestigious Louis Armstrong Jazz award. After graduating, he moved to Los Angeles to attend Musicians Institute. There he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music and also won the outstanding student of the year. Brian Allen was most recently on tour with Jonathan Davis of Korn in 2018. He is one of Nashville’s top recording bassists. He was nominated Bass Player of the year by the Academy of Country Music in 2018. Brian is also teaching a clinic series that will be touring in 2019 called Rhythm Section Master Class. Brian has performed a diverse range of live shows as well as recording sessions. His playing spans the musical spectrum from jazz to rock and everything in between.
Miles Damaso is a percussionist, music educator, and composer-arranger based out of Nashville, Tennessee. As a bandleader, he has led groups at many reputable venues including City Winery Nashville and Rudy’s Jazz Room. His shows featuring original arrangements of songs by The Beatles and Walt Disney have been highly popular. As a sideman, Miles has played with a large variety of artists and groups including Clayton Anderson, Joel Frahm, Pat Coil, and Heather French Henry (Miss America 2000). His drumming has taken him to several well-known stages, such as Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Grand Ole Opry. Having recently completed a MM degree at Middle Tennessee State University and BM degree at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Miles is continuing a full-time career composing, performing, and privately teaching in the Nashville area. For more information, visit milesdamaso.com
Pat is an accomplished pianist, composer, producer, arranger, teacher, and highly respected studio musician. His credits span the musical spectrum of jazz, R&B, pop, country and gospel. Touring Europe, Japan, South America, Australia, Canada and the United States with exceptional artists; Pat has toured with Michael McDonald, Carmen McCrae, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Woody Herman, Larry Carlton and Olivia Newton John. Partial recording credits include: Natalie Cole, Carmen McRae, Trisha Yearwood, Ernie Watts, Michael McDonald, George Strait, Peter Cetera, Scott Henderson & Tribal Tech, Barry Manilow, Michael Feinstein, Kenny Rogers, Travis Tritt, Clay Aiken, Kristen Chenowith, Mandy Barnett, Bill Medley, Woody Herman..etc. Pat has also played on hundreds of commercials, televisions shows and film scores, and composes for several library and TV/Film companies, including music for Entertainment Tonight, Dr. Phil, Rachael Ray, Drew Barrymore and Inside Edition. Living now in Nashville, Tennessee; when not touring and working on others' projects, Pat continues to compose and produce original music, underscores and musical projects which are heard worldwide in a variety of media. Additionally, Pat served as an Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at the University Of North Texas (UNT). He currently teaches jazz piano and improvisation at Vanderbilt Blair School Of Music. Pat has recorded several solo albums including his newest releases "Music For Humans & Other Species”. Other releases include “Schemes & Dreams” (produced by Lyle Mays), “How Deep Is The Ocean” and “Everything I Love” on the Burton Avenue Music label, featuring his trio with Danny Gottlieb on drums, Jacob Jezioro on bass, , and Joel Frahm on sax. These are available at patcoil.com and all music media sites.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as “smooth as silk...with an unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”. “Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition. Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire. Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Hailing from Columbus, Indiana, Brian Allen started playing the bass at age eleven. His playing won him several awards throughout high school, including the prestigious Louis Armstrong Jazz award. After graduating, he moved to Los Angeles to attend Musicians Institute. There he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music and also won the outstanding student of the year. Brian Allen was most recently on tour with Jonathan Davis of Korn in 2018. He is one of Nashville’s top recording bassists. He was nominated Bass Player of the year by the Academy of Country Music in 2018. Brian is also teaching a clinic series that will be touring in 2019 called Rhythm Section Master Class. Brian has performed a diverse range of live shows as well as recording sessions. His playing spans the musical spectrum from jazz to rock and everything in between.
