JAZZ & BLUES BEAT
A
fter a few years at this, I have realized an odd fact. No one has ever challenged what gets the spotlight in this column — that I know of. In case you wonder, here’s the deal. Some months tough choices have to be made, other months it’s hard to find anything happening I haven’t already plugged. I am always eager to hear from artists or Joey Alexander organizations that have something new. I research each inclusion; choices are based on what seems most interesting or significant, and do not represent events that I can vouch for the integrity or legitimacy of. Because of that I usually don’t mention ticket prices, sponsors, or charities. Best way to support? Go to the gigs, buy the CDs, spread the word.
Jazz, blues and more at Schermerhorn
Among other accolades, Steely Dan is a pop band that jazz fans could love. Singer, songwriter, keyboardist and Steely Dan co-founder Donald Fagen makes a rare appearance to perform hits from his solo career (beginning with the 1982 album The Nightfly) along with Steely Dan favorites. Expect a night of hip songs and smooth grooves. Donald Fagen and the Nightflyers will appear Aug. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Buddy Guy is a pioneer of Chicago’s fabled West Side blues sound, a seven-time Grammy winner, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and at 81, still an electrifying performer. Buddy Guy performs Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m. Child prodigies don’t last long these days, but jazz pianist Joey Alexander may be the real deal. The teenage sensation makes his Nashville debut performing classic jazz tunes and original compositions with his trio on Oct. 13, 8:00 p.m. For more information visit www.nashvillesymphony.org
Festivals and fundraisers
The Music City Rhythm & Ribs Fest is a fundraiser to support charitable organizations that are faith-based and community-oriented. The event advertises live regional and na28 THE NASHVILLE MUSICIAN
BY AUSTIN BEALMEAR
Buddy Guy
Donald Fagen
per night, Sunday through Wednesday, and three artists per night Thursday through Saturday. For the club’s music calendar, etc. go to www.rudysjazzroom.com. The Jazz At The Factory series continues with a tribute to Miles Davis featuring Brian T. Cornish, who plays both drums and woodwinds, at The Little Brick Theater Aug. 26 from 7-9:00 Freda Payne p.m. The event is produced by a Dr. Alvin McKinney — known as Dr. Alvin — who brings an interesting bio to say the least, tional music in the soul and smooth jazz vein, to his efforts as a jazz producer. Details at barbecue-style food, plus craft and merchanwww.eventbrite.com. Some rootsy blues dise vendors. You’ll also find promotional and comes to City Winery in the persons of school giveaways, free dental screenings, and Tab Benoit Aug. 4, and Lee Roy Parnell contests. The event is Aug. 6, 3-8:30 p.m., at on Aug. 17. www.citywinery.com Cumberland Park in downtown Nashville. See Tired of the same old clubs and concerts? what you think at www.eventbrite.com. Try a new and unique experience called the A two-hour drive to Madison, Ala., will Plaza Mariachi at 3955 Nolensville Rd. bring you to the 3rd Annual Women in A giant indoor space redesigned as an old Jazz Festival headlined by veteran vocalist Mexican streetscape, it combines busiFreda Payne Aug. 5 from 1-10:00 p.m. For nesses, retail stores with art, crafts, clothdetails and directions, go to www.eventbrite. ing, etc., a food court that features Hispanic, com. This year’s Jazzmania fundraiser for Mediterranean and Argentinian offerings, the Nashville Jazz Workshop is scheduled and concert-stage music. There are a wide for Oct. 14 at the Factory in Franklin. The variety of Latin-based sounds, with multiple show always features some of the finest muartists most days. As advertised, it is indeed sicians in Nashville, and this year will feature a family-oriented cultural experience. There is Kirk Whalum.---- For more information go to an international market with vendors for ice www.nashvillejazz.org cream, juice, beer and wine. There’s a playroom, and even acrobats performing in the Clubs and other local venues food court. The live music is piped into the Three years ago, NJO Director Jim Williamretail and restaurant areas, and even out to son was asked to start programming jazz at a landscaped seating areas in the parking lot. small basement-style room in the Gulch. The The music I saw was outstanding: San Ramusic was good, but the venue never got its fael — a Nashville favorite — and a kicking own act together. Finally, with new managerumba flamenco band called The Rumba ment, and a lot of help (including a successful Madre. Ever seen people dancing in a food Kickstarter campaign) Rudy’s Jazz Room court at a mall? And where else could you see at 809 Gleaves St. in the Gulch opened this flaming baton twirlers in between band sets? spring as a cozy New York-style jazz bar. MuCheck it out at www.plazamariachi.com TNM sic is seven nights a week, with two artists