the semple 1920s speakeasy jazz experience

inspired by the golden age of the 1920s.

oleta semple brings a stripped-back speakeasy feel to modern spaces, blending classic jazz standards with blues, storytelling, and subtle contemporary touches. the performance is designed to feel like you’ve stepped into another time — warm lighting, rich instrumentation, and a voice that carries both elegance and grit.

the details

  • ✓ 2 x 45-minute live sets

    ✓ authentic 1920s–1930s jazz & blues repertoire

    ✓ live band (vocals, piano, saxophone, double bass, drums)

    ✓ optional stripped-back trio/quartet version depending on venue

    ✓ perfect for: cocktail bars, private members clubs, hotels, and curated events

    the show balances playful swing, deep blues, and romantic ballads, keeping the room engaged without overpowering the space.

    your previous setup already proves this works in a real venue context, including two full sets and a tight band arrangement

  • the set moves through energy, intimacy, and nostalgia:

    /// upbeat / swing ///

    ain’t misbehavin’

    ‘tain’t what you do

    blue skies

    charleston (instrumental moment)

    /// blues / storytelling ///

    st. louis blues

    nobody knows you when you’re down and out

    wild women don’t have the blues

    handy man ain’t handy no more

    /// romantic / intimate ///

    someone to watch over me

    the very thought of you

    all of me

    in a sentimental mood (encore)

    /// original material (optional) ///

    who is dawn?

    high value man

  • it’s…

    ✓ a speakeasy atmosphere

    ✓ background music that people actually lean into

    ✓ a date night / conversation enhancer

    ✓ a classy but unpretentious energy

    perfect for venues that want:

    ✓ longer dwell time

    ✓ elevated ambience

    ✓ a distinct identity night (e.g. “jazz thursdays”)

  • /// option 1 — one-off event ///

    ✓ private events, christmas parties, curated nights

    ✓ tailored setlist + band size

    /// option 2] — monthly residency (ideal) ///

    ✓ same night each month (e.g. first thursday)

    ✓ builds a returning audience

    ✓ can evolve into a signature night for the venue

  • we keep pricing simple and workable, especially right now. you can choose what feels right for your venue:

    /// fixed fee ///
    a set price for the night, agreed upfront

    /// lower fee + shared upside ///
    a smaller starting fee, with the rest linked to how the night performs

    /// hosted jazz night ///
    we build a full night together, with ticketing or set menus, and share the revenue

    we’ll talk it through and land on something that makes sense for both of us.

availability is limited. enquiries are reviewed weekly.

request avaliabilty

intimate, soulful, and effortlessly nostalgic.