The best of: performances at Gilly's Jazz

Many of us can't begin to wrap our minds around the shocking robbery and attack at Gilly's Jazz, reported in Dayton Wednesday, March 16.

News that the extremely well-respected owner of the venue Gerald L. Gillotti was attacked hits many Daytonians right in heart.

It is difficult to live in Dayton without attending at least one show at the longtime Dayton staple, and Gillotti, 79, has been such a positive influence on the careers of Dayton musicians young and old.

Here, we take a look at the music highlights of Gilly's Jazz through the years to honor Gillotti and all the good his work has brought the city of Dayton.

Explore2013: THE SECOND COMING OF ZIGGY STARDUST

Todd the Fox and Shelly Hulce perform in the Nov. 23 2013 "The Second Coming of Ziggy Stardust" show. JENNIFER TAYLOR / CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Dayton's no stranger to David Bowie. Dayton musicians and music lovers came together and threw two epic, flamboyant, and fantastic nights of David Bowie at Gilly's Jazz Club in 2011 and 2013. The show was organized by Shelly Hulce, with JJ Parkey performing as Ziggy Stardust. Other Dayton musicians including Todd the Fox, Tyler Trent and Tod Weidner, among many more.

Did you also know that these artists performed at Gilly’s?

2016: MARLON MEADOWS

Contemporary jazz saxophonist Marion Meadows brought his new group, the Black Pearl Band, to Gilly’s in Dayton on Saturday, Feb. 20. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

2013: KEVIN TONEY

Kevin Toney, a former member of legendary jazz group The Blackbyrds, brought his trio to Gilly’s on Saturday, Aug. 31.

2012: JOE “KING” OLIVER

New Orleans horn legends Joe “King” Oliver (standing, center) and Louis Armstrong (kneeling) were celebrated at a Cityfolk jazz concert in 2012 at Gilly’s.

2011: ALEX BUGNON