Biography
The Shotgun Jazz Band is a distinguished traditional jazz ensemble founded in New Orleans in April 2011, spearheaded by trumpeter and vocalist Marla Dixon and her husband, banjoist John Dixon. The band originated from the couple’s move from Toronto to New Orleans, where they began as street performers in the French Market, gradually attracting like-minded musicians and evolving into a full-fledged group. Their name pays homage to the classic New Orleans shotgun house where the Dixons lived and rehearsed, reflecting their deep connection to the city’s musical heritage.
From its humble beginnings as a street band, Shotgun Jazz Band quickly transitioned to performing in renowned local clubs and festivals, including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival, and Satchmo Summer Fest. Their sound is characterized by a passionate revival of early New Orleans jazz, with an emphasis on ensemble playing and a repertoire that draws heavily from swing and ragtime traditions. Marla Dixon’s powerful, brassy vocals and the multinational lineup—including musicians from Wales, Toronto, Alabama, Missouri, and New York—have helped the band cultivate a distinctive energy and authenticity.
Over the years, Shotgun Jazz Band has released six albums, such as 'Algiers Strut', 'One Drink Minimum', and 'Yearning', each showcasing their commitment to high-quality, historically rooted jazz. The band is recognized as a driving force in the contemporary New Orleans jazz renaissance, regularly collaborating with veteran musicians and inspiring both audiences and fellow artists with their dedication to the spirit of the city’s musical legacy.
Fun Facts
- The band’s name comes from the classic New Orleans 'shotgun house' where Marla and John Dixon lived and rehearsed.
- Shotgun Jazz Band began as a street duo in the French Market before evolving into a full ensemble to record their first CD.
- Their album 'Yearning' was recorded at the historic Luthjen's Dance Hall and is considered one of their proudest achievements.
- Members hail from diverse locations including Toronto, Wales, Alabama, Missouri, and New York, reflecting the cosmopolitan nature of New Orleans jazz.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Orange Kellin - Veteran New Orleans jazz clarinetist who played with the band and provided stylistic guidance during their early club performances. (Live performances and club gigs) [2011–2013]
Key Collaborators
- John Dixon - Co-founder, banjoist, and band organizer; central to the band's development and sound. (All Shotgun Jazz Band albums and performances) [2011–present]
- Ben Polcer - Pianist featured on early recordings and live performances. (Algiers Strut album) [2011–2013]
- James Evans - Clarinet and saxophone player from Wales, regular band member. (Live performances, multiple albums) [2013–present]
- Tyler Thomson - Bassist from Toronto, regular band member. (Live performances, multiple albums) [2013–present]
- Charlie Halloran - Trombonist from St. Louis, regular band member. (Live performances, multiple albums) [2013–present]
- Justin Peake - Drummer from Alabama, regular band member. (Live performances, multiple albums) [2013–present]
Artists Influenced
- Shake 'Em Up Jazz Band - Inspired by Marla Dixon’s leadership and musicianship, several members of Shotgun Jazz Band joined or collaborated with this all-female ensemble. (Festival performances, collaborative projects) [2016–present]
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Don't Give Up the Ship | 2013-06-14 | Album |
| Yearning | 2014-10-01 | Album |
| Steppin' on the Gas | 2017-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Creole Song (C'est L'autre Cancan) (Don't Give Up the Ship)
- All the Whores (Don't Give Up the Ship)
- I Believe I Can Make It By Myself (Yearning)
- Old Man Mose (Don't Give Up the Ship)
- Weed Smoker's Dream (Don't Give Up the Ship)
- Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out (Don't Give Up the Ship)
- White Ghost Shivers (Steppin' on the Gas)
- Down by the Riverside (Steppin' on the Gas)
- You Always Hurt the One You Love (Yearning)
- Over in the Glory Land (Yearning)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Shotgun Jazz Band has been played 11 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.