Jazz Beat — February
Hello, all, and welcome back to this regular column here at Music City Review. Here, we will update you with the most can’t-miss jazz events happening in Music City, so you can be sure to catch all your favorites, as well as discover new ones along the way. Get out there and support your local musicians and keep Music City thriving! We are always looking to promote great music that may not get the attention it deserves. Have an event you think should be included in the next issue? Email me at: [email protected]
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This Month’s Highlights
Hello, all, and welcome back to this regular column here at Music City Review. Here, we will update you with the most can’t-miss jazz events happening in Music City, so you can be sure to catch all your favorites, as well as discover new ones along the way. Get out there and support your local musicians and keep Music City thriving! We are always looking to promote great music that may not get the attention it deserves. Have an event you think should be included in the next issue? Email me at: [email protected]
Here are the performances this month that I have picked out as really special, ones you won’t be able to catch any day of the week. They span across Nashville’s many great jazz venues and offer something of interest for everyone.
Airshow w/ OmCat – Thursday, February 5 – 8:00 PM (Basement East)
Airshow is a Nashville-based jam band made up of Cody Chelius (mandolin/vocals), Steve Gallagher (guitar/vocals), Bill Baker (bass/vocals), and John Rodrigue (drums/vocals). They have released two studio albums, and are equally committed to their explorational and improvisational live shows.
Duke In Africa w/ the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra & Wynton Marsalis – Wednesday, February 11 – 7:30 PM (Schermerhorn)
One of the top jazz orchestras in the world today, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra come to Music City, along with legendary trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, for a special tribute to Duke Ellington, specifically to the works he composed from his inspiration in Africa, where he traveled with his band in 1966 for the first World Festival of Negro Arts. This trip led to the composition of some of Ellington’s most famous works, including Afro-Bossa, Liberian Suite, and Togo Brava Suite. Co-music-directed by JLCO saxophonists Chirs Lewis and Alexa Tarantino. This performance is without the Nashville Symphony.
Nashville Saxophone Section Tribute to Denis Solee – Thursday, February 12 – 9:00 PM ($16) (Rudy’s)
The Nashville Saxophone Section, made up Music City mainstays Matt Davich, Don Aliquo, Zicky Hart, Dan Hitchcock, and Brian Williams, are joined by Bruce Dudley (piano), Bailey Johnstone (bass), and Chris Brown (drums), to pay tribute to the late Denis Solee, a cornerstone of the Nashville music community. Solee is remembered for his incredible versatility across many genres, and for the prolific nature of his work, having performed with touring artists, local legends, and countless other recording projects.
Say She She – Friday, February 13 – 8:00 PM (3rd and Lindsley)
Led by three classically trained singers, Say She She is a disco and funk group from Brooklyn. Self-describing their music as “discodelic soul” with “dreamy harmonies,” this group, while not really jazz, is sure to make audiences want to move.
Matteo Mancuso – Monday, February 16 – 7:30 PM ($34+) (City Winery)
From guitar child prodigy to receiving praise by Steve Vai and Joe Bonamassa, Matteo Mancuso is an impressive guitar player who has been deep in the world of music his whole life. He has a vast internet following and has toured the world with his various bands. He began exploring composition in 2020, presenting his first original recordings, releasing his first solo full-length album in 2023.
The Crescent City Hoodoo All-Stars Mardi Gras Celebration (2 sets) – Tuesday, February 17 – 6:00 PM & 9:00 PM ($20) (Rudy’s)
The one time of year you will catch Rudy’s open on a Tuesday is, of course, Mardi Gras. Featuring Rudy’s authentic New Orleans cuisine, drink special, and a killer band, this is the perfect authentic way to celebrate the holiday. Performing classic jazz, blues, and soul tunes from iconic NOLA neighborhoods, the band features Chris Walters on piano and vocals, Brook Sutton on bass, Chris West on saxophone, Andrew Carney on trumpet, and Chris Brown on drums.
