Bio | Russell Welch

Russell Welch

Born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Russell Welch is a dynamic, award-winning jazz guitarist whose virtuosity and creative energy have made him one of the most sought-after musicians in New Orleans. Known for his passionate, innovative approach to both traditional jazz and the Gypsy jazz style of Django Reinhardt, Russell’s music bridges genres, styles, and continents, earning him a reputation as one of the finest guitarists in the world.

Early Life and Career

Russell’s love for music was evident from an early age. He began playing guitar professionally at just 16, quickly earning praise from local critics in Jackson, Mississippi, who hailed him as a “jazz prodigy” and an “incredible jazz guitarist.” By 2003, his exceptional talent earned him a place in the Jackson Jazz Musicians’ Hall of Fame as its youngest-ever member. His early training included studying with virtuoso guitarist Barry Leach, whose mentorship helped shape Russell’s distinctive sound.

After graduating from Jackson's prestigious Academic and Performing Arts Complex (APAC), Russell pursued his passion for jazz at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM), located near New Orleans. There, his talents flourished, culminating in a B.A. in Jazz Studies and several accolades, including the “Outstanding Soloist” award at the 2007 University of North Texas Jazz Festival—the most competitive college jazz festival in the U.S. That same year, the USM Jazz Sextet, with Russell as a key member, was named the top college combo, marking a historic first for the program.

A New Orleans Artist

Now based in New Orleans, Russell is an integral part of the city’s vibrant jazz scene, performing regularly with some of the finest ensembles in the area. He is a core member of Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns, a vintage jazz band beloved by swing and lindy hop dancers worldwide. The band won the Big Easy Music Award for “Best Traditional Jazz Band” in 2012, with Meschiya Lake herself claiming the award for “Best Female Performer” three years in a row. The group has released two highly praised albums, Lucky Devil and Fooler's Gold.

Russell’s gypsy jazz roots are equally important to his musical identity. Known as "The Mississippi Gypsy," he leads The Russell Welch Hot Quartet, a group that has earned critical acclaim for its original compositions and high-energy performances. Their album Pour Vous (2013) has been lauded for its mastery of the genre and its fresh take on Gypsy jazz. His previous band, Showarama Hot Trio, was nominated for the New Orleans "Best Traditional Jazz Album" award for their all-original music, which Offbeat magazine described as “masterful.”

International Performer and Educator

As a guitarist, composer, and bandleader, Russell has performed on stages worldwide, from the renowned Django a Go Go Festival and Django in June to jazz festivals in the United States, Europe, and beyond. He and his bands have toured over a dozen countries, bringing the vibrant sounds of New Orleans and Gypsy jazz to global audiences. Notable performances include the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Festival, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and the French Quarter Festival.

Russell is also a respected educator, sharing his expertise in jazz and Gypsy guitar at workshops and festivals. He was recently invited to perform and teach at two of the most prestigious Django Reinhardt festivals in North America: Django a Go Go and Django in June, both in 2022.

Recordings and Recognition

Russell’s discography includes a range of critically acclaimed releases that showcase his musical range and creativity. His album Acetate Sessions (2019) was nominated for the New Orleans "Best Traditional Jazz Album" award, with critics praising its innovative use of vintage recording techniques to capture the magic and energy of live performance. The album's unique sound—recorded on acetate masters—brings together originals and jazz classics, crackling with youthful energy while honoring the past.

Other notable works include The Russell Welch Hot Quartet's Mississippi Gypsy (2015), a tour de force of original compositions that has been praised for its “masterful” musicianship by Offbeat Magazine.

Beyond the Stage

Russell’s creativity extends to other artistic fields, including collaborations with the Marigny Opera House Ballet. In January 2019, he composed and performed the original score for Silk and Smoke, a jazz ballet featuring choreography by Gretchen Erickson. The production was featured at the 2019 International Women in Dance Leadership Conference, further cementing Russell’s status as a versatile and visionary artist.

Awards and Accolades

Russell’s musical contributions have earned him multiple nominations and honors. In addition to his nominations for “Best Traditional Jazz Artist” and “Best Traditional Jazz Album” at the Big Easy Music Awards, Russell was recognized as a New Orleans' "Best Guitarist" nominee in 2016. His early work as a young musician earned him the Outstanding Soloist award at the University of North Texas Jazz Festival in 2007, and he continues to receive praise for his innovative, genre-defying performances.

The Legacy of Russell Welch

Whether leading a fiery Gypsy jazz ensemble, playing with the vintage charm of Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns, or composing groundbreaking new works, Russell Welch remains at the heart of New Orleans’ rich jazz legacy. His ability to meld the tradition of jazz with fresh, cutting-edge sounds has made him an in-demand musician both in New Orleans and on the international stage.

For more information about Russell Welch and upcoming performances, visit Russell Welch Hot Quartet.

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-)

The Hot Club of New Orleans (Jazz 2018-)