COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ * FREE INTRO TO SWING DANCE LESSON w/ MERCEDES MOORE @ 8:15p * Winner of the 2024 San Diego Music Award for "Best Jazz Artist" and nine time SDMA nominee for "Best Blues Artist" Mercedes Moore brings a unique blend of '50s/60's Swingin' Soul/Blues to the stage. With a background in Lindy Hop and Swing dancing her set list is designed to be up-beat and energetic with an emphasis on rhythms suitable for both partner dancing and freestyle solo fun. From Little Richard to Little Walter, from Etta James to James Brown! With Steve Wilcox on guitar (Candye Kane) Steve Pandis on Bass (Louis Prima Jr) Tony Econom on drums (Bulbancha YaYa) 

DOORS @ 7PM | COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Mochilero initially began as the house band for locals DJs, San Diego City Soul club, playing strictly well known Jamaican hits. Since then, the band has expanded into creating original music, focusing on a strong vocal harmonic component, taking influence from such vocal groups as the paragons, the wailing souls, the techniques and the gaylads. Instrumentally the band has evolved from early reggae, rocksteady and the sound of the late 60s to a sound more rooted in early dancehall and lovers rock. Our aim is to incorporate our influences and love of funk, disco, and R&B under a Jamaican lens. 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Shades of Tjader tribute band honors the legacy of Cal Tjader with vibraphone-led grooves that bridge the gap between bebop improvisation and authentic Afro-Cuban rhythms. Tjader was more than a musician; he was a cultural bridge-builder who collaborated with legends like Mongo Santamaría, Willie Bobo, and Eddie Palmieri. In that same spirit of mutual respect and cross-cultural dialogue, we bring these timeless rhythms to a new generation. Whether you're a jazz purist or just looking to dance, we invite you to experience “Shades Of Tjader” Ian Harland - Vibraphone Omar Lopez - Bass Carlos Ordiano - Piano Kiko Cornejo Jr - Drums/Timbales Steve Haney - Percussion Tommy Aros- Percussion 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Robin Henkel Band with Horns Robin Henkel—five time recipient of “Best Blues Award” at the San Diego Music Awards— brings his six piece band to Lu Lu’s. With this group says Robin “I like to feature originally composed horn arrangements drawing from the deep rich traditions of blues, jazz, swing and funk.” The Robin Henkel Band with Horns features Steve Ebner: trumpet, Dave Castel de Oro: tenor sax, Troy Jennings: baritone sax, Ken Dow: bass and Paul Kimbarow: drums. As a solo blues artist Robin Henkel performs blues with an intensity rarely seen in Southern California. Drawing from the styles of Robert Johnson, Fred McDowell and Elmore James, Robin has moulded his own intense and entertaining personal style. Robin has opened shows for: BB King, Dizzy Gillespie, Bonnie Raitt, Dr. John, Jr. Wells, Jr. Walker, Arlo Guthrie, Hot Tuna, John McLaughlin, Todd Rundgren, Warren Zevon, Steve Stills, Dave Mason, Don McLean, Charles Brown, John Mayall, David Lindley. Robin has performed with: Johnny Almond, Buddy Miles, The San Diego Symphony, Lowell Fulson, Big Jay McNealy, Jimmy Witherspoon, Sha Na Na, Papa John Creach, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, John Hammond. From print media: Robin Henkel is a futurist and a historian. 
-LA Times Henkel is already playing a shuffle that is neither slow nor fast--a strut, and it is extremely seductive ...Henkel proceeds to play a fast jump progression, much like one of Robert Johnson's fiery paced songs. As with Johnson, it is hard to imagine, if you close your eyes, that there is only one guitarist at work. You can almost hear the scratches on the 78. 
-San Diego Reader Robin's live shows are nothing short of inspirational. There is something genuinely raw, base and animalistic about his gut-wrenching, honest music. 
-360 Degrees 

*Doors open at 6pm | 21+ | Dinner starts promptly at 7pm | No dinner service in bar area* 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 

