Jazz Beat – July
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.
MERJ
Local Nashville jazz band MERJ will be playing twice this month. The band fuses an array of influences from straight-ahead jazz to blues, fusion, and other modern influences for a unique sound that’s both traditional and modern. The band consists of saxophonist Jordan Frederick, guitarist Rob Foglia, bassist Eddie Cartagena, and drummer Mel Flores. Their debut album is set to release this fall.
MERJ (trio performance – guitar/bass/drums) – Friday, July 3 – 7:30 PM (Marquee)
MERJ (full band) – Thursday, July 23 – 6:00 PM (Tennessee Brew Works)
Harry Connick Jr. – Thursday, July 9 – 8:00 PM (Ryman Auditorium)
Genre- and medium-spanning, Grammy- and Emmy-winning singer, composer, and actor Harry Connick, Jr. appears on the iconic Ryman stage. Connick’s work encompasses a wide range of styles, from jazz to pop to gospel and more. Among many other awards, he received a Grammy nomination for his 2019 album True Love: A Celebration of Cole Porter, which was also adapted as a Broadway production. The list of achievements throughout his career would be too long to list here, but rest assured what you are getting in Connick is a supremely talented artist.
Jazz on the Cumberland – Sunday, July 12 – 5:30 PM (Wasioto Park)
This free family friendly concert series is back this month. Specific acts performing have yet to be announced, but these concerts always feature top talent, so you can’t go wrong with these family-friendly shows.
Kevin Gastonguay & Friends – Saturday, July 18 – 7:30 PM (Nashville Jazz Workshop)
Perhaps best known for his work as the keyboardist for acclaimed guitarist and bandleader Cory Wong, a prolific artist in his own right, in addition to being an integral part of the fusion bands Vulfpeck and The Fearless Flyers. Gastonguay has enjoyed a two-decade career which has brought him in front of audiences in 30 countries on six continents, including famed jazz festivals at Montreux and Newport. He now leads his own band at the Cave, performing his own original music from his three solo instrumental albums, backed by a stellar band.
Justyna & the Renaissance Men – Thursday, July 23 – 9:00 PM (Rudy’s)
The eclectic and diverse members of this band combine around a love of foreign languages to offer a unique sound. Vocalist Justyna Kelley, daughter of country and bluegrass artist Irene Kelley, Brian Allen, Nashville mainstay bassist, Jerome Degey, guitarist originally from Paris and with a wide knowledge of Latin cultures, Wes Little, a drummer known for his wide versatility and musicality, and Zachary Lee Williams, pianist and accordionist with influences as wide as Country and Americana to Jazz and Rock.
International Blues Challenge – Nashville Finals – Thursday, July 30 – 7:00 PM (Analog)
The Analog hosts the Finals of the Nashville Blues Challenge, where the region’s top blues artists compete to represent Nashville at the International Blues Challenge. If you’re a big blues fan, this could be a great opportunity to see a local artist you love, or discover new artists among the top performers in the region. The night will also feature a performance by Piper & the Hard Times, winners of the 2024 International Blues Challenge.
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, June 5 & 12 – 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. This will as usual feature Will Davenport, and this month will also feature DJ artist TIKAAFTERDARK.
The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans (2 sets) – Friday, July 10 – 6:00 PM & 9:00 PM
The Analog offers a program which explores the very roots of jazz music, the sounds and rhythms of New Orleans. Each performance will feature a selection of carefully chosen classic, the timeless melodies of which will be recognizable to any audience, as well as space for spontaneous improvisation, that element so indicative of this music. The Analog will offer this on two different nights this summer, with two sets on each day.
International Blues Challenge – Nashville Finals – detailed above
Arrington Vineyards

As temperatures heat and we head into summer, Arrington Vineyards continues its weekend musical offerings. Every weekend you’ll be able to catch live jazz here, at both the Hillside Stage and on the Lawn. You can always find some of Nashville’s top jazz talent here, and this month is no exception. I’ve listed the acts appearing below.
