The Weekly 411 (08.29.11)

PRESS RELEASE August 29, 2011 For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Bautista, Entertainment Publicist JFM Presents, LLC jfmpresents@gmail.com 510.967.1109 The RRazz Room San Francisco's Premier Nightclub 222 Mason Street (at Ellis) San Francisco, California 94102 For Tickets And More Information: 800.380.3095 or www.therrazzroom.com Tickets Now On Sale: http://therrazzroom.com/eventlist11.html General RRazz Inquiries: 415.394.1189 kris@therrazzroom.com Media: Lisa Bautista, Entertainment Publicist JFM Presents, LLC 510.967.1109 jfmpresents@gmail.com High-Res Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jfmpresents/sets/ THIS WEEK: PETER ASHER A Musical Memoir of the 60s and Beyond Mon-Tue, 8/29-30, 8pm $40 Peter Asher is the legendary record producer, artist manager and 1/2 of British Invasion duo Peter & Gordon has a superb new multimedia show, which debuted in Los Angeles in December with a sold-out show at the Grammy Museum. The show mixes video clips, photos from his personal archive, storytelling from Peter's history with The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, and a host of other legends from his nearly 5 decades in the business. Live performances by Peter & full band. More... English Guitarist, Singer, Artist Manager, Record Producer AUSTRALIA'S THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER Direct From Las Vegas! Recommended for adult audiences. No frontal nudity. Gentlemen are welcome. Wed-Thu, 8/31-9/1, 8pm Fri-Sat, 9/2-3, 7 & 9:30pm Wed-Thu, 9/7-8, 8pm Fri-Sat, 9/9-10, 7 & 9:30pm Wed-Thu, 9/14-15, 8pm Fri-Sat, 9/16-17, 7 & 9:30pm $35 ($55 Limited VIP Up Close Seats) Australia's Thunder From Down Under, the internationally acclaimed male revue, returns to San Francisco summer of 2011! The sexy Australian imports crackle with high energy as they show off their buffed bodies to adoring fans who can't seem to get enough of them. Join San Francisco's nightly bachelorette party. You'll laugh! You'll stare! You may even faint! These guys will give you something to write home about! Get ready to party with the hottest blokes in town. These shows will sell out! More... All-Male Revue, Girls Nights Out, Bachelorette Parties SEPTEMBER THE TIM HOCKENBERRY BAND Sun, 9/11, 7pm $25 When Tim Hockenberry opens his mouth to sing, all talk ceases, faces turn towards the stage and hearts quicken. Out of this movie-star handsome face comes an impossibly emotional voice redolent of Ray Charles, Joe Cocker, Louis Armstrong and Tom Waits. Singing, arranging, writing and playing Tim expresses a voice and musical sensibility of irresistible power and harsh beauty. His musical odyssey began in Michigan, where he sang in the choir, taught himself to play piano and played the trombone. More... Blues, Jazz, Singer/Songwriter, Multi-instrumentalist NIGHT BEAT AT THE RRAZZ ROOM WITH JONATHAN PORETZ & FRIENDS Sun, 9/18, 7pm Sun, 10/30, 3pm Sun, 1/22, 7pm Sun, 3/18, 7pm $29.50 What happened late night in Las Vegas now returns to San Francisco's elegant Rrazz Room. Jonathan Poretz, who has starred as Frank Sinatra in the long-running show, "The Rat Pack is Back," is bringing back the carefree spirit and fun filled nightlife that epitomized the casino lounges of the swinging 60s. Backed by his jazz and swing-infused trio, Jonathan creates an intimate, after-hours atmosphere for those late-nighters seeking a little nightcap to their evening's entertainment. More... Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing D'AGOSTINO & LACY Lush Life Mon, 9/19, 8pm $30 Inspired by the title of Billy Strayhorn's most memorable song - D'Agostino opens the show with the heart worn ballad and weaves an intricate and entertaining tapestry through Lacy's masterful arrangements. For the viewer - the great surprise is the heightened "in the moment" style banter between vocalist and musician - and a healthy dose of D'Agostino's own self-deprecating humor and comic delivery. Friends on and off stage, D'Agostino and Lacy have built an organic but structured piece of "Cabaret Theatre" showcasing not only D'Agostino's masterful vocalizations - but his quick demand of the stage. Lacy, a highly sought after musical director - creates a lush landscape in which the listener nods carefully along, note by note, from medley to medley with magical transition. Part history lesson, part Torch Song 101 - the music spans from the Early Harlem Renaissance to modern-day blue eyed soul (with a little Madonna to boot!). More... Traditional Pop, Cabaret, Musical Theatre, LGBT JUDY COLLINS Tue-Sat, 9/20-24, 8pm Tue-Sat, 9/27-10/1, 8pm $50-55 Judy Collins has thrilled audiences worldwide with her unique blend of interpretative folk songs and contemporary themes. Her impressive career has spanned more than 50 years. Judy's two latest creative projects: a new CD, Paradise, a collection of 10 songs that include duets of Judy with the legendary Stephen Stills and Joan Baez; and Over the Rainbow a magnificent oversized children's picture book and 3-song CD set, featuring artwork by renowned painter Eric Puybaret illustrating the lyrics of this #1 movie song of all-time, coupled with Judy Collins' enchanting recording of the title song makes this destined to become a beloved classic storybook, delighting children of all ages for decades to come. Judy Collins, now 72, is still writing, performing, and nurturing fresh talent. She plays 80 to100 dates a year around the country. Judy Collins, a relentlessly creative spirit, is a modern day Renaissance woman who is also an accomplished painter, filmmaker, record label head, musical mentor, and an in-demand keynote speaker for mental health and suicide prevention. She continues to create music of hope and healing that lights up the world and speaks to the heart. More... Singer/Songwriter/Multi-Instrumentalist, Broadway, Musical Theatre, Rock & Roll, Pop, Folk The Fabulous BUD E. LUV with The Trio and the Whole Enchilada Band Sun, 9/25, 5pm $30 A man who has graced stages worldwide for over 30 years. The themes from the movies. The songs from the Broadway shows. The hit records he's written for Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, Tony Orlando, Robert Goulet. The King of Swing. The Father of Folk. The Daddy of Disco. The man who put the Boss in the Bossa Nova. Ladies and Gentlemen, he is not having a perfect hair day, he is having a perfect hair decade. Would you welcome to the stage the world's greatest entertainer and San Francisco's own. More... Comedy, Lounge Singer, LGBT JANIS SIEGEL & HER TRIO 9x Grammy Winner Of The Manhattan Transfer JANIS SIEGEL & HER TRIO: Alan Pasqua (piano) Darek Oles (bass) Steve Hass (drummer for The Manhattan Transfer) Sun, 9/25, 7pm $35 Over the past three and a half decades, the voice of Janis Siegel - a 9x Grammy winner and a 17x Grammy nominee - has been an undeniable force in The Manhattan Transfer's diverse musical catalog. Alongside her career as a member of this 36-year musical institution, Siegel has also sustained a solo career that has spawned more than a half dozen finely-crafted solo albums and numerous collaborative projects, amassed a large international fan base and garnered consistently high critical praise. More... Singer and founding member of the second incarnation of the vocal group The Manhattan Transfer (1972-present), A Capella, Jazz Fusion, Pop, Adult Contemporary, Gospel OCTOBER AN EVENING WITH WILL & ANTHONY NUNZIATA Sun, 10/2, 7pm Mon, 10/3, 8pm $35 The Nunziatas' charm and energetic stage presence combined with their tenor singing voices create a powerful and touching show for audiences of all ages. The brothers' vocal versatility and stage presence have caught the eye of theaters, performing arts centers and symphony orchestras around the globe, performing Broadway tunes, the American Songbook, songs from the Italian Songbook, and contemporary music. Their show introduces timeless music to new audiences and long-time listeners alike. More... Great American Songbook, Italian Songbook CLAIRDEE Special Return Engagement! Tue, 10/4, 8pm $30 A touring artist, Clairdee continues to garner rave reviews and makes her debut at the Edinburgh Jazz Festival in the United Kingdom this summer. The versatile vocalist has also worked with and opened for a diverse roster of artists including the Count Basie Orchestra, Bucky Pizzarelli, Etta James, David Sanborn, Boz Scaggs, Cyrus Chestnut, Houston Person, and Diane Schuur. More... Jazz, Blues Singer JACQUI NAYLOR & HER TRIO Back By Overwhelming Demand Wed-Sat, 10/5-8, 8pm Sun, 10/9, 7pm $35 Jacqui Naylor celebrates the national release of her eighth recording, Lucky Girl (Ruby Star / eOne 2011) and kicks of her international tour with five nights at the Rrazz Room from her home base in San Francisco. A full length documentary, also called Lucky Girl, about the artist, debuts this fall. With a wide vocal range and innovative style, Naylor is a rare artist, known as well for her originals as for her sensitive treatment of jazz standards. More... Jazz, Traditional Pop, Folk-Rock Singer BARB JUNGR The Man In The Long Black Coat Barb Jungr Sings Bob Dylan Mon-Wed, 10/10-12, 8pm $30 Barb Jungr may be the definitive performer of one of the great musical icons of the twentieth century, Bob Dylan. In 2005, the BBC hosted a Barbican concert to celebrate his work. Following a critically acclaimed tour of the UK, where she resides, Barb returns to the US to celebrate Dylan's songs and to promote her latest Linn Record's release "The Man In The Long Black Coat," featuring 13 Dylan songs that she has recorded over the last 8 years. More... English Singer/Songwriter, Composer, Writer, Jazz, Blues, Pop, Rock, Cabaret EDWIN HAWKINS and THE NEW EDWIN HAWKINS SINGERS Gospel Music Legend "Oh Happy Day" Thu-Sat, 10/13-15, 8pm Sun, 10/16, 7pm $40-45 A trailblazing force behind the evolution of the contemporary gospel sound, Edwin Hawkins remains best known for his 1969 classic "Oh Happy Day," one of the biggest gospel hits of all time and a major pop radio smash as well. Born in Oakland, CA in 1943, he began singing in his church youth choir while still a toddler, and by age five was playing piano; just two years later, he assumed full-time piano accompaniment duties for the family gospel group, making their recorded debut in 1957. More... Legendary Gospel Singer THE SHIRELLES feat. LEGENDARY ORIGINAL MEMBER & CO-FOUNDER BEVERLY LEE The Originators Of The Girl Group Sound Celebrate Over 50 Years Of Making Music Together Tue-Sat, 10/18-23, 8pm Sun, 10/23, 7pm $40-47.50 The Shirelles were an American girl group in the early 1960s, and the first to have a No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100. Formed in New Jersey in 1958, the quartet went on to release a string of hits. The