Aug 22
Ladies of Jazz
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $18 at the door
Join one of Nashville’s favorite shows Wendy Burns Music’s Ladies of Jazz Show. Wendy Burns Music's LADIES OF JAZZ SHOW... "It's a Nashville Show to See". Featuring an exciting lineup of talent, Rudy’s Jazz Room's "Ladies of Jazz" showcase presents Nashville's favorite female vocalists collaborating together, displaying a variety of original and distinct vocal talent, backed by some of Nashville’s best and well known musicians.
Wendy Burns
Nashville's 2022 Inducted member Academy of Local Musicians Hall of Fame and 2023 & 2024 Mississippi Music Foundations Best Female Jazz vocalists of the year.
Flute playing jazz vocalist Wendy Burns of Nashville TN has studied and performed songs from the 1940's Jazz Big Band era since the age of 9 years old. She has been described as having a unique voice that fits the era. She has performed at the Grand Ole Opry and has sessioned and performed with many of the Nashville classic country greats. With a deep passion for jazz standards, and as a hopeless romantic, Wendy believes there's beauty in staying true to the melodies as they were written. Her set list includes songs from the "Great American Songbook", jazz standards, and a number of her fabulous original pieces that reminisce of cherished jazz classics you've never heard. Wendy's influences are Judy Garland, Doris Day, Frank Sinatra, Tommy Dorsey, The Andrew Sisters, and Helen Forrest, to name a few. You will also hear some of her original tunes in vaudeville fashion featuring "Grover" her ukulele.
"She expertly delivers jazz vocals in traditional speakeasy style and displays her exceptional talent on flute as well. She does an excellent job, a true entertainer, she holds her audience and has them laughing with her patter between songs." - Gary Cobb, Nashville Tn
"When singing the classics, I’ve always tried to sing the melodies as close to the original version as possible. I feel you can get closest to the composer's feelings by doing that and by staying within it that realm. To think that someone in a time long ago did their best to put their feelings and words of love on a sheet of paper so that generations ahead would hear it just as it was written is a golden key to a door of a time before. Maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic and madly in love with the idea of living back in that time." - Wendy Burns
Jaimee Paul
Raised in Southern Illinois, steeped in the church choir, Ms. Paul was influenced by Gospel and Blues, cultivating a special place in her heart for jazz. She left her home town for Nashville, TN to study music business at highly acclaimed Belmont University. After graduation Jaimee quickly found work at various record labels handling marketing and radio promotion, and simultaneously she began working part time as a studio session singer. Jaimee’s talent was quickly recognized, and soon she began touring as background vocalist with country superstar Wynonna, The Judd’s and most recently, pop sensation, Kelly Clarkson.
In 2008 Green Hill Music signed Jaimee as their first female vocalist, and her debut record, “At Last”, reached #1 on the iTunes Jazz charts. Several albums have followed, placing in the Top 10, including “Bonded”: a tribute record to the 50 years of the James Bond film series, produced by multi- Grammy award winning producer, Michael Omartian. Her devotional hymns record, “Hear My Prayer” garnered a Dove award nomination for Best Inspirational Album in 2013. After making several more albums with both Green Hill Music and Burton Avenue Music, Jaimee's release, "People" came out February of 2023, featuring Pat Coil, Danny Gotlieb, Jacob Jezioro, and the Star City Symphony, garnering attraction on the Siriusly Sinatra Channel on Sirius XM. Jaimee’s newest release, “The Gershwin Songbook”, came out on April 25th, 2025, and gaining lots of attention on YouTube and Spotify
Wendy Burns
Nashville's 2022 Inducted member Academy of Local Musicians Hall of Fame and 2023 & 2024 Mississippi Music Foundations Best Female Jazz vocalists of the year.
Flute playing jazz vocalist Wendy Burns of Nashville TN has studied and performed songs from the 1940's Jazz Big Band era since the age of 9 years old. She has been described as having a unique voice that fits the era. She has performed at the Grand Ole Opry and has sessioned and performed with many of the Nashville classic country greats. With a deep passion for jazz standards, and as a hopeless romantic, Wendy believes there's beauty in staying true to the melodies as they were written. Her set list includes songs from the "Great American Songbook", jazz standards, and a number of her fabulous original pieces that reminisce of cherished jazz classics you've never heard. Wendy's influences are Judy Garland, Doris Day, Frank Sinatra, Tommy Dorsey, The Andrew Sisters, and Helen Forrest, to name a few. You will also hear some of her original tunes in vaudeville fashion featuring "Grover" her ukulele.
