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BORN
1958
DIED
2025
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Scott Gertner Obituary
08/11/1958 - 05/01/2025
Scott Simon Gertner, a celebrated Houston musician, entrepreneur, and vibrant pillar of the city's nightlife scene, passed away unexpectedly on May 1, 2025. Born on August 11, 1958, Scott grew up in Houston and graduated from the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (HSPVA), where his love for music flourished.
A three-time Grammy Award nominee, Scott was renowned for his smooth, soulful voice and commanding stage presence. Inspired by his mother, Jean Gertner, a professional singer in New York's Catskills, Scott's musical journey began at the age of four. He taught himself piano by mimicking his sister's lessons, picked up the guitar at six, and later formed his own band-setting the stage for a lifetime of musical excellence.
A witty loving person, Scott was dedicated to his family and his music. He mentored musicians to reach higher heights in the music industry and was a great inspiration to everyone he met.
Scott's talents took him across the nation, opening for music legends such as Luther Vandross, Elton John, Brian McKnight, Erykah Badu, Harry Connick Jr., and The Neville Brothers. His performances blended genres with grace and authenticity, captivating audiences and building a loyal fanbase that knew him simply as "Scotty G."
Scott was the face and visionary behind several of Houston's most iconic live music venues, first performing at Birdwatchers, Cody's, and The Roof at Houston Oaks, and then opening his own ventures including Scott Gertner's Remington's, Scott Gertner's Skybar, Scott Gertner's Sports Bar Live, Scott Gertner's at Houston Pavilions, and most recently, Scott Gertner's Rhythm Room, which continues to serve the Houston community and has become a mainstay for live music. These establishments weren't just clubs-they were vibrant community hubs that celebrated music, culture, and connection. Skybar, in particular, became a staple of the city's nightlife and a launchpad for emerging talent, with patrons fondly proclaiming the epithet, "party over here" to the venue for years to come.
Scott Gertner was a class act-a self-made man, gifted artist, generous soul, beloved son, and "the best brother in the world!". His legacy lives on through the music he shared, the venues he created, and the lives he uplifted.
He is survived by his sister, Cindy Robin Gertner, his son, Aaron Chambers-Gertner, and many cousins and friends. Scott was preceded in death by his parents, David and Jean Gertner, and uncle, Gil Gertner.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Scott Gertner
Sponsored by Houston Jewish Funerals.
RedSnapper
August 6, 2025
Rest in Peace Mr. Scott Gertner.
I have been vibing The Skybar back in the 90's when I FIRST moved to Houston. My sister and I LOVED The Skybar! That was our "stomping ground" when she came to visit; our place to enjoy the music and food..... Rest well Sir! :-(
Mike and Dawn "Van-lang"
July 16, 2025
What a great talent and special friend! He was so kind and such an inspiration to the music scene in Houston!!! God Bless his family and know how much he was loved!!
Billie Hill
June 21, 2025
Thank you Scott Gertner. Enjoyed your music so much at the Cody's club in Montrose back in the day.
Erika Ford
May 26, 2025
Rest in peace, Scott!
Martha D
May 14, 2025
I first heard of Mr.Gertner in early 2000, at an event downtown. Amazing! So me and friends found his place on or near Montrose. A few years ago i visited an event at Mr. Gertner place off Memorial Dr., it was Fantastic! I send my heartfelt condolences to the family.
Dianne Smith
May 11, 2025
Scott will be remembered by the live entertainment he brought to the clubs. He never made a difference in people. His name will always have a lasting effect on people of all ethnicities. Rest in peace Scott.
Tom Miltenberger
May 11, 2025
On 88.7 FM KUHF, I would hear Scott Gertner´s name mentioned hundreds of times that he was playing at Cody´s or another jazz club in town. He definitely left his mark in the Houston area and nationwide with his contributions to jazz music, which is a very difficult field to make a living in any time period.
Ron Latta Jr
May 10, 2025
Such great memories of Scott at Cody's, the roof and cooters. I always took my dates to see him.
GJBoze
May 9, 2025
A golden voice has been silenced. Remembering the great entertainment by this guy at Cody's and The Roof.
Dean housos
May 9, 2025
My man Scott I was a big fan of yours I first met you at cooter's when you were playing up there also saw you at the roof and then in 1995 you were playing in Las Vegas that was the last time I saw you I will miss you forever God bless you and your family and your sister and your kids you will be missed
Glenda Jeffery
May 8, 2025
Cindy please take comfort in knowing the best parts of Scott will always live inside of you. His love will always surround you like a shield.
