The Lineup

Thursday, April 2
Blue Devil Funk Band -- Jazz @ Noon, 12 pm (FREE)

Friday, April 3
Darron J & Go Hard Band -- Indigo Hour, 5:30 pm (FREE)
Carolina Calvache Quartet -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Saturday, April 4
Rob Tribb, Tribb III -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Monday, April 6
Heidi Lanita -- Monday Night Jam, 7 pm – 10:30 pm (FREE)

Thursday Jazz @ Noon — Blue Devil Funk Band (12 pm)

The KCKCC Blue Devil Funk Band brings DownBeat Student Music Award-winning talent to the Blue Room for a free lunchtime set. The Kansas City Kansas Community College ensemble has earned Outstanding Performance citations and continues to produce some of the most exciting young jazz musicians in the metro. Step away from the workday and into 18th & Vine.

Get Jazz @ Noon Tickets (FREE)

Friday Indigo Hour — Darron J & Go Hard Band (5:30 pm)

Darron J & Go Hard Band are the Blue Room’s most frequent Indigo Hour performers — over 20 appearances and counting. There’s a reason they keep coming back: Darron “DaRockboi” Cobbins doesn’t just perform, he throws a party. Powerhouse vocals, infectious energy, and a mix of R&B, soul, and funk that gets the whole room moving. Free admission and drink specials.

Get Indigo Hour Tickets (FREE)

Friday Headliner — Carolina Calvache Quartet (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Carolina Calvache is a Colombian pianist and composer who seamlessly blends jazz, classical, and Latin American folk into something entirely her own. Her debut Sotareno — featuring Antonio Sanchez, Jaleel Shaw, and Michael Rodriguez — was named one of the Best 10 Albums of 2014 by the Colombia al Dia Awards. She’s performed at the Apollo Theater, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, and jazz festivals across the Americas and Europe. Two sets of world-class jazz at 18th & Vine.

Get Friday Night Tickets

Saturday — Rob Tribb, Tribb III (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Rob Tribb (Robert W. Tribitt III) was born on the South Side of Chicago into a family steeped in music — his parents toured the country with the gospel group The Joy Ensemble. What started on the drums evolved into a deep love affair with the piano, and Robert’s versatility quickly set him apart. Since arriving in Kansas City, he’s become one of the city’s most dynamic creative forces — performing with artists like Jeanette Harris, Tom Browne, and Sean Tyler, touring internationally from Norway to the Caribbean, and winning the 2025 Kansas City People’s Choice Award for “Best Musician.” Two sets from a true community builder and gifted performer.

Get Saturday Night Tickets

Monday Night Jam — Heidi Lanita (7 pm – 10:30 pm)

Heidi Lanita leads the Monday Night Jam with a 45-minute featured set before opening the Blue Room stage to all musicians. Known for her captivating vocal presence, Heidi brings warmth and musicality to every performance. Bring your instrument or just your ears — it’s one of the best nights of the week at 18th & Vine. FREE admission.

Get Monday Jam Tickets (FREE)

Visit the Blue Room

The Blue Room is located at 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, inside the American Jazz Museum at the historic 18th & Vine district.

See the full schedule and get tickets at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

The American Jazz Museum, The Blue Room, and the Gem Theater have been nominated in seven categories in the 2026 Kansas City Favorites contest. Voting is open now, it’s free, and you can vote once per day, every day, through April 17.

Last year, more than 270,000 votes were cast. Imagine what happens when the jazz community shows up.

Vote now at votekc.com

What Your Vote Is For

The American Jazz Museum isn’t just a building at 18th & Vine. It’s the living room of Kansas City jazz — a place where Charlie Parker’s saxophone lives next door to a stage where new voices play every single week.

The Blue Room is one of the last dedicated jazz clubs in America operating inside a museum. Every Friday, Saturday, and Monday, musicians walk onto a stage that legends played decades ago. Your Indigo Hour happy hours, your Saturday night sets, your Monday Night Jams — they happen because this community shows up.