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE* Mitchum Yacoub an Egyptian-American multi-instrumentalist, producer, and DJ based out of San Diego, CA. As a lifelong drummer that has supported many projects in the vein of Afrobeat, Soul, Funk, and Reggae, he's been slow-brewing a unique feel for roots and dance music. Inspired by artists like Fela Kuti, Dr. Dre, and James Brown, his music harkens back to Africa in the 70’s with the bass and drums turned up a notch. Strong, repetitive grooves layered with Afro-Latin percussion and vibrant, tightly executed horn lines that call all dancers to the floor. Since beginning his first live performances in late 2019, Yacoub has played alongside roots music heavies like The Wailers, Antibalas, Jungle Fire, and Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto. In 2022, his group supported Seun Kuti for six shows across the U.S., while he traded on percussion and drum kit for Kuti's band: Egypt 80 (formerly of Fela Kuti). The experience trained him well in the rhythmic strength of the music and earned him and his band a place in the global scene of Afrobeat. Originality, musicianship, and a massive sound are three marks keeping Yacoub’s band on the road and a fast-growing festival favorite. The highly acclaimed release of his debut album, “Living High in the Brass Empire”, (2023 All-Town Sound) brings the experience home as a showcase in his unique approach to roots music; forming explosive intersections of Afrobeat, Cumbia, and Soul that will lift you from your seat and leave you wanting more. 

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE* -SELENA LOOK-A-LIKE CONTEST HELD AT 9:30p AFTER SET 1- “Echoes of the Queen” is a high-energy, visually stunning tribute that brings the life, music, and magic of Selena Quintanilla to the stage. Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Kenna Vazquez, this dynamic show delivers electrifying vocals, dazzling costume changes, and vibrant bilingual crowd interaction, creating a deep and authentic connection with the audience. Blending Tejano, cumbia, Latin pop, and the iconic hits that defined a generation, the band captures the heart and spirit of Selena in a way that’s both heartfelt and thrilling. More than a concert—“Echoes of the Queen” is an immersive, one-of-a-kind celebration of an unforgettable legend. 

ELECTRICLOUIELAND PRESENTS: SUNDAY SERMONS COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ JANUARY 4th, 2026: CHRISTOPHER HOLLYDAY on ALTO SAX FEBRUARY 1st, 2026, IAN HARLND on VIBRAPHONE LouLou's Club on a Sunday night, The First Sunday Jazz Sermons take flight, Echoes of Minton's in every chord, Where legends jammed and spirits soared. 

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. 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Vocalist and trumpet player Jason Hanna joins forces with the rhythm section, Ed Kornhauser on piano, Harley Magsino on bass, and Matthew Elton Smith on drums, for an evening of romantic jazz with a wink. Love songs, elegant swing, and subtle mischief guaranteed. themattsmithneujazztrio is one of the most notable jazz trios to hit the San Diego jazz scene. Formed in January 2013, this trio has jumped musical leaps and bounds to find music they are all proud of. The songs on their 2016 release “RETROgrade,” feature compositions of each member that capture and captivate jazz and non jazz audiences. These rhythmically free and melodically driven compositions highlight the very essence of a young trio with overwhelming maturity. themattsmithneujazztrio can be found on facebook.com/themattsmithneujazztrio 

*DOORS at 7PM | COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+* The Styletones are a high energy soul sensation featuring an all star cast of San Diego musicians. A typical Styletones set is an unstoppable flow of deep cut funk and soul that will keep an audience on their feet. Goes well with: James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, and your favorite rare soul/funk compilations. 

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+ After making his introduction as a jazz guitar aficionado, Will Brahm continued to develop a melodic voice on the guitar all his own. His songs evoke the emotional soundscape of bands like The Cure and Pink Floyd, while his captivating melodic delivery brings to mind guitarists like Jeff Beck and Pat Metheny. Born and raised in Portland Oregon, Will fell in love with the Folk and Rock music of the Pacific Northwest from a young age. These influences show in his lyrical songwriting and dazzling guitar pyrotechnics. After graduating California State Long Beach with a bachelors degree in Jazz Guitar Performance, he joined New West Guitar Group and began his touring career. He then joined world renowned jazz trumpeter Arturo Sandoval's band and continues to tour and record with him today. In 2019 Brahm released his acoustic ensemble album "Venture Atlas," showcasing his unique "musical world-building" abilities. Soon after this, he competed as a semi finalist in the Herbie Hancock International Guitar Competition, getting to play for many of his guitar idols like Pat Metheny, John Scofield, and Russell Malone. Brahm then began exploring deeper sonic possibilities, implementing the electric guitar and new textures into his music. This led to his signature band sound which is rooted in strong melodic songs, and decorated in lush sonic landscapes that make up far more than the sum of its parts. His upcoming album "Distance to Empty" will be released in 2025. 