Fareed Haque & Friends – Saturday, February 21 – 7:30 PM ($35) (NJW)
One of the world’s most versatile and celebrated guitarists, Fareed Haque blends musical traditions from all over the world. Born to a Pakistani father and Chilean mother, his style reflects his years traveling through those countries, as well as Iran, France, and Spain. Hailed as a “Best World Guitarist” by Guitar Player Magazine, Haque seamlessly weaves these styles with mainstream genres like jazz, rock, blues, and classical. He will be joined for this performance by Danny Gottlieb on drums, Matt Twaddle on piano and synths, and Ric Fierabracci on bass.
John Mailander’s Forecast – Saturday, February 21 – 11:30 PM (Cannery Hall)
Forecast is a Nashville-based collective of industry-leading musicians led by multi-instrumentalist and composer John Mailander. Originally formed for the live debut of Mailander’s album Forecast, the band took on the name for a series of residency shows, which then turned into a full-fledged band with a dedicated live following, known for their adventurous improvisations and genre-bending style. They have now released two albums together as a band. The ensemble features the talents of many musicians, including Mailander (fiddle/keys/electronics), Ben Garnett (guitar), Chris Miller (tenor sax), Geoff Saunders (bass), and David Williford (woodwinds), among others.
Stephane Wrembel Quartet – Wednesday, February 25 – 6:00 PM ($20) (Rudy’s)
Described as “a revelation” (Rolling Stone) and “perhaps the most creative improviser in Gypsy jazz today” (New York Times), guitarist Stephane Wrembel has built a reputation as one of the finest guitarists around. Combining a masterful technicality and original compositions, Wrembel stands out as a truly unique figure on the scene today. Born and raised in France, the home of impressionism and Django Reinhardt, he developed a deep understanding of the Gypsy jazz style, while also becoming obsessed with players like David Gilmour of Pink Floyd, creating a truly unique style all his own.
Analog at Hutton Hotel
The Analog is a cozy and intimate venue at the heart of Nashville’s Hutton Hotel. Here you will find music of all types, from jazz and blues to folk to pop.
Analog Soul – Sundays, February 1, 15 & 22 – 7:00 PM (Free GA / $20 reserved seating)
The Analog continues its Analog Soul series, featuring some of the city’s most promising emerging talent who are redefining soul music. These shows will as usual feature Will Davenport and DJ Smoke.
Sarah Aili w/ Special Guest Brother Love – Thursday, February 12 – 8:00 PM
Artist Sarah Aili excels in many mediums, and is known for her work in music, theater, and storytelling. She was recognized by the Nashville Scene as one of the city’s top actors for her roles in Waitress and Innocent with Nashville Rep. She continues to delve into new and different creative projects, and this month at the Analog she presents an evening of jazz duets with special guest Brother Love. Together the pair will explore the timeless classics of the Great American Songbook..
City Winery Nashville
Nashville’s City Winery is a beautiful venue that consistently features top-talent acts that span genres from Jazz to Americana to Hip Hop. The below performances showcase a mix of several genres, but will certainly be of interest to any jazz audience. Enjoy these concerts accompanied by a stellar selection of wine and delicious bites.
Main Stage
Backstage Brass – Tuesday, February 10 – 7:30 PM ($18+)
This is a 12-piece brass band, focusing on paying tribute to the greatest horn bands in history. Audiences can expect to hear classic tunes from legendary acts like Chicago, Earth Wind & Fire, Tower of Power, Toto, and many more.
Matteo Mancuso – detailed above
Norman Brown – Thursday, February 19 – 7:30 PM ($45+)
Any guitarist that George Benson says is “one of the greatest and most articulate guitarists out there” gets a big nod from me. Brown has collaborated extensively with Benson as well as other greats like Brian McKnight, Miki Howard, Jeff Lorber, and many others. One of the busiest touring artists on the scene today, Brown’s last album, It Hits Different, was released in 2024.