The Gem Theater has been the crown jewel of 18th & Vine since 1912 — hosting everyone from Count Basie to today’s emerging artists on one of the most storied stages in American music.

Winning Kansas City Favorites tells the whole city that these places matter — that people show up for jazz, for 18th & Vine, for the culture this neighborhood has carried for over a century. It costs nothing but a minute of your time, and it’s one of the most powerful things you can do for us this year.

Where We’re Nominated

American Jazz Museum

• Best Attraction

• Best Family Attraction

• Best Museum

The Blue Room

• Best Live Music Venue

• Best Date Night Spot

• Best Specialty Cocktails

Gem Theater

• Best Live Music Venue

The Blue Room and the Gem Theater are both nominated for Best Live Music Venue — which means 18th & Vine could take that category!

How to Vote

Voting is free, takes less than a minute, and requires no account or purchase.

Start here: votekc.com

Once you’re on the site, you’ll find us in two sections:

Under “Things to Do”:

• Attraction — American Jazz Museum

• Family Attraction — American Jazz Museum

• Museum — American Jazz Museum

• Live Music Venue — The Blue Room and the Gem Theater

Under “Eat & Drink”:

• Date Night Spot — The Blue Room

• Specialty Cocktails — The Blue Room

You can vote in every category. Vote once today, then come back and do it again tomorrow. And the day after that.

Need help finding us on the voting site?

These step-by-step guides show you exactly where to click. Open any of them and follow along.

Things to Do

• Attraction — American Jazz Museum

• Family Attraction — American Jazz Museum

• Museum — American Jazz Museum

• Live Music Venue — The Blue Room

• Live Music Venue — Gem Theater

Eat & Drink

• Date Night Spot — The Blue Room

• Specialty Cocktails — The Blue Room

Vote Every Day Through April 17

This is the part most people miss: you can vote once per day, every single day, until April 17 at 5:00 PM. One person voting daily for 17 days is worth more than 17 people voting once.

Bookmark the page. Set a phone reminder. Make it a thing.

Vote now at votekc.com

Spread the Word

Know someone who loves the Blue Room? A friend who brings out-of-town guests to the museum? A coworker who still talks about that Saturday night set? Forward this email. Share the voting link. Post it on social. Every vote counts, and every share multiplies.

Results will be announced on KansasCityFavorites.com and in the print magazine on July 12, 2026.

Thank you to everyone who visits the museum, catches a show at the Blue Room, fills a seat at the Gem, or tells a friend about what’s happening at 18th & Vine. These nominations belong to you as much as they do to us.

Now let’s go win them.

Vote now at votekc.com

The American Jazz Museum is located at 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108. Learn more at americanjazzmuseum.org.

The Lineup

Friday, March 27
Delynia Jannell -- Indigo Hour, 5:30 pm
Jazzy Jazz Miyagi -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Saturday, March 28
Lisa Henry -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Monday, March 30
Millie Edwards: A Tribute to Lori Tucker -- Monday Night Jam, 7 pm – 10:30 pm

Friday Indigo Hour — Delynia Jannell (5:30 pm)

Delynia Jannell has been singing since she was two years old, starting on the church pews at Bethel Church of God in Christ in Kansas City, Kansas. Over 13 years of professional performing, she’s become one of the Blue Room’s most frequent Indigo Hour artists — with residencies at Sullivan’s Steakhouse and both Johnnie’s Jazz Bar locations, and background vocals for Tech N9ne and Kelley Hunt. Gospel warmth, jazz polish, R&B soul. Free admission and drink specials.

Get Indigo Hour Tickets

Friday Headliner — Jazzy Jazz Miyagi (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Jazzy Jazz Miyagi came to the U.S. from Okinawa, Japan on a full scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music and continued at Berklee College of Music, studying under Lois Schafer of the Boston Pops and Boston Symphony Orchestra. She’s performed with Chaka Khan, Herbie Mann, Joe Sample, and Miroslav Vitous of Weather Report, and was chosen as a soloist for the grand opening of Kansas City’s Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Flute, classical guitar, koto — two sets of genre-bending brilliance from a world-class musician who calls KC home.

