Lou Lou's's Upcoming Shows

*Doors open at 6pm | 21+ | Seatings available between 6pm & 7pm Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and raised in Fresno, California, Gilbert’s musical career was preordained; the only son to his eponym father, a touring Cumbia band leader, singer and arranger, Gilbert was strongly influenced by his predecessor’s deep appreciation for classical composers and big band jazz ensembles, broadening young Gilbert's horizons from an early age. Gilbert Sr. strongly encouraged Gilbert toward the Jazz genre when at first he showed an interest in trumpet at age 6. By age 11, Gilbert’s intensive training and education provided the context to begin playing professionally, and at age 15 he preformed with mentor and icon Dizzy Gillespie at the Monterrey Jazz Festival. A fierce advocate of formal jazz education, Gilbert held the position of Adjunct Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music from 2001 to 2013. Thereafter, he served as the Artistic Director of the International Academy of Jazz San Diego from 2014-2016, during which time he began conducting high school workshops and developing a more proactive role in mentorship. During his time visiting Title I schools, he recognized a need for increased accessibility to formal education, noting that many truly gifted students were deprived the opportunities to further their education due to monetary constraints. Thusly, in 2016 Castellanos founded the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory based in San Diego, California. Using his influence in a burgeoning Jazz community, one he is credited in large with establishing, Gilbert began successfully soliciting donations for and supporting thousands of dollars of scholarship to finance Conservatory Education Equity for economically disadvantaged students of promise. To date, the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory has graduated hundreds of bright musicians of diverse backgrounds with Gilbert serving as personal mentor and advocate for each, often writing college recommendation letters and offering every one of his students "real world" experience each Wednesday evening at ensemble performances For more information on our supperclubs, please visit https://www.loulousclub.com/dinnerandashow

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Inspired by the global funk sounds to come out of Africa and the Middle East in the 1970’s, The Bombillas offer their unique take while forging a sound that is distinctly their own, coming together to form a melting pot of instrumental grooves and pshycedelic sonic colors. Cozmos explores the musical territory between Sun Ra and Afro-Carribean musical traditions. By flipping traditional spiritual jazz repertoire Cozmos pushes musical boundaries while maintaining a sense of familiarity.

This evening, Lou Lou’s will be closed for a private affair—an intimate celebration tucked beneath the chandeliers and velvet glow. We know evenings out are special, and we never take it lightly when we must turn you away. Please accept our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience. Nights like these are rare, but sometimes the room asks for a little secrecy. For your next night out, we invite you to check our calendar for upcoming dates featuring live music, good company, and the kind of evenings you won’t soon forget. With love and gratitude, Lou Lou’s at The Lafayette Hotel

This evening, Lou Lou’s will be closed for a private affair—an intimate celebration tucked beneath the chandeliers and velvet glow. We know evenings out are special, and we never take it lightly when we must turn you away. Please accept our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience. Nights like these are rare, but sometimes the room asks for a little secrecy. For your next night out, we invite you to check our calendar for upcoming dates featuring live music, good company, and the kind of evenings you won’t soon forget. With love and gratitude, Lou Lou’s at The Lafayette Hotel

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ A multifaceted force in modern jazz, Charlie Arbelaez was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He began playing alto saxophone at the age of ten and by thirteen was already performing every Sunday at church—an experience that sparked his lifelong passion for music and performance. During his formative years in South Florida, Charlie shared the stage with jazz luminaries such as Arturo Sandoval, Ira Sullivan, and Nestor Torres. Upon graduating from South Plantation High School, he was honored with the top scholarship award from the Gold Coast Jazz Society. After briefly attending Florida International University on a full scholarship for Jazz Studies, Charlie auditioned for the United States Marine Corps Band in 2010. As a Marine musician stationed at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (2011–2014), Sergeant Arbelaez performed across the nation for hundreds of thousands, representing the Marine Corps at high-profile events while conducting masterclasses and clinics at schools and universities nationwide. In 2015, Charlie released his self-titled debut album, featuring Gilbert Castellanos, Matt Hall, Jason Shattil, Danny Weller, and Willie Jones III. He then relocated to New York to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Studies (Magna Cum Laude) at SUNY Purchase College in under two years. During this time, he studied with masters such as Ralph Lalama, Gary Smulyan, David Hazeltine, Jon Faddis, Todd Coolman, Kenny Washington, Charles Blenzig, and Pete Malinverni. In 2017, Charlie performed with the Jazz @ The Jacobs Jazz Orchestra for its debut concert in San Diego, and the following year, he returned to the city to establish a vibrant musical presence. He founded and hosted the Jazz Botanika Jam Session—a cornerstone of the North Park jazz scene—and in 2020, was nominated for “Best Jazz Artist” by the San Diego Music Awards. That same year, he served as Director of Music for Queen Bee’s Arts and Cultural Center, where he curated performances and community programming for over a year. As both performer and collaborator in San Diego, Charlie has appeared alongside Mundell Lowe, Marshall Hawkins, Gilbert Castellanos, Christopher Hollyday, Mike Wofford, Holly Hofmann, and Irving Flores, among others. A dedicated educator, he has served as Professor of Saxophone at Palomar College and instructor at The Young Lions Jazz Conservatory, mentoring the next generation of improvisers. He also maintains a thriving private studio and continues to teach internationally. His commitment to education led him to earn a Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies from San Diego State University. Now based in San Diego, Charlie maintains a balanced career as an in-demand international performer, recording artist, and educator, continuing to bring his signature energy, artistry, and passion to audiences around the world.