Jazz on the Hillside
Sunday, July 5 – 2:00-6:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, July 11 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Art Four Sale
Sunday, July 12 – 2:00-6:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, July 18 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, July 19 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Saturday, July 25 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, July 26 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
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
Tamika Patton – Wednesday, July 8 – 7:30 PM ($26+)
For fans of vocal jazz, Tamika Patton has a lot to offer. More squarely in the gospel category, her vocal style nevertheless incorporates many other styles, from jazz to pop to contemporary R&B. Known for her incredible range and commanding presence, Patton first gained national attention with her chart-topping debut album, which earned widespread praise for her versatility and signature sound.
Jazz Brunch w/ Dee Lucas – Saturday, July 25 – 12:00 PM ($30)
Celebrated contemporary and smooth jazz saxophonist Dee Lucas presents a brunch set. With a career of over two decades, Lucas has released twelve acclaimed albums, crafting a sound that blends jazz with funk, R&B, and gospel.
The Lounge
Gareth Pearson and Clive Carroll – Tuesday, July 14 – 7:00 PM ($24)
Two of the world’s top acoustic guitarists present a co-headlining set at the Lounge. Both known for their virtuosity and deep knowledge of the instrument, these guitarists draw on a wide array of styles in their playing, from jazz and blues to folk and bluegrass and even Celtic influences.
The Nashville Jazz Workshop
MMoving 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
Paul Hannah: Knocks Me Off My Feet, A Jazz Tribute to the Music of Stevie Wonder – Saturday, July 11 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Lifelong session and touring drummer and percussionist Paul Hannah presents music from his new album, of the same title as this event, presenting recast versions of timeless Stevie Wonder tracks. Featuring horn arrangements and rhythms inspired by Latin and Caribbean beats, Hannah goes back to the music he first fell in love with as a teenager. Hannah has had a long touring career which includes 25 Broadway productions through the U.S., Canada, China, and Japan, and sharing stages with Christian McBride, John Medeski, Dave Brubeck, and many more.
Residency, In Pieces: Jon Cowherd – Tuesday, July 14 – 7:30 PM ($25)
World-renowned pianist and Nashville staple Jon Cowherd begins his bi-monthly residency at the Cave. Every other Tuesday he will perform, each time featuring a different lineup and concept. For this first show, the band, featuring Ryan Scott on guitar, Mike Elizondo on bass, and Marlon Patton on drums, will lean into heavy groove, New Orleans soul, and Cowherd’s original compositions. Additional
Over the Rainbow: Monica Ramey Sings the Music of Harold Arlen – Friday, July 17 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Beloved Nashville singer Monica Ramey continues her own monthly residency at the Jazz Cave, now in its third installment, this time celebrating the music of one of the Great American Songbook’s most original composers, Harold Arlen, famous for timeless songs like “Stormy Weather,” “Come Rain or Come Shine,” and “Over the Rainbow.”
Kevin Gastonguay & Friends – detailed above
The Piano Man: A Billy Joel Jazz Tribute – Saturday, July 25 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Pianist, composer, and arranger Daniel Fiamengo and vocalist Haley Schattschneider have collaborated on a new act they are now premiering here at the Workshop, a jazz tribute to the music of Billy Joel. Their goal is to honor Joel’s legacy while inviting listeners to hear these classic songs in a whole new way. Blending Fiamengo’s innovative arranging with Schattschneider’s vocal talents, this act is made for Billy Joel fans and jazz lovers alike.
Residency, In Pieces: Jon Cowherd Piano Trio – Tuesday, July 28 – 7:30 PM ($25)
The Cowherd residency continues, this time focusing on the most stripped-down, and most demanding, format in jazz, the piano trio. Featuring his own original compositions, Cowherd will be joined by Paul Bryan on bass and Marlon Patton on drums.