Get Friday Night Tickets

Saturday — Lisa Henry (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Lisa Henry is Kansas City jazz royalty. Her career began in KC nightclubs at age 17, mentored by the great Hammond B-3 player Everette DeVan. Since then: first runner-up in the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Vocals Competition, PBS’s In Performance at the White House, international tours with Herbie Hancock, Kenny Garrett, and T.S. Monk, and stages shared with Wayne Shorter, Roy Hargrove, Anita Baker, and Lou Rawls. A jazz educator with the Herbie Hancock Institute, Lisa is a living connection to the tradition that made 18th & Vine legendary.

Get Saturday Night Tickets

Monday Night Jam — Millie Edwards: A Tribute to Lori Tucker (7 pm – 10:30 pm)

Millie Edwards — “the little woman with the big voice” — leads a special tribute to Lori Tucker, her friend and fellow founding member of the award-winning Wild Women of Kansas City (alongside the legendary Myra Taylor). Lori performed with Everette DeVan and Richard “Groove” Holmes, sang the National Anthem for the LA Lakers and the KC Royals, and was celebrated across both jazz and gospel. A 45-minute tribute set followed by an open jam session. Bring your instrument or just your heart. FREE admission.

Get Monday Jam Tickets

Visit the Blue Room

The Blue Room is located at 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, inside the American Jazz Museum at the historic 18th & Vine district.

See the full schedule and get tickets at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

The Lineup

Friday, March 20
Lady D -- Indigo Hour, 5:30 pm
Eboni Fondren -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Saturday, March 21
Kim Keys -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Monday, March 23
Chris Hazelton w/ Emily Dix -- Monday Night Jam, 7 pm – 10:30 pm

Friday Indigo Hour — Lady D (5:30 pm)

Lady D brings her eclectic mix of jazz, old school R&B, and blues to the Blue Room’s Indigo Hour. She’s opened for Roger Troutman & Zapp, Brian McKnight, and Najee, and her crowd interaction is legendary — by the end of the set, you’re not just an audience, you’re part of “The Family.” Free admission and drink specials.

Get Indigo Hour Tickets

Friday Headliner — Eboni Fondren (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Eboni Fondren doesn’t just sing songs — she tells stories. One of Kansas City’s premier jazz vocalists with over 15 years of performing, Eboni represented the United States at the G20 Summit in India as a jazz ambassador. Her debut album The Journey: To Kansas City with Love is a tribute to the city and the legends who shaped her. She takes classic jazz and makes it feel fresh, intimate, and personal — with a little R&B remix and a lot of honesty. Recognized by The Pitch and the KC Jazz Ambassadors.

Get Friday Night Tickets

Saturday — Kim Keys (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Kim Keys is back at the Blue Room. The Arkansas native has built a devoted Kansas City following with her powerful voice, soulful R&B grooves, and above-and-beyond crowd participation. She’s opened for Lyfe Jennings, Tank, Monica, and Ashanti, and has provided background vocals for Michael Buble and Michael McDonald. Come ready to vibe.

Get Saturday Night Tickets

Monday Night Jam — Chris Hazelton w/ Emily Dix (7 pm – 10:30 pm)

Chris Hazelton is one of today’s foremost Hammond B-3 organists. A lifelong Kansas Citian, he studied under local legend Everette DeVan and the iconic Dr. Lonnie Smith. He’s a member of The Freedom Affair and The James Hunter Six, and teaches organ at KCKCC on DeVan’s personal Hammond B-3. Jazz vocalist Emily Dix joins him for a night of standards and soul-jazz grooves.

Monday Night Jam features a 45-minute set followed by an open jam session. Bring your instrument or just your ears. FREE admission.

Get Monday Jam Tickets

Visit the Blue Room

The Blue Room is located at 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, inside the American Jazz Museum at the historic 18th & Vine district.

