Jazz first arrived in Singapore in the early 1930s, but it was only in the late 1940s when it really took off. Inspired by the spirited jazz beats of New Orleans, musicians like Gerry Soliano and Lionel Buenaventura helped shape the jazz scene in Singapore. Now, you can catch an unforgettable show inspired by NOLA’s liveliest jazz spots at ‘We call it Jazz’ in Singapore. Performed by a talented jazz band, timeless jazz hits sound between groovy improvisations inside a reimagining of a street-style bar from 1920s New Orleans.
On selected dates over the coming months, Zouk Singapore will be opening its doors to this 60-minute jazz spectacle. From “On The Sunny Side Of The Street” to “All of Me”, the evening’s setlist is packed with jazz classics we all know and love. Tickets are on sale now but spaces are limited, so make sure you get yours today!
What is ‘We call it Jazz’?
‘We call it Jazz’ is a 60-minute celebration of jazz music that transports audiences to the smoky bars and lively streets of 1920s New Orleans. Featuring a curated setlist of timeless classics like “When The Saints Go Marching In,” “Ain’t Misbehavin” and “Georgia On My Mind,” the show combines soulful vocal performances with spontaneous instrumental improvisations. The stage, illuminated by a vintage streetlamp, creates an intimate urban aesthetic where guests can soak in the rich sounds of jazz.
Jazz, its story and the show
Jazz originated in the vibrant streets of New Orleans in the early 20th century, emerging as a fusion of African, European and Caribbean musical traditions. Its roots lie in blues and ragtime, with defining features such as syncopated rhythms, improvisation, and expressive individuality. From its beginnings in African-American communities, jazz evolved into a global phenomenon, influencing genres like rock, pop, and hip-hop. Iconic artists like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald helped shape its legacy, making jazz synonymous with freedom and creativity.
At ‘We call it Jazz,’ audiences are immersed in the genre’s history through live performances of classics such as “Fly Me To The Moon,” “Summertime” and “Sing Sing Sing.” The musicians take turns showcasing their skills in electrifying solos while blending improvisation with beloved standards. The ambiance—soft lighting, soulful melodies and the option to sip on cocktails—recreates the magic of New Orleans jazz bars, offering an unforgettable journey through music.
Every note shares a story at ‘We call it Jazz’ in Singapore. There’ll be two performances on the night starting at 6:30pm and 8:30pm so you can choose the performance that best suits your schedule. Please note that seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis in each zone and late entry is not permitted, so we recommend getting to the venue with some time to spare.