Posts in category: Live at the Blue Note

At The Improv Café, there’s one rule that never changes: every single song we play is the live version. From straight-ahead jazz and swinging big band charts to the smoky intimacy of vocal jazz, our radio station is devoted to capturing music in its purest form—performed live, in the moment, with all the spontaneity, improvisation, and magic that only happens on stage.

That commitment to live performance is why our weekly highlight, the Live at the Blue Note Radio Show, is such a perfect fit. Each week, we take listeners straight inside one of the most iconic jazz venues in the world—The Blue Note—where legends and rising stars alike have filled the room with unforgettable sound.

The Blue Note: A Global Home for Live Jazz

Few clubs carry the kind of weight and prestige that the Blue Note name does. From its flagship in New York City to its sister venues around the globe—including Blue Note Hawaii—the brand has become synonymous with live jazz excellence. For decades, audiences have flocked to these rooms not just for the music, but for the complete experience: intimate settings, exceptional cocktails, and the undeniable electricity of hearing world-class musicians play just feet away.

Every night, the club transforms into a sanctuary for jazz lovers. The lights dim, the crowd hushes, and the first notes ignite an atmosphere that can only be described as magic. It’s no wonder why Live at the Blue Note concerts are so often recorded and later released as beloved live albums.

Spotlight: Blue Note Hawaii – September & October 2025

As of late September 2025, Blue Note Hawaii continues its tradition of bringing in both international stars and homegrown talent. This fall, the schedule is stacked with performances that highlight the breadth of modern live jazz and beyond.

Jake Shimabukuro – Ukulele Virtuoso

• Recent Performances: Earlier this month, Shimabukuro delivered a two-night special with fellow Hawaiian legend Henry Kapono, blending island traditions with jazz sensibility. Back in January, he opened the year with a multiple-night residency, setting the tone for a busy 2025.
• Upcoming Shows: Shimabukuro returns October 9–10, followed by a special December residency for his much-anticipated “Holidays in Hawaiʻi” concert series.
• 2025 Highlights: This year has seen him all over the Blue Note Hawaii stage—from his Asia Tour Kickoff Shows in July to his summer Blues Experience, proving his versatility and status as one of Hawaii’s most treasured live performers.

Mike Lewis – The Trumpeter’s Big Band Vision

• Upcoming Show: On October 27, 2025, trumpeter and bandleader Mike Lewis takes over the club with his 17-piece big band for a show titled Best of Broadway. Expect a powerful mix of jazz sophistication and Broadway classics, played with brass-heavy swagger.
• Recent Gigs: Lewis has been everywhere this year, including September sets with Mike Lewis & Friends and a Disney-themed show in July that drew big crowds.
• Residency Note: Lewis holds a semi-regular residency at Blue Note Hawaii, often shifting his themes and collaborators. From Broadway to Disney to straight-ahead big band jazz, his shows embody the live spontaneity The Improv Café celebrates. To keep up with his changing schedule, fans are encouraged to check the Blue Note Hawaii website or ticket outlets for the latest event details.

Why Live at the Blue Note Matters

Every Live at the Blue Note Radio Show broadcast on The Improv Café reminds listeners why live jazz is irreplaceable. A song can be recorded in a studio a hundred times, but in a club, it’s different—riffs stretch longer, solos emerge from nowhere, the audience becomes part of the performance, and no two nights are ever the same. That’s the beauty of jazz and swing in a live setting, and it’s exactly what keeps the Blue Note at the center of the conversation year after year.

Tonight on The Improv Café: Live at the Blue Note

Don’t miss tonight’s Live at the Blue Note Radio Show, streaming exclusively on The Improv Café at 9PM EST. Remember, this station is devoted solely to live jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz—and nothing else. Every track, every solo, every note you hear comes straight from a stage.

So pour yourself a drink, dim the lights, and let the magic of the Blue Note surround you. Whether it’s Jake Shimabukuro reinventing the ukulele, Mike Lewis leading a roaring big band, or any of the countless artists who grace that iconic stage, you’ll hear why live jazz is not just music—it’s an experience.

