Jon Cleary

Though originally from Kent, England, Jon Cleary's name is synonymous with the storied New Orleans piano tradition. After leading his own band in the U.K. he relocated to NOLA. A regular at the legendary Maple Leaf Bar's piano during off-hours, he was drafted to play a set that James Booker hadn't shown up for. His performance earned him a steady gig with Walter Wolfman Washington. His reputation spread quickly due in large part to fiery solo shows. As a session player Cleary has also worked with rock, blues, and R&B artists including Bonnie Raitt, D'Angelo, Taj Mahal, and Eric Clapton. Whether playing solo or with his group, the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Cleary is a must-see concert stages, and his recordings have been widely celebrated.