Sue Palmer is one of San Diego's most beloved musical treasures — a powerhouse pianist and bandleader whose infectious energy and deep reverence for classic American swing have earned her a devoted following across Southern California and beyond. At the helm of Her Motel Swing Orchestra, she leads a dynamic ensemble that breathes vibrant life into the golden age of jazz and swing, blending authentic vintage sounds with a charisma that feels entirely her own.
With roots firmly planted in boogie-woogie, blues, and big band tradition, Sue Palmer has spent decades honing a style that is at once nostalgic and refreshingly alive. Her performances are celebrated for their high-energy delivery, tight musicianship, and the irresistible urge they inspire in audiences to get up and dance. Whether performing intimate club sets or commanding large festival stages, Sue and her orchestra create an atmosphere of pure joy and musical sophistication.
A true ambassador of American roots music, Sue Palmer continues to champion the art of live swing with passion, humor, and undeniable talent — keeping the spirit of the great bandleaders alive for new generations of fans.
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