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This Month’s Highlights

Here you’ll find the shows and events this month that I think are the real standouts, unique events that you won’t find every day in the city. A lot of great stuff happening outside the regular venues this month, so if you see one you like, make sure to get your tickets!

Alonzo Demetrius – Sunday, September 1 – 7:00 PM (Ryman Auditorium)

Though only twenty-eight years old, Alonzo Demetrius is already an acclaimed trumpeter, composer, vocalist, and composer. He is the founder of The Ego, a band which spans the range of genres, mixing jazz, gospel, R&B, rock, hip-hop, and more.

The Jay Patten Band – Wednesday, September 4 – 9:00 PM (Bluebird Cafe)

Saxophonist, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist Jay Patten performs with his band at the world-famous Bluebird Cafe. Though he now calls Nashville home, Patten has had a long successful career in Los Angeles as well as Music City, performing on recordings for artists like Johnny Cash, Bill Anderson, and many more. Patten was actually the very first artist to perform at the Bluebird, landing him a spotlight in the documentary film about the venue, and still hosts the anniversary parties to this day.

Ghost-Note – Wednesday, September 4 – 8:00 PM (Exit/In)

Headed by Snarky Puppy’s multi-Grammy-winning percussion duo and consisting of a rotating cast of all-star musicians, Ghost-Note is a progressive band pushing the boundaries of funk music, building on the foundations of legends like James Brown and Sly & the Family Stone. Both of the band’s albums have received critical success.

Dopapod – Friday, September 6 – 8:00 PM (Cannery Hall)

Highly acclaimed fusion band Dopapod comes to Cannery Hall. Breaking out in 2009 with their album “Radar,” the band have since received critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, Guitar World, Glide Magazine, and more. Having sold-out shows coast-to-coast, this should be an incredible performance.

Julian Lage – Saturday, September 7 – 8:00 PM (CMA Theater)

Superstar contemporary jazz guitarist Julian Lage comes to Nashville at the CMA Theater. A personal guitar hero of mine, Lage practically needs no introduction to those paying attention to the modern jazz scene. His latest album, “Speak to Me,” was released in March of this year, and effortless blends jazz, gospel hymn and rural blues, and singer-songwriter styles into a phenomenal performance.

Robby Krieger of the Doors – Monday, September 9 – 7:30 PM ($75+) (City Winery)

Robby Krieger, guitarist of the legendary band The Doors, makes an appearance at the Winery’s Main Stage. While certainly not strictly Jazz, Krieger’s playing is so rooted in the blues that I felt it was definitely something that would interest any jazz listener.

L.C. Franke – Saturday, September 14 – 7:00 PM (The Blue Room)

L.C. Franke is a jazz singer who offers a smooth callback to the golden days of Sinatra, Scott Walker, and Ella Fitzgerald. For those more interested in the sounds of classic jazz crooners, this should be one to watch.

Cam Gallagher & the Tasty Soul – Thursday, September 19 – 7:30 PM (The East Room)

A funk collective from right here in Music City, Cam Gallagher & the Tasty Soul was founded in 2021 by band leader and tenor saxophonist Cameron Gallagher. Though the members of the band are all young, they have all more than proven their chops.

Rudy Love & the Encore – Thursday, September 19 – 8:00 PM (The East Room)

Though officially formed early last year, the members of Rudy Love & the Encore have played music together for most of their lives. Presenting feel-good music that blends funk and R&B, the band is sure to create a memorable performance.

Gaby Moreno – Thursday, September 19 – 9:00 PM (Row One Stage at Cannery Hall – Part of AMERICANAFEST)

Guatemalan singer-songwriter and guitarist Gaby Moreno will perform as part of this year’s AMERICANAFEST. Though Moreno’s music is not strictly jazz, I think her vocal style certainly calls to the styles of many Latin jazz singers of the past.

Adam Larson’s “Hybrid” (2 performances) – Saturday, September 21 – 5:30 PM ($18) & 8:00 PM ($23) (Rudy’s)

Saxophonist Adam Larson’s album trilogy spanned two years and three cities. This project inspired him to assemble a sax-bass-drums jazz trio which represents all three cities. Join him as he leads this trio with John Kizilarmut on drums and Sebastian Arias on bass to present his original music. They will perform two back-to-back sets, taking both the 5:30 and 8:00 slots.