Adreena Ely
May 8, 2025
Hello Cindy! I was so sad to hear about the passing of your brother Scott.
I don't know if you'll remember me but I'm the daughter of George Sharp, who was is a partner to your Uncle Gil Gertner.
I also loved your Dad and was privileged to know him and even to work with him for many years.
The times I had opportunity to visit with you and Scott we're also precious.
May God bless you, keep you, comfort you and grant you his peace during this time of your sadness and grief.
Tisha Ray
May 7, 2025
I feel like I knew you my WHOLE life. Thank you for all the laughs and good times. You will always be remembered as a good man. RIP...
Jasper Willis
May 7, 2025
My condolences to your family. May you find peace and comfort from our Heavenly Father
John G Hightower
May 7, 2025
Houston has lost an "iconic entertainer" . Thank you Scott Gertner for all the great years !
Judy Dillard
May 6, 2025
Thanks for making everyone feel like family Scott... you will be missed!!!
I´m just one of your many fans
Sharon Barnes
May 6, 2025
SCOTT, You were always so kind and generous with your soulful God-given talent that was a blessing to the masses! You have left an amazing legacy, now live your promised eternal life! Thank You!!! Gertner Family, Be Blessed
Denise Rosenblatt Laws
May 6, 2025
Was introduced to Scotty when I was 14 from our guitar friend Everett Moran. Then I attended HSPVA with Scott. He of course was an amazing musician but better than that a friend. We would talk from time to time, whereas I moved away from Houston. He was always such a gentleman RIP my sweet friend. Sending big hugs to Cindy & Aaron You will live forever in our hearts
Willie Walker
May 6, 2025
Met in '89' & a staple in the 90's. Enjoyed the company & experiences as well worked the scenes.
Teear Lang
May 6, 2025
Rest in sweet peace Scott you were a Houston Legend for premier-classy entertainment, you were always a very kind presence, greeting your guest with a warm welcoming smile every encounter. You will be sorely missed!
Amy Lauro
May 6, 2025
I met you a few times at the Skybar- you were a wonderful singer, performer and helped so many fellow musicians. Thank you Scott !! You will be missed by all of us.
Reba Tillman-Huff
May 5, 2025
When we lose someone so special in our hearts, that person becomes a beautiful memory in all of our lives. My heartfelt condolences to the Gertner family. Scott is no longer with us in the body, but he lives forevermore in our hearts. May God's unchanging hands be with you all during this difficult time of bereavement.
Carolyn Jackson
May 5, 2025
My deepest condolences he was such a kind man.
Henry Baerga
May 5, 2025
My man, Scott! We met at the Roof, when you were performing! I followed you everywhere, Cody's, the Roof, Skybar, and you were always cool. With me and everybody!
Thanks Scott! Love you, Bro!
RIP, my man ...til we meet again on The Dance Floor in Heaven.... : ) Stay Cool!
Touy Prater
May 5, 2025
A Houston Legend had left the building. You are going to be truly Man. Sending my condolences to the Gertner family
Edwina Broussard
May 5, 2025
I am deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Scott. He never met a stranger - always making you feel like the most important person in the room. I was truly blessed to share over 35 years of friendship with him. From Midtown Live, the Roof, Nassau Bay Hilton, the Rhythm Room and so many others, to those unexpected encounters when he wasn't performing - every moment was filled with joy, laughter, music, and dancing. So many of my birthdays were spent dancing where ever Scott was performing. It was never just a show - it was an experience, a celebration of life, and the magic he brought to every room. The friendships that bloomed around his music remain treasured to this day. Scott, I love you and will continue to pray for all those who love you and are grieving now. May they find comfort in the love and kindness you gave so freely. You will be missed beyond words. Rest well my friend.
Amana Turner
May 5, 2025
My condolences to family and friends. Scott was a true legend in Houston and surrounding areas. Met Scott back in the days while going to the Sky Bar. Rest in loving peace
Bea Barrera
May 5, 2025
My condolences to all the family. Scott was a great singer and person He will be truly missed.
Lisa F Barbernell-Pliner
May 4, 2025
Scott your voice filled a room of smiles and laughter. There were so many Memories and great times spent with you. RIP you will be missed
CBG
May 4, 2025
I am so sad & sorry to see that Scott Gertner has passed away.
I loved to go to Cody's & later Scott's Skybar in the Seventies & early Eighties. Scott was an icon even back then. My sincerest condolences to his family. RIP.
Jerri
May 4, 2025
I am so very sorry about Scott's passing. Jerri Ervin
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