Birdland is known for being one of the most iconic jazz clubs in New York City. First opened in 1949, Birdland has hosted legends like John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Count Basie, and many more. Here’s an overview of Birdland’s history and what makes it such a special venue.
History of Birdland
Birdland was founded by Morris Levy and named after famous jazz saxophonist Charlie “Yardbird” Parker. The original location was on Broadway near 52nd Street in Manhattan, an area known as a hotspot for jazz music. On December 15, 1949, Birdland opened its doors to the public. The venue quickly became a major stop for big bands and emerging bebop artists. within the first year featured performances by Parker, Bud Powell, Lester Young, and many other top names.
In the 1950s and 60s, Birdland cemented its status as the premier jazz club in New York. Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, and other legends frequently performed there. Jazz great Art Blakey and his band the Jazz Messengers had a residency at Birdland from the mid-50s through the mid-60s. This period was considered the club’s heyday.
The original Birdland closed in 1965 due to increased rents. It briefly reopened at a new location on Broadway in 1971, but it closed again after just nine years. In 1986, the current Birdland opened in Midtown and has remained a popular jazz club to this day.
Notable Performances
As one of the most storied jazz venues for over 70 years, Birdland has hosted countless legendary shows and recordings. Here are some of the most notable:
- Miles Davis – Recorded the highly acclaimed live album A Night at Birdland here in 1954 with his “First Great Quintet.”
- John Coltrane – Many live recordings were made of Coltrane’s performances at Birdland in the 50s and 60s, including Live at Birdland in 1964.
- Thelonious Monk – Monk’s quartet featuring John Coltrane played a lengthy residency at Birdland in 1957, cementing his rise to fame.
- Art Blakey – Blakey’s Jazz Messengers were essentially the house band at Birdland in the 50s and 60s, playing frequently at the venue.
- Billie Holiday – Holiday’s live album An Evening at Birdland was recorded here in 1954, one of her last before her death.
Other notable albums recorded live at Birdland include Sonny Rollins’ A Night at Birdland Vols. 1 & 2, Bud Powell’s Bud Powell at Birdland, and Dizzy Gillespie’s Perceptions. The list of jazz greats who have graced Birdland’s stage is endless.
Unique Architecture and Design
In addition to the music, Birdland became known for its unique underground architecture and vivid design scheme.
The original Birdland was located in the basement of a building on Broadway. Patrons descended a staircase to enter a cabaret-style space with a low ceiling. The constrained, underground atmosphere contributed to the intimate, smoky vibe.
Birdland’s interior featured a number of eye-catching decorative elements. Japanese paper lanterns and garden trellises adorned the room. A caged finch named “Charlie Parker” sat on the bandstand. The walls prominently displayed caricatures of jazz musicians hand-drawn by caricaturist Al Hirschfeld.
Later incarnations of Birdland have tried to preserve some of these signature design touches. The current Birdland room has brick walls, table lamps, and photos of jazz greats. While the space is no longer underground, the club aims to maintain some of the quirky, vintage atmosphere.
The Jazz Corner of the World
Birdland dubbed itself the “Jazz Corner of the World,” staking a claim as the most important jazz club globally. While hyperbolic, this motto captured Birdland’s significance in its heyday. During the 1950s, it was certainly the premier jazz venue in New York City if not the entire nation.
A major part of Birdland’s appeal was the opportunity for fans to see many of the biggest names in jazz perform in an intimate nightclub setting. Prior to Birdland, most leading bands and musicians played larger theaters. The chance to see jazz icons late into the night in a cozy jazz club made Birdland a special destination for serious jazz devotees.
The club also attracted celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Ava Gardner. Radio broadcasts from Birdland spread its name and reputation. Through the 50s and 60s, hearing “Live from Birdland!” on the radio cemented its status as the most famous jazz club around.
Ongoing Legacy
While its heyday has passed, Birdland retains its reputation as one of the most important venues in jazz history. Musicians still speak of playing Birdland with reverence. The current club continues to book top talent in jazz, serving as a reminder of its legacy.
Many of the greatest live jazz albums of all time were recorded at Birdland. For true jazz fans, these records capture the energy and atmosphere that made Birdland so special. Visiting Birdland remains a bucket list item, allowing fans to experience a room that’s hosted the true legends of jazz.
Conclusion
For over 70 years, Birdland has been a crucial New York City jazz institution. It rose to fame in the 1950s and 60s by hosting virtually every major star in jazz. With its underground cabaret design, Birdland created an intimate, distinctive atmosphere. The club became known as the premiere destination to see jazz icons in their element. Though its heyday has passed, Birdland remains a symbolic reminder of the Golden Age of jazz, with its roots firmly planted on the corner of 52nd Street and Broadway.