Adam Miller – Tuesday, September 24 – 7:00 PM ($10+) (The Underdog)

Acclaimed Australian guitarist and composer Adam Miller comes to Music City. Miller has been praised in publications like Jazz Guitar Today, Premier Guitar Magazine, Guitar Player Magazine, and many more for his incredible chops. Miller’s music has been compared to Charlie Hunter, Tuck Andress, Julian Lage, and Tommy Emmanuel.

The Oz Noy Trio – Thursday, September 26 – 7:30 PM (3^rd and Lindsley)

Virtuoso guitarist Oz Noy brings his trio to Music City. Noy is widely considered one of the top guitarists in the industry today, and presents an enchanting blend of jazz, funk, rock, and blues. He has performed, recorded, or toured with countless of the industry’s top names, including Bill Evans, Chris Potter, Matisyahu, Lizzo, and many, many others. For any fusion fan, this concert should not be missed.

Swing Dance Night – Friday, September 27 – 8:00 PM (Dive Motel)

Nashville’s Dive Motel holds its monthly Swing Dance Night starting at 8 and stretching to afterhours, until midnight, featuring live swing music and accompanied by the Motel’s bar and infamous retro vibes.

Jazz on the Cumberland w/ the Dee Jones Quartet – Sunday, September 29 – 5:30 PM (Free)

The Jazz on the Cumberland series continues with the Dee Jones Quartet.

Julius Rodriguez Presents Evergreen – Monday, September 30 – 6:00 PM ($15) (Rudy’s)

Rodriguez is an acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer who, at just twenty-five years of age, has already established himself as a highly sought-after collaborator, working with everyone from Wynton Marsalis to A$AP Rocky. Rodriguez now presents an evening of music celebrating his newest release EVERGREEN.

Arooj Aftab – Monday, September 30 – 8:00 PM (Ascend Amphitheater)

Pakistani-American artist Arooj Aftab creates music that transcends genre, effortlessly weaving itself between jazz, pop, blues, and South Asian classical music. Her 2023 album Love in Exile was nominated for a Grammy, and her most recent album Night Reign also received critical acclaim.

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Analog at Hutton Hotel.

Analog Soul ft. Will Davenport, Ryan Prewett & Friends, and Jon “DJ Smoke” Lucas – Sunday, September 1 – 6:00 PM (Free GA / $20 reserved seating)

The Analog continues its Analog Soul series, hosted by Will Davenport, for a night of great soul music. This time guests include Ryan Prewett, Jon “DJ Smoke” Lucas, and others.

Super Felon – Tuesday, September 3 – 7:00 PM ($20 GA / $35 reserved seating)

A night of soul and funk music with Patrick Sweany, Ted Pecchio, Ray Jacildo, Chris Condon, and Lynn Williams.

Emmaline – Thursday, September 5 – 7:00 PM ($20 GA / $25 GA day-of / $30 reserved)

Nashville native Emmaline, at the age of only twenty-six, has opened for Chaka Khan, been named Best Vocal Jazz of 2023 on Spotify, and starred in the movie Sweetwater, on the soundtrack for which she sings a duet with Grammy-winning blues artist Gary Clark, Jr. Though she is young and an independent artist, she has indisputably grabbed the attention of the industry at large.

The Sound Exchange ft. Rob Cureton – Friday, September 6 – 7:00 PM

Highly in-demand bassist and band leader Rob Cureton brings his band of all-star musicians to the Analog for what he calls Tuesday Night Sound Therapy. Cureton is known for his work in the house band of the CMT Awards, the TV show Nashville, and numerous touring artists.

Analog Soul ft. Will Davenport and The South – Sunday, September 22 – 6:00 PM

Another round of Analog Soul for you, this time featuring The South. .  

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Arrington Vineyards

 

Music in the Vines Series – Every Saturday (3:00-7:00 PM) & Sunday (1:00-5:00 PM)

Arrington Vineyards features concerts of Jazz and Bluegrass every Saturday and Sunday. Jazz acts this month include The Lilliston Effect Band, 9 Volt Romeo, the San Rafael Band, The Reed Pittman Band, Andrew Carney and the Essentials, and more. Miles Damaso will also return to Music in the Vines this month. All jazz events take place on the Hillside Stage. There will also be live jazz on Fridays (4:30-8:30 PM) for Arrington’s Food Truck Fridays! All jazz concerts take place on Arrington’s Hillside Stage.