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE | DOORS @ 7PM* Founded by percussionist Jose Perez, longtime timbalero with Latin jazz legend Poncho Sanchez, Estilo Y Gracia is a compact ensemble rooted in the traditional Afro-Cuban sound, with an emphasis on improvisation and tight arrangements. The band features a stellar lineup of Los Angeles based musicians including: Juan Cosme (vocals), Ross Schodek (bass), Alberto Salas (piano), Giancarlo Anderson (percussion), and Jay Jennings (Trumpet). Together, they bring a refined yet fiery energy to the stage, celebrating the rich history of Afro-Cuban music while adding their own unique voice. With deep respect for tradition and a passion for exploration, Estilo Y Gracia embodies exactly what its name suggests: style and grace.

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ East Coast Boogie Nights is a high-energy tribute to the electrifying sound of late-’70s and early-’80s disco, funk, and boogie that defined New York City’s nightlife. Inspired by the groove-driven hits that once filled packed dance floors from the Bronx to Brooklyn and beyond, the band channels the smooth basslines, shimmering synths, and infectious rhythms that kept the city moving long after midnight. With a sound rooted in the East Coast’s signature blend of sophistication and streetwise soul, East Coast Boogie Nights brings to life the music of artists like Tom Browne, Don Blackman, Kool & The Gang, Evelyn “Champagne” King, and more. Their performance capture the spirit of an era when the DJ booth was king, the lights were low, and every night felt like a celebration. Whether it’s a deep-cut boogie jam or a full-on disco anthem, East Coast Boogie Nights delivers an authentic throwback experience that turns any room into a classic NYC dance floor.

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ ElectricLouieLand Presents: Sunday Sermons // 1st Sunday of the month jazz night led by Louie V. featuring San Diego and LA’s best players. MAY 3rd is featuring NICOLE McCABE from Los Angeles on alto saxophone. Nicole McCabe is a genre-defying saxophonist and composer bringing the expressive power of modern jazz into dialogue with the sonic worlds of electronic, indie, and experimental music. Through her work as a bandleader, collaborator, and composer, Nicole McCabe continues to expand the possibilities of the saxophone in contemporary music. With a voice that honors the tradition while pushing boldly into new sonic territory, she represents a new generation of artists redefining what modern jazz can be.

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE* The B-Side Players are a 9-piece band part of a new movement in popular music. A band that honors the international cross-pollination that has always made music the universal language. They use any beat that catches their ear, regardless of geography or genre, to create a compelling, horn driven, polyrhythmic groove. They continue exploring the multifaceted grooves of Latin America and the Caribbean, incorporating the sounds of Cuba, Jamaica, Mexico and Brazil with the funk, rock, jazz and hip-hop rhythms of their homeland, dropping bits of Cumbia, Salsa, gritty street Samba, Son Montuno, Jarocho and Boogalo into the mix. The B-Side Players have been laying down their own inimitable latin global funk since they came together in 1994. Their incendiary live shows have defined them as local favorites with 10 San Diego Music awards. Meanwhile their albums showcase a band with restless musical intelligence, effortlessly blending genres to fashion their own forward looking, latin flavored soul music. As an eight piece band the players are known for igniting crowds with their fierce rhythms and uplifting message of unity and consciousness. Meanwhile always keeping their focus on the political climate of the world and nation. The B-Side Players are a living and breathing cultural art experience for the mind body and soul.

