A Musical Journey Through One of New York’s Most Storied Rooms on the Buzz Knight music history podcast Takin A Walk.

Step into the timeless elegance of Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle Hotel, where jazz, cabaret, and American music history come alive beneath the iconic Ludwig Bemelmans murals. In this episode of Takin’ a Walk, host Buzz Knight explores the rich legacy of this legendary Upper East Side destination—a room that has welcomed everyone from presidents to pop stars since 1947.

Featuring intimate inside jazz music stories with Rita Wilson, the acclaimed actress, singer, and songwriter and wife of actor Tom Hanks, Hamilton Leithauser, the celebrated vocalist known for his work with The Walkmen and his acclaimed solo career; and the masterful Earl Rose, whose piano artistry has defined the Bemelmans  jazz music sound for years.   Earl discusses one of his favorite experiences at Bemelmans with the great musician Jon Batiste.

Bemelmans Bar has been graced over the years by jazz music performances from everyone from the one and only classic musician Bobby Short, to Miley Cyrus. Even the legendary actor/comedian Bill Murray stopped by for an impromptu performance.

Dimitrios Michalopoulos, General Manager of The Carlyle (a Rosewood Hotel), offers a behind-the-scenes look at preserving this cultural landmark while keeping its musical tradition vibrant and relevant.

Discover the inside music stories behind the whimsical Madeline-inspired murals at Bemelman's Bar, learn why this intimate cabaret room remains a crown jewel of New York nightlife and in music history, and hear how these artists connect with audiences in one of Manhattan’s most magical settings. This episode is truly a celebration of The Great American Songbook.

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