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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

Robby Krieger of the Doors – detailed above

The Ton3s AKA The Hamiltones – Sunday, September 22 – 7:30 PM ($35+)

This vocal trio are the official backing singers for acclaimed vocalist Anthony Hamilton. They emerged as their own group in 2016, drawing upon a deep catalog of influences like the Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Kirk Franklin, and many more. The group is known for its unique blend of gospel, hip-hop, and R&B.

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The Nashville Jazz Workshop

Moving on to Music City’s other great 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. Tickets can be purchased through the Workshop website.

Jazz Cave

Monica Shriver Album Release – Friday, September 13 – 7:30 PM ($35)

Saxophonist, composer, and visual artist Monica Shriver gives a special performance at the Cave to celebrate the release of her new album, “Unfolding,” released in April of this year. Leading a quartet featuring Matt Endahl (keys), Alec Newnam (bass), and Tim Buell (drums), Shriver guides the group through a performance of original compositions, arrangements of jazz standards, and spontaneous improvisations. Shriver’s first album, “Acceptance,” was nominated by the National Industry of Music as 2024’s Best Jazz Album.

Thea Danos: From Brazil to Buchanan Street – Saturday, September 14 – 7:30 PM ($35)

Popular Nashville vocalist Thea Danos is known for her deep connection to the jazz music of South America, most especially Brazil. In this special performance, Danos guides the audience through a unique set of selections which span both time and space, featuring tunes from decades past and from all over the world.

Charles “Wigg” Walker – Friday, September 27 – 7:30 PM ($35)

One of the few remaining original soul singers from when this music was fresh on the music scene, Charles “Wigg” Walker has enjoyed a celebrated career spanning more than six decades. Born right here in Nashville, Walker cut his first record in 1959 for Ted Jarret’s legendary label Champion. Since then, Walker has toured with some of music’s most legendary names, including James Brown, Etta James, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke, just to name a few.

 

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Rudy’s Jazz Room

And 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. 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.

Crystal & Friends – Sunday, September 1 – 6:00 PM ($15)

Crystal Miller returns to the Rudy’s stage with her unique blend of influences from pop and rock to R&B and jazz.

Trio T.B.E. – Monday, September 2 – 6:00 PM ($12)

This group is the combination of three independently established Nashville musicians, Matt Endahl (piano), Chris Broomhead (drums), and Scott Trayer (bass), presenting their take on the classic piano trio lineup. Each member has his own long career, bringing together each of their influences to produce a sound that is both classic and new.

Mr. Groove “Meadow Park” and More – Wednesday, September 4 – 6:00 PM ($20)

Quintet Mr. Groove returns to Rudy’s, performing music from their latest project Meadow Park, as well as many old favorites. The all-star band features Keith Carlock on drums, Pat Coil on piano, Time Gordon on sax, Roddy Smith on guitar, and Tim Smith on bass.

MILEStones: Tribute to Miles Davis – Wednesday, September 4 – 9:00 PM ($15)

The Miles Davis tribute ensemble returns to the Rudy’s stage. This quintet focuses on music from the “great quintets” that Miles led in the 50’s and 60’s.

“The Bill Evans Album” with the Bruce Dudley Trio – Thursday, September 5 – 9:00 PM ($15)

Acclaimed Nashville pianist Bruce Dudley performs with his trio, featuring Jim Ferguson on bass and Josh Hunt on drums. The trio offers a special performance, specifically presenting music from Bill Evans’ 1970 Columbia recording “The Bill Evans Album,” along with a select few other Evans classics.

Ladies of Jazz – Friday, September 6 – 5:30 PM ($18)

Nashville-based jazz vocalist and flautist Wendy Burns heads up this much-talked-about concert series, featuring some of Nashville’s best female vocalists and backed by some of the city’s best musical talent. This concert will feature Mimi Clay and Abigail Flowers as the other vocalists, all of whom are acclaimed and seasoned performers.

Pascal Le Boeuf’s “Ritual Being” – Friday, September 6 – 8:00 PM ($22)

Ritual Being returns to Rudy’s. Led by Grammy-nominated pianist and composer Pascal Le Boeuf, Ritual Being hybrid jazz-classical ensemble featuring some of Nashville’s top talent, including Annaliese Kowert (violin), Alex Krew (cello), Ethan Jodziewicz (bass), and Jordan Perlson (drums).