Shirelles were the first major female vocal group of the rock and roll era, preceding Motown as a crossover phenomenon with white audiences. Unlike The Chantels, who had had their first hit in 1957, they were successful in Britain, first and foremost with "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" (1960). More... 1960s Girls Group, Classic Soul, R&B, Rock, Doo-Wop, Pop TODD MURRAY in "Croon" Mon-Tue, 10/24-25, 8pm $30 From swinging & crooning, to finger-snapping big band numbers, to gently caressing heartfelt ballads, Todd Murray's smooth baritone voice can woo & wow an audience, sending them away with a swing in their step. Murray is one of today's premier interpreters of the American popular songbook. He has performed to rave reviews at some of the most prestigious venues across the nation, including New York's Jazz At Lincoln Center, The Metropolitan Room, & Feinstein's at the Cinegrill and Loews Regency. More... Crooner/Songwriter, Jazz, Swing, Traditional Pop, Cabaret WILSON CRUZ & SCOTT NEVINS "Up Close and Personal" with Wed, 10/26, 8pm $30 Known for his groundbreaking breakthrough performance on "My So Called Life" and "Noah's Arc" followed by an impressive career on stage and screen, Wilson Cruz joins the "hilarious hottie" from truTV's hit show "The Smoking Gun Presents" and INSTINCT Magazine cover-guy. More... Scott Nevins who critics have described as "A young, sexy, gay-er Kathy Griffin", for a special one night only performance. More... Cruz: Actor, Producer, Mentor Nevins: Award winning Host, TV/Radio Personality, Comedian and Celebrity Interviewer KAREL Comedy For The New Depression Thu, 10/27, 8pm $25 "Comedy for the New Depression" is v4.0 of this uncensored, unfiltered and unhinged look at the news, Pop culture and life. Karel again takes biting wit, splitting comedy, painful truths, hysterical life stories, mixes in a few parody songs and creates one of the most unique and relevant stage shows around. "Comedy for the New Depression" is a roller-coaster ride that may not solve the economic crisis, but will certainly make it less painful. More... Comedy, Political Satire, Pop, LGBT MEGAN MULLALLY & SUPREME MUSIC PROGRAM Fri, 10/28, 8pm Sat, 10/29, 7 & 9:30pm Sun, 10/30, 7pm $45-47.50 Emmy® Award-winning actress, comedienne and singer Megan Mullally to debut at The RRazz Room with her band, Supreme Music Program, October 28-30. Best known for her Emmy-winning performances as Karen Walker on NBC's hit show Will and Grace, The RRazz Room audiences will discover that this multi-talented star is also an incredibly gifted singer who can perform everything from country to rock to Broadway showstoppers. More... Like postmodern cabaret-gone-mad, drawing from the best elements of blues, pop, roots-country, traditional folk, rock, and classical. NIGHT BEAT AT THE RRAZZ ROOM WITH JONATHAN PORETZ & FRIENDS Sun, 10/30, 3pm Sun, 1/22, 7pm Sun, 3/18, 7pm $29.50 What happened late night in Las Vegas now returns to San Francisco's elegant Rrazz Room. Jonathan Poretz, who has starred as Frank Sinatra in the long-running show, "The Rat Pack is Back," is bringing back the carefree spirit and fun filled nightlife that epitomized the casino lounges of the swinging 60s. Backed by his jazz and swing-infused trio, Jonathan creates an intimate, after-hours atmosphere for those late-nighters seeking a little nightcap to their evening's entertainment. More... Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing THE FABULOUS MAUDE MAGGART Everybody's Doin' It Mon-Wed, 10/31-11/2, 8pm $35 MAUDE MAGGART, the chanteuse who started her performing career in the clubs of New York and Los Angeles, has exploded into one of today's most compelling international concert artists. She has been hailed as "bewitching" by The New York Times, "utterly enchanting" by the New York Post, "stunning" by the Los Angeles Times and "transfixing" by New York Magazine. John Boswell, Musical Director. More... Cabaret, Traditional Pop Singer NOVEMBER RACHELLE FERRELL Up Close and Personal Thu, 11/3, 8pm Fri-Sat, 11/4-5, 7 & 9:30pm Sun, 11/6, 7pm $49.50 As a singer, RACHELLE FERRELL is a quintuple threat: Besides having success as a jazz singer, she is also well respected in the R&B, pop, gospel, and classical music genres as well. Known for her six octave range, Ferrell is also an accomplished pianist who has worked with Lou Rawls, Patti LaBelle, Vanessa Williams, and George Duke. 300-500 seats does not an intimate venue make! With less than 200 seats, don't miss Rachelle Ferrell "Up Close & Personal" at San Francisco's Premier Nightclub! More... Jazz, Pop, R&B, Gospel, Classical Singer/Pianist FAITH WINTHROP Ya Gotta Have Faith ... in song, spirit and sass Sun, 11/6, 4pm $27.50 Faith Winthrop's career is as storied as her extensive songbook. From an aspiring 11-year-old treading the boards of the G line streetcar and spontaneously taking requests from passengers traveling from Brookline to Boston to the still singing and swinging senior, her life remains a continual love affair with song. Her path to a vocal career began with classical voice lessons from the turban-topped opera diva, Madame Cleora Wood. And it was the encouragement from Billie Holiday that she continue. More... Jazz, Traditional Pop Singer CARLY OZARD Something Wonderful? Mon-Wed, 11/7-9, 8pm $25 Many know Carly Ozard's comedic history with dating. Some turn out gay, others turn out to be even more mentally unstable than she is! Normally, a show about love and relationships wouldn't even be a consideration, but at 27 years old, it's time for a musical journey relating to the many young people struggling to find the person they deserve. Featuring the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, Lucinda Williams, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Elton John, Bette Midler, and then some. More... Cabaret, Musical Theatre, Pop Singer, LGBT OTTMAR LIEBERT An Intimate Evening With Thu-Fr, 11/10-11, 8pm Sat, 11/12, 7pm & 9:30pm Sun, 11/13, 7pm $25 Ottmar Liebert harnesses the emotional fire and mournful tonalities of traditional Flamenco music, updates it with the subtle rhythms of Jazz and makes it widely accessible with the melodic song structures of Pop. The acoustic guitarist summed it up with the apt comment that Nouveau Flamenco is to the traditional variety what Bossa Nova is to Samba. But even the cleverest formulas are worthless without the animating spark of genius, a quality for which there is no formula, only serendipity. More... German-born composer/guitarist, Nouveau Flamenco (Traditional Flamenco + Jazz + Pop) ERIC COMSTOCK & BARBARA FASANO Helluva Town: A New York Soundtrack Sun, 11/13, 3pm Mon, 11/14, 8pm Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano make their debut at The RRazz Room, fresh from an acclaimed ("Exhilarating" - New York Times), sold-out engagement at the Oak Room. Their new show, "HELLUVA TOWN: A New York Soundtrack" celebrates the love/hate affair Comstock, Fasano and most New Yorkers have with their city. Rather than sing predictable New York anthems, Comstock and Fasano will perform an idiosyncratic mix of songs from Broadway and Hollywood, the pop singer-songwriters and the jazz songbook. More on Eric Comstock... More on Barbara Fasano... Jazz, Cabaret RUSS LORENSON "As Long As I'm Singing": RUSS LORENSON Celebrates The Music Of BOBBY DARIN Tue, 11/15, 8pm $30 An innovative performer whose tragically brief life was often stranger than fiction, Bobby Darin worked his way from shady nightclubs to The Copacabana, where he smashed all attendance records, and wowed audiences with hits like "Splish Splash," "Mack the Knife," and "Beyond the Sea." A dynamic entertainer, Bobby had Top 10 hits in Rock 'n Roll, Jazz, Pop, Country, and Folk, moving effortlessly through each genre and making it his own. Not just a Grammy-winning recording artist, Bobby was also an award-winning composer, an Oscar-nominated and Golden Globe Award-winning actor, and a music publishing mogul. His marriage to "America's Sweetheart" Sandra Dee broke young girls' hearts and made headlines around the world. Beset with illness from an early age, Bobby was driven to accomplish all he could in what he knew would be a brief life, and gave everything he had to be remembered "as a human being and as a great performer." More... Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing, Tribute Show, LGBT DIANE SCHUUR Deedles Wed-Fri, 11/16-18, 8pm Sat, 11/19, 7 & 9:30pm Sun, 11/20, 7pm $45-47.50 This Grammy award-winning singer is affectionately known to her fans as "Deedles," in part, for her scat-singing abilities. Not only has DIANE SCHUUR headlined many of the world's most prestigious music venues, including Carnegie Hall and The White House, she has toured with such greats as B.B. King, Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Charles, and Stevie Wonder. More... Jazz Singer/Pianist, Two-Time Grammy Winner SONY HOLLAND Sat-Sun, 11/19-20, 3pm $25 Sony Holland may have started out singing Italian Arias but she was soon drawn to the sophistication of jazz and the Great American Songbook. "I fell in love...that's the best way to put it. I fell in love with Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Cole Porter, Harry Warren, etc... Sometimes I feel as if I was born out of time." More... Jazz, Folk, Pop, Blues Singer VERONICA KLAUS After Dark feat. The Tammy Hall Trio Mon-Wed, 11/21-23, 8pm $29.50 Prepare for an evening of moonlit music and twilight tunes. A dark starlit evening of romance, heartache and soul-searching music from a cabaret and jazz artist at her prime. Night song has cast its spell through generations, and this show will explore the many moods of the midnight hours. Following their very successful Peggy Lee Songbook Tribute dates at The RRazz Room, Veronica and The Tammy Hall Trio are known for their sophisticated and heartfelt style: - eclectic and electric! More... Cabaret, Jazz Singer, LGBT DEANA MARTIN Holiday Cheers With Fri-Sat, 11/25-26, 7:30pm Sun, 11/27, 4pm $45 Deana Martin takes the audience on a musical journey, honoring her legendary father Dean Martin and other great performers who shaped American music and popular culture for over four decades. She sings the soundtrack of our lives, the classics made popular the world over by her father and his "Pallies." Since the shows inception three years ago, Deana has enjoyed rave reviews and has been performing internationally to sold-out audiences on three continents. Taped PBS TV holiday special. More... Singer, Actress, Author, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Cabaret SUZANNE WESTENHOEFER Semi Sweet Fri-Sat, 11/25-26, 9:30pm Sun, 11/27, 7pm $40 What words best describe Comedian Suzanne Westenhoefer? How about bold, bawdy, and just plain hilarious? Not afraid to ask