L.A. is the entertainment capital of the world and this epithet also includes the wide array of music genres Angelinos can enjoy around the clock, including jazz. Up to the 1950s, the historic Central Avenue corridor welcomed legends like Lionel Hampton and Duke Ellington in its vibrant jazz joints. Although live jazz is harder to find these days, the jazz scene is far from done, thanks to events like Blue Note Jazz Festival or the new “We call it Jazz” show coming to Los Angeles.
Taking place at the Historic Glendale Theater on selected dates, this performance takes its guests back to the stingy bars of 1920s New Orleans, where jazz music was born. The charming venue was renowned for its vaudeville shows back in the day but this season, it’s all about jazz. Through timeless classics like “Cantaloupe Island” and “Freddie Freeloader”, as well as improvised solos that defy physics, a local jazz band will give you a taste of ragtime, brass, and blues. Places are limited so make sure you get your tickets today, you dig?
What is “We call it Jazz”?
Imagine stepping into a vibrant 1920s New Orleans street-style bar, where the soft glow of a street lamp sets the tone for an unforgettable night of jazz. This is “We call it Jazz” — an experience that combines timeless jazz classics with the thrill of improvisation. The 60-minute show is a curated journey through the genre’s iconic sounds, from Fats Waller’s “Ain’t Misbehavin'” to Louis Armstrong’s “When The Saints Go Marching In”, all performed with a dash of spontaneity that keeps the music fresh and exciting.
Jazz, its story and the show
Jazz is the ultimate melting pot of musical traditions, born in the vibrant streets of New Orleans from a rich blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences. Emerging from the African-American communities, it evolved from the blues and ragtime melodies of the late 19th century into a genre that thrives on improvisation and syncopation. At “We call it Jazz”, experience this magic firsthand as seasoned musicians bring to life iconic songs like “Georgia On My Mind” and “Fly Me To The Moon”, alongside solos and improvisations that make each performance a one-of-a-kind show.
Through a carefully crafted setlist that blends the nostalgic with the spontaneous, you will delve into the story of jazz told through song. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or just discovering its charm, the show promises an evening of enchantment, where the music, the atmosphere, and the joy all come together to create an unforgettable night.
From the creators of We call it Flamenco and We call it Tango, comes another dazzling show that celebrates one of the most beloved music genres. With talented musicians that will guide you on this musical trip to New Orleans, this performance can captivate the hearts of any music lover. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newbie in the genre, “We call it Jazz” is for everyone.
The show will take place at the Historic Glendale Theater on selected dates. With two back-to-back shows scheduled for 6:30 pm and 9:00 pm, you can choose the one that best suits you.