The Aaron Lessard Group – Friday, September 6 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Aaron Lessard is a Nashville-based jazz and fusion guitarist whose mix of original music and covers showcases his influences, from Metheny and Stern to Scofield and Ford. He is backed up by Brook Sutton on bass and Nioshi Jackson on drums.

Margherita Fava Quartet – Saturday, September 7 – 8:00 PM ($21)

Italian native Margherita Fava is an acclaimed young pianist, composer, and bandleader. Born to parents who are both baroque specialists, music is practically in Fava’s blood. She has released two recordings of original music, an EP in 2022 and an album in 2023, which receive a 4-star review in DownBeat Magazine She now leads her quartet, featuring David Williford on sax, Rob Linton on bass, and Kirk Woodard on drums.

Matt Endahl Quartet – Saturday, September 7 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Matt Endahl is a well-known Nashville pianist, performing with a number of groups as well as teaching at universities. One of the most in-demand pianists in the region, he now presents his own quartet for an evening of classic jazz music. The quartet features Jonathan Wires on bass, John Westberry on drums, and Jayve Montgomery on saxophone.

Glenn Wilson / Rory Stuart Quartet – Monday, September 9 – 6:00 PM ($12)

Led by “one of the greatest living jazz guitarists” (Stuart) and “an unsung hero in modern jazz” (Wilson), this quartet features the unique combination of guitar and baritone sax. Celebrating the 32^nd anniversary of the release of their acclaimed release Bittersweet, this quartet will also feature Nashville regulars Jacob Jezioro (bass) and Joshua Hunt (drums).

Marc Payne’s “Soul Food” Quartet – A Link from Tradition to Today – Wednesday, September 11 – 9:00 PM ($15)

Prominent Nashville pianist Marc Payne leads a quartet linking classic jazz to its modern evolution, presenting classic jazz tunes alongside a fusion of hip-hop and funk music.

Yayennings Quintet – Friday, September 13 – 8:00 PM ($25)

Yayennings is a four-time Grammy-winning artist, most known for his work with jazz fusion supergroup Snarky Puppy. He has backed up legendary artists like Aretha Franklin, David Crosby, David Bowie, and many more. He now leads his own quintet featuring some of Nashville’s top-tier talent, Jeff Coffin (sax), David Cook (piano), Jacob Jezioro (bass), and Jordan Perlson (drums).

Shaun Munday – Saturday, September 14 – 5:30 PM ($12)

Bassist Shaun Munday returns to the Rudy’s stage with his full band. Munday has studied and performed with some of the industry’s greats, including John Mayer, Esperanza Spalding, and Antonio Sanchez, among others.

David Cook Quintet – Saturday, September 14 – 8:00 PM ($25)

Speaking of David Cook, he will also have an outing as bandleader this month, with nearly an identical group, only with Emmanuel Echem on trumpet. Based in NYC, Cook is currently the music director for Taylor Swift as well as several other high-profile artists.

Chris Mondak Quartet – Saturday, September 14 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Nashville-based bassist, composer, and educator Chris Mondak returns to the Rudy’s stage with his quartet.

Viktor Krauss – Monday, September 16 – 6:00 PM ($10)

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.

Joseph Wooten Benefit for Homeless Veterans – Thursday, September 19 – 9:00 PM ($25)

Joseph Wooten of the Wooten Brothers and the Steve Miller Band, offers a night of soul, funk, and jazz music, raising money for organizations supporting homeless veterans.

Bruce Dudley Quartet – Friday, September 20 – 8:00 PM ($21)

Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist who has over 40 years of experience performing jazz all throughout North and South America. He has recorded a number of albums as bandleader, as well as performed with big industry names like Aretha Franklin, Herb Ellis, and Crystal Gale. This quartet will feature Larry Aberman on drums, Rob Linton on bass, and Miguel Alvarado on saxophone.

Adam Larson’s “Hybrid” (2 performances) – detailed above

Marc Payne Quartet – Saturday, September 21 – 11:00 PM ($10)

One of Nashville’s most talented up-and-coming pianists Marc Payne will lead his trio. 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.