See the full schedule and get tickets at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

The Lineup

Friday, March 13
J Love Band -- Indigo Hour, 5:30 pm
Deborah Brown -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Saturday, March 14
Queens of KC featuring J Love & Misha Alford -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Monday, March 16
Lisa Henry -- Monday Night Jam, 7 pm – 10:30 pm

Friday Indigo Hour — J Love Band (5:30 pm)

J Love (Jaime Chase) kicks off Friday at the Blue Room’s Indigo Hour with her signature soul, funk, and R&B. Known across Kansas City for her gritty, commanding vocals and magnetic energy, J Love and her band turn happy hour into a full-blown celebration. Free admission and drink specials.

Get Indigo Hour Tickets

Friday Headliner — Deborah Brown (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

When Deborah Brown takes the stage, you’re hearing one of the most celebrated jazz vocalists of her generation — and she’s from right here in Kansas City. Brown spent 12 years in Europe, performing with orchestras in Russia, Denmark, and Poland. She’s been featured at international jazz festivals, recorded multiple albums, and earned recognition from All About Jazz and the Kansas City Star. The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra tapped her for their “The Voice” concert series.

Her vocal delivery is rich, bluesy, and deeply personal. The Blue Room’s intimate setting is exactly where her artistry shines brightest.

Get Friday Night Tickets

Saturday — Queens of KC featuring J Love & Misha Alford (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Two of Kansas City’s most dynamic voices share one stage. J Love brings the soul and grit — channeling Aretha Franklin and Etta James into every note. Misha Alforddraws from gospel, jazz, and blues, with a vocal power honed on stages from the Blue Room to Starlight Theatre and the Midland. Together they’re the Queens of KC — and Saturday night belongs to them.

Get Saturday Night Tickets

Monday Night Jam — Lisa Henry (7 pm – 10:30 pm)

Lisa Henry is the essence of swingin’ cool. She’s performed at the White House, was first runner-up in the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Vocals Competition, and has toured internationally with Herbie Hancock, Kenny Garrett, and T.S. Monk. As a jazz educator with the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, she carries the legacy of the music into classrooms around the world.

Monday Night Jam features a 45-minute set from Lisa, followed by an open jam session. Bring your instrument or just your ears. FREE admission.

Get Monday Jam Tickets

Visit the Blue Room

The Blue Room is located at 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, inside the American Jazz Museum at the historic 18th & Vine district.

See the full schedule and get tickets at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

The Lineup

Friday, March 6 Darron J & Go Hard Band feat. Jaysol -- Indigo Hour 5:30 pm
J Love Band -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Saturday, March 7 Matt Otto Quartet feat. Heidi Lanita -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Monday, March 9 Angela Ward & Friends -- Monday Night Jam, 7 pm – 10:30 pm

Friday Indigo Hour — Darron J & Go Hard Band featuring Jaysol (5:30 pm)

Start your Friday at the Blue Room with Darron “DaRockboi” Cobbins and the Go Hard Band — back for another round of Indigo Hour energy. Darron and his band don’t just play a set; they throw a party. Expect high-energy R&B, soul, and funk with the kind of stage presence that gets the whole room on its feet.

This time they’re bringing Jaysol along for the ride — a Kansas City vocalist and bandleader who fronts Sol Movement, bringing over a decade of live performance experience and a voice rooted in classic soul. Free admission, drink specials, and dancing.

Get Indigo Hour Tickets

Friday Headliner — J Love Band (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

J Love steps into the Friday headliner spot for two full sets, and if you only know her from Indigo Hour, you’re in for a whole new experience. Known across Kansas City for her gritty, commanding vocals and magnetic energy, J Love channels the spirit of Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and Etta James into a live show that leaves nothing on the table.

Originally from Kennett, Missouri, she grew up surrounded by music — her grandfather a gospel singer, her cousin an R&B artist, the church her first stage. That foundation shines through in every performance. The J Love Band features some of KC’s finest musicians, and together they turn a Friday night into something you’ll be talking about all week.

