The Baked Potato
The Baked Potato is a local Jazz club here in Los Angeles. It does not look like much from the outside (or the inside, for that matter), but it is home to some of the greatest in talents in jazz and in music period. Regular performers include Jimmy Haslip and Russell Ferrante of the Yellowjackets, Katisse Buckingham (he was the guy playing Jazz flute during Will Ferrill’s scene in “Anchorman”), Michael Landau, Marvin “Smitty” Smith from the Tonight show, and numerous local acts that are truly phenominal.
This is a truly great cultural icon for Jazz in Los Angeles. There are other jazz clubs that get bigger names (like Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood), but it is not as intimate as the Baked Potato. Performers shed of all inhibitions and really have a good time. This shows through in the music they play. When performers are having a good time, the music is a lot better. They have had “entertainment nightly” since it opened in the 60s.
If you do not like Jazz, you probably do not care about this hidden treasure. If you don’t like jazz, what is your problem? You will not find a more talented musician than a Jazz musician. You will not find a more dedicated musician than a Jazz musician. If they were not dedicated, they would do rock or pop and make a lot more money. They choose to make less and make music for people who will appreciate a lot more. If you are loolking for something to do in Los Angeles, you can never go wrong with The Baked Potato.
Todd