At The Improv Café, there’s one golden rule: every note, every song, every performance you hear is live. From the smokiest corners of a jazz club to the grand sweep of a big band in full swing, our station is dedicated to delivering the authentic energy of the stage straight to your speakers. No studio edits. No overdubs. Just pure live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz, exactly the way it was meant to be heard.

That’s why every broadcast from The Improv Café feels more like a night out than a playlist. It’s the place where Duke Ellington still conducts the orchestra, Ella Fitzgerald scats her way into the rafters, and modern greats push jazz forward in real time.

Tonight’s Spotlight: Live at the Blue Note Radio Show

Few names carry the same weight in jazz as The Blue Note. Known around the world, this legendary club has been the stage for the biggest icons in jazz, blues, and soul. Nestled in the heart of the city, the Blue Note has become more than a venue—it’s a cultural landmark, a place where live music is celebrated nightly and history is written one performance at a time.

And tonight, we’re bringing that magic to you with the Live at the Blue Note Radio Show. Every Wednesday, the show dives deep into recordings captured live at the club itself, or taken directly from albums recorded in front of an audience. It’s the closest thing to grabbing a seat at a table, sipping a cocktail, and soaking in the glow of a Blue Note evening—without ever leaving your home.

The Blue Note has always been a beacon for incredible talent, and 2025 is no exception:

• 🎺 Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah – The six-time Grammy nominee is bringing his electrifying sound to the new Los Angeles Blue Note location, performing a three-night run from September 22–24.
• 🎹 Charlie Puth – Known more for pop, Puth is making waves by announcing a bicoastal residency at both the New York and Los Angeles Blue Note clubs this fall, blurring genre lines and proving the Blue Note is a stage for innovation.
• 🎶 R+R=Now – The supergroup of modern jazz heavyweights will light up the New York Blue Note in October 2025, merging improvisation and social commentary into their unforgettable live sets.
• 🥁 Les Claypool’s Bastard Jazz – With a name that matches their unconventional spirit, this group heads to the Tokyo Blue Note in November 2025, expanding the club’s global reach.

Blue Note Records: Keeping the Legacy Alive

Of course, the Blue Note isn’t just a venue—it’s also a legendary record label that continues to set the standard for live jazz releases.

• Upcoming Albums: In October, look for Charles Lloyd’s Figure In Blue, a masterwork from one of jazz’s most soulful saxophonists. November will bring Aaron Parks’ By All Means, promising a forward-thinking sound anchored in tradition.
• Vinyl Reissues: Throughout 2025, Blue Note’s Classic Vinyl Reissue Series is treating fans to all-analog reissues cut from the original master tapes. The lineup includes timeless works from Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard, and other titans, ensuring the magic of jazz’s golden age continues spinning on turntables everywhere.

Why Live Jazz Matters

There’s a reason The Improv Café commits itself to live recordings only. Jazz is about interaction: the call-and-response between musician and audience, the improvisation that makes no two nights the same, and the palpable energy of a performance that exists only once in time.

When you hear a big band live, you feel the brass section hit your chest. When a jazz vocalist bends a note on stage, you hear the emotion ripple through the crowd. And when the Blue Note plays host to a late-night jam session, the spontaneity becomes part of history.

That’s the spirit The Improv Café keeps alive every day—and it’s why tonight’s Live at the Blue Note Radio Show is a can’t-miss experience.

Whether you’re drawn to the legends of the past or the innovators of today, The Improv Café is the soundtrack of live jazz in all its forms. Pair that with the iconic sounds coming out of the Blue Note’s stages—and you’ve got a celebration of music that is timeless, spontaneous, and forever alive.

So, pour yourself something smooth, settle in, and let The Improv Café carry you to the Blue Note. After all, here’s the truth we live by: every song played is the live version.

At The Improv Cafe’, our radio station spins nothing but the best in live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz — every track you hear is the live version, no exceptions. That’s the magic of real jazz: the raw energy of the stage, the improvisation, the crowd’s response, and the unrepeatable magic of a moment in time. And few venues embody that spirit better than the legendary Blue Note Jazz Clubs, which continue to be a cornerstone of the global live jazz scene.