Get Friday Night Tickets

Saturday Headliner — Matt Otto Quartet featuring Heidi Lanita (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Matt Otto is one of the most accomplished jazz saxophonists working today. An Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Kansas, Otto studied under Lee Konitz and Charlie Haden, co-founded the Los Angeles Jazz Collective, and has recorded on over 50 albums — including work with the Grammy-nominated Anthony Wilson Nonet. His releases on Origin Records have earned four-star reviews in DownBeat and All About Jazz.

But what you’ll hear Saturday night isn’t a resume — it’s a musician playing with lyrical depth, harmonic curiosity, and the kind of freedom that comes from three decades of dedication. His Kansas City-based quartet features some of the region’s finest players, and together they create intimate, searching jazz that makes the Blue Room the perfect room for it. Featuring vocalist Heidi Lanita.

Get Saturday Night Tickets

Monday Night Jam — Angela Ward & Friends (7 pm – 10:30 pm)

The week continues with Angela Ward & Friends at the Monday Night Jam. If you know the Blue Room, you know Angela — she’s been part of this room since the 18th & Vine district reopened in 1997, one of the most respected keyboardists in Kansas City jazz. She’s served as Musical Director for Jazz Night at the Sunflower Music Festival, conducted an 18-piece orchestra, and performs multiple times a week across the city.

Monday Night Jam features a 45-minute set from Angela and a hand-picked group of friends, followed by an open jam session where musicians are invited to sit in. It’s Kansas City jazz in its most natural form. Bring your instrument or just your ears. FREE admission.

Get Monday Jam Tickets

Visit the Blue Room

The Blue Room is located at 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, inside the American Jazz Museum at the historic 18th & Vine district.

See the full schedule and get tickets at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

Both shows are on Thursdays at noon. Come for the hour, leave with the music still in your head.

The Lineup

Thursday, March 5 Nneoma Lanea — 12 pm

Thursday, March 12 Heidi Lanita — 12 pm

Thursday, March 5 — Nneoma Lanea

Nneoma Lanea is one of Kansas City’s most compelling saxophonists — a musician who blends jazz, soul, and contemporary influences into something that’s entirely her own. Her performances are known for their emotional range: from searching, intimate solos to dynamic improvisations that pull a whole room into the music. She’s been building a devoted following across Kansas City, and the Blue Room’s noon hour is the perfect setting for a close encounter with her sound.

Get your tickets!

Visit the Blue Room

Both Jazz @ Noon shows are free admission and take place at:

The Blue Room 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108

See the full schedule at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

We’re Hiring at the American Jazz Museum

The American Jazz Museum is looking for two exceptional people to join our team. If you’ve ever wanted to work at the intersection of music, culture, history, and community — this is the place.

Education Programs Manager

The Education Programs Manager leads the development and delivery of educational programming for all ages — from Jazz Storytelling for young children to public programs for adult audiences. This role manages partnerships with schools, coordinates with the KC Jazz Academy, and brings the museum’s educational mission to life across the city. We’re looking for someone with a genuine passion for music and history who knows how to translate that passion into enriching, equitable learning experiences.

$40,000 – $50,000 | Based at 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO

Apply on Indeed

Director, Finance and Operations

The Director, Finance and Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for the museum’s financial health, fiscal integrity, and regulatory compliance. This includes overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, audit readiness, cash flow management, payroll coordination, and Board Finance Committee support. We’re looking for someone with deep nonprofit finance experience who wants to help steward an institution built on culture, community, and legacy.

$75,000 – $85,000 | Full-time | Based at 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO

Apply on Indeed

Both positions are based in Kansas City’s historic 18th & Vine district. If you know someone who’d be the right fit, please share — we’d love to build our next chapter with people who care about what we do.