tough questions that uncover the laughs underneath, Suzanne's made a career out of telling the truth. And the truth is, life is funny. The iconic lesbian comedian has embarked on a crazy, all-new, heart-pumping, mind-bending, hilarious romp through heartbreak, comedy, life, love, and everything about couples un-coupling in the modern world. More... Comedy, LGBT DECEMBER MARLENA SHAW California Soul For The Holidays Thu-Fri, 12/1-2, 8pm Sat, 12/3, 7 & 9:15pm Sun, 12/4, 7pm $35-40 While everyone agrees that Marlena Shaw is a national treasure, it's difficult to categorize her. Both Downbeat and Record World have named her "Best Female Singer," and many have compared her range, class and swing that of to eternal jazz lights like Sarah Vaughan, Dinah Washington, and Nancy Wilson. But she's also been called a "soul legend," both before and after her successful detour into disco. Given her 40-year boundary-busting career, such labeling confusion is inevitable. More... Jazz, Traditional Pop, Classic Soul, R&B Singer "Rappin' B.O.O.B.S. In Harmony" starring LEANNE BORGHESI, JESSICA COKER and SOILA HUGHES as Busty, Outrageous, Over-The-Top, Broads Singin' Mon, 12/5, 8pm $45 San Francisco's buxom trio "B.O.O.B.S." is back with their new theatrical cabaret: "Rappin' B.O.O.B.S. In Harmony" just in time for the Holiday Season. Join accomplished musical theatre and cabaret stars: Leanne Borghesi, Jessica Coker and Soila Hughes as Busty, Outrageous, Over-the-Top, Broads, Singin' take you on a musical journey of bawdy blues, juicy jazz, powerhouse pop and everything conceivable in between. Definitely an evening of comedy, sass, truth, heart and cleavage not to be missed. Musical Theatre, Cabaret, Comedy KATYA SMIRNOFF-SKYY Katya's All New Holiday Spectacular 12/6, 8pm $30 The Countess has returned to the RRazz for a one Night Holiday Spectacular! Sure to make your Yule tide Gay. Hailed as best Drag act by the Bay Guardian (2008) Katya will delight you with a fun-filled evening of belting, banter, and ball gowns to bolster your holiday spirit(s)! With songs ranging from classic holiday fair, to Popera, and disco, there is something for everyone in this heartwarming and brilliantly funny journey through Katya's holiday misadventures. More... Musical Theatre, Popera (Pop + Opera) Singer, Cabaret, Holiday Show, LGBT MARIA MULDAUR Annual Blues & Jazz Christmas Concert Wed, 12/7, 8pm $35 In the '60s, Muldaur joined John Sebastian & Steve Katz to form the Even Dozen Jug Band, and soon joined the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, appearing on 5 albums with the group. After 2 albums with her husband Geoff, she went solo, releasing the gold record MIDNIGHT AT THE OASIS in 1974. Her many recordings since then are garnished with "tip-of-the-hat" guest appearances by Bonnie Raitt, Huey Lewis, Sonny Landreth and Mavis Staples, and showcase her abilities in jazz, pop, R&B, folk, gospel and blues. More... Blues, Jazz Singer LONI LOVE "America's Sister" and New Host of "The Gossip Queens" Thu, 12/8, 8pm Fri, 12/9, 9:30pm Sat, 12/10, 9:30pm Sun, 12/11, 7pm $25 Named among Variety and Comedy Central's Top 10 Comics to Watch, Love is not only one of the most hilarious and lovable comics performing stand-up on the comedy club and college circuits but also a busy TV host, guest and actress who has also appeared in films and dramatic plays. Love is a regular panelist on E!s hit show "Chelsea Lately" and TruTV's Presents: The World's Dumbest." Comedy Central's "America's Sister" is also one of four hosts on the syndicated talk show "The Gossip Queens. More... Comedienne, Actress, TV host PETE ESCOVEDO LATIN JAZZ ORCHESTRA feat. JUAN and PETER MICHAEL Fri-Sat, 12/9-10, 7:30pm Sun, Dec 11, 5pm $37.50-40 Latin Jazz Percussionist Legend Pete Escovedo is an artist who broke down the barriers between Smooth Jazz, Salsa, Latin Jazz and contemporary music. His name has been synonymous in the music industry for more than 50 years. With his late brother Coke, Pete began his career as The Escovedo Brothers Latin Jazz Sextet. Pete and Coke toured with Carlos Santana, before forming the Latin funk band Azteca. Pete Escovedo continues to perform worldwide with sons Juan and Peter Michael and daughter Sheila E. More... Latin Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Salsa, Funk, R&B, Gospel Orchestra Sixth Annual Christmas in San Francisco with RUSS LORENSON and Friends with Special Guests: Wesla Whitfield, Tim Hockenberry and More! Kelly Park (Musical Director/Piano) Tony Malfatti (Sax/Clarinet/Flute) Daniel Fabricant (Bass) Kent Bryson (Drums) Mon, 12/12, 8pm $30 Skip the Christmas caroling this year and spend a cozy winter's evening with Russ Lorenson and his special guests: Wesla Whitfield, Tim Hockenberry and more, as they celebrate six years of jazzy Christmases, San Francisco style! With songs by such great composers and lyricists as Irving Berlin, Johnny Mercer, Jule Styne, Sammy Cahn, and Frank Loesser, there's something for everyone in this swinging evening of jingle jazz. More... Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing, LGBT FRANC D'AMBROSIO It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas Tue-Sat, 12/13-17, 8pm Sun, 12/18, 7pm $30-40 Franc D'Ambrosio is a multifaceted vocalist, best known for his role as the "Phantom" in Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera." Franc's resume also includes an Academy Award nominated film ("The Godfather III"), three Emmy award nominated television shows, two Grammy considerations (Best Male Vocalist 1999 for "Panis Angelicus" & Traditional Pop Vocal Album 2005 for "Franc D'Ambrosio's Broadway") and a National Theatre Award nomination for his stage work (Barry Manilow's "Copacabana") More... Musical Theatre, Broadway, Singer/Actor, LGBT CONNIE CHAMPAGNE as JUDY GARLAND Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas Sun, 12/18, 4pm Mon, 12/19, 8pm $32.50 What's Christmas without Judy Garland? Come & celebrate this season the Garland-way, with an evening of holiday songs, special guests and Santa Claus!--in the spirit of Judy's 1963 television special. More... Cabaret, Broadway, Musical Theatre Singer, Tribute Show, LGBT SHARON MCNIGHT Twisted Xmas; A Druid's View Of The Holidays Tue-Wed, 12/20-21, 8pm $30 This show is gonna "sleigh" you. It's an irreverent look at the traditions of the season. Over the past decades, during the holidays, while Debby Boone touted a "White Christmas" and Bruce Vilanch roasted his chestnuts over an open fire, Sharon McNight offered an alternative choice from the expected songs. She has stockpiled myriad and outrageous, wacky musical commentaries on the 12 days of everything from Santa, Jesus, Teddy Bears, Elves, Snow, and of course ... Bette Davis. More... Cabaret, Broadway, Musical Theatre Singer, LGBT KIM NALLEY with TAMMY HALL & Special Guests A Gospel Christmas Thu-Fri, 12/22-23, 8pm $35 This yearly Christmas tradition features acclaimed vocalist Kim Nalley performing all your favorite holiday songs accompanied by the swelling soulful Hammond B-3 Organ played by the incomparable Tammy Hall with with Josh Workman (guitar), Michael Zisman (electric bass) and Kent Bryson (drums). Expect several special guest and a few sing-a-longs in at this rollicking joyous concert. More... Jazz, Blues, Soul, R&B, Folk, Gospel Singer, LGBT The Fabulous BUD E. LUV Annual Christmas Spectacular Sun, 12/25, 7pm $25 A man who has graced stages worldwide for over 30 years. The themes from the movies. The songs from the Broadway shows. The hit records he's written for Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, Tony Orlando, Robert Goulet. The King of Swing. The Father of Folk. The Daddy of Disco. The man who put the Boss in the Bossa Nova. Ladies and Gentlemen, he is not having a perfect hair day, he is having a perfect hair decade. Would you welcome to the stage the world's greatest entertainer and San Francisco's own. More... Comedy, Lounge Singer, LGBT KIM NALLEY & HOUSTON PERSON A Soulful Jazz New Year Tue-Fri, 12/27-30, 8pm $30-40 Sat, 12/31, 7:30pm $75 **Sat, 12/31, 10:30pm, $150 **Includes party favors, countdown to 2011, champagne toast at midnight and post-show buffet Sun, 1/1 2012 7pm $30 Recently named one of the "Ten Most Influential African Americans in the Bay Area," Kim Nalley has an intl reputation as one of world's best jazz blues vocalists. Described as "jazz's working class hero, a true man of the people," Houston Person came to national attention with a series of soulful albums recorded for Prestige in the 1960s. Person's fame grew still more with his successful 30-year musical partnership with vocalist Etta Jones. Nalley & Person join forces for A Soulful Jazz New Year. More... Jazz, Blues, Soul, R&B, Folk, Gospel Singer, LGBT Click here for 2012 Performances @ The RRazz Room The RRazz Room, San Francisco's premier nightclub, offers the finest in world-class Classic Soul, R&B, Traditional Pop, Jazz, Comedy, Revue and Cabaret entertainment. This intimate and acoustically perfect venue has been the home for past performers such as: Ashford & Simpson, Oleta Adams, Larry Carlton, Bobby Caldwell, Spyro Gyra, Hiroshima, Diane Schuur, Ben Vereen, Martha Reeves, Miki Howard, The Zapp Band, Con Funk Shun, Pete Escovedo feat. Juan & Peter Michael Escovedo, Freda Payne, Cloris Leachman, Sally Kellerman, Kenny G, Lil' Kim, The Angela Bofill Experience, Australia's Thunder From Down Under, All-4-One, Taylor Hicks, Marlena Shaw, Mary Wilson, Janis Paige, Mark Curry, Stefanie Powers, Davy Jones, Russell Thompkins, Jr. & The New Stylistics, Dame Cleo Laine, Jacqui Dankworth, Keiko Matsui, Ruben Studdard, Eddie Money, David Campbell, Barb Jungr, Lenny Williams, Paula West, Kim Nalley, Wesla Whitfield, Amanda McBroom, CeCe Peniston, Jon Secada, Marilu Henner, Lynda Carter, Betty Buckley and Pia Zadora. Host-escorted seating assigned on a first come, first serve basis. Doors open 90 minutes prior to show. The RRazz Room is a two-drink minimum, all-ages venue, and tickets are non-refundable. Limited Club R VIP Memberships available: 415.394.1189 or Kris@TheRRazzRoom.com Additional helpful information: The RRazz Lounge and Bar is open daily at 2pm. Happy Hour is from 2PM - 6PM, seven days a week. Dress Code is upscale casual. Inappropriate attire is: ripped jeans, flip-flops, baseball caps and jerseys. No audio nor video recording without prior approval. Absolutely no flash photography. Please silence cell phones, refrain from use, and keep conversations to a whisper during performances. With a validation from The RRazz Room, parking at the Mason O'Farrell Garage is $12 (up to five hours). Enter the garage from Mason or O'Farrell Streets. Media Contact: Lisa Bautista, Entertainment Publicist JFM Presents, LLC 510.967.1109 jfmpresents@gmail.com # # #

