Butter and the Genre is a jazz band that blends the best of timeless influences with a fresh, inviting sound. Led by Gregory "Butter" Haubrich, the group is known for their seamless instrumental harmonies and the soulful voice of Calliope Staudt, creating music that captivates everyone from seasoned jazz lovers to those new to the genre. With their debut album, Music Is Life, on the horizon, the band is ready to share their vibrant sound with audiences far and wide.

 

Formed in December 2023, the band came together through a mix of talent from the University of Central Oklahoma’s jazz scene and Oklahoma City's 51st Street Speakeasy. Calliope’s stunning performance of “Bye Bye Blackbird” at a jazz jam sealed her place in the group, where her voice seamlessly blends with horns and rhythm section, becoming a defining element of the band's sound.

 

Drawing inspiration from jazz icons like Miles Davis and Ella Fitzgerald, alongside modern grooves from Earth, Wind & Fire, Butter and the Genre brings an energy that’s lively, danceable, and impossible to ignore. Their mission is simple: create a fun, accessible musical experience that resonates with all listeners, no matter their background.

What truly sets this band apart is their dynamic teamwork. "We’re more than just good players—everyone in the band sings, which adds a whole new layer to our sound," says Butter. With performances at well-known venues like Vast, 51st Street Speakeasy, and the Nigh Center for the Performing Arts, Butter and the Genre is already making waves. Their upcoming album, Music Is Life, engineered by Chris McKinley, captures the energy and emotion of their live performances, bringing their sound to life in a whole new way.

 

The band’s dedication extends beyond the stage. Committed to giving back, they regularly perform at nursing homes and care centers, sharing their love for music with people of all ages. And they’re not stopping there. Butter and the Genre has big plans, including expanding their music into films, TV, and advertising. As Butter himself puts it, "We’re never static. Every time you hear us, there’s something new."

 

More than just a band, Butter and the Genre is a collective of musicians who believe in the power of music to connect, uplift, and inspire. Whether they’re playing an intimate gig or lighting up a festival stage, they bring a joyful, soulful energy that stays with you long after the last note fades. With Music Is Life nearing completion and exciting plans on the horizon, Butter and the Genre is set to leave a lasting mark on the jazz world—and beyond.