*Doors open at 6pm for 7pm show* *Doors open at 9pm for 10pm show* 21+ | No dinner service Vocalist Leonard Patton has been a force in the jazz scene for many years both locally in San Diego as well as around the country. His newest venture, The Jazz Lounge, is an intimate performance venue that is garnering much attention and acclaim in San Diego. Patton has played and recorded with some of the best musicians in the world including Peter Sprague, Antonio Sanchez, Geoffrey Keezer, and most recently, multi Grammy-award-winning jazz guitar legend Pat Metheny. Leonard has been recently nominated in the category of "Best Jazz Artist" for the San Diego Music Awards. 

*Doors open at 6pm for 7pm show *Doors open at 9pm for 10pm show 21+ | No dinner service Where the Queen of Exotica meets the King of Mambo-a love story like no other! Mambo Nocturno makes its world debut at Lou Lou's on February 14th, 2026. Step into a night of timeless rhythm and enchantment! Experience the electrifying percussion of Tito Puente and the spellbinding voice of Yma Sumac! From the heart-pounding Afro-Cuban beats of Puente’s timbales to the soaring, mystical Andean melodies of Sumac, this is an unforgettable fusion of rhythm and soul. Feel the heat. Hear the passion. Dance the night away. One night only—where the tropics meet the Andes in a symphony of fire and flair! Michelle Gallardo-Arias - Soprano David Castañeda - Percussion Steve Haney - Percussion Kiko Cornejo Jr. - Percussion Dante Loaiza - Percussion Carlos Ordiano - Piano Omar López- Bass Bill Caballero - Trumpet Dan Reagan- Trombone Bradley Nash - Saxophone/Flute Natasha Tia - Dancer/Choreographer Based out of San Diego, Goldie is a celebrated Vinyl-Only DJ and record store owner, who has captivated audiences across the United States with her dance parties and genre-spanning sets. Known for her deep crates, she brings a raw, analog energy to every set blending rare funk, soul, disco, and house. Her all-vinyl ethos and energy have earned her slots at legendary venues from New York to L.A. Beyond the booth, she champions diversity in the music scene through collaborations with record labels, hospitality groups and programming for venues. 

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE | DOORS @ 7PM* Some artists find music; for Lila Forde, music found her – and it’s been calling ever since. With a voice like honey and an “Americana soul” sound steeped in old-school jazz, R&B, and folk traditions, the Seattle-born singer/songwriter and The Voice semi-finalist carries the past into the present with refreshing ease. She does just that on her debut album VESSEL, a confident and cathartic coming-of-age record that captures the full spectrum of her artistry – from its roots in improvisation and harmony, to its emotional depth and genre-spanning warmth. For Forde, the album’s title is more than metaphor – it’s a mission statement. “I want to be a vessel for the music,” she says. “I’m here to serve it.” VESSEL is meant to reflect the full spectrum of who she is – not just as a musician, but as a person. “I hope people get the whole rainbow,” she adds. Singer-songwriter & multi-instrumentalist Sophia Bacino fuses folk, pop, and rock into a unique blend of whimsical, imaginative melodies. Born and raised in California, Sophia’s lyrics embrace tales of adventure and nature-forward imagery, exploring themes of intuition, divine femininity, and destiny. Her sophomore EP “Up Against the Door” was released in October 2025. 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21 | DOORS at 7PM+ Euphoria Brass Band is an exciting and unique San Diego based musical collective that serves up a contemporary mix of old school New Orleans traditional brass band jazz, funky street beats and new school edginess! Embracing the exciting spirit of jazz improvisation with hard edge funk, the critically acclaimed and award winning Euphoria Brass Band has become known for their incendiary high-energy shows. Since their inception in 2011, Euphoria Brass Band always leaves ‘em wanting more!