Real Music By Real Musicians: The Jerry Butler Band

Jerry Butler, vocals
Malcolm Banks, drums
Billy Butler, lead guitar
David Service, bass
Mattie Butler, background vocals
Terisa Griffin, background vocals

Jerry "The Iceman" Butler opened last night @ The RRazz Room for a sold-out performance. Now, I understand why Jerry earned the name "The Iceman." Without breaking a sweat, Jerry was able to draw in the audience with each song, especially with his unique style of love songs. His delivery was effortless.

By the time Jerry started song #2, I could hear people crying, and it felt like I was watching a heartfelt movie, instead of a concert. By song #3, it hit me like a ton of bricks, and my tears began to fall. What Jerry and the band conveyed was LOVE, and all that it endures. I highly recommend you check out this show.

P.S. Keep your eyes and ears open for vocalist Terisa Griffin!

http://therrazzroom.com/11Artist/jerry_b.html

RIP Nickolas Ashford

In November 2009, The RRazz Room owners-- Robert Kotonly and Rory Paull -- interviewed me for a new position: Publicist for Jazz and R&B. Following our interview was opening night of Ashford & Simpson, and the owners invited me to stay for the performance. I felt like a kid in a candy store; I was amazed by not only the intimacy of the room, but also its classiness.

As I watched Robert Kotonly escort Nick and Val on stage, I had no doubt in my mind that what was to follow would be a musical journey down memory lane. Nick and Val shared stories of how they met and auditioned for Barry Gordy of Motown, and the amazing blessings that manifest along the way. So many songs; so little time. So little precious time.

March 29 - April 3, 2011, Ashford & Simpson returned to The RRazz Room for seven SOLD OUT performances. Nikki Thomas was my guest for opening night. For several months before opening night, Nikki and I spoke about Ashford & Simpson during the KBLX Sunday Brunch live broadcast at Restaurant Anzu inside Hotel Nikko. To us single ladies, Ashford & Simpson were the ultimate in relationships: one grounded in music and love for life.

Last night, just before I left boot camp, I checked my messages. Nikki Thomas sent me a text message, "Omg! Nick Ashford! Did u hear?" I knew what that meant, and I immediately called Robert Kotonly and Rory Paull, who are good friends with Nick and Val. Ashford & Simpson were scheduled to return to The RRazz Room May 8 - 13, 2012. We are broken-hearted.

After speaking with Robert, I sat in my car and just cried. While my encounters with Nick and Val were short, I cried for love, and all that it endures. Energy never dies....

