Inspired by the spirit of New Orleans, ‘We call it Jazz’ in NYC is a vibrant live music show that journeys through the rich history of the revolutionary genre. Starting with jazz’s soulful roots in ragtime and blues, the show takes a musical trip through time to explore the full extent of jazz’s magic, incorporating timeless jazz classics as well as songs inspired by the genre along the way. Saxes swoon, trumpets blare, and audiences explore the lively rhythms and bouncing beats that have breathed life into NOLA’s most famous jazz joints for over 100 years.
On selected dates over the coming months, Sony Hall will be hosting this sensational jazz show. Prepare to be wowed by live performances of iconic jazz songs by the likes of Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong alongside thrilling improvisations that celebrate the genre at its core. Tickets are on sale now but spaces are limited, so make sure you get yours today!
What is ‘We call it Jazz’?
Just like life, jazz is complex, and this 60-minute spectacle reflects exactly that. Classics like “Summertime” and “Ain’t Misbehavin'” sound inside a recreation of a 1920s-style New Orleans bar, but it ain’t just the popular songs that capture the genre’s rich complexities. During the evening, the performers also let spontaneous jazz melodies take the lead, captivating attendees with breathtaking improvisations inspired by years of passion and practice.
Jazz, its story and the show
Jazz’s evolution over the last century is nothing short of fascinating. Conceived as a combination of late 19th-century ragtime and blues, the genre has since branched out into a variety of unique subgenres, including funky acid jazz and electro swing. While influenced by European and Caribbean sounds, the genre’s roots are firmly embedded within the African-American communities that lived in New Orleans in the early 1900s.
Now, ‘We call it Jazz’ in New York City is authentically paying homage to the genre, as the musicians are free to perform off the cuff while still working their magic on classic jazz hits by the likes of Chet Baker, Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. Illuminated under the glow of a NOLA-style street lamp, singers, saxophonists, trumpet players and more dazzle and delight on stage, allowing you to simply sit back and watch the spectacle unfold with a drink in hand.
Where words fail, jazz speaks, and at ‘We call it Jazz’ in NYC, it’s the fabulous musicians and singers that do all the talking. Grab a drink from the on-site bar and fall under the spell of live jazz music performed by the best of the best. Please note that seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis in each zone and late entry is not permitted.