Tonight on The Improv Cafe’ — Live at The Blue Note Radio Show

Before we dive into the latest Blue Note news, don’t forget — tonight we’re bringing you the Live at The Blue Note Radio Show, a two-hour special featuring music recorded only inside the walls of the world-famous Blue Note Clubs. From New York to Tokyo to Milan and now Los Angeles, every note you’ll hear tonight comes from an authentic live performance captured at a Blue Note stage. Whether the music is sourced from official live albums or archival concert recordings, what you hear is the real thing — pure live jazz at its finest.

Blue Note Los Angeles: A New West Coast Landmark

The biggest Blue Note headline this summer is the long-awaited opening of Blue Note Los Angeles, which debuted on August 14, 2025, right on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. The launch night was nothing short of historic: Grammy-winning pianist Robert Glasper headlined with surprise appearances from Ledisi and Terrace Martin, setting the tone for what promises to be a landmark venue for the LA music scene.

Upcoming performances at the new Hollywood club are already stacked with talent:

• Alex Isley
• Andra Day
• Kamasi Washington
• Charlie Puth
• Terrace Martin
• Esperanza Spalding

Adding to the excitement, Blue Note Entertainment Group has partnered with Mastercard to provide premium experiences at the new venue, cementing LA as a must-visit stop for jazz lovers.

Blue Note New York: Where It All Began

The original Blue Note in Greenwich Village (131 West 3rd Street, NYC) continues to prove why it’s the crown jewel of live jazz. Recent highlights include a six-show residency by The Roots, celebrating 30 years since their first album.

The upcoming NYC schedule is no less impressive:

• John Scofield Trio – November 24, 2025
• Keyon Harrold – September 1, 2025
• Dominique Fils-Aime – September 8, 2025

With nightly shows at 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm, plus their famous Sunday Jazz Brunch, the NYC Blue Note keeps live music thriving seven days a week. The venue currently holds a 4.2-star rating from over 5,200 Google reviews, a testament to its enduring legacy.

Blue Note Worldwide: The Global Beat of Live Jazz

The Blue Note name resonates across the world, with clubs continuing to host legendary artists and rising stars alike. Here’s a snapshot of upcoming highlights:

• Blue Note Hawaii: Summer performances from Keiko Matsui, Macy Gray, and Tower of Power. Guests also enjoy a full food and drink menu alongside the music.
• Blue Note Beijing (China): Espen Eriksen Trio on September 19, 2025, and Anthony Fung Trio on November 21, 2025.
• Blue Note Tokyo (Japan): A stacked schedule featuring Hiromi, Takana Miyamoto, Pyramid, J.A.M, and Hayato Sumino. The Cecile McLorin Salvant Quartet will also perform August 20–22, 2025.
• Blue Note Columbia (Missouri): Upcoming events include comedy showcases and a special birthday bash with the Mercury Trio.

Blue Note Jazz Festival – Napa 2025

If you’re looking for a festival experience, the Blue Note Jazz Festival in Napa Valley is set for August 29–31, 2025. Expect a weekend packed with world-class jazz, wine country vibes, and unforgettable live sets.

Blue Note Records: Keeping Live Jazz Alive on Vinyl

On the recording front, Blue Note Records keeps the spirit of live jazz alive with new releases:

• Horace Silver – “Silver in Seattle: Live At The Penthouse” arrives October 24, 2025.
• Kelela – “In The Blue Light”, recorded live at Blue Note NYC, dropped earlier this year on February 11, 2025.

The Improv Cafe’ Promise: Only Live Jazz, All the Time

At The Improv Cafe’, our commitment remains simple: only live music makes it to the airwaves. Every track we play — from Big Band standards to Swing, from Vocal Jazz to modern improvisations — is the real, unedited, in-the-moment version. No studio tricks, no overdubs, just the authentic sound of musicians connecting with their audience.