RIP Nickolas Ashford (May 4, 1942 – August 22, 2011)
Photo Credit: Pat Johnson @ The RRazz Room March 29, 2011

The Weekly 411 (08.22.11)

PRESS RELEASE August 22, 2011

For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Bautista, Entertainment Publicist JFM Presents, LLC jfmpresents@gmail.com 510.967.1109

The RRazz Room
San Francisco's Premier Nightclub
222 Mason Street (at Ellis)
San Francisco, California 94102

For Tickets And More Information:
800.380.3095 or www.therrazzroom.com

Tickets Now On Sale:
http://therrazzroom.com/eventlist11.html

General RRazz Inquiries:
415.394.1189
kris@therrazzroom.com

Media:
Lisa Bautista, Entertainment Publicist
JFM Presents, LLC
510.967.1109
jfmpresents@gmail.com

High-Res Photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jfmpresents/sets/

JUST ADDED:

MEGAN MULLALLY & SUPREME MUSIC PROGRAM
Fri, 10/28, 8pm
Sat, 10/29, 7 & 9:30pm
Sun, 10/30, 7pm
$45-47.50

Emmy® Award-winning actress, comedienne and singer Megan Mullally to debut at The RRazz Room with her band, Supreme Music Program, October 28-30. Best known for her Emmy-winning performances as Karen Walker on NBC's hit show Will and Grace, The RRazz Room audiences will discover that this multi-talented star is also an incredibly gifted singer who can perform everything from country to rock to Broadway showstoppers. More...
Like postmodern cabaret-gone-mad, drawing from the best elements of blues, pop, roots-country, traditional folk, rock, and classical.

CHERYL BENTYNE (Of The Manhattan Transfer) & Her Trio
Love, Lost & Found

Tue, 1/24, 8pm

$35
In June of 1979, after having already paid plenty of dues, Cheryl was coming out of The Baked Potato, a small jazz club in LA, when her manager asked her if she would like to audition for a spot in The Manhattan Transfer. This was the chance she had been waiting for in her career. She remembers being ecstatic and says that her scream of excitement could be heard for blocks. She was even more excited when she later nailed the audition, and became a member of The Manhattan Transfer. More...
Jazz, Pop

THIS WEEK:

COUNTESS KATYA SMIRNOFF-SKYY
...Back In The USSR, A Voyage Into The Beatles' Songbook
Mon-Tue, 8/22-23, 8pm
$30
Join San Francisco's favorite Russian red-head, the Countess Katya Smirnoff-Skyy for her latest cabaret spectacular, Katya...Back In The USSR, a voyage into the Beatles songbook. This musical adventure examines the music of the fab four as only Russia's (self proclaimed) Greatest Mezzo-Soprano understudy turned Countess, turned Macy's cosmetic counter lady could envision. It's Abby Road meets the Met with a good dose of cabaret. Katya will be joined by her marvelous band the Tom Shaw Trio. More...
Musical Theatre, Popera (Pop + Opera) Singer, Cabaret, English Rock Tribute Show, LGBT

JERRY "THE ICEMAN" BUTLER
Only The Strong Survive
Wed-Fri, 8/24-26, 8pm
Sat, 8/27, 7 & 9:30pm
Sun, 8/28, 7pm
$40-45
Known as "The Iceman," Jerry Butler perfected a smooth, delicate baritone that has captivated music fans of many different backgrounds over his five decades of performing and recording. He was credited as "one of the architects of R&B" by Ebony magazine. As both a solo artist and during his long partnership with Curtis Mayfield, Butler forged new styles that grew from his own musical background of gospel/doo-wop and helped propel African American popular music to a new level of general appeal. More...

Singer/songwriter, Record Producer, Multi-Instrumentalist, Politician, Classic Soul, R&B, Funk, Chicago Soul

PETER ASHER
A Musical Memoir of the 60s and Beyond
Sun, 8/28, 3pm
Mon-Tue, 8/29-30, 8pm
$40
Peter Asher is the legendary record producer, artist manager and 1/2 of British Invasion duo Peter & Gordon has a superb new multimedia show, which debuted in Los Angeles in December with a sold-out show at the Grammy Museum. The show mixes video clips, photos from his personal archive, storytelling from Peter's history with The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, and a host of other legends from his nearly 5 decades in the business. Live performances by Peter & full band. More...

English Guitarist, Singer, Artist Manager, Record Producer

NEXT WEEK:
AUSTRALIA'S THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER
Direct From Las Vegas!
Recommended for adult audiences. No frontal nudity. Gentlemen are welcome.

Wed-Thu, 8/31-9/1, 8pm
Fri-Sat, 9/2-3, 7 & 9:30pm

Wed-Thu, 9/7-8, 8pm
Fri-Sat, 9/9-10, 7 & 9:30pm
Wed-Thu, 9/14-15, 8pm

Fri-Sat, 9/16-17, 7 & 9:30pm
$35 ($55 Limited VIP Up Close Seats)
Australia's Thunder From Down Under, the internationally acclaimed male revue, returns to San Francisco summer of 2011! The sexy Australian imports crackle with high energy as they show off their buffed bodies to adoring fans who can't seem to get enough of them. Join San Francisco's nightly bachelorette party. You'll laugh! You'll stare! You may even faint! These guys will give you something to write home about! Get ready to party with the hottest blokes in town. These shows will sell out! More...

All-Male Revue, Girls Nights Out, Bachelorette Parties

SEPTEMBER
THE TIM HOCKENBERRY BAND

Sun, 9/11, 7pm

$25

When Tim Hockenberry opens his mouth to sing, all talk ceases, faces turn towards the stage and hearts quicken. Out of this movie-star handsome face comes an impossibly emotional voice redolent of Ray Charles, Joe Cocker, Louis Armstrong and Tom Waits. Singing, arranging, writing and playing Tim expresses a voice and musical sensibility of irresistible power and harsh beauty. His musical odyssey began in Michigan, where he sang in the choir, taught himself to play piano and played the trombone. More...
Blues, Jazz, Singer/Songwriter, Multi-instrumentalist

NIGHT BEAT AT THE RRAZZ ROOM WITH JONATHAN PORETZ & FRIENDS

Sun, 9/18, 7pm

Sun, 10/30, 3pm

Sun, 1/22, 7pm

Sun, 3/18, 7pm
$29.50
What happened late night in Las Vegas now returns to San Francisco's elegant Rrazz Room. Jonathan Poretz, who has starred as Frank Sinatra in the long-running show, "The Rat Pack is Back," is bringing back the carefree spirit and fun filled nightlife that epitomized the casino lounges of the swinging 60s. Backed by his jazz and swing-infused trio, Jonathan creates an intimate, after-hours atmosphere for those late-nighters seeking a little nightcap to their evening's entertainment. More...

Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing

D'AGOSTINO & LACY

Lush Life

Mon, 9/19, 8pm

$30

Inspired by the title of Billy Strayhorn's most memorable song - D'Agostino opens the show with the heart worn ballad and weaves an intricate and entertaining tapestry through Lacy's masterful arrangements. For the viewer - the great surprise is the heightened "in the moment" style banter between vocalist and musician - and a healthy dose of D'Agostino's own self-deprecating humor and comic delivery. Friends on and off stage, D'Agostino and Lacy have built an organic but structured piece of "Cabaret Theatre" showcasing not only D'Agostino's masterful vocalizations - but his quick demand of the stage. Lacy, a highly sought after musical director - creates a lush landscape in which the listener nods carefully along, note by note, from medley to medley with magical transition. Part history lesson, part Torch Song 101 - the music spans from the Early Harlem Renaissance to modern-day blue eyed soul (with a little Madonna to boot!). More...

Traditional Pop, Cabaret, Musical Theatre, LGBT

JUDY COLLINS
Tue-Sat, 9/20-24, 8pm
Tue-Sat, 9/27-10/1, 8pm
$50-55
Judy Collins has thrilled audiences worldwide with her unique blend of interpretative folk songs and contemporary themes. Her impressive career has spanned more than 50 years. Judy's two latest creative projects: a new CD, Paradise, a collection of 10 songs that include duets of Judy with the legendary Stephen Stills and Joan Baez; and Over the Rainbow a magnificent oversized children's picture book and 3-song CD set, featuring artwork by renowned painter Eric Puybaret

illustrating the lyrics of this #1 movie song of all-time, coupled with Judy Collins' enchanting recording of the title song makes this destined to become a beloved classic storybook, delighting children of all ages for decades to come. Judy Collins, now 72, is still writing, performing, and nurturing fresh talent. She plays 80 to100 dates a year around the country. Judy Collins, a relentlessly creative spirit, is a modern day Renaissance woman who is also an accomplished painter, filmmaker, record label head, musical mentor, and an in-demand keynote speaker for mental health and suicide prevention. She continues to create music of hope and healing that lights up the world and speaks to the heart. More...