The MF Art of Listening – Wednesday, September 25 – 6:00 PM ($20)

This highly improvisational group makes its return to Rudy’s, led by drummer Marcus Finnie, who has assembled a highly talented group of musicians to create this unique experience. Finnie himself has toured the world with a host of artists, including Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, Donna Summer, Billy Preston, and many more. Also in the band are trumpeter extraordinaire Rod McGaha, who practically needs no introduction, having performed with Max Roach himself; John Pahmer, a pianist with a remarkable career that has made him a respected figure in the industry; and Ryan Madora, Nashville-based producer, educator, writer, and bassist. She has toured and recorded with artists like indie rock icon Jennie Lewis, as well as Molly Tuttle, Zayn, and more.

Rebecca Carlson – Thursday, September 26 – 9:00 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.

Sarah Jane Nelson – Friday, September 27 – 5:30 PM ($20)

Vocalist Sarah Jane Nelson combines influences from country, jazz, blues, and musical theater for a unique voice that has earned her descriptions as a “knock-‘em dead singer,” “sultry jazz goddess,” and “a first rate singer”.

Muneer Nasser Quintet – Friday, September 27 – 8:00 PM ($23)

Muneer Nasser is an eclectic trumpeter who brings together the sounds of the Memphis blues, New York jazz, and DC ingenuity. While in DC, Nasser performed at esteemed venues like the Lincoln Theater and Bohemian Caverns, and after leaving his music took him all over the world. This group will feature Alex Murphy (piano), Jack Ayler (bass), and Chester Thompson (drums).

Julius Rodriguez Presents Evergreen – detailed above

Rudy’s Regulars

Jody Nardone Trio (2 performances) – Saturdays, September 7 – 5:30 PM ($17) & September 28 – 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)

Pat Coil (2 performances) – Sunday, September 8 – 6:00 PM ($$20) & Friday, September 20 – 5:30 PM ($14)

Renowned Nashville pianist Pat Coil will perform twice this month, both times in quartet format but with different lineups each time. The first performance will feature the legendary Jeff Coffin on sax, Brian Allen on bass, and Jordan Perlson on drums. The second performance will feature Danny Gottlieb on drums, Jim Ferguson on bass, and Dan Hitchcock on sax.

PT Gazell & the Side Effects – Wednesday, September 11 – 6:00 PM ($10)

PT Gazell is a renowned harmonica player, with two Grammy-nominated albums to his name. He believes the harmonica is capable of so much more than most people realize, and continues to prove it by expanding the musical boundaries of the instrument.

Don Aliquo (multiple performances)

One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be performing three times this month, twice in quartet format and once in trio. The second of the quartet performances will feature Bruce Dudley on piano. Don Aliquo Quartet – Friday, September 13 ($14) – 5:30 PM & Saturday, September 28 – 5:30 PM ($16) Don Aliquo Trio – Friday, September 27 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Thursday, September 12 – 9:00 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.

Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 performances) – Friday, September 13 & Saturday, September 28 – 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.

Dana Robbins Quintet – Sunday, September 15 – 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).

Bizz Bigsby – Wednesday, September 18 – 6:00 PM ($15)

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, September 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.

Jonathan Wires Quartet – Friday, September 20 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Prominent Nashville bassist and educator Jonathan Wires leads a quartet featuring Adam Davis on guitar, Steve Pardo on sax, and Madison George on drums.

Sully’s Swingin’ Sunday Supper – Sunday, September 22 – 6:00 PM ($12)

Every other Sunday, Rudy’s features a Sunday dinner, with one of Music City’s top bassists Jimmy Sullivan leading a swingin’ jazz band featuring rotating special guests, for which a unique dinner special is served just for the show.

Re-Evolution – Monday, September 23 – 6:00 PM ($12)

This five-piece band is heavily influenced by classic jazz cutting-edge artists like Thelonius Monk, Wes Montgomery, John Coltrane, Bill Evans, and more. The band consists of Brian Cornish on saxophone, Regi Wooten on bass, Daryl Johnson on drums, Adam Charney on guitar and Alex Murphy on piano.

Stephanie Adlington – Sunday, September 29 – 6:00 PM ($15)

Another frequent visitor to the Rudy’s stage, 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.

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 (bass/vocals), Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Jesus Agreda (Timbales), Lorenzo Molina Ruiz (Trumpet), and Manuel ‘Manotas’ Ramierez (multi-Percussion).

