Chicago has long been a heartbeat of jazz history. The Great Migration brought legendary musicians from New Orleans in the likes of Louis Armstrong that started to perform in the city’s vibrant clubs, developing a faster sound known as ‘Chicago style’. That legacy continues today, as The Jazz Room Chicago honors the classics with a fresh new twist, bringing timeless classics into the present.
What is The Jazz Room?
At The Jazz Room, professional musicians transform intimate venues into 1920s-style speakeasies to celebrate three musical genres that shaped American culture: jazz, soul, and blues. Each show features curated setlists balanced with spontaneous improvisation that really defines these genres. During jazz nights, you might hear Louis Armstrong’s “When The Saints Go Marching In”, while soul evenings could feature Luther Vandross’s smooth “Never Too Much” creating an atmosphere of pure emotion.
What’s on at The Jazz Room in Chicago?
The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans
New Orleans gave birth to jazz as a symbol of necessary liberation and expression, emerging from the African-American communities of America’s most musical city. But Chicago played a pivotal role during the Great Migration. This tribute showcases the genre’s evolution from its blues and ragtime predecessors and beyond, through live performances of Louis Armstrong’s “Hello Dolly”, Fats Waller’s “Ain’t Misbehavin'”, and more classics, delivered with masterful improvisation. The show honors a revolutionary art form that became the soundtrack of freedom and artistic innovation for generations.
The Jazz Room: Tribute to Soul
From the late ’50s emergence of music influenced by gospel and R&B to Soul Train, Chicago knows a thing or two about soul music. More than a style, soul has always been a movement, fueled by powerful voices and driven by a call for unity and freedom. This tribute highlights its most unforgettable moments, weaving together stirring classics like “Let’s Stay Together” and “Let’s Get It On”, and hidden treasures alike. The result is an experience that honors how soul continues to speak across generations, connecting listeners to both struggles and triumphs.
The Jazz Room: Tribute to The Blues
The blues tells stories that transcend time and circumstance, born from African American communities who created beauty from adversity through music that spoke what words alone could not express. This tribute showcases the genre’s evolution from its humble origins to its status as the foundation of jazz, featuring classics performed with the spontaneous spirit that defines authentic blues. Each performance honors the musical pioneers who established blues as America’s most influential contribution to world music.
The Jazz Room Reviews in Chicago
Ever since it premiered in Chicago, The Jazz Room has received countless five-star reviews with audience members praising the musicians and the atmosphere.
“Fantastic!!!!! Love it, one of the best shows I have seen. Venue, artists, Amazing” – September 20
“A very fun and enjoyable jazz performance. The musicians and singer were top notch!” – September 20
“Wonderful show in a great venue” – August 29
The Jazz Room delivers an authentic musical experience at The Den Theatre, where professional artists honor America’s greatest musical traditions. With shows lasting one hour and doors opening 30 minutes early, tickets are arranged by tier with first-come, first-served seating within each section.