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Imagine a regular San Diego music community super session where the musicians (both in the house band and sitting in) include members of Sure Fire Soul Ensemble, The Greyboy Allstars, The Original Wailers, B-Side Players, Jungle Fire, Tiny Universe, Mitchum Yacoub's band, Spacehall Sound Machine, The Neighborhood Kids, Gypsy Sally, Hether, Band of Gringos, The Jazz 88 Allstars, Big Daddy Kane's band, and more. Rising from the ashes of the legendary Adams Gone Funky, Lou Lou's is proud to present: The Funky Resurrection - first Wednesday of every month.

*Doors open at 6pm | 21+ | Seatings available between 6pm & 7pm Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and raised in Fresno, California, Gilbert’s musical career was preordained; the only son to his eponym father, a touring Cumbia band leader, singer and arranger, Gilbert was strongly influenced by his predecessor’s deep appreciation for classical composers and big band jazz ensembles, broadening young Gilbert's horizons from an early age. Gilbert Sr. strongly encouraged Gilbert toward the Jazz genre when at first he showed an interest in trumpet at age 6. By age 11, Gilbert’s intensive training and education provided the context to begin playing professionally, and at age 15 he preformed with mentor and icon Dizzy Gillespie at the Monterrey Jazz Festival. A fierce advocate of formal jazz education, Gilbert held the position of Adjunct Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music from 2001 to 2013. Thereafter, he served as the Artistic Director of the International Academy of Jazz San Diego from 2014-2016, during which time he began conducting high school workshops and developing a more proactive role in mentorship. During his time visiting Title I schools, he recognized a need for increased accessibility to formal education, noting that many truly gifted students were deprived the opportunities to further their education due to monetary constraints. Thusly, in 2016 Castellanos founded the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory based in San Diego, California. Using his influence in a burgeoning Jazz community, one he is credited in large with establishing, Gilbert began successfully soliciting donations for and supporting thousands of dollars of scholarship to finance Conservatory Education Equity for economically disadvantaged students of promise. To date, the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory has graduated hundreds of bright musicians of diverse backgrounds with Gilbert serving as personal mentor and advocate for each, often writing college recommendation letters and offering every one of his students "real world" experience each Wednesday evening at ensemble performances For more information on our supperclubs, please visit https://www.loulousclub.com/dinnerandashow

*SEATED SHOW | 21+ | DOORS @ 7PM | NO DINNER SERVICE* Peter Evans - Being & Becoming featuring Nick Joz and Tyshawn Sorey Opening set by ABNORMAL MAMMAL Special DJ set afterparty by thee King Britt Formed by Peter Evans in 2017, Being & Becoming is a vibrant fusion of genre-defying talent. Featuring Joel Ross, Nick Jozwiak, and since spring 2025 Tyshawn Sorey, this powerhouse group has released two groundbreaking albums and toured major festivals across the U.S. and Europe, constantly reinventing itself. They recorded their latest album at the legendary Rudy Van Gelder Studio, released on Peters own Imprint More Is More Records in November 2025.

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE | DOORS @ 7PM* The comparison is inevitable. How could it be otherwise? Tito Puente Jr. carries his father with him – imprinted on his physical being and locked in his soul. It’s in his looks, his joy, and his music. 

Tito, Jr. is on a passionate mission. The younger Puente is determined to nurture the musical legacy left by his father. He refuses to let his father become a distant memory. “He was just too vibrant, too exciting. There was magic in the music my father made. It made people happy all over the world.”

He has found captive audiences who echo his passion. Crowds lured to a venue by the father are returning to see the son -- and to once again participate in the high voltage celebration that takes place on stage.

Tito Puente, Jr. has become an audience favorite in casinos, performing arts centers, symphony halls and jazz festivals worldwide, performing more than 300 shows over the past 5 years. 

His 2004 album, “In My Father’s Shoes” featured the classic Puente titles and was spun into a BET Jazz television special of the same name.

He was seen in a tribute to his father’s music on NBC’s two hour special--“The Apollo at 70: A Hot Night in Harlem.” He has also appeared on the ABC soap opera hit “One Life to Live” in performance with his big band.

Symphony appearances include Dallas, San Antonio, Colorado, South Bend, and upcoming performances with the Palm Desert Symphony and the National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Marvin Hamlisch.