Friday, February 27 Just A Taste A Jazz -- Indigo Hour, 5:30 pm The James Ward Band -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Saturday, February 28 Stan Kessler -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Monday, March 2 Ernest Melton -- Monday Night Jam, 7 pm – 10:30 pm

Friday Indigo Hour — Just A Taste A Jazz (5:30 pm)

Kick off your Friday with Just A Taste A Jazz, an ensemble that brings funky R&B and neo-soul grooves to the Blue Room’s beloved Indigo Hour. Led by Bobby D Adams, the band has become a Friday evening staple, building a loyal following with their infectious energy and tight musicianship.

Whether it’s original compositions or clever arrangements of classics, Just A Taste A Jazz brings a house-party vibe to the early evening — the kind of music that turns a post-work drink into the start of something bigger. Free admission, drink specials, and dancing.

Get Indigo Hour Tickets

Friday Headliner — The James Ward Band (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

The Blue Room doesn’t just have a house band — it has a house family. The James Ward Band — bassist James Ward, keyboardist Angela Ward, and drummer Jaylen Ward — have been the heartbeat of this place for nearly 30 years.

James got the call from Gerald Dunn to join the house ensemble in January 1998, just months after the 18th & Vine district’s revitalization launched. Angela found the Blue Room even earlier, wandering in during the district’s opening festivities in 1997 and sitting down at the piano. Nearly three decades later, they’re still here — deeper in the music, richer in their legacy, and just getting started.

James is one of Kansas City’s most versatile bassists, equally at home in jazz, gospel, Latin, and classical. Angela brings harmonic sophistication shaped by decades of performing and teaching. Jaylen has already performed internationally at festivals in Shanghai and Chile. Together, the Wards average over 250 performances a year and run the Comprehensive Arts Institute, bringing affordable music education to Kansas City’s young people. They’re not just playing the Blue Room — they’re the reason the Blue Room sounds the way it does.

Come feel the family magic. You’ll understand why this band is irreplaceable.

Get Friday Night Tickets

Saturday Headliner — Stan Kessler (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Stan Kessler is a living institution. Fifty years on the Kansas City jazz scene. Trumpet virtuoso. Composer. Educator. Duke Ellington Award winner. Kansas Music Hall of Fame. And still the guy who’ll tell you a joke between sets and make sure everyone in the room is having the time of their lives.

Kessler leads several ensembles — most notably The Sons of Brasil, where he explores the grooves of Brazilian and Afro-Cuban jazz — and The Stanton Kessler Quartet, where bebop meets modern sensibility. He’s worked with icons like Clark Terry and Paquito D’Rivera, recorded 12 CDs, and spent 25 years teaching jazz theory and improvisation to the next generation. He’s a musician’s musician and a people’s musician all at once.

But what makes a Stan Kessler night at the Blue Room special is the man himself: his virtuosity, his warmth, his absolute commitment to making sure the music connects. He’s the keeper of Kansas City’s jazz soul, and he’s ready to share it.

Get Saturday Night Tickets

Monday Night Jam — Ernest Melton Quartet featuring Paula Saunders(7 pm – 10:30 pm)

The week continues with Ernest Melton, one of Kansas City’s most compelling voices on the saxophone. A serious composer and bandleader, Melton draws inspiration from jazz legends like John Coltrane and Miles Davis, channeling their spirit into complex, deeply personal compositions.

This Monday Night Jam features a 45-minute performance from Melton, followed by an open jam session where other musicians are invited to sit in and collaborate. It’s a chance to experience Kansas City’s jazz ecosystem in action — serious artistry, collaborative spirit, and the kind of spontaneous creativity that defines the city’s music culture.

Featured artist: Ernest Melton (45-minute set) + open jam to follow. FREE admission.

Get Monday Jam Tickets

Visit the Blue Room

The Blue Room is located at 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, inside the American Jazz Museum at the historic 18th & Vine district.

See the full schedule and get tickets at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

Four acts. Two nights. The Blue Room keeps the music rolling at 18th & Vine -- starting with a special Jazz at Noon.