And tonight’s Live at The Blue Note Radio Show is the perfect example of that. Tune in and you’ll hear the clinking glasses, the applause, the energy of the room, and above all, the brilliance of live jazz that can never be replicated.

Because here at The Improv Cafe’, we believe: if it’s not live, it’s not jazz.

JamFest: Tonight is the NRN (New Releases Now) Radio Show. The show will feature a complete playback of the new jazz album “Elemental,” a collaborative work by vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater and pianist Bill Charlap. The album was released on June 13, 2025. Live Jam: “Get the Led Out Live” will air tonight at 10

Source: Here is a breakdown of what’s happening tonight, Wednesday, August 6, 2025, on the various stations of the Sunset Radio Network:

Sunset Radio Network Tonight at JamFest, Live Jam, MetalMania Live, Tomorrowland Live, Dead Set Live, The Improv Cafe’

Source: Here is the Sunset Radio Network’s nightly show lineup for tonight, Wednesday, July 30, 2025: JamFest, Live Jam, MetalMania Live, Tomorrowland Live, Dead Set Live, The Improv Cafe’

Welcome to The Improv Cafe’, where every single note you hear is a live one! Our radio station is your exclusive destination for the vibrant, spontaneous world of Live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz. We believe the true magic of this music unfolds in the moment, on stage, and that’s exactly what we deliver, every song, every time.

Tonight, we’re diving deep into the incredible universe of Blue Note Records and the Blue Note Jazz Club, as there’s a phenomenal amount of news radiating from this legendary institution. Get ready to be immersed in the rich history and exciting future of jazz, because Blue Note is celebrating its 85th Anniversary in truly grand style!

Blue Note’s 85th Anniversary: A Legacy in Full Swing

Eighty-five years is a remarkable milestone for any cultural institution, and Blue Note Records is marking this momentous occasion with a series of initiatives that pay homage to its storied past while embracing the future of jazz. This celebration includes:

• The Blue Note Quintet Tour: An all-star collective of current Blue Note recording artists, including Gerald Clayton, Joel Ross, Immanuel Wilkins, Kendrick Scott, and Matt Brewer, has embarked on a tour across North America, bringing the label’s rich history to life on stages everywhere.
• Francis Wolff Collection Exhibitions: Dive into the iconic visual history of jazz with exhibitions featuring the Francis Wolff Collection. Francis Wolff, a co-founder and the legendary photographer for Blue Note Records, captured thousands of candid and intimate moments of jazz legends in recording studios and clubs. His photographs became synonymous with the label’s iconic album covers, visually defining an era of American music. These exhibitions offer a rare glimpse into the artistry behind the scenes.
• Return of the Blue Note Review Vinyl Boxset Series: For collectors and audiophiles, the acclaimed Blue Note Review vinyl boxset series is making a highly anticipated return. These meticulously curated sets offer exclusive new music, rare discoveries, and audiophile reissues, embodying the very essence of the Blue Note aesthetic.
• New Releases and Reissues: Blue Note continues its commitment to both honoring its catalog and championing new artists. Their renowned Tone Poet and Classic Vinyl Reissue series are bringing timeless masterpieces back into circulation with unparalleled sound quality. Recent announcements also include exciting new releases from contemporary artists like Linda Sikhakhane, Nduduzo Makhathini, and Meshell Ndegeocello, ensuring the label remains at the forefront of modern jazz.
• Lee Morgan Tribute Compilation: A special double LP vinyl compilation is being released, featuring current Blue Note artists paying tribute to the legendary trumpet icon Lee Morgan. This collection includes powerful reinterpretations of his music, along with a previously unreleased alternate take of his sextet performing “Morgan The Pirate” from his 1964 Search For The New Land sessions – a true gem for fans!

The Blue Note Jazz Club Expands to Los Angeles!

In truly exciting news for jazz lovers on the West Coast, the iconic Blue Note Jazz Club is opening a brand-new venue in Hollywood, Los Angeles, this August! This expansion marks a significant moment, bringing the world-renowned club’s intimate atmosphere and world-class programming to a new city.

