BIO

Meet Russell Welch, the electrifying force in jazz guitar hailing from the heart of New Orleans and proudly representing Jackson, Mississippi. As an independent recording artist, dynamic performer, and visionary band-leader, Russell Welch has taken his music across the globe, captivating audiences in festivals, concerts, clubs, and exclusive events spanning 12 countries and counting.

Notably, the 2022 Django A Gogo International Festival and Guitar Camp hailed Russell as "not only the most sought-after guitarist in New Orleans, but also one of the finest Django Reinhardt style players in the world!" His virtuoso guitar work is celebrated for its masterful blend of technique and melody, described by Jon Stewart as music that "belongs in a Wes Anderson movie."

A cornerstone of the New Orleans jazz scene, Russell Welch has graced music rooms all over the city, including the legendary Spotted Cat Music Club stage every Tuesday and Thursday for over a decade. His influence extends to prestigious festivals such as Django a GoGo International Festival and Guitar Camp in New York City and Django in June Festival in Massachusetts, where he not only performs but also educates as a faculty member.

Russell's versatility shines through his collaborations with diverse genre bands in New Orleans, including The Russell Welch Hot Quartet/Trio, Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns, and The Hot Club of New Orleans, among others. His albums, including "Mississippi Gipsy" and "Showarama Hot Trio" have garnered critical acclaim, hailed as "tour de force" and "masterful."

Experience the magic of Russell Welch through his electrifying performances and immaculate recordings, capturing the essence of his musical journey. Watch his captivating performances and discover why Russell Welch is a name synonymous with innovation, passion, and unparalleled musicianship in the world of jazz today.

Russell was nominated Best Traditional Jazz Artist and Best Traditional Jazz Album - New Orlean's Offbeat Awards 2019

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Video samples:
"Whoopin' Blues" et al., Django A Gogo, 2022 (faculty member promo) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLsnfDM-W38
"Enter:Grace" (Russell Welch), Midwest Gypsy Swing Festival: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czaSbapwyZI
Millsaps Arts and Lecture Series concert, 2nd Set: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3KzawCVO6Y
"Mississippi Gipsy" (Russell Welch) album release concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5syC3w_WCoM

The Russell Welch Hot Quartet (Jazz 2010-)

Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns (Jazz 2010-)

Carmela Rappazzo (Albums "Whispering" and "9")

Ronell Johnson (Album "Instant Roo")

Squirrel Nut Zippers (Featured Guitarist 2020)

The Rusty and Fanny Show (Variety 2020)

Russell's Eight Track (Indie Rock 2003-)

King James and the Special Men (2019-2020)

Showarama Hot Trio (Jazz 2012-)