Tito, Jr.’s new CD release, “Got Mambo?” is a mixture of the old and the new as he takes a musical departure into some powerful new music he can truly call his own. Guest artists Bobby Cruz and Hansel & Raul help make this a coming of age project for Puente, Jr. and the album is receiving heavy praise from Tropical and Latin Jazz critics alike. 

Tito Jr. reveres the magnificent, lasting impact his father had on our musical lives. “People who don’t know anything about Latin music know my father and people always, always smile when they say my father’s name,” he confides. “That is a very special gift I have been given.” 

Tito, Jr. lives in South Florida and has two children, Miranda and Antonio. Hailed as a complex musical melting pot, Latin Jazz has its roots in the vibrant jazz scene of Harlem, as well as the Cuban and Puerto Rican musical influences of Spanish Harlem and the Bronx. The San Diego Latin Jazz Collective not only embodies these ideals in name, but also is a cultural cauldron at its very core, the foundation of the group's existence. Founded in 2009 by band leader Michael Benge (Miguelito), this versatile group features some of Southern California’s top musicians from the San Diego/Tijuana metroplex, bringing together an extraordinary compilation of rhythms, styles, and genres that represent each members cultures and musical heroes. A true collective of life long musical experiences The band’s captivating, high-energy performance will take the audience through a cultural journey in a border town. With musical influences from Latin jazz to salsa and even pop, reggae, and funk, blending musicianship, creativity, and tradition, this band knows how to entertain. Keeping one foot in the past and one foot in the present, the San Diego Latin Jazz Collective is always looking for the next musical experience they will bring to their audiences and dares them not to dance.

*21+ | NO DINNER SERVICE* Joe Amato, Israel Maldonado, Giovanni Meija (Guitars & Vocals) Dante Loaiza & David Castañeda (Percussion & Vocals) Omar López (Bass & Vocals) Bill Caballero (Trumpet & Vocals) ig: @amandalivemusic A fixture in the San Diego music scene for over a decade, Latin-American singer-songwriter Amanda Portela invites you to an evening of timeless romance. Drawing from her Colombian and Portuguese heritage and her formative years in South America, Portela delivers a performance that is as global as it is deeply personal. Known for a "sultry, haunting croon" that captures the essence of longing, she curates a journey through the most beloved melodies of the Latin songbook. From the soul-stirring bolero "Sabor a Mí" to cinematic arrangements of classic Latin hits, the show breathes new life into the music of devotion. For this special presentation, Portela is joined by an elite ensemble of San Diego’s finest musicians: Guitars & Vocals: Joe Amato, Israel Maldonado, and Giovanni Mejia Bass & Vocals: Omar López Trumpet & Vocals: Bill Caballero Percussion & Vocals: Dante Loaiza and David Castañeda Together, they create a "moody, cinematic" soundscape that blends the sophistication of Jazz with the raw passion of Latin folklore. Whether you are a lifelong fan of Spanish-language classics or discovering them for the first time, Portela’s powerful and unique delivery promises a spellbinding atmosphere that lingers long after the final note. Follow the Journey: Instagram: @amandalivemusic

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE | DOORS @ 7PM*

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Brazilian Jazz Night brings together a group of standout Southern California musicians for an evening celebrating the rhythm, warmth, and beauty of Brazil’s musical tradition. At the center is vocalist Lexi Pulido, whose expressive voice and natural feel for the music bring elegance and soul to classic bossa nova and samba repertoire. Leading the ensemble on drums, Matthew Elton Smith brings a deep sense of groove and musical direction to the group, blending jazz sensibility with the subtle pulse and flow of Brazilian rhythms. His playing helps guide the ensemble while leaving space for the kind of spontaneous interaction that makes live jazz exciting. The band also features vibraphonist Ian Harland, whose shimmering sound and melodic improvisations add a unique color to the group. Guitarist Aaron Lind provides the harmonic foundation with the smooth, rhythmic feel that is central to Brazilian music, while bassist Harley Magsino anchors everything with warm tone, lyrical lines, and an effortless pocket. Rounding out the ensemble, Gabe Carson on saxophone brings expressive melodies and dynamic improvisation to the mix.

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ POCKETCANDY is a nu-funk and jazz group from San Diego lead by guitarist/ producer/ composer Ian Patrick Cler and tenor saxophonist/ composer Ross Rizzo. Their mission is to bring people together with music. The night will feature original compositions and their favorite arrangements. The night will feature Ian Patrick Cler on guitar, Ross Rizzo on saxophone, Noah Williams on bass, and Rashaad Graham on drums.

