Fifteen Years of Thursday Night Jazz
The Willcox’s tradition of Thursday Night Jazz began, as most great things do, with a conversation. Talented musician and vocalist Scott Ferguson was at The Willcox Restaurant one night in October 2009 when he told owners Geoff and Shannon Ellis, “You know, what this place could use is some jazz!”
From there, it all unfolded smoothly with the world premier of 4 Cats in the Doghouse the Thursday before Christmas. Scott, who plays the saxophone, trumpet, and guitar, served as the lead singer, joined by David Brown on piano, Bud Pabst on the drums, and David Culp on the bass. This first Thursday Night Jazz wowed the crowd, kickstarting a beloved tradition everyone in Aiken is welcome to enjoy!
With only rare exceptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, 4 Cats in the Doghouse has played for diners every single Thursday night over the last fifteen years—ever since Geoff and Shannon have owned The Willcox. An indelible part of the hotel’s history, 4 Cats in the Doghouse has gone through its own chapters over the years. For a time, they played without drums, before returning with a bang once The Restaurant reopened after the pandemic.
Numerous local musicians have played in 4 Cats in the Doghouse since this founding group, substituting for traveling members and joining the group for longer stays. Today, Scott and David Brown are joined by bassist George Sykes and drummer Edwin Hamilton.
As we mark fifteen years of Thursday Night Jazz, we invite everyone to come by The Restaurant from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday evenings and celebrate great music and local musicians with us at The Willcox!
Throughout the month of December, 4 Cats in the Doghouse brings a holiday charm to their setlist, playing festive songs alongside their signature set favorites. And on special occasions like The Willcox’s annual New Year’s Eve party, the group plays on other nights of the week.