"She expertly delivers jazz vocals in traditional speakeasy style and displays her exceptional talent on flute as well. She does an excellent job, a true entertainer, she holds her audience and has them laughing with her patter between songs." - Gary Cobb, Nashville Tn
"When singing the classics, I’ve always tried to sing the melodies as close to the original version as possible. I feel you can get closest to the composer's feelings by doing that and by staying within it that realm. To think that someone in a time long ago did their best to put their feelings and words of love on a sheet of paper so that generations ahead would hear it just as it was written is a golden key to a door of a time before. Maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic and madly in love with the idea of living back in that time." - Wendy Burns
Jaimee Paul
Raised in Southern Illinois, steeped in the church choir, Ms. Paul was influenced by Gospel and Blues, cultivating a special place in her heart for jazz. She left her home town for Nashville, TN to study music business at highly acclaimed Belmont University. After graduation Jaimee quickly found work at various record labels handling marketing and radio promotion, and simultaneously she began working part time as a studio session singer. Jaimee’s talent was quickly recognized, and soon she began touring as background vocalist with country superstar Wynonna, The Judd’s and most recently, pop sensation, Kelly Clarkson.
In 2008 Green Hill Music signed Jaimee as their first female vocalist, and her debut record, “At Last”, reached #1 on the iTunes Jazz charts. Several albums have followed, placing in the Top 10, including “Bonded”: a tribute record to the 50 years of the James Bond film series, produced by multi- Grammy award winning producer, Michael Omartian. Her devotional hymns record, “Hear My Prayer” garnered a Dove award nomination for Best Inspirational Album in 2013. After making several more albums with both Green Hill Music and Burton Avenue Music, Jaimee's release, "People" came out February of 2023, featuring Pat Coil, Danny Gotlieb, Jacob Jezioro, and the Star City Symphony, garnering attraction on the Siriusly Sinatra Channel on Sirius XM. Jaimee’s newest release, “The Gershwin Songbook”, came out on April 25th, 2025, and gaining lots of attention on YouTube and Spotify
Stephanie Adlington
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $22 in advance, $23 at the door
Stephanie Adlington, otherwise known as, "The Siren Of The South", is an Award Winning singer, songwriter, and vocal coach. Born and raised in Grafton, WV, Miss Stephanie is a graduate of the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London, England, and also attended the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, and (pre-college) Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. While in London, Stephanie recorded with the folk-rock band Renaissance, which produced three critically acclaimed international albums.
“Her take on the great American songbook is unrivaled. Her sound stood up well when played next to iconic artists such as Ella Fitzgerald. Do yourself a favor and get to know and appreciate this ascendant music star” Leslie Stoval - NPR San Fransisco
Miss Stephanie has received many recent accolades, including the 2018 & 2020 Nashville Industry Music Awards for “Best Jazz Vocalist”, and 2021 Josie Award for “Best Jazz/Blues Vocalist”
“Disarmingly engaging as a songwriter, particularly with her southern Willow Sway” - Cabaret Scenes Magazine (NYC)
Known for her unique vocal styling, an evening with Miss Stephanie carries her audience back to the prohibition era - a scandalous rendezvous in a wicked speakeasy, where swagger goes and bourbon flows. Her show titled, "The Jazz, Pearls, and Bourbon Revue" is a throwback to the glorious days of old school jazz: think top-shelf juke joint meets Southern hospitality. Drink in an infusion of bourbon, Johnny Mercer, Billie Holiday, Patsy Cline, and Fats Waller and you just sidled up to the bar next to, "The Siren Of The South ''.
