Anyone who listens to jazz or even loves going out to live music spots can tell you that Joburg is slowly losing its kick for live jazz music. Being a lover of jazz myself, I can most certainly tell you – it’s breaking the hearts of many. Don’t you worry though, there are still a few places that are keeping the hope alive for an amazing jazz experience. Now, let’s take a look at these amazing gems and Jazz spots that still breath life into Joburg.
Jazz Sundays at Sanctuary Mandela
Experience the enchantment of Jazz, history, and gourmet dining at Sanctuary Mandela! Every Sunday, join them for soulful, relaxing afternoon of live jazz, great company, and the rich heritage. Keep an eye out on their website for their upcoming performances. Their jazz lineup changes weekly, but one thing is certain for each week – you’ll enjoy great jazz music. Click here to book on DinePlan.
Details: sanctuarymandela.com | 010 035 0368 | info@sanctuarymandela.com | 4, 13th Avenue, Houghton, Johannesburg.
The Wednesday Sessions at SIX Cocktail Bar
After a long Wednesday, surely you want to unwind and sip on a cocktail (or two with their Happy Hour Special). And there’s no better place to do that than at SIX Cocktail Bar in Melville. Join them for their jazzy Wednesday Sessions, where you can sit back, relax, and listen to some soul soothing jazz with friends, along with your favourite cocktail. Keep an eye on their Facebook page to see what you can expect with their upcoming Wednesday Sessions.
Details: Facebook | 083 623 7950 | sixcocktailbar@gmail.com | Corner 7th Street and 3rd Avenue Melville, Johannesburg.
Untitled Basement
Situated in the busy and bustling Braamfontein sits the Untitled Basement. Many say, “never heard of it” but the music hunters know all about. If you know where Artivist is, then surely you have heard about this pot of gold.
This is where some of the best musicians in the country come to showcase their art and experiment with the soothing sultry sounds of jazz and other awesome music. An alternative live entertainment space is something that the listener does not expect. It is unique and very artistic – showcasing character that music brings to the table.
Details: events@artivist.co.za | 071 850 5556 | 7 Reserve Street, Braamfontein
The Marabi Club
If you are looking for a new spot where jazz still lives on with its immaculate and smooth sounds, the unexpected New Doornfontein opens its small door of mystery to The Marabi Club.
Inspired by the significant Jazz culture that New Yorks’ Harlem has been known for, “Marabi” brings an electric and addictive vibe, not forgetting creativity at it’s best. This mysterious spot is absolutely beautiful, the décor gives you a whiff of nostalgia.
Details: info@themarabiclub.com | 010 591 2879 | 47 Sivewright Avenue, New Doornfontein, Maboneng
Niki’s Oasis
Just for exaggeration effect, Niki’s Oasis has been around since the AD’s. Niki’s has to be the most nostalgic environment to be in, as soon as you walk in.
This is one of the best spots to find Jazz and many other genres and performances such as spoken word. Their culture of word of mouth has kept this establishment up and running ever since and it has become a slip off the tongue name for many.
Some would call it rusty, I call it an “old soul’s heaven” type of place where you just feel at home – a must visit.
Details: mwnikza@iafrica.com | 067 881 3054 | 138 Bree Street, Johannesburg
Blind Tiger Cafe
The leafy suburb of Parkwood also boasts a spectacular venue for some Sunday Jazz. Join in their garden sessions on the last Sunday of each month. You can expect to be whisked away by local band, Runaway Train Cult. Be sure to enjoy a meal at the restaurant while you appreciate songs from the 1890’s with sounds of folk, Appalachian (originating from the region of Appalachia in the Eastern United States) Gypsy Jazz, New Orleans style of Jazz and Bluegrass.
Bookings are essential.
Details: info@blindtiger.co.za | 076 030 4200 | 62 Tyrone Avenue, Parkview, Johannesburg
Jazz Club Live Sessions at Mix Cocktail Bar
If you’re looking for a mid-week Jazz session, this is it! Meet Kopano Jazz Collective, a collection of musicians run by Godfrey Mntambo and Angus Hardcastle who charm crowds at the Rosebank cocktail bar on a Wednesday evening. For delicious food, glamourous cocktails and soulful sounds that are bound to get you in a jovial mood, be sure to keep an eye on their Facebook page for Jazz evening announcements.
Details: info@meshclub.co.za | 010 594 5545| 2nd Floor, Trumpet on Keyes, 21 Keyes Avenue Rosebank
Right when you thought Live Jazz was done for, and Joburg.co.za comes to the rescue, let’s go out and enjoy!
If you enjoyed reading this article about Jazz spots then read our must-visit Joburg restaurants article here.