Demola – Saturday, February 28 – 5:00 PM ($50+)
Demola is an international award-winning multi-genre violinist who has garnered hundreds of millions of views and listens from his online presence. Though his music skews toward the pop genre, his performance will include covers of works from all types of genres, including jazz, country, afrobeats, and more. His first show earlier in the evening has already sold out, so act fast if you want to see this unique performance.
The Lounge
Sarah Potenza – Friday, February 13 – 7:00 PM ($36+)
While not necessarily jazz, vocalist Sarah Potenza blends elements of blues, R&B, and soul in her music. She competed on The Voice and American Idol, and her sophomore album Road to Rome received high praise from Rolling Stone, Billboard, NPR, and more.
The Nashville Jazz Workshop
Moving on to Music City’s premier jazz venue, the Jazz Cave at the NJW is a venue with world-class acoustics, which consistently ranks in Downbeat Magazine’s list of Great Jazz Venues in the world. The Cave is packed with great performances this month, so get your tickets now!
Jazz Cave
Jazz Rhapsody: A Southern Songbird’s Tribute to the Legacy of Jazz – Sunday, February 1 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Kick off Black History Month with award-winning vocalist Connye Florance and acclaimed pianist Kevin Madill as they delve into jazz history, featuring music from Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and more, plus original music from both.
Kelli Cox Collaborative w/ Chip McNeill – Friday, February 6 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Pianist Kelli Cox, a cornerstone of the music scene here for more than thirty years, and her ensemble welcome internationally acclaimed saxophonist Chip McNeill for a special one-night performance. McNeill is currently Chair of Jazz Studies at the University of Illinois, and has served as musical director for jazz greats Maynard Ferguson and Arturo Sandoval. He has also collaborated with Frank Sinatra, Wynton Marsalis, and more, earning Grammy recognition along the way. Cox’s Collaborative features trombonist Greg Cox, bassist Danny O’Lannerghty, trumpeter Stever Herman, and drummer Chris Brown.
Jazz AM: Miles Davis – Saturday, February 7 – 10:00 AM (FREE)
The NJW’s series of free, family-friendly Saturday morning performances continues, this time with a performance of music by the great Miles Davis and other jazz greats like Max Roach and Thelonius Monk. Complete with musical puppets and engaging hosts, these performances offer a great introduction to classic jazz tunes for listeners of all ages.
Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra: The Swing Era – Sunday, February 8 – 7:30 PM ($40)
After much time away, Ryan Middagh returns to the Cave with his Jazz Orchestra, featuring many of Nashville’s top jazz players, in a special concert honoring the music of the Swing Era. This concert is part of the Workshop’s Black History Month series, as the Swing Era was a foundational chapter in the history of jazz and Black American music. The concert will honor the music and legacy of the great bandleaders, composers, and arrangers of this crucially influential era in jazz music. The show will be preceded by a lecture from Dr. Robbie Fry at 7:00.
The Jazz Side of James Taylor w/ Steve Leslie – Friday, February 13 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Guitarist Steve Leslie leads a stellar ensemble exploring the subtle sophistication of the music of James Taylor, who has long been admired by the jazz community. Taylor’s songs of have been interpreted by towering figures like Wynton Marsalis, Michael Brecker, and David Sanborn, among many others. Leslie offers fresh, imaginative arrangements of Taylor’s timeless songs. He will be joined by Pat Coil on piano, Viktor Krauss on upright bass, and Kyle Tupper on drums.
Abigail Flowers: In a Sentimental Mood – Saturday, February 14 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Beloved Nashville vocalist Abigail Flowers puts on a special Valentine’s Day performance, presenting some of the many great romantic jazz classics. Flowers is known for her ability to sing in a number of languages, including Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, French, and Hawaiian, as well as for her own smooth and precise vocal stylings.
Hamilton Hardin: The Black Gospel Tradition – Friday, February 20 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Continuing in the Workshop’s Black History Month series, Grammy-winning producer, multi-instrumentalist, and composer for big band and orchestra Hamilton Hardin presents a concert celebrating the Black Gospel tradition. The concert will explore the genre’s sacred roots while also showing its deep connections to jazz, soul, R&B, and modern improvisational music. Hardin has collaborated with a wide range of well-known artists, including Stevie Wonder, Kirk Whalum, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and more. The show will be preceded by a lecture from Dr. Cedric Dent, starting at 7:00.