This Weekend’s Lineup

Friday, February 20
The Ward Family Band -- Jazz at Noon, 12 pm (free)
J Love -- Indigo Hour, 5:30 pm (free)
Robert “Imtume” Owens -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Saturday, February 21
Marcus J -- 8:30 pm & 10 pm

Special Jazz at Noon — The Ward Family Band (12 pm, Free)

Kick off your Friday early with a very special Jazz at Noon featuring The Ward Family Band. Bassist James Ward Sr., keyboardist Angela Ward, and drummer Jaylen Ward have been part of the Blue Room since the 18th & Vine district reopened in the late 1990s. James got the call to fill in with the house band in January 1998. Angela found the Blue Room even earlier, sitting down at the club’s piano during the district’s opening festivities. Their son Jaylen first performed with them at age six -- and just returned from performing internationally in China and Chile with Bobby Watson and Charles Williams.

Bring your lunch. The music starts at noon. Admission is free.

RSVP for Jazz at Noon

Friday Indigo Hour — J Love (5:30 pm)

Start your weekend right with J Love at the Blue Room’s Indigo Hour. Known across Kansas City for her gritty, confident vocals and magnetic energy, J Love (Jaime Chase) has been captivating audiences for years with a sound rooted in the greats -- Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Etta James -- delivered with a style all her own.

Originally from Kennett, Missouri, J Love grew up surrounded by music. Her grandfather was a gospel singer, her cousin an R&B artist, and the church was her first stage. As the frontwoman of the J Love Band, she brings a party every time she takes the stage. Expect sing-alongs, dancing, and the kind of energy that turns a Friday happy hour into a full-blown celebration.

Get Indigo Hour Tickets

Friday Headliner — Robert “Imtume” Owens (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

The Blue Room welcomes Robert “Imtume” Owens for an evening of sophisticated R&B and jazz. With a career spanning four decades, Owens is one of those rare vocalists who can move effortlessly between genres -- R&B, jazz, gospel, classical -- while making every note feel deeply personal.

His musical journey began at age seven on the streets of South Central LA. By eight, he was performing in the California state choir under the legendary Andre Crouch. He went on to study opera and jazz percussion, formed the fusion band Group Therapy, and spent a decade fronting the Midwest touring band Kokomo before collaborating with contemporary jazz artist Max Groove on a Billboard top-10 single. The credits kept stacking from there -- studio work and stages shared with Gerald Albright, Freddie Jackson, Najee, Grover Washington Jr., and Ashford & Simpson.

Come hear a voice shaped by a lifetime of music -- from gospel choirs to Billboard charts to the intimate stage of the Blue Room.

Get Friday Night Tickets

Saturday Headliner — Marcus J (8:30 pm & 10 pm)

Join us Saturday for a night with Marcus J (Marcus Williams), a rising voice in Kansas City’s vibrant R&B and soul scene. With albums like “Diary Of The Lover,” “Smooth Talking,” and “Secrets,” Marcus J has built a reputation for silky vocals and songs that move between slow-burn romance and feel-good grooves.

His sound draws from the deep well of classic R&B while keeping things fresh and contemporary. Saturday night at the Blue Room is always a vibe, and Marcus J is the perfect artist to set the tone. Pull up a seat, order a drink, and let the music take over.

Get Saturday Night Tickets

Visit the Blue Room

The Blue Room is located at 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, inside the American Jazz Museum at the historic 18th & Vine district.

See the full schedule and get tickets at americanjazzmuseum.org/blue-room.

The restoration will transform four key areas of the museum: relocating and expanding the Blue Room to accommodate 180-200 guests with improved sound, acoustics, and lighting; creating a new cafe and expanded retail space; reorganizing exhibit galleries including a new rotating exhibition space; and upgrading back-of-house operations.

The announcement drew strong, immediate coverage from Kansas City media. Here’s what they’re saying.