The club is partnering with the celebrated artist Robert Glasper to curate events in Los Angeles, building on his wildly successful “Robtober” residency at the original Blue Note in New York. The opening season lineup for the LA venue is already brimming with incredible talent, featuring performances by Robert Glasper himself, along with Andra Day, Charlie Puth, Esperanza Spalding, Branford Marsalis, Kamasi Washington, Killer Mike, Ben Folds, and many more. This promises to be a vibrant new hub for jazz and related genres on the West Coast.

Other Notable Jazz News:

• Wayne Shorter Celebration: Blue Note has also released “Celebration, Volume 1,” a powerful live recording honoring the late, great saxophonist and composer Wayne Shorter, capturing his genius in performance.
• Remembering Al Foster: We pause to remember the immense talent of drummer Al Foster, known for his indispensable contributions to countless jazz legends, who sadly passed away in May. His legacy continues to resonate through his incredible live recordings.
• Blue Note Jazz Festival New York: The 14th annual Blue Note Jazz Festival New York has announced an electrifying lineup, featuring an eclectic mix of artists including the legendary Grace Jones, Janelle Monae, and Branford Marsalis, showcasing the festival’s commitment to diverse and groundbreaking talent.

Tonight’s Feature: Live at the Blue Note Radio Show!

As we celebrate these momentous happenings, don’t forget to tune into tonight’s Live at the Blue Note Radio Show! If you’re yearning for a night out that combines great music, delicious drinks, and a lively atmosphere, then the Blue Note clubs around the world are the perfect destination. Our show is dedicated to bringing that experience directly to you, playing only live music recorded from any of the World Famous Blue Note Clubs around the World. Whether from a released CD or a newly discovered live recording, every track you hear has been captured in the vibrant, intimate setting of a Blue Note stage.

With a diverse schedule of performances from an array of talented musicians, you are guaranteed to find something that suits your taste. So settle in, relax, and let the authentic sounds of live jazz from the heart of the Blue Note fill your evening.

At The Improv Cafe’, we hold a singular philosophy: music truly comes alive in the moment of creation, unburdened by studio perfection. That’s why our radio station exclusively plays live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz – every single song you hear is a live version. We believe in the electrifying energy of improvisation, the spontaneous brilliance of collective performance, and the raw emotion that only a live recording can capture. It’s an immersive experience designed to transport you directly to the smoky clubs, grand ballrooms, and legendary concert halls where these timeless sounds were born.

This commitment to live performance is perfectly embodied by venues that have become synonymous with musical excellence, places where the very air vibrates with history. One such legendary institution is The Blue Note, a name that evokes images of unparalleled artistry and unforgettable nights. It’s a place where music isn’t just played; it comes to life.

The Blue Note: A Global Stage for Live Sound

The Blue Note Jazz Club has, for decades, earned its reputation as one of the world’s premier destinations for experiencing live music. Originating in New York City’s Greenwich Village, it has been a crucible for jazz legends and rising stars alike, fostering an environment where improvisation and virtuosity thrive. And now, its influence is expanding, bringing its unique live magic to new audiences across the globe.

Expanding Horizons: A New Era for Live Jazz

The iconic New York institution recently made a significant leap, opening a new location in Los Angeles on August 14th, with a grand opening performance by none other than the multi-talented Robert Glasper. This West Coast outpost in Hollywood is set to continue The Blue Note’s tradition of curating performances that brilliantly blend jazz with the vibrant sounds of R&B and hip-hop, echoing the dynamic evolution of live music.

Looking even further ahead, The Blue Note is planning its first venture into the UK with a new location in London slated for early 2026. After addressing initial licensing concerns with local authorities, the venue management has worked diligently with the community to ensure a harmonious integration, promising to bring its world-class live jazz experience to a new international stage. These expansions are a testament to the enduring appeal of live, authentic musical performance and The Blue Note’s commitment to nurturing it globally.

