Live Music Bars

Question

Hi,

We're two adults arriving in Washington Friday 19 September from England leaving Tuesday 23 September for Philadelphia.

Any recommendations for live music bars?

We like soul and jazz, however have broad tastes, we are staying at the Hive on F Street.

Thanks Gary

Answer

Washington, D.C. has a vibrant live music scene, and staying near F Street puts you in a convenient location for exploring jazz, soul, and other genres. While many venues offer a mix of live music, some are particularly well-known for their jazz and soul performances. Here’s a detailed overview to help plan your evenings from Friday, September 19 to Tuesday, September 23.

Jazz and Soul Bars:

Blues Alley: Located in Georgetown, this historic jazz club has been hosting top-tier jazz acts for decades. It’s intimate, has great acoustics, and often features soul-infused jazz performances.
Bohemian Caverns: A classic jazz venue near U Street, known for its vaulted ceilings and exceptional live jazz and soul bands. Check their calendar for performances during your stay.
Twins Jazz: A cozy venue on U Street featuring live jazz, blues, and occasional soul. Offers an authentic D.C. jazz club experience with dinner service.

Other Live Music Venues with Broad Music Styles:

9:30 Club: One of D.C.’s premier music venues, offering a mix of indie, soul, funk, and other genres. Check the schedule for soul or jazz-themed nights.
JoJo Restaurant & Bar: Near U Street, known for intimate jazz sets with dinner and cocktails.
Hamilton Live: Near 14th Street, hosts soul, R&B, and jazz acts in a casual but lively setting.

Tips for Enjoying Live Music in D.C.:

Reservations are recommended for popular jazz clubs, especially on weekends.
Check performance schedules in advance, as some venues rotate genres nightly.
Consider exploring the U Street Corridor and Adams Morgan neighborhoods, which have multiple bars and clubs featuring live music and a vibrant evening atmosphere.
Some venues have cover charges or ticketed entry, so plan ahead to ensure you can attend your preferred shows.

Given your location at the Hive on F Street, most of these venues are accessible by short rideshare trips or Metro. For a concentrated music night, U Street is a great area to hop between clubs with jazz, soul, and blues performances.

In summary, for soul and jazz specifically, Blues Alley and Bohemian Caverns are must-visits. For a mix of live music, the 9:30 Club and Hamilton Live provide a broader experience. Checking schedules ahead of time will help you maximize your evenings in D.C.

Live Music Bars

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