Jennifer Hartswick & Nick Cassarino – Friday, July 31 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Singer and trumpeter Jennifer Hartswick and guitarist Nick Cassarino strip things down for an intimate acoustic duo performance. The pair each have over two decades of experience performing, both together and separately with a number of influential bands and artists. Hartswick is an original member of the Trey Anastasio Band, and has been praised for her joyful and soulful presence, both on trumpet and in her vocal style. Cassarino, on the other hand, is founder of The Nth Power and is a longtime collaborator with Christian McBride.
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.
Eric Wurzelbacher Group – Wednesday, July 1 – 6:00 PM ($15)
Tenor saxophonist Eric Wurzelbacher’s music has been described as a “foot-tapping mix of hard-bop improv and rock” (Jazz Journal UK) and that it “straddles the line between old school and new school” (Big Takeover). As a leader he has released six albums of original music, and his group made their first national appearance at Newport Jazz Festival in 2019. His band features Matt Twaddle on piano, Aaron Lessard on guitar, Tino Tafarella on bass, and Daniel Ferreira on drums.
Pat Bergeson Organ Trio – Friday, July 3 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Join Nashville guitar staple Pat Bergeson as he performs in one of the most enduring guitar-based formats in jazz, the organ trio. Bergeson, who cut his teeth in NYC, was originally brought to Nashville by none other than Chet Akins after hearing him play on a demo tape. He has since gone on to work with legends like Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Tommy Emmanuel, among many others. For this organ trio, he will be joined by none other than Charles Treadway, who is widely considered the top organist in Nashville.
Miguel Alvarado Quintet – Friday, July 3 – 8:00 PM ($26)
If you’ve been paying attention to this newsletter, you’ll know that top Nashville saxophonist Alvarado has been leading a monthly residency of tribute concerts these last few months, focusing on the towering figures of the jazz saxophone. He now returns, but leading his own quintet featuring fellow saxophonist Jeff Coffin, pianist Jon Cowherd, bassist Scott Mulvahill, and drummer Derrek Phillips. Alvarado has been praised as “an incendiary soloist of the highest order” (Huffington Post) and recognized with the Nashville Music Industry Jazz Performance award. Most recently, he toured South Africa as a saxophonist in Darren English’s quintet.
Legend Meets Brilliance w/ Don Aliquo & Marc Payne – Friday, July 3 & Saturday, July 18 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Two of Nashville’s best unite to offer their “no holds barred” approach to music, promising to bring an evening of raw energy and spontaneous music, fusing the classic traditions of jazz with contemporary styles. Don Aliquo is a celebrated saxophonist who has been active as performer, composer, educator, and recording artist for more than two decades, while Marc Payne is a young artist who has already made quite the reputation for himself as one of the most promising up-and-coming pianists in the area.
Katie Blomarz-Kimball – Wednesday, July 8 – 6:00 PM ($15)
2024 NIMA Award Winner for Best Jazz Instrumentalist, bassist Katie Blomarz-Kimball brings her own group back to Rudy’s. Her influences include Paul Chambers to Ray Brown to Christian McBride, her repertoire ranging from straight ahead to contemporary jazz. Her band will feature a host of other stellar musicians, including Jon Cowherd on piano, Abigail Flowers on vocals, Dan Hitchcock on sax, Rainy Miatke on mandolin, Shaun Richardson on guitar, and Mark Raudabaugh on drums.
“Broadway Songs Reimagined” w/ the Miles Damaso Quartet – Thursday, July 9 – 9:00 PM ($16)
Join Miles Damaso and his quartet as they offer modern reinterpretations of Broadway classics, including tunes from Wicked, Hamilton, West Side Story, The Sound of Music, and more. His quartet will feature Don Aliquo on sax, Daniel Kuk on piano, and Leland Nelson on bass.
Ted Ludwig Quartet – Saturday, July 11 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Acclaimed seven-string jazz guitarist Ted Ludwig returns to Rudy’s, this time leading a quartet featuring Taber Gable on piano, Craig Akin on bass, and Josh Hunt on drums. Ludwig has been widely praised for his melodic and virtuosic playing.
