The Jazz Lover’s Guide to Memphis
Yes, Memphis sings the blues and seriously rocks out, but there's a jazzier side to Bluff City for purists and novices alike. Check out these spots to experience Memphis jazz of all kinds.
When you think of Memphis, your mind likely jumps to the city’s deep-rooted connection to the blues and rock ‘n’ roll. But Memphis has been a quiet but steady player in the jazz world for decades. Bluff City’s musical soul has always had a side of smooth brass, scat singing, and syncopated beats. Whether you’re sipping a brunch cocktail to a live jazz trio or immersed in a full-band theater show, the Memphis jazz scene has something for all jazz appetites.
MEMPHIS ARTS & REGULAR JAZZ
Crosstown Concourse
Neighborhood: Crosstown
More info: crosstownarts.org
Crosstown Concourse is a former Sears warehouse converted into a vertical village of eateries, live music rooms, and more. The Green Room at Crosstown Arts hosts intimate jazz events, from classic to contemporary, making it an excellent option for serious jazz seekers. Their “Modern Masters Jazz Series” regularly brings some of the biggest names in contemporary jazz to Memphis. Check out the calendar here.
Jazz in the Box at Germantown Performing Arts Center
Neighborhood: Germantown
More info: gpacweb.com
Many locals say the hottest little jazz club in Memphis is GPAC’s Jazz in the Box! The shows don’t happen all the time, but when they do, expect to get up close and personal with up-and-coming and well-established jazz artists. With convivial cabaret seating and drinks for purchase, this is the perfect weekend date night or friends’ night out.
Memphis Jazz Workshop
Neighborhood: All over Memphis
More info: memphisjazzworkshop.org
This organization is committed to nurturing Memphis’s young musicians, preserving jazz traditions, and bringing more jazz music to the city. They invite the public to attend shows and workshops led by some of the world’s greatest jazz musicians, and the troupe of young performers plays pop-up jam sessions at places like the galleries of The Brooks Museum and The Museum of Science and History.
BARS WITH REGULAR JAZZ
The Cove
Neighborhood: Broad Avenue Arts District
More info: facebook.com
This pirate-themed bar in the Broad Avenue Arts District might not be the most obvious place to catch jazz music, but The Cove has regularly scheduled jazz nights on Thursdays and Sundays. While this nautical haunt isn’t a typical jazz club, it does serve killer cocktails, fresh oysters, and low lighting to set the mood.
Alfred’s on Beale
Neighborhood: Downtown – Beale Street
More info: alfredsonbeale.com
Alfred’s welcomes the beloved Memphis Jazz Orchestra to the stage every Sunday evening, providing a dedicated slot for jazz lovers amidst Beale Street’s blues-heavy lineup. The band, often ten or more players, sets up in two rows beneath Alfred’s iconic STAX Records sign.
Earnestine & Hazel’s
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: earnestineandhazel.com
This funky juke joint is a Memphis establishment known for its rich musical history, divey vibes, and smothered “Soul Burger.” Their jukebox is famous, but the watering hole on South Main has become a hidden gem for live jazz on Sunday nights. Check Facebook or call to ensure jazz is on for the night you’re going.
RESTAURANTS WITH REGULAR JAZZ
One11Madison
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: one11madison.com
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, this restaurant serves a modern American menu and robust wine list within a chic, romantic setting. One11Madison has jazz night every Saturday night. Take a peek.
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Owen Brennan’s
Neighborhood: East Memphis
More info: brennansmemphis.com
The Sunday jazz brunch at Owen Brennan’s is a music lover’s paradise. The New Orleans-style buffet is a feast for your palate, while local jazz talent will delight the ears. You might even get a personal tableside serenade from the sax players floating around the restaurant.
SEASONAL JAZZ SERIES
Sunset Jazz at Court Square
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: sunsetjazzmemphis.com
This free, family-friendly jazz concert series happens every second Sunday of May through October. It brings a sparkling lineup of some of Memphis’s finest jazz artists and different jazz styles, from straight ahead to swing. Bring your chairs, a blanket, and an appetite for some delicious food truck fare as you settle in for an entertaining evening in the heart of Downtown.
The Overton Park Shell
Neighborhood: Midtown
More info: overtonparkshell.org
Established in 1936, the Overton Park Shell remains one of the city’s best live music venues during the warmer months. The packed lineup of diverse (and free!) concerts often includes jazz. They also run the “Shell on Wheels” series, which brings music to unexpected places and events around the city. No matter the genre, the Shell is a beautiful setting to enjoy live music under the stars.
MUSIC VENUES WITH OCCASIONAL JAZZ
Lafayette’s Music Room
Neighborhood: Midtown
More info: lafayettes.com
Located in the vibrant Overton Square, Lafayette’s offers a great mix of live jazz, blues, rock, and other genres. Southern and cajun delicacies and handmade cocktails are the perfect complements to the music playing every night of the week. They often have jazz artists during Sunday brunch, so check the calendar!
C.C. Blues Club
Neighborhood: North Memphis
More info: facebook.com
This open-on-weekends-only music complex is known for its eclectic blend of jazz, blues, and even DJ-spun tunes. It has a lively atmosphere and features performances that often include multiple genres, making it a great choice for rowdy fans of blues and jazz alike.
B.B. King’s Blues Club
Neighborhood: Downtown – Beale Street
More info: bbkings.com
While it’s known primarily for blues, B.B. King’s on Beale Street has music seven nights a week, so some incredible jazz musicians grace the stage often. Even though it’s on touristy Beale Street, locals and visitors eat up the electric atmosphere and top-notch music.
Check out some Memphis jazz in your own backyard or on your next trip!
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Zoe Yarborough
Zoe is a StyleBlueprint staff writer, Charlotte native, Washington & Lee graduate, and Nashville transplant of eleven years. She teaches Pilates, helps manage recording artists, and likes to "research" Germantown's food scene.