The Blue Note Jazz Festival New York: A Summer Extravaganza

Closer to its roots, The Blue Note Jazz Festival New York remains a highlight on the global music calendar. The 14th annual festival, which ran from May 27th to July 2nd, showcased an incredibly diverse lineup that speaks to the broad appeal of live performance. Headliners included the iconic Grace Jones, the electrifying Janelle Monáe, and the legendary Branford Marsalis, demonstrating the festival’s ability to attract top-tier talent across genres while maintaining its jazz core. Utilizing multiple venues across New York City, the festival also paid a heartfelt tribute to the great James Moody, ensuring that the history and future of jazz were both honored.

Captivating Residencies and Summer Sessions

The Blue Note’s calendar is consistently packed with incredible live performances, ranging from intimate residencies to star-studded summer sessions. Earlier this year, the prodigious Esperanza Spalding commanded the stage with a captivating residency in February 2025, performing songs from her critically acclaimed albums and collaborations. The New Mastersounds also brought their infectious grooves to several concerts in July 2025, keeping the energy high.

As summer progresses, The Blue Note Summer Sessions promise even more unforgettable nights. Upcoming performances include:

• Kehlani (July 17th)
• Juanes (July 18th)
• Chris Botti (July 27th)
• Dave Koz and Friends (August 15th)
• Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening (August 16th)
• The Beach Boys (August 22nd)
• Snarky Puppy (August 23rd)
• Josh Turner (August 24th)

This diverse lineup underscores The Blue Note’s role as a vibrant center for live music that transcends traditional genre boundaries, while always maintaining its deep roots in the spontaneity and virtuosity characteristic of jazz.

Tune In Tonight: Live At The Blue Note Radio Show!

For those who crave the unparalleled experience of live jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz, look no further than tonight’s Live At The Blue Note Radio Show. Every song played is a genuine live recording, straight from the legendary club itself or from a seminal live album. It’s your direct portal to the world’s finest live performances, echoing the very essence of what The Blue Note represents: where music truly comes to life.

At The Improv Cafe’, we celebrate this unwavering commitment to live music. Join us as we explore the dynamic world of jazz and its magnificent offshoots, always reminding you that with us, every song is the live version – an authentic, unrepeatable moment of musical brilliance. Tune in and let the improvisation begin!

Welcome to The Improv Cafe’, the only place where the air is always filled with the vibrant, spontaneous sounds of live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz. Every song you hear on our station is a genuine live recording, bringing the energy of the stage directly to your ears.

Tonight, we’re taking you on a special journey with the Live at the Blue Note Radio Show. If you’re looking for an evening that perfectly blends exceptional music, a sophisticated atmosphere, and unforgettable performances, then the Blue Note Jazz Club is an essential name to know. Our show is dedicated to playing only live music recorded from any of the World Famous Blue Note Clubs around the globe, whether from official live albums or direct recordings. We capture the essence of these legendary venues, bringing their diverse schedule of talented musicians right to you.

The Blue Note Jazz Club: A Global Expansion of Live Music

The iconic Blue Note Jazz Club, a name synonymous with world-class live jazz for decades, is embarking on an exciting global expansion, bringing its unique blend of intimate performance and stellar lineups to even more corners of the world.

Blue Note Los Angeles: A Grand West Coast Debut

Get ready, West Coast jazz enthusiasts! The Blue Note Jazz Club is officially expanding its illustrious footprint with a brand-new location opening in Los Angeles on August 14th. Located at 6372 Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, within the impressive former Arclight Hollywood complex, this new venue is set to become a premier destination for live music.

The grand opening will be headlined by none other than the five-time Grammy-winning artist Robert Glasper, who will also continue his integral partnership with the Blue Note, curating events and performing regularly. This new Hollywood hub will feature a versatile main showroom with a capacity for 200 guests, along with a more intimate “B-Side” room designed for 100, perfect for discovering emerging talent or enjoying a more up-close experience. Audiences can look forward to two shows per night, at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM, ensuring plenty of opportunities to catch incredible performances. To complete the experience, Chef Asaf Maoz will provide exceptional brunch and dinner service, making it a complete night out.

