Top Live Jazz and Blues Clubs in St. Louis

St. Louis is always associated with Louis Armstrong and the blues legends who migrated here and to Memphis, Chicago and even Jackson, MS in search of exposure for their talents. Blues singers were often taken advantage of, looted by their managers and neglected by even their supporters, but still, somehow, they managed to play their hearts out and spread their music to Europe, who gobbled it up in the 30s and 40s. Music has always been a medium of ultimate democracy and it's true now in a city like St. Louis. Patrons can hear all sorts of live musicians play their specialties in lots of welcoming clubs all over the city.

736 S Broadway
Saint Louis, MO 63102
(314) 621-8811
This is a funky sort of down-home casual place that serves up great oysters and beer, along with some soul food regulars to a lot of devoted clientele who keep coming back. The music here is blues and jazz and it's a real music magnet all by itself. It's crowded, trendy and definitely trends to the younger crowds. Broadway Oyster Bar has lots of good reviews on citysearch that are pretty interesting. This is a frisky place, with occasional table dancing, stepping on toes and lots of action out on their popular patio. This is a must-visit place for St. Louis people who want an alternative to the beef-mania of the city. They serve great Cajun and down-home food to hungry dancers. It sounds like a place that would knock the socks off any college student. Call to get info on their covers or new bands performing the latest week.

Mississippi Nights may not be up everyone's alley, but there's no denying it's popular. It's drawn crowds with its U2 presentation and other national bands, while it also is a leader in letting local bands on stage to compete for their spot in the "sun." Its huge warehouse setting that seats over 1,000 easily makes it too hectic for many people, but the young crowds love it. Call them to see what's on the schedule and the weekend cover charges: 314-421-3853

Now, for those who are just plain blues addicts, try BB's Blues & Soups on Broadway. Call them at (314) 436-5222 fpr all the particulars. These people really venerate traditional blues and jazz and can bring in national and local talent to prove it. It's paid off, evidently, because of their suxxess over the years and their devoted local following. This club is deffinitely top-noch for bringing in the most talented and best-known blues players. It evidently is best for listening and not dancing and it draws crowds from the college ages to working professionals in their 30s and 40s. They have a good down-home menu, according to citysearch reviewers, and the sweet patato fries are recommended.