Singer/Songwriter/Multi-Instrumentalist, Broadway, Musical Theatre, Rock & Roll, Pop, Folk

The Fabulous BUD E. LUV with The Trio and the Whole Enchilada Band
Sun, 9/25, 5pm
$30
A man who has graced stages worldwide for over 30 years. The themes from the movies. The songs from the Broadway shows. The hit records he's written for Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, Tony Orlando, Robert Goulet. The King of Swing. The Father of Folk. The Daddy of Disco. The man who put the Boss in the Bossa Nova. Ladies and Gentlemen, he is not having a perfect hair day, he is having a perfect hair decade. Would you welcome to the stage the world's greatest entertainer and San Francisco's own. More...

Comedy, Lounge Singer, LGBT

JANIS SIEGEL & HER TRIO
9x Grammy Winner Of The Manhattan Transfer JANIS SIEGEL & HER TRIO:
Alan Pasqua (piano)
Darek Oles (bass)
Steve Hass (drummer for The Manhattan Transfer)
Sun, 9/25, 7pm
$35
Over the past three and a half decades, the voice of Janis Siegel - a 9x Grammy winner and a 17x Grammy nominee - has been an undeniable force in The Manhattan Transfer's diverse musical catalog. Alongside her career as a member of this 36-year musical institution, Siegel has also sustained a solo career that has spawned more than a half dozen finely-crafted solo albums and numerous collaborative projects, amassed a large international fan base and garnered consistently high critical praise. More...
Singer and founding member of the second incarnation of the vocal group The Manhattan Transfer (1972-present), A Capella, Jazz Fusion, Pop, Adult Contemporary, Gospel

OCTOBER

AN EVENING WITH WILL & ANTHONY NUNZIATA
Sun, 10/2, 7pm
Mon, 10/3, 8pm
$35
The Nunziatas' charm and energetic stage presence combined with their tenor singing voices create a powerful and touching show for audiences of all ages. The brothers' vocal versatility and stage presence have caught the eye of theaters, performing arts centers and symphony orchestras around the globe, performing Broadway tunes, the American Songbook, songs from the Italian Songbook, and contemporary music. Their show introduces timeless music to new audiences and long-time listeners alike. More...

Great American Songbook, Italian Songbook

CLAIRDEE
Special Return Engagement!

Tue, 10/4, 8pm

$30
A touring artist, Clairdee continues to garner rave reviews and makes her debut at the Edinburgh Jazz Festival in the United Kingdom this summer. The versatile vocalist has also worked with and opened for a diverse roster of artists including the Count Basie Orchestra, Bucky Pizzarelli, Etta James, David Sanborn, Boz Scaggs, Cyrus Chestnut, Houston Person, and Diane Schuur. More...

Jazz, Blues Singer

JACQUI NAYLOR & HER TRIO

Back By Overwhelming Demand
Wed-Sat, 10/5-8, 8pm
Sun, 10/9, 7pm
$35
Jacqui Naylor celebrates the national release of her eighth recording, Lucky Girl (Ruby Star / eOne 2011) and kicks of her international tour with five nights at the Rrazz Room from her home base in San Francisco. A full length documentary, also called Lucky Girl, about the artist, debuts this fall. With a wide vocal range and innovative style, Naylor is a rare artist, known as well for her originals as for her sensitive treatment of jazz standards. More...

Jazz, Traditional Pop, Folk-Rock Singer

BARB JUNGR
The Man In The Long Black Coat
Barb Jungr Sings Bob Dylan
Mon-Wed, 10/10-12, 8pm
$30
Barb Jungr may be the definitive performer of one of the great musical icons of the twentieth century, Bob Dylan. In 2005, the BBC hosted a Barbican concert to celebrate his work. Following a critically acclaimed tour of the UK, where she resides, Barb returns to the US to celebrate Dylan's songs and to promote her latest Linn Record's release "The Man In The Long Black Coat," featuring 13 Dylan songs that she has recorded over the last 8 years. More...

English Singer/Songwriter, Composer, Writer, Jazz, Blues, Pop, Rock, Cabaret

EDWIN HAWKINS and THE NEW EDWIN HAWKINS SINGERS
Gospel Music Legend "Oh Happy Day"
Thu-Sat, 10/13-15, 8pm
Sun, 10/16, 7pm
$40-45
A trailblazing force behind the evolution of the contemporary gospel sound, Edwin Hawkins remains best known for his 1969 classic "Oh Happy Day," one of the biggest gospel hits of all time and a major pop radio smash as well. Born in Oakland, CA in 1943, he began singing in his church youth choir while still a toddler, and by age five was playing piano; just two years later, he assumed full-time piano accompaniment duties for the family gospel group, making their recorded debut in 1957. More...

Legendary Gospel Singer

THE SHIRELLES feat. LEGENDARY ORIGINAL MEMBER & CO-FOUNDER BEVERLY LEE
The Originators Of The Girl Group Sound Celebrate Over 50 Years Of Making Music Together
Tue-Sat, 10/18-23, 8pm
Sun, 10/23, 7pm
$40-47.50
The Shirelles were an American girl group in the early 1960s, and the first to have a No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100. Formed in New Jersey in 1958, the quartet went on to release a string of hits. The Shirelles were the first major female vocal group of the rock and roll era, preceding Motown as a crossover phenomenon with white audiences. Unlike The Chantels, who had had their first hit in 1957, they were successful in Britain, first and foremost with "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" (1960). More...

1960s Girls Group, Classic Soul, R&B, Rock, Doo-Wop, Pop

TODD MURRAY

in "Croon"
Mon-Tue, 10/24-25, 8pm
$30

From swinging & crooning, to finger-snapping big band numbers, to gently caressing heartfelt ballads, Todd Murray's smooth baritone voice can woo & wow an audience, sending them away with a swing in their step. Murray is one of today's premier interpreters of the American popular songbook. He has performed to rave reviews at some of the most prestigious venues across the nation, including New York's Jazz At Lincoln Center, The Metropolitan Room, & Feinstein's at the Cinegrill and Loews Regency. More...

Crooner/Songwriter, Jazz, Swing, Traditional Pop, Cabaret

WILSON CRUZ & SCOTT NEVINS
"Up Close and Personal" with
Wed, 10/26, 8pm
$30
Known for his groundbreaking breakthrough performance on "My So Called Life" and "Noah's Arc" followed by an impressive career on stage and screen, Wilson Cruz joins the "hilarious hottie" from truTV's hit show "The Smoking Gun Presents" and INSTINCT Magazine cover-guy. More... Scott Nevins who critics have described as "A young, sexy, gay-er Kathy Griffin", for a special one night only performance. More...

Cruz: Actor, Producer, Mentor

Nevins: Award winning Host, TV/Radio Personality, Comedian and Celebrity Interviewer

KAREL
Comedy For The New Depression

Thu, 10/27, 8pm
$25
"Comedy for the New Depression" is v4.0 of this uncensored, unfiltered and unhinged look at the news, Pop culture and life. Karel again takes biting wit, splitting comedy, painful truths, hysterical life stories, mixes in a few parody songs and creates one of the most unique and relevant stage shows around. "Comedy for the New Depression" is a roller-coaster ride that may not solve the economic crisis, but will certainly make it less painful. More...
Comedy, Political Satire, Pop, LGBT

NIGHT BEAT AT THE RRAZZ ROOM WITH JONATHAN PORETZ & FRIENDS

Sun, 10/30, 3pm

Sun, 1/22, 7pm

Sun, 3/18, 7pm
$29.50
What happened late night in Las Vegas now returns to San Francisco's elegant Rrazz Room. Jonathan Poretz, who has starred as Frank Sinatra in the long-running show, "The Rat Pack is Back," is bringing back the carefree spirit and fun filled nightlife that epitomized the casino lounges of the swinging 60s. Backed by his jazz and swing-infused trio, Jonathan creates an intimate, after-hours atmosphere for those late-nighters seeking a little nightcap to their evening's entertainment. More...

Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing

MAUDE MAGGART
The Fabulous...
Mon-Wed, 10/31-11/2, 8pm
$35
MAUDE MAGGART, the chanteuse who started her performing career in the clubs of New York and Los Angeles, has exploded into one of today's most compelling international concert artists. She has been hailed as "bewitching" by The New York Times, "utterly enchanting" by the New York Post, "stunning" by the Los Angeles Times and "transfixing" by New York Magazine. John Boswell, Musical Director. More...
Cabaret, Traditional Pop Singer

NOVEMBER
RACHELLE FERRELL

Up Close and Personal
Thu, 11/3, 8pm
Fri-Sat, 11/4-5, 7 & 9:30pm
Sun, 11/6, 7pm
$49.50
As a singer, RACHELLE FERRELL is a quintuple threat: Besides having success as a jazz singer, she is also well respected in the R&B, pop, gospel, and classical music genres as well. Known for her six octave range, Ferrell is also an accomplished pianist who has worked with Lou Rawls, Patti LaBelle, Vanessa Williams, and George Duke. 300-500 seats does not an intimate venue make! With less than 200 seats, don't miss Rachelle Ferrell "Up Close & Personal" at San Francisco's Premier Nightclub! More...

