It’s no secret that Philly is a musical city, with contributions to genres such as soul and hip-hop. But jazz is a genre with a long history in Philly, with greats such as Billie Holiday, Grover Washington Jr., and John Coltrane having connections to the city.
Although some Philadelphia’s jazz venues including The Downbeat and Music City are long gone, several venues today are keeping the local jazz scene alive.
Since April is National Jazz Month, here are some places around the city to listen to live jazz performances.
Chris’ Jazz Cafe | 1421 Sansom St.
Operating since 1989, Chris’ Jazz Cafe is the longest running jazz club in the city, with performances five nights a week. If you can’t make a show in person, the venue livestreams. The cafe also supports up-and-coming artists honing their craft by providing recording services.
SOUTH | 600 N. Broad St.
The owners of SOUTH Restaurant and Jazz Club are no strangers to Philadelphia’s music scene. Brothers Robert and Ben Bynum Jr.’s father, Benjamin Bynum Sr., founded the Cadillac Club on Broad Street and Erie Avenue, which saw artists such as Aretha Franklin, Billy Paul, and George Benson come through the doors. Continuing his and North Philly’s jazz legacy, the brothers founded SOUTH blocks from where they were raised. Music lovers can see a live show in its 75-seat venue while enjoying a meal of Southern-style favorites like gumbo and creole jambalaya.
Solar Myth | 1131 S. Broad St.
Having taken over Boot & Saddle, Solar Myth entered Philly’s music ecosystem with avant-garde jazz and experimental music. Swing by the dimly lit venue and enjoy fresh musical stylings while sipping on some coffee or wine. If you’re looking to add new sounds to your collection, you can also purchase records from its store.
Time | 1315 Sansom St.
Are you a fan of whiskey? Time is a whiskey bar and tap room that offers New American cuisine and live jazz. Open every day of the week, attendees always have a chance to catch a show in its intimate space (with some room to dance upstairs).
Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts | 736 S. Broad St.
The Clef Club was founded in 1966 by the Musicians’ Protective Union Local 274. The club was a reprieve for jazz musicians and enjoyers alike, giving African American performers support and representation at a time of segregation. Growing from just a social club, the organization's construction of a performing arts facility later became the first institution specifically built for jazz in the United States. The organization thrives to this day with live performances and youth programming.
Every April, Philadelphia celebrates National Jazz Month with a plethora of programming across the city, from live performances to educational sessions in local schools. The month-long event is a great way to honor Philadelphia’s contributions to jazz and discover artists past and present.