“Her take on the great American songbook is unrivaled. Her sound stood up well when played next to iconic artists such as Ella Fitzgerald. Do yourself a favor and get to know and appreciate this ascendant music star” Leslie Stoval - NPR San Fransisco
Miss Stephanie has received many recent accolades, including the 2018 & 2020 Nashville Industry Music Awards for “Best Jazz Vocalist”, and 2021 Josie Award for “Best Jazz/Blues Vocalist”
“Disarmingly engaging as a songwriter, particularly with her southern Willow Sway” - Cabaret Scenes Magazine (NYC)
Known for her unique vocal styling, an evening with Miss Stephanie carries her audience back to the prohibition era - a scandalous rendezvous in a wicked speakeasy, where swagger goes and bourbon flows. Her show titled, "The Jazz, Pearls, and Bourbon Revue" is a throwback to the glorious days of old school jazz: think top-shelf juke joint meets Southern hospitality. Drink in an infusion of bourbon, Johnny Mercer, Billie Holiday, Patsy Cline, and Fats Waller and you just sidled up to the bar next to, "The Siren Of The South ''.
The Marc Payne Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 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.
Aug 23
The Jamey Simmons Sextet
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $18 in advance, $20 at the door
The Jamey Simmons Sextet combines the talent of Nashville’s top jazz musicians using the classic sound of the great 3-horn jazz groups, along with modern compositional sensibilities. Hard bop for the 21st century!
Arranger, composer, trumpeter, and educator Jamey Simmons is currently Director of Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University where he teaches courses in jazz. As a trumpet player, Simmons toured internationally with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and is currently active on the Nashville professional music scene. He has made appearances with artists as diversified as the Temptations, Dave Weckl, Buddy DeFranco, Lee Konitz, Duffy Jackson, and Vince Gill and written arrangements and compositions that have been performed by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Symphony Pops, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, Brussels Jazz Orchestra and numerous university ensembles. His latest CD Push and Pull features the Duo/Trio Project of pianist Matt Endahl and guitarist Rory Hoffman. Find Jamey online at jameysimmons.com.
Jamey Simmons - trumpet & flugelhorn
Don Aliquo - Saxophones
Desmond Ng - Trombone
Pat Coil - Piano
Jack Aylor - Bass
Danny Gottlieb - Drums
Arranger, composer, trumpeter, and educator Jamey Simmons is currently Director of Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University where he teaches courses in jazz. As a trumpet player, Simmons toured internationally with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and is currently active on the Nashville professional music scene. He has made appearances with artists as diversified as the Temptations, Dave Weckl, Buddy DeFranco, Lee Konitz, Duffy Jackson, and Vince Gill and written arrangements and compositions that have been performed by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Symphony Pops, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, Brussels Jazz Orchestra and numerous university ensembles. His latest CD Push and Pull features the Duo/Trio Project of pianist Matt Endahl and guitarist Rory Hoffman. Find Jamey online at jameysimmons.com.
Jamey Simmons - trumpet & flugelhorn
Don Aliquo - Saxophones
Desmond Ng - Trombone
Pat Coil - Piano
Jack Aylor - Bass
Danny Gottlieb - Drums
Jody Nardone Trio
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $21 in advance, $22 at the door
"Thanks to a dynamic style that can shift from the whispered beauty of Bill Evans to the percussive flights of McCoy Tyner, Nardone has emerged as one of Nashville's preeminent jazz pianists. His reputation is also blowing up nationwide, where he is receiving raves in Downbeat and Jazziz for his role in the Crimson Jazz Trio, a Nashville-to-L.A. combo led by former King Crimson drummer Ian Wallace and former Vital Information bassist Tim Landers."
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
The Eli Ibrahim Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Pianist Eli Ibrahim leads his dynamic quartet,exploring the rich intersection of blues and jazz, weaving together soulful melodies and intricate rhythms. Prepare for an evening of captivating improvisation and infectious rhythm as the Eli Ibrahim Quartet takes you on a musical journey through the heart of these intertwined genres.
Aug 24
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.