Jazz, Pop, R&B, Gospel, Classical Singer/Pianist

FAITH WINTHROP
Ya Gotta Have Faith ... in song, spirit and sass
Sun, 11/6, 4pm
$27.50
Faith Winthrop's career is as storied as her extensive songbook. From an aspiring 11-year-old treading the boards of the G line streetcar and spontaneously taking requests from passengers traveling from Brookline to Boston to the still singing and swinging senior, her life remains a continual love affair with song. Her path to a vocal career began with classical voice lessons from the turban-topped opera diva, Madame Cleora Wood. And it was the encouragement from Billie Holiday that she continue. More...
Jazz, Traditional Pop Singer

CARLY OZARD
Something Wonderful?

Mon-Wed, 11/7-9, 8pm

$25
Many know Carly Ozard's comedic history with dating. Some turn out gay, others turn out to be even more mentally unstable than she is! Normally, a show about love and relationships wouldn't even be a consideration, but at 27 years old, it's time for a musical journey relating to the many young people struggling to find the person they deserve. Featuring the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, Lucinda Williams, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Elton John, Bette Midler, and then some. More...
Cabaret, Musical Theatre, Pop Singer, LGBT

OTTMAR LIEBERT

An Intimate Evening With
Thu-Fr, 11/10-11, 8pm
Sat, 11/12, 7pm & 9:30pm
Sun, 11/13, 7pm

$25
Ottmar Liebert harnesses the emotional fire and mournful tonalities of traditional Flamenco music, updates it with the subtle rhythms of Jazz and makes it widely accessible with the melodic song structures of Pop. The acoustic guitarist summed it up with the apt comment that Nouveau Flamenco is to the traditional variety what Bossa Nova is to Samba. But even the cleverest formulas are worthless without the animating spark of genius, a quality for which there is no formula, only serendipity. More...

German-born composer/guitarist, Nouveau Flamenco (Traditional Flamenco + Jazz + Pop)

ERIC COMSTOCK & BARBARA FASANO
Helluva Town: A New York Soundtrack
Sun, 11/13, 3pm
Mon, 11/14, 8pm
Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano make their debut at The RRazz Room, fresh from an acclaimed ("Exhilarating" - New York Times), sold-out engagement at the Oak Room. Their new show, "HELLUVA TOWN: A New York Soundtrack" celebrates the love/hate affair Comstock, Fasano and most New Yorkers have with their city. Rather than sing predictable New York anthems, Comstock and Fasano will perform an idiosyncratic mix of songs from Broadway and Hollywood, the pop singer-songwriters and the jazz songbook.
More on Eric Comstock...
More on Barbara Fasano...
Jazz, Cabaret

RUSS LORENSON

"As Long As I'm Singing": RUSS LORENSON Celebrates The Music Of BOBBY DARIN
Tue, 11/15, 8pm
$30
An innovative performer whose tragically brief life was often stranger than fiction, Bobby Darin worked his way from shady nightclubs to The Copacabana, where he smashed all attendance records, and wowed audiences with hits like "Splish Splash," "Mack the Knife," and "Beyond the Sea." A dynamic entertainer, Bobby had Top 10 hits in Rock 'n Roll, Jazz, Pop, Country, and Folk, moving effortlessly through each genre and making it his own. Not just a Grammy-winning recording artist, Bobby was also an award-winning composer, an Oscar-nominated and Golden Globe Award-winning actor, and a music publishing mogul. His marriage to "America's Sweetheart" Sandra Dee broke young girls' hearts and made headlines around the world. Beset with illness from an early age, Bobby was driven to accomplish all he could in what he knew would be a brief life, and gave everything he had to be remembered "as a human being and as a great performer." More...

Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing, Tribute Show, LGBT

DIANE SCHUUR
Deedles
Wed-Fri, 11/16-18, 8pm
Sat, 11/19, 7 & 9:30pm
Sun, 11/20, 7pm
$45-47.50
This Grammy award-winning singer is affectionately known to her fans as "Deedles," in part, for her scat-singing abilities. Not only has DIANE SCHUUR headlined many of the world's most prestigious music venues, including Carnegie Hall and The White House, she has toured with such greats as B.B. King, Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Charles, and Stevie Wonder. More...

Jazz Singer/Pianist, Two-Time Grammy Winner

SONY HOLLAND
Sat-Sun, 11/19-20, 3pm
$25
Sony Holland may have started out singing Italian Arias but she was soon drawn to the sophistication of jazz and the Great American Songbook. "I fell in love...that's the best way to put it. I fell in love with Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Cole Porter, Harry Warren, etc... Sometimes I feel as if I was born out of time." More...

Jazz, Folk, Pop, Blues Singer

VERONICA KLAUS
After Dark

feat. The Tammy Hall Trio

Mon-Wed, 11/21-23, 8pm
$29.50
Prepare for an evening of moonlit music and twilight tunes. A dark starlit evening of romance, heartache and soul-searching music from a cabaret and jazz artist at her prime. Night song has cast its spell through generations, and this show will explore the many moods of the midnight hours. Following their very successful Peggy Lee Songbook Tribute dates at The RRazz Room, Veronica and The Tammy Hall Trio are known for their sophisticated and heartfelt style: - eclectic and electric! More...

Cabaret, Jazz Singer, LGBT

DEANA MARTIN
Holiday Cheers With
Fri-Sat, 11/25-26, 7:30pm
Sun, 11/27, 4pm
$45
Deana Martin takes the audience on a musical journey, honoring her legendary father Dean Martin and other great performers who shaped American music and popular culture for over four decades. She sings the soundtrack of our lives, the classics made popular the world over by her father and his "Pallies." Since the shows inception three years ago, Deana has enjoyed rave reviews and has been performing internationally to sold-out audiences on three continents. Taped PBS TV holiday special. More...

Singer, Actress, Author, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Cabaret

SUZANNE WESTENHOEFER

Semi Sweet

Fri-Sat, 11/25-26, 9:30pm
Sun, 11/27, 7pm
$40
What words best describe Comedian Suzanne Westenhoefer? How about bold, bawdy, and just plain hilarious? Not afraid to ask tough questions that uncover the laughs underneath, Suzanne's made a career out of telling the truth. And the truth is, life is funny. The iconic lesbian comedian has embarked on a crazy, all-new, heart-pumping, mind-bending, hilarious romp through heartbreak, comedy, life, love, and everything about couples un-coupling in the modern world. More...

Comedy, LGBT

DECEMBER
MARLENA SHAW
California Soul For The Holidays
Thu-Fri, 12/1-2, 8pm
Sat, 12/3, 7 & 9:15pm
Sun, 12/4, 7pm
$35-40
While everyone agrees that Marlena Shaw is a national treasure, it's difficult to categorize her. Both Downbeat and Record World have named her "Best Female Singer," and many have compared her range, class and swing that of to eternal jazz lights like Sarah Vaughan, Dinah Washington, and Nancy Wilson. But she's also been called a "soul legend," both before and after her successful detour into disco. Given her 40-year boundary-busting career, such labeling confusion is inevitable. More...

Jazz, Traditional Pop, Classic Soul, R&B Singer

"Rappin' B.O.O.B.S. In Harmony"
starring LEANNE BORGHESI, JESSICA COKER and SOILA HUGHES

as Busty, Outrageous, Over-The-Top, Broads Singin'

Mon, 12/5, 8pm
$45

San Francisco's buxom trio "B.O.O.B.S." is back with their new theatrical cabaret: "Rappin' B.O.O.B.S. In Harmony" just in time for the Holiday Season. Join accomplished musical theatre and cabaret stars: Leanne Borghesi, Jessica Coker and Soila Hughes as Busty, Outrageous, Over-the-Top, Broads, Singin' take you on a musical journey of bawdy blues, juicy jazz, powerhouse pop and everything conceivable in between. Definitely an evening of comedy, sass, truth, heart and cleavage not to be missed.

Musical Theatre, Cabaret, Comedy

KATYA SMIRNOFF-SKYY
Katya's All New Holiday Spectacular
12/6, 8pm
$30 The Countess has returned to the RRazz for a one Night Holiday Spectacular! Sure to make your Yule tide Gay. Hailed as best Drag act by the Bay Guardian (2008) Katya will delight you with a fun-filled evening of belting, banter, and ball gowns to bolster your holiday spirit(s)! With songs ranging from classic holiday fair, to Popera, and disco, there is something for everyone in this heartwarming and brilliantly funny journey through Katya's holiday misadventures. More...
Musical Theatre, Popera (Pop + Opera) Singer, Cabaret, Holiday Show, LGBT

MARIA MULDAUR
Annual Blues & Jazz Christmas Concert
Wed, 12/7, 8pm
$35
In the '60s, Muldaur joined John Sebastian & Steve Katz to form the Even Dozen Jug Band, and soon joined the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, appearing on 5 albums with the group. After 2 albums with her husband Geoff, she went solo, releasing the gold record MIDNIGHT AT THE OASIS in 1974. Her many recordings since then are garnished with "tip-of-the-hat" guest appearances by Bonnie Raitt, Huey Lewis, Sonny Landreth and Mavis Staples, and showcase her abilities in jazz, pop, R&B, folk, gospel and blues. More...

