The Band- Red Hots

Rob Whitlock, Keyboards

After decades as a premier "musician’s musician" for icons such as Jaco Pastorius and the Jazz Crusaders, Rob Whitlock has established himself as a formidable bandleader and composer. A master of the Hammond B3 organ and piano, Whitlock’s acclaimed album series, Sketchin’, showcases a "retro jazz" sound that blends traditional jazz, blues, and fusion. His work features collaborations with titans like Michael Brecker and Scott Henderson, marking his transition from a world-class utility player to a sophisticated artist with a unique, organic voice.

Vince Cooper, Guitar

Vince Cooper is a distinguished musician and a fixture in the Southern California theater and concert scenes. He frequently performs in the orchestra pits of the Old Globe Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, and San Diego Civic Theatre for major productions including The Outsiders, Almost Famous, and MJ The Musical. On the concert stage, he has supported stars like Jennifer Hudson and Michael Feinstein with the San Diego Symphony at the Rady Shell. A former touring member of Ruby and the Red Hots, Cooper is celebrated for his high-level versatility across multiple genres.

Cecil McBee Jr., Bass

Beginning his musical journey in the vibrant jazz scene of New York City, Cecil McBee Jr. has spent years as a sought-after electric bassist in Southern California. The son of jazz legend Cecil McBee Sr., Cecil has built a prolific career performing with icons such as Hubert Laws, Ike Turner, Patrice Rushen, and John Scofield. For over 25 years, he has lent his deep groove to Ruby and the Red Hots while remaining a cornerstone of professional musical acts throughout San Diego County.

Rodney Jones, Drums

Known as "Hot Rod," Rodney Jones has been behind the drums since the age of five. His musical foundation is rooted in gospel music from his upbringing in the church, a soulful background that informs his powerhouse performances in blues, pop, and R&B. Rodney’s passion and expertise have taken him on tours across the United States and Japan, bringing a distinctively spirited and professional energy to every ensemble he joins.

April West, Trombone

A mainstay of the San Diego music scene since 1980, April West is a versatile trombonist specializing in vintage jazz, salsa, blues, and classical performance. She is a longtime member of Sue Palmer’s multi-award-winning bands and a founding member of the Euphoria Brass Band, both of which have earned numerous San Diego Music Awards. Her extensive recording and performance credits include collaborations with legends like Jack Costanzo, The Bi-national Mambo Orchestra, Bobby Caldwell, and her longtime musical partner, Etoile ‘Ruby’ Presnell, with whom she has performed since 1986.

Les Jennings, Tenor Saxophone

After early training in piano and violin, Les Jennings discovered the tenor saxophone at age nine and found his lifelong calling. Drawing inspiration from giants like John Coltrane and Michael Brecker, Les studied jazz at San Diego State University before embarking on a 40-year career. He has performed extensively abroad and remains a top-tier talent in San Diego’s jazz, rock, and blues scenes, most notably through his work with Soul Persuaders and Ruby and the Red Hots.

Paul Seaforth, Trumpet

Paul Seaforth’s storied career has taken him from Carnegie Hall to Moscow’s Tchaikovsky Hall, with performances spanning Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Central America. He has shared the stage with jazz luminaries like Dizzy Gillespie and Bill Watrous and has released two solo albums, When Did You Leave Heaven? and Something Real. Holding a Master of Fine Arts in Classical Trumpet Performance, Paul has taught at several California colleges and currently resides in Vista with his wife, Linda, and their menagerie of pets.