The photos that line the walls pay tribute to Kansas City musicians from the swing era, including Count Basie, Mary Lou Williams, Charlie Parker, and even “Pops” McFadden and his tap dancing group. Much of the music embodies the distinct, local style from the prewar years, but it also ventures beyond that in fusion-style tunes. Head down the steps of the historic Ambassador Hotel and you will enter a quaint, elegantly decorated speakeasy, with McFadden and his bandstand before a backdrop of red velvet curtains. McFadden has been playing since the seventies, continuing the legacy of his father, Jimmy “Pops” McFadden, who was also a sensational performer on the scene nearly a century ago. While Lonnie’s Reno Club may be the city’s newest jazz club, owner and beloved jazz musician Lonnie McFadden is no stranger to the scene. Here’s where to immerse yourself in Kansas City’s rich musical heritage right now. Check out the comprehensive calendar of local jazz at, and you’ll see that this town still swings every night of the week, from divey spots serving beer in red plastic cups to swanky spots where you’ll feel underdressed without a fresh shoe shine. Kansas City has historically been home to innovators.īut Kansas City’s jazz scene is not a museum piece. It was during Kansas City’s Jazz Age when Charlie Parker cut his teeth improvising, Count Basie swang, Mary Lou Williams crafted killer big band arrangements and Lester Young developed his cool, melodic solos. Kansas City jazz, a distinct style heavily rooted in the blues tradition, as well as ragtime, contributed greatly to the development and prosperity of old “Kaycee” during the Jazz Age. Much like barbecue and speakeasies, jazz is deeply ingrained in the city’s identity. For the past century, Kansas City has been home to one of the country’s most vibrant jazz scenes.

Kc jazz district