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Earl Thomas is an American soul, blues, and roots rock singer-songwriter known for his powerful gospel-influenced voice and deeply emotional songwriting. giving him a strong following among fans of traditional American roots music. Anthony Cullins is a young musician/songwriter whose guitar playing ability is years beyond his age. Anthony's musical influences include R&B, funk, soul, rock, jazz, and blues prominently displayed in his eclectic improvisational style he calls "psychedelic soul music", ranging from Eddie Hazel and Jeff Beck to George Benson and Eric Johnson with dozens of influences in between. Anthony recently put out a live record, working on two studio albums, and won "Best Blues Artist" in the 2023 and 2024 San Diego Music Awards.

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ What's Golden is Southern California's only Golden Era live-performance band. Paying homage to Tupac, Dre, Biggie, Jurassic 5, Wu Tang, and more, as well as Mary J. Blige, Salt n Pepa, and many more, this is a night of the tracks you know by heart and wish were still pumping on the radio. This is a live band with rappers, and DJ, and all the OG funk from the days when hip-hop was golden.

This evening, Lou Lou’s will be closed for a private affair—an intimate celebration tucked beneath the chandeliers and velvet glow. We know evenings out are special, and we never take it lightly when we must turn you away. Please accept our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience. Nights like these are rare, but sometimes the room asks for a little secrecy. For your next night out, we invite you to check our calendar for upcoming dates featuring live music, good company, and the kind of evenings you won’t soon forget. With love and gratitude, Lou Lou’s at The Lafayette Hotel

*Doors open at 6pm | 21+ | Seatings available between 6pm & 7pm Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and raised in Fresno, California, Gilbert’s musical career was preordained; the only son to his eponym father, a touring Cumbia band leader, singer and arranger, Gilbert was strongly influenced by his predecessor’s deep appreciation for classical composers and big band jazz ensembles, broadening young Gilbert's horizons from an early age. Gilbert Sr. strongly encouraged Gilbert toward the Jazz genre when at first he showed an interest in trumpet at age 6. By age 11, Gilbert’s intensive training and education provided the context to begin playing professionally, and at age 15 he preformed with mentor and icon Dizzy Gillespie at the Monterrey Jazz Festival. A fierce advocate of formal jazz education, Gilbert held the position of Adjunct Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music from 2001 to 2013. Thereafter, he served as the Artistic Director of the International Academy of Jazz San Diego from 2014-2016, during which time he began conducting high school workshops and developing a more proactive role in mentorship. During his time visiting Title I schools, he recognized a need for increased accessibility to formal education, noting that many truly gifted students were deprived the opportunities to further their education due to monetary constraints. Thusly, in 2016 Castellanos founded the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory based in San Diego, California. Using his influence in a burgeoning Jazz community, one he is credited in large with establishing, Gilbert began successfully soliciting donations for and supporting thousands of dollars of scholarship to finance Conservatory Education Equity for economically disadvantaged students of promise. To date, the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory has graduated hundreds of bright musicians of diverse backgrounds with Gilbert serving as personal mentor and advocate for each, often writing college recommendation letters and offering every one of his students "real world" experience each Wednesday evening at ensemble performances For more information on our supperclubs, please visit https://www.loulousclub.com/dinnerandashow

*21+ | NO DINNER SERVICE* ~SONGS OF WILLIE NELSON~ 7PM Two Step into the world of country music legend Willie Nelson with ZB Savoy's "Songs of Willie Nelson" show. Celebrating the remarkable career and enduring legacy of the "Red Headed Stranger," this performance is a journey through the heart and soul of American music. ZB Savoy is a veteran singer, songwriter and performer out of California and has been a forever fan of Willie’s life and music. His show celebrates both the wide breadth of music Nelson has recorded and the classic country genre that he and his pals forged in the early 70s. ZB delves into the rich history and profound impact of this timeless music blending entertainment, education, and good ole fashion honky tonkin’. ZB’s all-star band features Bobby Furgo on piano and fiddle (Leonard Cohen, Dolly Parton), Danny Campbell on drums (Bob Weir, Phyllis Diller), bassist Patrick McClory (The Red Headed Strangers, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash) and Ben Zinn (Earl Thomas, Stacey Antonel) on pedal steel and electric guitar. The ensemble promises an unforgettable performance. Join us for a night of music, memories, and reverence for the one and only Willie Nelson.