Masterclass: The Music of Oscar Peterson – Saturday, February 21 – 2:00 PM ($25)
Join internationally acclaimed and award-winning singer, songwriter, and pianist SUPER KAT STAR for an afternoon Masterclass exploring the legacy of legendary jazz pianist and educator Oscar Peterson. Attendees will learn about Oscar’s own educational process, how he learned the piano, and how his legacy still influences the recording, performing, and teaching methods of today.
Fareed Haque & Friends – detailed above
Simon Mogul ft. Curtis Lundy – Sunday, February 22 – 3:00 PM ($35)
A rising voice in the New York jazz scene, saxophonist Simon Mogul leads a band featuring legendary bassist Curtis Lundy. Though only twenty-five years old, Mogul has already built a reputation for a style which honors the legends of the past like Coltrane and Rollins, while also weaving in his more modern influences from Hip Hop and R&B. Curtis Lundy is a bassist, composer, arranger, and producer whose career has spanned decades, gaining him wide recognition across the industry through collaborations with figures like Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard, Wynton Marsalis, and more.
Blair School of Music Jazz Combos – Sunday, February 22 – 7:30 PM ($15)
Three of Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music’s student jazz combos take the stage in the Cave, giving listeners a chance to see the next generation of jazz artists. Led by some of the most well-known jazz musicians in Nashville and elsewhere, these combos are sure to display the best of what these students have to offer.
Mike Hicks: Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Beyond – Friday, February 27 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Another installment in the Workshop’s Black History Month series, award-winning artist, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Mike Hicks returns to the Cave as bandleader, presenting an evening of music which explores the intersection of Hip-Hop with other Black American music, including jazz, blues, gospel, R&B, and contemporary soul. Hicks is known for his soulful original compositions, and has built a career which has included collaborations with Buddy Guy, Michael McDonald, Rascal Flatts, and many more.
Joseph Wooten & the Hands of Soul: The Funk & Fusion Era – Saturday, February 28 – 7:30 PM ($35)
The last of the NJW’s four-part Black History Month series, celebrated keyboardist, vocalist, composer, and producer Joseph Wooten brings his band The Hands of Soul to the Cave to explore the styles of Funk and Fusion music, two styles born from Black musical traditions. As a member of the Wooten family, Joseph Wooten practically needs no introduction. For more than thirty years, he has been the keyboardist for the Steve Miller Band, and has also made quite a name for himself through his own original music and collaborations with other well-known artists.
Community Events
Jazz on the Move: Vinéecia Buchanan Presents Carmen McRae – Sunday, February 15 – 3:00 PM (FREE) (Frist Art Museum)
NJW and Frist Art Museum present the latest installment of the Jazz on the Move series, this time honoring the great jazz singer Carmen McRae, one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. She was celebrated for her smoky vocal tone, innovative scat improvisation, and emotional interpretations of jazz standards. Presenting this homage is Nashville vocalist Vinéecia Buchanan, a vocal instructor at Vanderbilt who is known for her multi-genre expertise. She has shared the stage with figures like Janis Siegel, Darmon Meader, Bobby McFerrin, and more.
Rudy’s Jazz Room
Now we move on to Nashville’s premier jazz club, with its cozy, intimate setting. I’ll start with some of the unique highlights for this month, then follow up with the great regular acts performing. Please note that some shows are one dollar cheaper if you purchase advance tickets. I have listed the door price for all shows.
Rudy’s Highlights
Below are the performances for this month that I’ve picked out as the real can’t-miss shows, some featuring touring artists from out of state, others featuring local artists giving specialized, unique performances.
