Explore & Enjoy // Music & Nightlife
Jazz Venues
Jeff Ponders II
I’ve been performing jazz professionally for 20+ years, and a fan for even longer. I’ve been in the inner circles of Detroit jazz and continue to push the genre forward as an artist, practitioner, and patron of the music.
There’s something for everyone. No matter what type of jazz fits your tastes, you can find it here… and see the influence of SE Michigan jazz artists in every corner of the world.
1
Cliff Bell's
Cliff Bell's - Park Avenue, Detroit MI
One of the classic venues in Detroit, Cliff Bell’s features a great mix of local and national talent with live jazz programming 7 days per week.
2
Baker's Keyboard Lounge
Baker's Keyboard Lounge - Livernois Avenue, Detroit MI
The oldest jazz club in America is a mainstay for intimate experiences and amazing food.
3
Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe
Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe - Kercheval Avenue, Grosse Pointe Farms MI
Owned by Mack Avenue Records head Gretchen Valade, the Dirty Dog is reminiscent of classic jazz clubs in New York and boasts a rich mix of international and local talent each week.
4
MotorCity Wine
MotorCity Wine - Michigan Avenue, Detroit MI
Motor City Wine is one of the most diverse venues in Detroit, featuring a mix of jazz and house music. Mainstays like Ian Finklestein, Damon Warmack, and Brandon Williams deliver epic weekly performances that explore jazz, soul, and fusion.
5
Black Lotus Brewing Co
Black Lotus Brewing Co - East 14 Mile Road, Clawson MI
The Black Lotus features epic sessions on Wednesday nights hosted by Jimmy Heath & James King and others.
6
Northern Lights Lounge
Northern Lights Lounge - West Baltimore Street, Detroit MI
If you’re looking for a jam session, Tuesday nights with Dennis Coffey (Funk Brothers) and Wednesdays hosted by pianist Mike Jellick won’t disappoint.
7
Jazz Cafe At Music Hall
Jazz Cafe At Music Hall - Madison Street, Detroit MI
With a lineup ranging from Marcus Miller to up & coming young talent, the Music Hall Jazz Café delivers on the prestige of one of Detroit’s finest music houses in an up close & personal experience.
8
Orchestra Hall
Orchestra Hall - Woodward Avenue, Detroit MI
The Max Fisher/DSO Jazz Series is curated by Grammy Award-winning trumpeter Terence Blanchard. The lineup is ALWAYS epic, ranging from trios to full jazz orchestral ensembles.