Although Memphis has a legacy that includes some of America’s greatest jazz musicians (including arguably the greatest jazz pianist ever, Phineas Newborn Jr.), it is rare to hear authentic jazz in Memphis nowadays. Such jazz as there is generally occurs at Bleu Restaurant in the Westin Hotel downtown, particularly on Friday nights. This past Friday night featured pianist Steven Lee with his trio, including young up-and-coming drummer Nigel Yancey, son of local veteran trumpeter and big band leader Johnny Yancey. The final set became something of a jam session, as it often does, featuring Johnny Yancey on trumpet and Kyle Lee on tenor saxophone. For those that want traditional, straight-ahead jazz rather than the smooth or neo-soul variety, Bleu on Friday nights is the place to be.
Bleu Restaurant
221 South 3rd Street
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 334-5950
http://www.downtownbleu.com/
Live jazz on Fridays from 7-11 PM, and on the last Sunday of each month