Eddie Barbash, Jeff Picker & Mark Raudabaugh – Monday, February 2 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Three of Nashville’s best join together again for an evening of genre-spanning music. Jeff Picker is an in-demand bassist who has worked with some of the biggest names in Country and Bluegrass, including stints with Ricky Skaggs’ band Kentucky Thunder, and he is currently a touring member of Nickel Creek. Saxophonist Eddie Barbash was a founding member of the house band for the Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and currently tours the world with Cory Wong, one of the biggest names in contemporary jazz and fusion music. And drummer Mark Raudabaugh keeps himself busy touring and recording with big industry names like Jeff Coffin, Sierra Hull, Grant Green Jr., and many more. The combination of this wide array of influences and experiences promises an incredibly unique performance.
Jon Cowherd Trio – Wednesday, February 4 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Renowned Nashville pianist Jon Cowherd leads trio performances in back-to-back sets at the NJW. Cowherd is the cofounder of the Grammy-winning Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band, and is known for his lyrical touch and harmonic mastery. For this trio performance he will be joined by Viktor Krauss on bass and Marlon Patton on drums.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursdays, February 5 & 19 – 9:00 PM ($14) & Saturday, February 7 – 5:30 PM ($20)
Continuing its running “SINdustry night” series on the first Thursday of the month, this New Orleans-style brass band returns to Rudy’s to showcase the club’s Cajun roots. Led by New Orleans native Chris Walters on piano, this band offers as authentic a brass band experience you can find without traveling to the French Quarter. Service industry workers with some form of proof of their employment will receive half off the door price and half price draft beer. You’ll also be able to catch this band a second time on the following Saturday.
Fantastic Four w/ Coil, Coffin, Carlock & Allen – Friday, February 6 – 5:30 PM ($20)
All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil leads a stellar quartet of some of Music City’s top jazz talent. If you’ve followed this newsletter of the Nashville jazz scene in general, you will already know these names very well. Jeff Coffin on saxophone, Keith Carlock on drums, and Brian Allen on bass. These players are all some of the most in-demand musicians in Nashville and across the country, recording and touring with huge industry names, as well as producing their own music.
David Cook Quintet – Saturday, February 7 – 8:00 PM ($20)
Pianist David Cook has worked across many different genres, from jazz to pop to blues, as a musical director, sideman and leader. He has served as musical director for Taylor Swift, Thomas Rhett, Shayna Steele, and more. As a leader he has released three critically acclaimed jazz records. He now brings his quintet back to Music City, joined by Jeff Coffin (sax), Miguel Alvarado (sax), Jacob Jezioro (bass), and Derrek Phillips (drums).
Wendy Burns & Paul Childers “Jazz’s Greatest Duets” – Wednesday, February 11 – 6:00 PM ($18)
This popular show returns to Rudy’s. Burns is a jazz vocalist and flutist who specializes in songs from the 1940’s Big Band era. Childers is a vocalist and guitarist who manages to blend the styles of Jimi Hendrix on guitar with traditional jazz vocal melodies.
Nashville Saxophone Section Tribute to Denis Solee – detailed above
Nate Spratford Sextet – Monday, February 16 – 6:00 PM ($14)
Chicago native Nate Spratford is a saxophonist and composer who relocated to Nashville just two years ago and has already made quite the name for himself in Nashville’s jazz community. He has studied and performed with some of the industry’s best, including Jeff Coffin, Rod McGaha, Ari Hoenig, and many more. His sextet for this performance features Miguel Alvarado on tenor sax, Emmanuel Echem on trumpet, Marc Payne on piano, Rob Linton on bass, and Danny McGonegle on drums.
The Crescent City Hoodoo All-Stars Mardi Gras Celebration (2 sets) – detailed above
Dave Potter Quartet Plays the Music of Thelonius Monk (2 shows) – Friday, February 20 – 5:30 PM ($16) & Saturday, February 21 – 8:00 PM ($24)
All-star drummer Dave Potter leads a quartet of some of Nashville’s best to pay homage to the music of Thelonius Monk, a name so famous even those that nothing about jazz know it. His ensemble will feature Miguel Alvarado on sax, Taber Gable on piano, and Rob Linton on bass.