Matt Twaddle Trio (2 shows) – Saturday, July 11 – 11:00 PM ($10) & Wednesday, July 29 – 6:00 PM ($15)
Accomplished pianist, composer, arranger, producer, and educator Matt Twaddle leads his trio featuring bassist Ric Fierabracci and drummer Zach Dubay, with special guest appearances by Kent Crawley on guitar and Eric Wurzelbacher on tenor sax. Twaddle’s eclectic career has spanned many genres and styles, from jazz to rock to country to pop, and all of these experiences come out in his playing. Since relocating to Nashville in 2023, he has quickly become a mainstay in the jazz scene.
Wendy Burns & Paul Childers “Jazz’s Greatest Duets” – Sunday, July 12 – 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.
Jason Johnson Quartet – Monday, July 13 – 6:00 PM ($12)
A rare Nashville native, saxophonist and woodwindist Jason Johnson is quickly becoming one of the most promising players in the city’s jazz scene. He has studied with towering figures like Evan Cobb and Jeff Coffin, and brushed paths with names like Sean Jones and Brian Blade. He was also named a semi-finalist in this year’s Yamaha Young Artists Competition.
Lisa Stewart and Her Jazz Combo – Friday, July 17 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Highly acclaimed Nashville singer Lisa Stewart brings her group to Rudy’s. She is a BMI Award-winning songwriter, and her most recent single “The Man You Are Today” garnered Grammy consideration. Listeners can expect an evening of timeless jazz standards and reimagined favorites. Joining her will be Daniel Kuk on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, Stephan Dudash on fiddle, and Chris Brown on drums.
Bob McChesney Quintet – Saturday, July 18 – 8:00 PM ($24)
Known for his lightning-fast technique and emotional delivery, trombonist Bob McChesney is internationally recognized as a trombone soloist. He has performed on a number of Grammy-winning albums and has scored hundreds of television shows and movies. Now he leads a quintet featuring other top Nashville jazz talent Pat Coil (piano), Don Aliquo (sax), CraigAkin (bass), and Ryan Brasley (drums).
Daniel Kuk Quartet – Monday, July 20 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Daniel Kuk is a young up-and-coming pianist who, as you can tell from other lineups listed in this newsletter, is already making waves in the scene and proving himself in-demand. He has lived in Nashville most of his life, and started studying music at a very early age. His major influences include Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, and Bud Powell. His quartet will feature Baily Johnstone on bass and Marlon Patton on drums, and Dan Hitchcock on sax.
Justyna & the Renaissance Men – detailed above
Ryan Devlin Trio (2 shows) – Friday, July 24 & Saturday, July 25 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Boston-based saxophonist and educator returns to the Rudy’s stage for two sets at Rudy’s. At just twenty-six years old, Devlin has already performed widely, including with ensembles like the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Orlando Jazz Orchestra, and in famous venues like Smalls in NYC, Chris’ Jazz Cafe in Philadelphia, and more. His trio for these performances will feature Ian Ashby on bass and Caleb Montague on drums.
Aaron Lessard Group – Friday, July 24 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Jazz and fusion guitarist Aaron Lessard returns to Rudy’s. His wide array of influences produce a unique style influenced by guitar greats like Pat Metheny, Mike Stern, John Scofield, and Robben Ford. He will be joined by a trio to back him.
Jovan Quallo Quartet Plays Kenny Garrett – Thursday, July 30 – 9:00 PM ($16)
Saxophonist and composer Jovan Quallo leads his quartet in a special tribute to legendary jazz saxophonist Kenny Garrett, who Quallo cites as one of the biggest influences in the development of his musical voice. Quallo has worked with towering figures across the music industry, from jazz artists like Jeff Clayton and Mark Kibble, to pop and country artists like Meghan Trainor, Keith Urban, and Dionne Warwick. For this show he will be joined by Alex Murphy on piano, Rob Linton on bass, and Marcus Finnie on drums.
Rudy’s Regulars
Regi Wooten & Friends – Wednesdays, July 1 & 8 – 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.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursdays, July 2 & 16 – 9:00 PM ($17)
Continuing its running Thursday “SINdustry night” series, 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 two weeks later.
Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sundays, July 5 & 19 – 6:00 PM ($12)
One of Nashville’s most exciting jazz bassists, Jimmy Sullivan continues his bi-monthly residency at Rudy’s. Over his illustrious career Sullivan has performed with top jazz talents like Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Joel Frahm, and many more.
Joshua Constantine Quartet (3 shows) – Mondays, July 6 & 27 – 6:00 PM ($12) & Friday, July 17 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Saxophonist Constantine is a former member of Grammy-nominated UNT One O’Clock Lab Band, and student of world-renowned saxophonist Brad Leali. Currently an active performer and educator in Nashville, Constantine tends to pay homage to the classic giants of jazz, honoring composers and performers like John Coltrane, Thelonius Monk, Wayne Shorter, and more. His quartet will feature Sam Smith on bass, Michael Green on drums, and Dan La Maestra on piano.
Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Friday, July 10 – 5:30 PM ($14)
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.
Don Aliquo Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, July 10 – 8:00 PM ($21) & Saturday, July 25 – 5:30 PM ($16)
One of Nashville’s most active saxophonists and a very familiar face at Rudy’s, Don Aliquo returns leading a quartet twice this month, both times featuring Marc Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet – Friday, July 10 & Saturday, July 25 – 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.
Rebecca Carlson (2 shows) – Saturday, July 11 ($15) & Friday, July 31 – 5:30 PM ($14)
Jazz and blues vocalist Rebecca Carlson has made a name for herself across the country, taking stints based in New York City, Tucson, Los Angeles, and now Nashville. An extensive touring and recording career has made her quite an in-demand performer.
PT Gazell & the Side Effects – Wednesday, July 15 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Harmonica player PT Gazell returns to Rudy’s with his band the Side Effects, always redefining the way we see the instrument.
Stephanie Adlington – Friday, July 17 – 8:00 PM ($23)
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.
Pat Coil Quartet – Saturday, July 18 – 5:30 PM ($16) & Friday, July 31 – 8:00 PM ($24)
All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil returns twice this month, in trio and quintet format. 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 first quartet will feature Dan Hitchcock on sax, Jacob Jezioro on bass, and Danny Gottlieb on drums, while the second will feature guest guitarist Ted Ludwig, as well as Brian Allen on bass and Jordan Perlson on drums.
Viktor Krauss – Wednesday, July 22 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Viktor Krauss is a bassist that has called Nashville home since 1992, and has over 600 credits to his name as either bassist, composer, or producer.
MILEStones: Tribute to Miles Davis – Wednesday, July 22 – 9:00 PM
Music City’s great 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.
Jody Nardone Trio – Friday, July 24 – 5:30 PM ($17)
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)
Dana Robbins Quintet – Sunday, July 26 – 6:00 PM ($16)
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).
Miles Damaso Trio – Friday, July 31 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Award-winning percussionist, educator, and composer-arranger Miles Damaso leads a trio at Rudy’s. Damaso has performed with a wide range of artists throughout the South and Midwest, and graced the stages of iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Lincoln Center, appearing alongside greats like Joel Frahm, pat Coil, John Raymond, and many more.
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
The Underdog is another great local venue located in East Nashville, where it hosts musical performances of all types, ranging from rock and punk to jazz.
Cam G & the Tasty Soul – Thursday, July 2 – 7:00 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.
The Broomestix – Tuesday, July 7 – 9:00 PM ($10)
The Broomestix are a nine-piece band based right here in Nashville. The band channels the many influences of all its members into a unique form of R&B, featuring a powerful horn section, catchy R&B hooks, and attention-grabbing grooves. Their full-length album, Y’all Need Anything, was released in 2019.
Hank Born – Tuesday, July 28 – 7:00 PM ($10)
Nashville-based guitarist Hank Born returns to the Underdog. Born’s playing combines elements from influences like Herbie Hancock and George Benson, making this a can’t-miss performance for any modern jazz fan..
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)




That’s a fantastic list, I’ve been wanting to check out Rudy’s Jazz Room.