Breaking down all that jazz in the Second City

Chicago is known for many things, from pizza to our gorgeous lakefront and so much in-between but underrated and certainly near the top of the list, is our vibrant jazz music scene. Lively, ever-present, and quality driven.

New Orleans may have the reputation. Memphis, Nashville, New York, and even Kansas City can stake their claim, but make no mistake, our “second city” is second to none when it comes to quality jazz music.

It is interesting, though, when you break down all the great jazz music venues in our city and observe how each, even in their “sameness” (the jazz music), can be so different. The atmosphere, the “feel,” the personality of each location has something a little unique while still playing the same great notes and tones.

Let's look at four examples from our favorite jazz venues in the heart of our city and compare their subtle differences.

Winter's Jazz Club - Streeterville

Opening its doors five years ago, this River North venue has a definite feel of elegance and class. You can almost taste it as soon as you walk in. The room is small and intimate, and the people are there to listen to music, not chat and catch up with friends. Serious jazz appreciation here. It is like you enter through the doors and you don’t want to mess anything up. It is that clean and that pristine (in a good way).

The Jazz Showcase - South Loop

Hardcore jazz fans here, but a completely different vibe. Packed in tight quarters, you almost feel like you are part of one big party. If you don’t know the people at the table next to you, you soon will. A down-home, real jazz feel to this place. Like the traditional smoke-filled jazz halls—even though no smoking is allowed!

Buddy Guy's Legends - South Loop

Jazz and Blues at this iconic Chicago location with a much more relaxed feel. It is a big spot with tables well spread out and great jazz playing Wednesdays through Sundays. There is a bit more talking here, a more user-friendly feel from a social standpoint. The club attracts a lot of out of towners due to the Buddy Guy name and tradition. Oh, and the food is highly underrated! Really good for a jazz joint.

Andy’s Jazz Club - River North

A tradition in Chicago for years. One of the most well-known clubs in the city, it has a kind of dinner club mosaic to it, with many patrons eating a nice meal while listening to the bevy of great jazz musicians the club has to offer. The bar is also lively and active, and the food, just like Buddy Guy's, is very good for a jazz spot. Still kind of a casual feel here, but could we call it “classy casual?” Either way, when the music is playing at Andy’s, not many are talking.

These are just a few examples, of course, of so many great jazz places in Chicago.

Again, it is interesting that each of these great jazz places is unique and has a slightly different feel and personality. I guess you could say, kind of like people themselves.

But however you cut it, jazz in Chicago is alive and thriving!