Blue Note London: Crossing the Atlantic in 2026

The expansion doesn’t stop in Los Angeles! The Blue Note is also making its highly anticipated debut in Europe, with a London location slated to open in early 2026. Following a successful licensing approval process, this 350-capacity venue promises to bring the same world-class live jazz experience to the heart of one of the world’s greatest music cities. The London club is planned to operate until 1 AM Monday through Saturday and until midnight on Sundays, offering ample time to savor the music and ambiance.

A Global Network of Jazz Excellence

These new ventures are part of the larger vision of the Blue Note Entertainment Group, which already boasts a remarkable portfolio of clubs worldwide. Beyond its legendary original location, the Blue Note family includes esteemed venues in Tokyo, Milan, Waikiki, Beijing, Shanghai, Napa, and Rio de Janeiro. This vast network ensures that the spirit of live jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz continues to thrive and connect with audiences across diverse cultures.

Furthermore, the Blue Note Jazz Festival in New York City is currently taking place, featuring an impressive lineup of artists performing at various venues across the city. This festival underscores the Blue Note’s commitment to fostering the global jazz community and showcasing both established icons and rising stars.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Hollywood, the historic charm of London, or simply tuning into our radio show, the Blue Note Jazz Club continues its mission to deliver unparalleled live musical experiences.

Tune into The Improv Cafe’ tonight for the Live at the Blue Note Radio Show and let the authentic sounds of live Jazz transport you. You won’t hear it any other way!

Welcome to The Improv Cafe, the only radio station where the airwaves pulse with the vibrant energy of live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz. That’s right, every single song you hear is a live version, captured in its purest, most electrifying form. Tonight, we’re taking you on a virtual journey to one of the world’s most iconic jazz sanctuaries: The Blue Note.

If you’re seeking an evening where the music isn’t just heard but felt, where every note tells a story and every beat compels you to tap your feet, then The Blue Note is more than just a venue – it’s an institution. We’re talking about an unforgettable night out that seamlessly blends unparalleled live music, exquisite drinks, and an atmosphere that practically crackles with creative energy. With a continually diverse schedule showcasing an array of the most talented musicians from around the globe, you are absolutely guaranteed to find a performance that doesn’t just suit your taste, but ignites your soul. So, gather your fellow music aficionados and prepare for what truly is the ultimate live music experience.

The Blue Note Jazz Club, nestled at 131 West 3rd Street in the heart of Greenwich Village, New York City, isn’t just a club; it’s a living legend. This renowned venue consistently hosts breathtaking performances, often gracing its stage every single evening. From the moment you step through its doors, you’re enveloped in the rich history of jazz, a tapestry woven by countless extraordinary artists.

The Blue Note’s roster of performers reads like a “who’s who” of musical brilliance. It has been the stomping ground for an incredible spectrum of talent, from true jazz legends whose names are synonymous with the genre’s golden age to the most innovative and boundary-pushing contemporary musicians shaping its future. This commitment to showcasing both the heritage and the evolution of jazz is precisely what makes The Blue Note so special, and why it resonates so deeply with the spirit of The Improv Cafe.

The influence of The Blue Note extends far beyond its physical walls. A testament to its iconic status, countless jazz artists have immortalized their performances within its hallowed space by releasing albums specifically titled “Live at the Blue Note.” Think of the electrifying improvisations captured on albums by giants like Franco Ambrosetti, Michel Camilo, Chick Corea, and so many others. These recordings, which we proudly feature on The Improv Cafe, bring the raw excitement of a Blue Note performance directly to your speakers. They are snapshots in time, preserving the magic of a single, unrepeatable night.

While the original New York City location remains the spiritual home, The Blue Note’s global reach has expanded, with sister venues gracing other vibrant cities worldwide. This expansion speaks to the universal appeal of its brand and its dedication to bringing top-tier live music experiences to broader audiences.

A practical tip for those planning a visit to the original New York club: seating is typically on a first-come, first-served basis, adding to the intimate, spontaneous feel of the venue. For larger gatherings of 10 or more, it’s always a good idea to check their website for information on group packages to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

At The Improv Cafe, we believe in the power of live performance – the unrehearsed moments, the boundless energy, the sheer human connection that only happens when musicians and audience share the same space and time. The Blue Note embodies this philosophy entirely, making it a perfect partner for our radio station’s mission.