Eli Ibrahim Quartet – Friday, February 20 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Quickly becoming a regular on the Rudy’s stage, pianist Eli Ibrahim leads his quartet for an evening of blues and jazz music. His quartet features Aida Mills on guitar, Ethan Assad on bass, and Will Stenberg on drums.
Noah Pierre Band “Inwards” Tour – Saturday, February 21 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Guitarist and composer Noah Pierre brings his band to Rudy’s. Pierre has played guitar since the age of three, and has absorbed a wide array of influences, including everything from Hendrix to Wes Montgomery. He is also the son of two Haitian immigrants, so his music also reflects a deep connection to this culture. He has recorded or toured with artists like Jarrod Lawson, Micah Robinson, Ron Holloway, and more. His band features Oliver Unger (bass), Jordon Stanley (drums), Ricky Jefferson (piano), and Mike Paxton (sax).
Stephane Wrembel Quartet – detailed above
Miguel Alvarado “State of the Saxophone: Hank Mobley” – Thursday, February 26 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Saxophonist Miguel Alvarado presents another installment in his “State of the Saxophone” series, this time paying homage to Hank Mobley, one of the most influential saxophonists of the hard bop era. The performance will draw mainly from Mobley’s classic work, including Soul Station and Roll Call. You can rest assured that this tribute is in good hands, as Alvarado has been praised as “an incendiary soloist of the highest order” (Huffington Post). He is joined by Desmond Ng on trombone, Rob Linton on bass, and Jordan Perlson on drums.
Guitar & B3 Night – Friday, February 27 – 5:30 PM ($14)
An all-star band celebrates one of jazz’s most enduring formats, the organ trio. With three men who have a combined career of nearly a century, guitarist Bob Sabellico, keyboardist Kyle Lehning, and drummer Raymond Massey all have a wide base of experience touring with artists like The Guess Who, Randy Travis, Kenny Rogers, and many more.
Jerome Degey Quartet – Saturday, February 28 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Guitarist Jerome Degey returns to Rudy’s. Originally from Paris, France, Degey has a family history that is both French and Afro-Caribbean, and his wide geographical influences come out in his unique style of playing. He has collaborated with a wide array of artists, including Jonathan Edwards, Duffy Jackson, Daniel Levy, and many more.
Rudy’s Regulars
Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sundays, February 1 & 15 – 6:00 PM ($12)
One of Nashville’s most exciting jazz bassists, Jimmy Sullivan, takes the early Saturday set for a selection of hard-swinging jazz. If you’re a frequenter of Rudy’s, you’ll probably recognize Sullivan from his bi-monthly residency here on Sundays. Over his illustrious career he has performed with top jazz talents like Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Joel Frahm, and many more.
Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Wednesday, February 4 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Guitarist and vocalist Cliff Richmond’s band always features some of Nashville’s top talent, and presents a great blend of soulful, swinging, and funky jazz.
Jody Nardone Trio – Friday, February 6 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Prominent Nashville pianist Jody Nardone brings his trio to Rudy’s for a classic jazz set. With a growing national reputation, Nardone seamlessly shifts from the “whispered beauty of Bill Evans to the percussive flights of McCoy Tyner.” (Michael McCall, Nashville Scene)
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, February 6 & Saturday, February 21 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Playing a mix of Wayne Shorter tunes and originals, Geoff Pfeifer brings gritty, edgy, genuine NYC-style jazz to Rudy’s stage with his Quartet.
Marc Payne Quintet – Saturday, February 7 – 11:00 PM ($10)
One of Nashville’s most talented up-and-coming pianists Marc Payne will lead his quintet this month. Payne has been praised for his diversity and wide knowledge of many jazz styles. He has spent his life in Nashville soaking up many different sounds and styles, and this diversity comes through in his masterful playing. This quintet will feature Don Aliquo and Simon Mogul on saxophones, Rob Linton on bass, and Joshua Cook on drums.
