| Manhattan, one of the best cities in the world to hear jazz, could not have become the music Mecca it is today if it weren't for places like Birdland. Originally opened in 1949, Birdland has traditionally booked double and triple bills of the best jazz musicians in New York, and that tradition continues today. Shows usually begin around 9pm and sometimes last until sun-up. The club's first headliner was jazz legend Charlie Parker. In fact, many jazz legends made Birdland their main stage, including John Coltrane, Count Basie, Thelonius Monk, and others. In its first five years of existence, 1,400,000 paid the $1.50 admission to enjoy the legendary performers here. All of this was when the club was located a few blocks from 52 Street, an area that was a hotbed for jazz. But when Rock & Roll emerged, Birdland suffered the new music craze and the club was forced to close down. It re-opened again in 1986 at Broadway and 105th Street in Uptown Manhattan. In ten years, more than 2,000 emerging artists performed at the club. Somehow, it just didn't have the same feel it was famous for when located in Midtown, though the acoustics were superb. Finally, the Birdland relocated once again to its current Midtown location. Not unlike years ago, the new Birdland offers top-flight jazz in a world-class setting. Of course, there's always good sight lines and acoustics, plenty of elbow room, and a kitchen that serves southern cuisine. |
