The renowned Blue Note jazz club, originally established in New York City, is set to launch its first venue in the UK next month in London.
Situated in the basement of the St Martins Lane hotel in Covent Garden, this new location aims to showcase an array of British jazz talent alongside esteemed international performers, featuring a lineup that includes both rising stars and well-known artists.
Since its inception in 1981 in Greenwich Village, Blue Note has grown beyond the borders of the United States, with venues in Japan, China, Brazil, and Italy. The opening in London marks the club’s inaugural presence in the UK.
Headlining the grand opening on September 23 will be Robert Glasper, the Grammy-winning pianist, producer, and songwriter from the US. This event will also commemorate the 100th anniversary of the legendary saxophonist, bandleader, and composer John Coltrane.
Glasper expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “London has been a significant supporter throughout my career from the very start, and I have always held great admiration for the UK’s vibrant musical culture, both past and present.”
He continued, “There exists a profound appreciation for music that challenges norms, and Blue Note has consistently fostered that ethos. Establishing this new venue is about creating a space where jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and various genres can converge, evolve, and surprise audiences.”
“I’m thrilled to develop something in London that feels intimate, adventurous, and dynamic – a venue where artists can experiment and audiences can engage closely with the music.”
The club will comprise two performance spaces. The main area, accommodating 250 guests, will host two shows nightly and will operate until 1 am from Monday to Saturday, and until midnight on Sundays. Tickets for the initial series of performances will be available for purchase starting August 14.
A secondary space, named B-Side, which will support up-and-coming British talent, is expected to open later this year with a capacity of 100.
Tsion Bensusan, co-owner of Blue Note Entertainment Group, described the launch as a “remarkable milestone,” noting, “London has long been one of the premier music capitals globally, rich in jazz heritage and a remarkably diverse creative community.”
He added, “We aspire for Blue Note London to evolve into more than just a venue; we envision it as a sanctuary for musicians, a hub for the community, and a vital component of London’s cultural scene.”
The venue’s lineup will feature performances and residencies from artists including neo-soul singer Erykah Badu, jazz-pop pianist and songwriter Jamie Cullum, acclaimed saxophonist and composer Nubya Garcia, drummer Yussef Dayes, the afrobeat group Kokoroko, and rapper Hak Baker.
Additionally, the club will offer occasional surprise performances from leading artists, providing audiences with the opportunity to enjoy world-class musicians in a cozy atmosphere, a signature feature of Blue Note locations around the globe.
