Though we love to claim him, he is a well-known singer-songwriter, multi instrumentalist and performer who often plays outside of Wichita’s local scenes. But, when he is performing here, make a point to catch his feel-good, masterfully soulful and awe-inspiring performances.

Rudy Love Jr. has continued his grandfather’s and father’s legacy of deep understanding, talent and passion for music. Most of Love’s family members have created a solid impact on Wichita’s music scene — an impact that has carried some of them to great recognition. For example, Rudy Love Sr. who, over his long career, has written songs for Little Richard and Ray Charles.

“My father and my grandfather were both amazing singers,” said Rudy Love Jr. “I have a very big family, and most of them are musical. It’s been important to me to find my own voice, but continuing my family’s legacy has always been the reason that I do what I do. I’ve learned everything from watching them. I first started doing music and playing keys in my family band, Rudy Love & the Love Family.”

Throughout Love’s career, he has shared the stage with many notable artists. Besides playing with his family, career highlights have included opening for Snoop Dogg, Kansas, Teddy Swims, and singing with Aloe Blacc.

Currently Love contributes his talent and music to his label and team, Midtopia, a dedicated space for artists and music professionals to gather and create. A place for live sessions, artist interviews and video concert series, it’s an initiative of M.E.A.D.O.W., a 501(c)(4) organization. However, Love’s numerous collaborations and his three bands express his versatility: Various genres of soul, funk and R&B with Rudy Love & the Encore and The Love Family seem to be the core of his style. He also plays in his electronic jam band, 2 ŁØT. 

2 ŁØT is an electronic, soul, funk, jazz, and rock fusion band. Music aside, they are a group that “focuses on social change such as overcoming addiction, and helping kids overcome barriers,” according to their website.

Love stays dedicated to his craft. He’s found his unique voice through his family’s musical history, but more so his persistence, his natural talent, various collaborations and projects. But mostly his own life is relatable, and his music conveys that. His performances embody freedom, skill and infectious feel good vibes. A true musician who’s lived music, he is a highly respected national artist.

“I love the music scene in Wichita. I love the people who are willing to sacrifice so much in the pursuit of being different and disrupting the status quo,” Love says. “I feel like Wichita is a beautiful, well-kept secret that will someday be the source of books, movies and documentaries because of all of the talent that comes out of our little dot on the map!”