Hot Club Gypsy Jazz – Every Thursday (except Sep 26) – 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 (except September 4) – 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.

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Sambuca Restaurant

Sambuca is a New American restaurant in Nashville’s Gulch district, featuring nightly live music. Below are the appearances that will interest the jazz listener!

Stephanie Adlington (2 performances) – Sundays, September 1 & 8 – 6:00 PM

Detailed in the Rudy’s section above, Adlington is a jazz vocal mainstay in Nashville.

Amanda Raye – Thursday, September 5 – 6:00 PM & Sunday, September 29 – 6:00 PM

Though her music stands out as a blend of soul and country, singer Amanda Raye has been noted for her jazz influences.

Leif Shires – Saturday, September 14 – 7:00 PM

Modern jazz trumpeter Leif Shires will perform twice this month. Shires, who has performed with many artists including Tom Jones, the Secret Sisters, Kelly Lang, and many others, now presents a traditional, straight-ahead jazz sound that is sure to be a great accompaniment to a delicious meal.

Sarah J – Thursday, September 19 – 6:00 PM

Known for an energetic personality and audience interactions, Sarah J’s music combines R&B, pop, and contemporary jazz.

Ben Graves – Saturday, September 21 – 7:00 PM

An incredibly eclectic and versatile musician, Ben Graves has performed music in genres from classical to jazz to hard rock, weaving all of this experience together into a unique style.

Patton James – Monday, September 30 – 6:00 PM

Guitarist and singer/songwriter Patton James presents his selection of original music and works from the American Songbook.

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The Underdog Nashville

The Guthrie Trapp Trio – Mondays, September 2, 9 & 23 – 8:00 PM ($10)

One of Nashville’s preeminent guitar talents will perform several times at the Underdog. More blues and country than jazz, Trapp’s intricate and highly technical guitar playing will surely interest those who love the technicality of jazz music. His trio features Jordan Perlson on drums and Tim Marks on bass.

Jimmie Infinity ft. The Electric Indigo – Tuesday, September 3 – 6:30 PM ($5)

Known for his one-man band style loop sessions, Cincinnati-based musician Jimmie Infinity is a talented multi-instrumentalist making music on his own, playing guitar, bass, keys, and more. He’ll be joined by Kentucky-based band The Electric Indigo, an original rock and jam-band.

The Jack Ruch Organ Trio – Every Thursday – 7:00 PM (Free)

Guitarist Jack Ruch, organist Adam Wakefield, and drummer Nioshi Jackson make up this soul and blues trio. The music you’ll hear here makes up the core of jazz’s roots, so any jazz fan should feel right at home listening to this trio.

Adam Miller – Tuesday, September 24 – 7:00 PM ($10+)

Acclaimed Australian guitarist and composer Adam Miller comes to Music City. Miller has been praised in publications like Jazz Guitar Today, Premier Guitar Magazine, Guitar Player Magazine, and many more for his incredible chops. Miller’s music has been compared to Charlie Hunter, Tuck Andress, Julian Lage, and Tommy Emmanuel.

University Jazz

University life has started up again and with it come School of Music performances. I’ve listed the ones of interest below.

Vanderbilt – Blair School of Music

Blair Master Series: Molly Barth, flute – Friday, September 13 – 8:00 PM (Free w/ tickets required)

Molly Barth is a Grammy-winning flutist, as well as professor and clinician. She is a founder and former member of the ensembles Eight Blackbird and Beta Collide. Though this is not a jazz concert per se, I feel that the experimental nature of her music would interest the jazz listener. Certainly her style pushes the boundaries one might normally assign to the flute as an instrument.

Blair Big Band – Tuesday, September 24 – 8:00 PM ($0-30 – pay what you wish, must reserve tickets)

The Blair School Music Big Band will perform this month. Led by Ryan Middagh, himself a vastly experienced Big Band leader, as director of the Ryan Middagh Orchestra, the performance will offer a diverse repertoire, including big band standards, modern jazz compositions, and original works by some of its members.  

Belmont

Faculty Jazz Group – Wednesday, September 18 – 7:30 PM (Free)

Belmont’s faculty jazz group will perform. As some of the best jazz educators and musicians in the country, this group will no doubt offer a stellar performance.

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!