We visited and shot a pretty cool YouTube video at a few of the must-see Jazz spots in Harlem with a super special guest: Zé Luis Oliveira. Come explore these fantastic spots with us!
Harlem is a neighborhood that is constantly growing and new businesses are opening all the time. Real Estate is also booming and prices are going up!
But, it’s also known for being the best neighborhood if you’re into true Jazz. Why? Because some of the most traditional jazz spots, where world-famous musicians have performed, are hidden throughout the streets.
I decided to invite an extremely special guest to host this YouTube video with me! Zé Luis Oliveira that is not only an amazing musician, but is also a composer, producer, arranger and multi-instrumentalist.
Zé carries a few Grammy nominations too and knows absolutely everything about the Jazz scene. So, it was impossible to not invite him!
We had a musical chat with him at 3 different-style must-see Jazz spots in Harlem: Minton’s Playhouse, Shrine Harlem and Paris Blues.
Minton’s Playhouse
So, Henry Minton founded Minton’s Playhouse in 1938, but did you know that he was a tenor saxophonist, just like our guest, Zé Luis? Yup! Plus, all the big names like Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald have played there.
In the 1940’s when the bebop jazz style was created, musicians gathered for musical sessions at Minton’s to play and record. On the video above, Zé told us a bit about the bebop, so check it out!
As they say: “The energy and spirit of the Playhouse are a unique and a perfect way to continue your already festive evening. Minton’s Playhouse is home to only the exceptional musicians who will sweep you away with outstanding performances. The highest quality music with the highest quality service and drinks in a fun, one of a kind establishment.”
Oh! Minton’s is not only a great place for Jazz nights, but they also have a restaurant called The Cecil Steakhouse. So, go there for dinner, before the show!
Hours: Daily from 6pm – 12am
Location: 206 West 118th Street
Shrine
The Shrine, is a bit different from the other spots we visited, since it a modern/contemporary world music and Jazz venue. It opened only in 2007 as a multimedia arts and culture venue.
“We are dedicated to art and culture in all mediums: film, theater, dance, and live music. Shrine World Music Venue’s mission is to establish a positive creative atmosphere for both artists and audiences from all backgrounds.”
They host mostly great emerging artists and musicians, that are not only focused in Jazz, but also rhythms and styles, like funk! But, they also have some amazing established artists every now and them!
They are considered one of the top 10 jazz spots to visit in NYC, so be sure to go and check it out!
Hours:
Sunday – Friday: 4pm – 4am
Saturday: 3pm – 4am
Location: 2271 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd
Paris Blues
We finished off in grand style! We were hosted at Paris Blues by the super well-known owner, Sam! It was truly an honor to meet and have a great musical talk with him!
Paris Blues, in the heart of Harlem and founded by Samuel Hargress Jr, or Sam like I mentioned, back in 1968. They have Jazz 7 nights a week, no cover, free food and great drinks, right?
People go there to listen not only to the super traditional 20’s Jazz, but also to some rhythms of the 90’s funk!
They have a full bar, so you’ll be sure to enjoy every single moment and every single music, with your favorite drink beside you! Have fun!
Hours: Daily from 12pm – 3am
Location: 2021 7th Avenue
https://parisbluesharlem.webs.com
If you enjoyed this post and the video on the top Jazz spots in Harlem, but still haven’t subscribed to our channel, be sure to do so! We post a new video on Mondays, at 10am!
Take a look at one of my favorite restaurants in New York, this one obviously located in Harlem! It’s truly a hidden gem and worth the trip!!!
Videography: Black3 Agency
Photo Credits: Black3 Agency and courtesy of the venues
Beauty: Leila Soldeira
Styling: Érika Mesentier and Camilla Adão
*Last Update on March/2020.*