Bruce Dudley Trio – Monday, February 9 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Bruce Dudley is an accomplished and acclaimed jazz pianist who is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz for over forty years with many recording credits to his name, both as sideman and bandleader. This time he leads in the intimate trio format, accompanied by Jim Ferguson on bass and Marc Widenhofer on drums.
MILEStones: Tribute to Miles Davis – Wednesday, February 11 – 9:00 PM ($15)
The Miles Davis tribute ensemble returns to the Rudy’s stage. Under the direction of drummer Brian Czach, this quintet focuses on music from the “great quintets” that Miles led in the 50’s and 60’s.
Stephanie Adlington: Valentine’s Day “Our Love Is Here to SLAY” – Friday, February 13 ($35) & Saturday, February 14 ($45) – 6:00 PM & 9:00 PM
Award-winning vocalist, songwriter and vocal coach Stephanie Adlington is known as the “Siren of the South,” with an “unrivaled” take on the Great American Songbook. She now presents a special performance for Valentine’s Day, featuring a collection of love songs and murder ballads, offering something for everyone, no matter their feelings about the holiday.
Bizz Bigsby – Wednesday, February 18 – 6:00 PM ($17)
Nashville native Bizz Bigsby shares his very personal music which tells the story of his life, influenced by everyone from Bill Withers to George Jones to James Taylor.
Regi Wooten & Friends – Wednesdays, February 18 & 25 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Coming from a distinctly talented musical family, Regi Wooten is one of the most innovative and dynamic musicians on the scene today, pushing the boundaries of the traditional genres. Equally at home playing Hendrix as Wes Montgomery, Wooten assembles a group of some of Nashville’s best musicians to offer a night steeped in funk, jazz, soul, blues and rock.
Pat Coil Quartet – Friday, February 20 – 8:00 PM ($21)
All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil returns with his quartet this month. As you all probably know by now, Coil is a highly in-demand pianist in Nashville and just about everywhere else, having toured extensively both nationally and internationally. His quartet for this show will feature Ted Ludwig, Steve Pruitt, and Brian Allen.
Dana Robbins Quintet – Sunday, February 22 – 6:00 PM ($15)
GRAMMY-winning saxophonist Dana Robbins pays tribute to the Soul Jazz sound of the late 60’s and early 70’s, celebrating artists such as Les McCann, Eddie Harris, Jimmy Smith, and more. Robbins has either recorded or performed with many artists, including Keb’ Mo’, Aretha Franklin, Taj Mahal, Keith Urban, and more. Her band features David Santos (bass), Wes Little (drums), Phil Hughley (guitar), and Darius Mines (piano/B3 organ).
Alex Murphy Trio – Monday, February 23 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Quickly becoming a mainstay pianist in Nashville, Alex Murphy brings his trio back to Rudy’s.
Don Aliquo
One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be leading performances a number of times this month, in trio and quartet format.
Don Aliquo Quartet – Friday, February 27 – 8:00 PM ($20)
Don Aliquo Trio – Saturday, February 28 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Jonathan Wires Quartet – Friday, February 27 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Nashville bassist Jonathan Wires returns as bandleader in a quartet setting.
Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos – Every Monday – 9:00 PM ($15)
A favorite on the Nashville Latin and jazz scene, multi-instrumentalist Giovanni Rodriguez presents an electric night of salsa, along with his band consisting of Rodriguez (timbales/vocals), Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Yosvany Cordero (congo/bongo), Michael S. Morton (flute/vocals), and Isoel Villarrubia (bass).
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz – Every Thursday – 6:00 PM ($12)
Every Thursday night, Rudy’s honors its New Orleans and French roots by celebrating the vibrant music of Gypsy Jazz. These nights feature a variety of small groups either led or curated by New Orleans native Brook Sutton, all performing music in the style of the great Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grapelli. The bar will feature French Quarter-inspired cocktails as well as gumbo and beignets. Come out for as authentic a night as you can get without a trip to the French Quarter.