Tonight’s Improv Cafe Feature Presentation:

Live at the Blue Note Radio Show

Join us tonight on The Improv Cafe, where every song is from a live recording or album, for a special dive into the archives of this legendary club. We’ll be featuring selections from those very “Live at the Blue Note” albums, bringing you the authentic, unadulterated sounds of jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz as they were meant to be heard – live!

When it comes to experiencing live music that transcends genres and borders, few places match the mystique and magnetism of the Blue Note Jazz Club. From its legendary flagship in New York City to sister venues in Tokyo, Milan, Beijing, Waikiki, and beyond, the Blue Note isn’t just a club — it’s a global institution. And this week, The Improv Café is pulling back the curtain on everything that makes the Blue Note a crown jewel of the live music world.

A Living Legacy of Sound

Founded in 1981 in New York City’s Greenwich Village, the Blue Note has earned its stripes as one of the most iconic jazz clubs on the planet. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, where legends like Herbie Hancock and Chick Corea have shared the same intimate stage as rising stars ready to claim their moment. But it’s not just about jazz — it’s about the live experience, raw and real, in every note.

What started as a single room dedicated to the soul of jazz has evolved into a sprawling international brand known for its unmatched atmosphere and genre-bending lineup. The Blue Note’s doors are open to progressive music, funk, soul, R&B, and boundary-pushers of every stripe. If the music moves you — if it means something — it belongs here.

Worldwide Vibes, One-of-a-Kind Nights

Whether you’re sipping a sake cocktail in Tokyo, taking in a late-night set in Milan, or catching a summer set at Blue Note Napa surrounded by vineyards, the experience is always unmistakably Blue Note. That’s no accident. The Blue Note Entertainment Group — the force behind every venue — ensures each location captures the same sonic intimacy and elevated energy that made the original famous.

They don’t just book artists — they curate journeys. Expect a mix of seasoned icons, groundbreaking newcomers, and surprise collaborations that could only happen under the Blue Note lights. From local flavors to international tours, it’s a calendar packed with magic.

Where Records Are Born — Half Note Records

The walls of the Blue Note don’t just echo with applause — they record history. Half Note Records, the Blue Note’s live recording label, captures the fire of those on-stage moments and presses them to wax. Albums recorded live from Blue Note stages have become collectors’ items, beloved by fans and critics alike. These are not your average studio cuts — they’re living, breathing snapshots of musical electricity.

Blue Note Jazz Festivals: Local Roots, Global Reach

Beyond the club circuit, the Blue Note brand explodes onto the big stage through its Blue Note Jazz Festivals. From New York City’s iconic festival to Napa Valley’s wine-and-jazz oasis, and the LA Phil Presents: Blue Note Jazz Festival, these gatherings offer multi-day, multi-stage showcases of the very best in jazz, soul, hip-hop, and experimental music. It’s a who’s-who of genre-defining artists, all under one banner.

Tonight: Live at the Blue Note Radio Show 🎷

And for those craving the vibe from home, we’ve got something special: Live at the Blue Note Radio Show, every Wednesday night, exclusively from The Improv Café. This isn’t just any radio broadcast — it’s an immersive listening journey through only live performances recorded at Blue Note clubs around the world.

Every track is a moment captured in time — a searing sax solo in NYC, a surprise encore in Beijing, a spellbinding piano set in Rio. No edits. No filters. Just the sound of legends being made, right before your ears. So tune in, pour yourself something smooth, and let the Blue Note come alive in your living room.

Plan Your Night Out

Looking for the perfect night out? Start with the Blue Note. With world-class talent, signature cocktails, and a room full of like-minded music lovers, you’re guaranteed a night you’ll never forget. Call your crew, reserve a table, and step into the kind of evening that only happens at the Blue Note.

Whether you’re in NYC or Tokyo, Napa or São Paulo — there’s a seat waiting, and the band’s about to play.

The Improv Café. Live music. Real stories. Always in tune.