Scott Simon Gertner

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. A funeral service will take place on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 2:00 pm in the Sophia and Jack Bender Memorial Chapel at Beth Yeshurun Post Oak Cemetery, 7445 Awty School Lane, Houston, Texas 77055. The service will also be livestreamed at the following link: https://venue.streamspot.com/f8d04b5b.

Scott Simon Gertner

August 11, 1958 - May 1, 2025