Rudy’s Jazz Jam – Every Sunday – 9:00 PM ($10)
I couldn’t make a list of Rudy’s events without including a shout-out for the regular weekly Jazz Jam the club hosts every Sunday night. Whether you are a jazz musician and you want to jam with your fellow artists, or you just want to come and enjoy what the local talent has to offer, the Jazz Jam is a great way to end your weekend.
The Underdog Nashville
Cam G and the Tasty Soul – Thursday, February 5 – 9:00 PM ($10)
Led by saxophonist Gallagher and comprised of young and energetic musicians, this is one of Nashville’s premier funk bands. Great songwriting along with killer performance chops make these shows a ton of fun.
OmCat – Wednesday, February 18 – 8:00 PM ($10)
OmCat is one of Nashville’s best up-and-coming jam bands. Built out of what was originally a Grateful Dead tribute band, the group the began to explore improvisation through their own original music, and it became something else entirely, but still with that original love of the jam and improvisational music. Their music blends a raw rock sound with the rhythms of funk, disco, and more.
University Jazz
With the universities back in session, you’ll once again have a number of opportunities to see the student ensembles perform. Many of these groups feature students who go on to be influential members of the jazz scene here in Music City and elsewhere, so don’t count these out!
Vanderbilt University
Blair Big Band – Friday, February 13 – 7:30 PM (Ingram Hall) ($14)
Directed by Ryan Middagh, the Blair Big Band has been recognized as one of the premiere collegiate jazz ensembles in the country. Their concerts often feature a diverse mix of repertoire, from classic big band standards to original works by its members.
Belmont University
Jazz String Septet – Sunday, February 8 – 6:30 PM (Massey Concert Hall)
String students combine classical traditions with jazz and other popular styles.
Jazz Small Groups – Sunday, February 22 – 6:00 PM (Harton Recital Hall)
The student jazz combos perform.
Jazz Small Group & Jazz String Quartet – Monday, February 23 – 7:30 PM (Harton Recital hall)
Jazz instrumentalists combine with string students to blend classical traditions with jazz, featuring special guest Brad Goode.
Faculty Jazz – Tuesday, February 24 – 8:00 PM (Massey Concert Hall)
The Belmont Jazz Faculty perform, featuring special guest Brad Goode.
Regular Nashville Hangs
Bohemia After Dark: Live Jazz Band with Andrew Golden – Every Monday – 8:00 PM (Old Glory)
Tuesday Bluesday w/ Shantelle & The Juke Joint Band – Every Tuesday – 6:30 PM (Rawhides)
Weekly blues night with a different special guest each week.
Dinner & A Show – Live Jazz Band – Every Friday – 7:00 PM (Flamingo Cocktail Club)
Living Room Sessions – Every Friday & Saturday – 8:00 PM (W Nashville Hotel)
Regular weekly showcase featuring local indie, jazz, funk, and R&B bands.
Eastside Jam – Every Sunday – 9:00 PM (Inglewood Lounge)
This is not a traditional jazz jam playing standards, but rather an improv jam, but any jazz player or listener will still be interested!
Live Jazz at Wilburn St. Tavern – Tuesday Evenings
Nightly Jazz at Skull’s Rainbow Room
Nightly Jazz at Sinatra Bar & Lounge
Live Jazz at Skye Lounge – Every Friday & Saturday – 7:30 PM
NJW at Char Steakhouse – Evenings and Sunday Brunch
Monday Night Jazz – Every Monday – 7:00 PM (Kingdom Café & Grill)
- About the Author
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Wyatt Parks is a music industry professional and musical artist based in Nashville, TN. Originally from East Tennessee, he has played and performed music since the age of nine. He earned an Associates degree in Music from Pellissippi State Community College in Knoxville, and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Industry with a Jazz Guitar focus from Middle Tennessee State University. Now living in Nashville with his two cats, he writes music as an independent artist, and occupies a vital role on the Digital Sales team at Naxos of America, a music distributor with a specialty in Classical and Jazz.
