Month: June 2019

Our story began in 1987, with a dream of keeping big band jazz music alive, and even though many of the faces have changed, the essence of the band remains the same.
Most Monday nights we can be found rehearsing, but sometimes you can catch us out and about on the town. We often have the pleasure of playing at Cascone’s Italian Restaurant. We also love playing for special events, such as company parties, birthday parties, weddings, and anniversary’s.
Experience the timeless American tradition of big band music from the 1930’s, 1940’s, and 1950’s. These songs mean different things to many people. For some it may have been the song that was playing when their sweetheart came home from the war, for others it may be a song their Mom and Dad would dance to in the kitchen. For the younger crowd, perhaps they have just been introduced to big band jazz. Whatever these songs mean to you, keep the music and the memories alive with The Kicks Band.
Our diverse musical catalog features arrangements of tunes that trace their roots back to the very beginnings of big band jazz. We also feature more modern arrangements by current artists such as Michael Buble and The Flying Nutrinos, as well as stylized arrangements of big band chart toppers, including Harry James, Glen Miller, Count Basie, Artie Shaw, Gene Krupa, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole the list of musical greats goes on and on. Big band swing jazz that is guaranteed to make you want to dance, sing along – and most of all, smile. Music is emotion; our goal is for you to leave our show hoarse from singing along to your favorite tunes, and completely exhausted from dancing…even if it’s just in your chair.
Preserving the tradition of America’s indigenous music… Jazz – Kansas City style.

The Kicks Band is saddened to learn of the passing of our former saxophonist Utah Watkins.  Utah held down the baritone sax chair for a few years and also occasionally filled in on tenor.  He also was a regular in the KC Metro Big Band and the Friday Morning Band.  The Kansas City band community will miss him, both musically and personally.

UPDATE:  Our June 17th show at Johnny Cascone’s is filling up fast.  If you haven’t made reservations, call the restaurant now to verify what tables might be available.  Call TODAY.  913-381-6837.  Johnny Cascone’s is located one block east of Metcalf on 91st Street.