Ronnie Scott's, the world-famous jazz club, will host a free street party in Soho on Saturday, August 1, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The event, held on Frith Street, will feature two stages of live music showcasing London's finest jazz, soul, R&B, and gospel performers. Outdoor bars, street food kiosks, and family activities will also be available.
Celebrating Independent Venues
Fred Nash, managing director of Ronnie Scott's, said: "Before the festivals, the awards and the headline tours, there are independent venues where musicians can experiment, find their voice and connect with audiences for the first time. Those spaces are absolutely essential to the health of British music. The street party is our way of opening Ronnie Scott's up to everyone." He added: "By bringing free live music into the heart of Soho, we want to celebrate the incredible artists performing today while also recognising the wider network of grassroots venues that helps make careers like theirs possible."
History of Ronnie Scott's
Founded in 1959 by saxophonists Ronnie Scott and Pete King, the club originally opened on Gerrard Street, introducing post-war Brits to New Orleans sounds. It moved to its current location at 47 Frith Street in 1965. Known for its dim lights, velvet booths, and packed calendar of jazz, soul, and blues, Ronnie Scott's has hosted legends such as Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Jimi Hendrix, and Chet Baker.
Event Details
The free street party runs from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on August 1, with no admission fee. Attendees can enjoy performances on two stages, along with outdoor bars and street food. The event aims to highlight the importance of independent music venues in nurturing talent.
