LeNard Rutledge & Mike Cady present “Cole Porter and Friends”

Captivating, soul-stirring, earthy and funky. These are just some of the words used to describe the sound of LeNard Rutledge. Growing up in Miami, Florida, LeNard was always surrounded by different musical genres. His parents had an extensive music collection ranging from classical, jazz, hymns, and funk, like that of James Brown. In the fall of 1986, LeNard sang the ballad “Teach Me Tonight” at St Augustine’s College’s Annual Spring Concert.

His confidence grew as he sang more songs, which led to other projects such as studio work and voice-over jobs. For fear of letting his drumming chops falter, LeNard played at clubs to keep the rust away. A musical friend (Rick Best) introduced him to songwriting. In October 1997, LeNard auditioned as a vocalist for the Melton Mustafa Orchestra. He was the featured vocalist until 2003.

LeNard has performed at many jazz spots in South Florida. The Museum of Contemporary Art, the Van Dyke Café, and O’Hara’s Jazz Pub are the most notable. LeNard has shared the stage with several highly respectable jazz musicians such as Nnenna Freelon, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kenny Drew Jr., and Harry Allen. In May of 2006, LeNard was named BEST JAZZ ARTIST by the Miami New Times magazine. His first CD, Hello World, was released that year.

Come watch LeNard LIVE on Saturday, January 13, 2023

4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Jazz Age Stage at Lummus Park & 12th st.