By Ron Wynn
NASHVILLE, TN — One of Nashville’s, indeed the entire state’s, greatest homegrown jazz musicians was John Lucius Green Sr. A Tennessee State University graduate and also member of the original Aristocrat of Bands, Green made history on two fronts. As an artist, he performed with a number of legendary acts as a founding member of the New Imperials, among them the great Sam Cooke. As an educator he was a band director for over three decades, teaching at the elementary, middle and high school levels while also operating summer camps for underprivileged youth. His daughter, Dr. Jewell Winn, now co-owner of Lighthouse on the Lake in Hendersonville, began a jazz series there in the spring of 2021 to honor his memory.
“My father was a legendary Nashville jazz musician,” Winn said during a recent online interview with the Tribune. “He played with numerous national acts. I wanted to honor him by naming the downstairs area the Jazz Lounge. We have a Tuesday night Jazz Jam the first Tuesday of each month from April through September,” she continued. “It is free and open to the public. We also work with promoters to bring Jazz and R&B to the venue periodically. We also launched a Summer Jazz Series in 2022.”
Winn adds that the focus of the series isn’t restricted. “We host local, regional, and national acts,” she continued. “If you love music, can play or sing, you are welcome to the Jazz Lounge at Lighthouse on the Lake.” Winn also said that in addition to the jazz events, the Lighthouse has and will continue to present spoken word performers and comedians, as well as art exhibits and book signings. While to date the jazz series isn’t all year, Dr. Winn adds it’s possible that might change. “We would love to make this (the jazz series) year round,” she said. “But we need artists and we need customers who want to support the artists. The ambience is amazing, the food is great, and of course the drinks are how you like them.”
When asked about the most memorable performers who’ve appeared there since the series began, Winn cites a select number. “Jazz saxophonist Paula Anderson, Biz and Everyday People, Kevin Whalum, The Richard Griffin Band and Rod McGaha immediately come to mind,” she said.
Lighthouse on the Lake is located at 133 Sanders Ferry Road in Hendersonville.
For more information on the jazz series or other events occurring there, visit the website lighthouseonthelake.com or call 615-590-7068.
