For fans of authentic, live jazz, swing, big band, and vocal jazz, The Improv Café is your ultimate destination. Known for its intimate setting and high-energy performances, the venue celebrates the artistry of live music in every note. And tonight, listeners across New Jersey can tune into the Live at the Blue Note Radio Show, featuring an exclusive set of tracks recorded live at the world-renowned Blue Note clubs, including New York, Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Napa. Every song played on the station is a live recording—capturing the energy, improvisation, and spontaneity that studio versions simply cannot replicate.

A Legendary Venue: The Blue Note Experience
Located in the heart of New York City, the Blue Note has long been synonymous with world-class live music. From jazz luminaries to contemporary innovators, the club has hosted performances that have become part of music history. Audiences are treated to an unparalleled atmosphere where music, storytelling, and improvisation converge, creating an immersive experience. Tonight’s radio broadcast brings that same energy directly into listeners’ homes, showcasing performances that were either recorded live at the club or captured on live albums and CDs.

The New York location continues to feature an exciting schedule of artists: Tank and The Bangas perform through November 16, singer-songwriter Joy Oladokun takes the stage on November 19, and Grammy-winning artist Arooj Aftab headlines November 20–23, alongside Tito Puente Jr.’s Latin Jazz brunch. Later in the month, audiences can enjoy the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars on November 24 and the John Scofield Trio residency from November 25–30. December ushers in the holiday season with Chris Botti performing December 8 through January 4, 2026. On the West Coast, Blue Note Napa closes its current venue at the end of 2025, ending with Brian Culbertson’s New Year’s Eve performance, while Blue Note Los Angeles, which opened in August 2025, continues to grow the brand’s West Coast presence.

Live Recordings That Define the Genre
Blue Note’s commitment to live performance extends beyond the stage, with numerous recordings capturing the magic of these concerts. Iconic albums like At The Blue Note: The Complete Recordings by the Keith Jarrett Trio, The Legendary Oscar Peterson Trio Live at The Blue Note, and Michel Camilo’s Live at the Blue Note showcase musicians at their peak, improvising and interacting with audiences in real time. Other essential live releases include Arturo Sandoval, Paquito D’Rivera, Dave Valentin, and Herbie Mann’s 65th Birthday Celebration, demonstrating the depth and variety of talent the club attracts. Internationally, Blue Note Tokyo has produced legendary recordings with the Chick Corea Akoustic Band, Sadao Watanabe, and the Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra. Every album is a testament to the thrill of live music, and tonight, the Improv Café and Live at the Blue Note Radio Show deliver that same experience directly to listeners.

Tonight’s Show: Capturing Jazz in Its Purest Form
On tonight’s Live at the Blue Note Radio Show, listeners will hear selections that span jazz, swing, big band, and vocal jazz—all performed live. From intimate ballads to explosive ensemble numbers, each track highlights the spontaneity and interaction between musicians and audience. The program not only features current performances but also revisits historic recordings that defined jazz history. For anyone who appreciates the artistry of live music, this is a rare opportunity to experience the Blue Note’s world-class performances without leaving home.

Whether you are a die-hard jazz aficionado or new to live performance recordings, tonight’s show exemplifies why The Improv Café continues to champion live music. Every broadcast reminds fans that live jazz is not just a genre—it’s an experience, a connection, and a celebration of creativity in the moment.

For more information on tonight’s broadcast and upcoming live performances, visit Explore New Jersey’s music section. Tune in, turn up the volume, and let the live magic of the Blue Note fill your home.

For lovers of live jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz, The Improv Café continues to be the premier destination on the airwaves where every song played is the live version, capturing the energy and spontaneity of legendary performances. Tonight, listeners can tune in to the Live at The Blue Note Radio Show, featuring music recorded live at the club or recorded live onto albums and CDs, offering an authentic club experience from the comfort of home.

Blue Note Expands Across the Globe
The iconic Blue Note jazz clubs, celebrated worldwide for hosting some of the finest jazz musicians, continue to grow in reach and reputation. In Los Angeles, a brand-new venue officially opened on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood on August 14, 2025. The opening had been delayed due to construction setbacks and permitting delays caused by the January fires. The venue debuted with a series of performances curated by five-time Grammy winner Robert Glasper, setting the stage for a new hub of live jazz on the West Coast. Additionally, Blue Note partnered with the Los Angeles Philharmonic to rebrand the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival as the Blue Note Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl, with the inaugural festival under the new banner taking place in June 2025.

In London, plans for a new venue in Covent Garden were met with challenges. Blue Note’s late-night license application for a former gym on St Martin’s Lane was denied in February 2025, sparking discussions about the city’s restrictive licensing laws and their impact on live music. Despite the setback, Blue Note remains committed to delivering top-tier jazz experiences wherever it operates.

Meanwhile, the original Blue Note in Greenwich Village, New York City, continues to be the flagship hub for world-class live performances. Upcoming residencies include celebrated artists such as Chris Botti in December 2025, and the club maintains its reputation for intimate performances, historic ambiance, and unparalleled musical talent. While some online reviews have noted minor issues with seating or service, the overall fan experience remains highly positive, with audiences drawn to the club for its legendary atmosphere and nightly live jazz.

Global Reach and Festivals
Blue Note’s influence extends far beyond New York and Los Angeles. Clubs are also active in cities including Tokyo, Rio de Janeiro, Honolulu, Beijing, and Shanghai, bringing live jazz to international audiences. The club’s festival presence remains strong, with the Black Radio Experience festival in Napa curated by Robert Glasper returning in 2025 and the annual month-long Blue Note Jazz Festival in New York continuing to highlight top-tier live performances each June.

Challenges and Controversies
While Blue Note’s expansion has brought live jazz to new audiences, some locations have faced criticism. London’s licensing issues and concerns about artistic freedom at the Shanghai club have sparked debate. Additionally, fan experiences vary, with some online users citing high prices or seating challenges. Despite this, the club’s live performances consistently draw acclaim, and every song played on The Improv Café remains the live version, capturing the same energy that audiences experience in the clubs themselves.

Tonight’s Feature on The Improv Café: Live at The Blue Note Radio Show
Listeners tuning in tonight to The Improv Café can experience the magic of Blue Note performances from across the globe on the Live at The Blue Note Radio Show. Each track is sourced from live recordings at the clubs or live-to-album sessions, ensuring every note, every solo, and every swing-filled riff conveys the thrill of being there in person. From vocal jazz to big band classics, this show highlights the enduring artistry and spontaneity of live jazz performances.

Why Blue Note and The Improv Café Are Unmatched for Live Jazz Fans
Whether it’s the intimate Greenwich Village flagship, the Hollywood Sunset Boulevard venue, or historic global locations, Blue Note remains synonymous with world-class live jazz. With the Improv Café exclusively broadcasting live jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz, listeners from 63 countries (678 current listeners, 491 unique) can immerse themselves in the electrifying energy of the clubs without leaving home. Shows like Singing with Swing, Live at the Village Vanguard, and tonight’s Live at The Blue Note Radio Show deliver the artistry and vibrancy of live performance, making it the ultimate destination for anyone passionate about authentic jazz music.

Tune in tonight at 9PM EST and let The Improv Café bring the Blue Note experience directly to your ears—because here, every note you hear is live.

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!