Blues, Jazz Singer

LONI LOVE

"America's Sister" and New Host of "The Gossip Queens"

Thu, 12/8, 8pm

Fri, 12/9, 9:30pm

Sat, 12/10, 9:30pm

Sun, 12/11, 7pm

$25

Named among Variety and Comedy Central's Top 10 Comics to Watch, Love is not only one of the most hilarious and lovable comics performing stand-up on the comedy club and college circuits but also a busy TV host, guest and actress who has also appeared in films and dramatic plays. Love is a regular panelist on E!s hit show "Chelsea Lately" and TruTV's Presents: The World's Dumbest." Comedy Central's "America's Sister" is also one of four hosts on the syndicated talk show "The Gossip Queens.

More...

Comedienne, Actress, TV host

PETE ESCOVEDO LATIN JAZZ ORCHESTRA feat. JUAN and PETER MICHAEL

Fri-Sat, 12/9-10, 7:30pm

Sun, Dec 11, 5pm

$37.50-40

Latin Jazz Percussionist Legend Pete Escovedo is an artist who broke down the barriers between Smooth Jazz, Salsa, Latin Jazz and contemporary music. His name has been synonymous in the music industry for more than 50 years. With his late brother Coke, Pete began his career as The Escovedo Brothers Latin Jazz Sextet. Pete and Coke toured with Carlos Santana, before forming the Latin funk band Azteca. Pete Escovedo continues to perform worldwide with sons Juan and Peter Michael and daughter Sheila E. More...

Latin Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Salsa, Funk, R&B, Gospel Orchestra

Sixth Annual Christmas in San Francisco with RUSS LORENSON and Friends
with Special Guests: Wesla Whitfield, Tim Hockenberry and More!

Kelly Park (Musical Director/Piano)

Tony Malfatti (Sax/Clarinet/Flute)

Daniel Fabricant (Bass)

Kent Bryson (Drums)

Mon, 12/12, 8pm
$30
Skip the Christmas caroling this year and spend a cozy winter's evening with Russ Lorenson and his special guests: Wesla Whitfield, Tim Hockenberry and more, as they celebrate six years of jazzy Christmases, San Francisco style! With songs by such great composers and lyricists as Irving Berlin, Johnny Mercer, Jule Styne, Sammy Cahn, and Frank Loesser, there's something for everyone in this swinging evening of jingle jazz. More...

Crooner, Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing, LGBT

FRANC D'AMBROSIO
It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
Tue-Sat, 12/13-17, 8pm
Sun, 12/18, 7pm
$30-40 Franc D'Ambrosio is a multifaceted vocalist, best known for his role as the "Phantom" in Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera." Franc's resume also includes an Academy Award nominated film ("The Godfather III"), three Emmy award nominated television shows, two Grammy considerations (Best Male Vocalist 1999 for "Panis Angelicus" & Traditional Pop Vocal Album 2005 for "Franc D'Ambrosio's Broadway") and a National Theatre Award nomination for his stage work (Barry Manilow's "Copacabana") More...

Musical Theatre, Broadway, Singer/Actor, LGBT

CONNIE CHAMPAGNE as JUDY GARLAND
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
Sun, 12/18, 4pm
Mon, 12/19, 8pm
$32.50 What's Christmas without Judy Garland? Come & celebrate this season the Garland-way, with an evening of holiday songs, special guests and Santa Claus!--in the spirit of Judy's 1963 television special. More...

Cabaret, Broadway, Musical Theatre Singer, Tribute Show, LGBT

SHARON MCNIGHT
Twisted Xmas; A Druid's View Of The Holidays
Tue-Wed, 12/20-21, 8pm
$30
This show is gonna "sleigh" you. It's an irreverent look at the traditions of the season. Over the past decades, during the holidays, while Debby Boone touted a "White Christmas" and Bruce Vilanch roasted his chestnuts over an open fire, Sharon McNight offered an alternative choice from the expected songs. She has stockpiled myriad and outrageous, wacky musical commentaries on the 12 days of everything from Santa, Jesus, Teddy Bears, Elves, Snow, and of course ... Bette Davis. More...

Cabaret, Broadway, Musical Theatre Singer, LGBT

KIM NALLEY with TAMMY HALL & Special Guests
A Gospel Christmas
Thu-Fri, 12/22-23, 8pm
$35
This yearly Christmas tradition features acclaimed vocalist Kim Nalley performing all your favorite holiday songs accompanied by the swelling soulful Hammond B-3 Organ played by the incomparable Tammy Hall with with Josh Workman (guitar), Michael Zisman (electric bass) and Kent Bryson (drums). Expect several special guest and a few sing-a-longs in at this rollicking joyous concert. More...

Jazz, Blues, Soul, R&B, Folk, Gospel Singer, LGBT

The Fabulous BUD E. LUV

Annual Christmas Spectacular

Sun, 12/25, 7pm

$25
A man who has graced stages worldwide for over 30 years. The themes from the movies. The songs from the Broadway shows. The hit records he's written for Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, Tony Orlando, Robert Goulet. The King of Swing. The Father of Folk. The Daddy of Disco. The man who put the Boss in the Bossa Nova. Ladies and Gentlemen, he is not having a perfect hair day, he is having a perfect hair decade. Would you welcome to the stage the world's greatest entertainer and San Francisco's own. More...

Comedy, Lounge Singer, LGBT

KIM NALLEY & HOUSTON PERSON
A Soulful Jazz New Year
Tue-Fri, 12/27-30, 8pm $30-40
Sat, 12/31, 7:30pm $75
**Sat, 12/31, 10:30pm, $150
**Includes party favors, countdown to 2011, champagne toast at midnight and post-show buffet

Sun, 1/1 2012 7pm $30 Recently named one of the "Ten Most Influential African Americans in the Bay Area," Kim Nalley has an intl reputation as one of world's best jazz blues vocalists. Described as "jazz's working class hero, a true man of the people," Houston Person came to national attention with a series of soulful albums recorded for Prestige in the 1960s. Person's fame grew still more with his successful 30-year musical partnership with vocalist Etta Jones. Nalley & Person join forces for A Soulful Jazz New Year. More...

Jazz, Blues, Soul, R&B, Folk, Gospel Singer, LGBT

CLICK HERE FOR 2012 PERFORMANCES

The RRazz Room, San Francisco's premier nightclub, offers the finest in world-class Classic Soul, R&B, Traditional Pop, Jazz, Comedy, Revue and Cabaret entertainment. This intimate and acoustically perfect venue has been the home for past performers such as: Ashford & Simpson, Oleta Adams, Larry Carlton, Bobby Caldwell, Spyro Gyra, Hiroshima, Diane Schuur, Ben Vereen, Martha Reeves, Miki Howard, The Zapp Band, Con Funk Shun, Pete Escovedo feat. Juan & Peter Michael Escovedo, Freda Payne, Cloris Leachman, Sally Kellerman, Kenny G, Lil' Kim, The Angela Bofill Experience, Australia's Thunder From Down Under, All-4-One, Taylor Hicks, Marlena Shaw, Mary Wilson, Janis Paige, Mark Curry, Stefanie Powers, Davy Jones, Russell Thompkins, Jr. & The New Stylistics, Dame Cleo Laine, Jacqui Dankworth, Keiko Matsui, Ruben Studdard, Eddie Money, David Campbell, Barb Jungr, Lenny Williams, Paula West, Kim Nalley, Wesla Whitfield, Amanda McBroom, CeCe Peniston, Jon Secada, Marilu Henner, Lynda Carter, Betty Buckley and Pia Zadora. Host-escorted seating assigned on a first come, first serve basis. Doors open 90 minutes prior to show. The RRazz Room is a two-drink minimum, all-ages venue, and tickets are non-refundable. Limited Club R VIP Memberships available: 415.394.1189 or Kris@TheRRazzRoom.com

Additional helpful information: The RRazz Lounge and Bar is open daily at 2pm. Happy Hour is from 2PM - 6PM, seven days a week. Dress Code is upscale casual. Inappropriate attire is: ripped jeans, flip-flops, baseball caps and jerseys. No audio nor video recording without prior approval. Absolutely no flash photography. Please silence cell phones, refrain from use, and keep conversations to a whisper during performances. With a validation from The RRazz Room, parking at the Mason O'Farrell Garage is $12 (up to five hours). Enter the garage from Mason or O'Farrell Streets.

Media Contact:
Lisa Bautista, Entertainment Publicist
JFM Presents, LLC
510.967.1109
jfmpresents@gmail.com

# # #