Kansas City Star

Star columnist Toriano Porter wrote in support of the project ahead of the council vote, framing it against the national backdrop of attacks on cultural institutions:

“No one should want to see an inkling of that happen to such an iconic place as the American Jazz Museum. Kansas City must continue to support one of its very own treasures.”

Porter highlighted the museum’s trajectory from financial troubles in 2018 to its current momentum, calling the restoration “the foundation necessary for the museum to become self-sufficient.”

After the vote, Joseph Hernandez reported on the unveiled renderings and floor plans, noting the project’s place within a broader reimagining of the 18th & Vine district -- alongside the Black Movie Hall of Fame at the Boone Theater and the Parade Park Homes redevelopment.

Read Toriano Porter’s column
Read the KC Star news story

Porter also covered the story on TikTok: TikTok: Restoration project overview TikTok: Follow-up coverage

KCTV5

KCTV5 covered the unanimous council vote as the museum’s “first major renovation in 25 years,” detailing the $3.5 million breakdown: $2 million from the Convention and Sports Complex Fund, $1.2 million from the 3rd District Public Improvements Advisory Committee Contingency Fund, and $300,000 from AJM.

Mayor Quinton Lucas was quoted: “The American Jazz Museum is a world-class cultural institution right here in Kansas City. The City’s investment will help the museum continue sharing our city’s incredible jazz history with the next generation.”

Read the KCTV5 story

FOX4 Kansas City

FOX4’s Alyssa Mueller and Matt Stewart reported on the project details, noting the Blue Room’s planned expansion and the connection to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum’s eventual relocation across the street on The Paseo.

Read the FOX4 story

KSHB (41 Action News)

Gary Brauer at KSHB covered the council’s approval alongside renderings of the new Blue Room and cafe spaces. The story ran adjacent to their preview coverage of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum’s own plans for the district.

Read the KSHB story

KC Chamber of Commerce

The KC Chamber published AJM’s full press release, positioning the project as a milestone for the 18th & Vine district and the broader Kansas City cultural landscape.

Read the KC Chamber story

Additional Broadcast Coverage

Local TV stations covered the story across multiple broadcasts on February 12-13. The restoration project also appeared in community outlets:

• Tony’s Kansas City

• NewsBreak

Sporting KC Connection

In a related story, Sporting KC unveiled a new secondary jersey honoring the 18th & Vine district, underscoring the neighborhood’s growing cultural visibility.

FOX4: Sporting KC honors 18th & Vine

The 2026 AJM Restoration Project was sponsored by 3rd District Councilwoman Melissa Robinson and co-sponsored by Councilmembers Crispin Rea (4th District) and Andrea Bough (6th District). For more information about the American Jazz Museum, visit americanjazzmuseum.org.

He’s young. He’s traveled. And he’s paying attention – not just to the music, but to the architecture, the fashion, the food, the way different cultures hold space for art. We sat down with Jaylen to talk about what happens when a Kansas City musician takes the music out into the world and brings the world back home.

You’ve performed in multiple countries. How has playing for international audiences shaped your sound?

South American, Cuban, Afro-Cuban music has been a huge part of my musical upbringing. Artists like Ray Obiedo, Chiquito, Tito Puente, Changuito, and Carlos Santana have been huge influences on me. Playing for international audiences brings those influences full circle – you’re not just studying the music anymore, you’re inside it.

Is there a particular city or country that had a major impact on you creatively?

Chile was incredible. There was this great mixture of influences from different regions in South America – Peru, Bolivia, Argentina – all converging because of the geography. I was fortunate to meet so many musician friends and exchange knowledge of Chilean music.

And then Beijing. There’s the Forbidden City, this Royal Palace that’s thousands of years old. The infrastructure has very intricate symbolism built into the design of the temples. Every single line, every repeating pattern directly correlates to historical details – royal rankings, the role everyone has in the temple, spiritual animals associated with each royal family. The amount of detail is captivating. That kind of intentionality in design speaks to me as a musician.

What are the biggest differences you’ve noticed between audiences in the U.S. and audiences abroad?

The audience in other countries is a lot more interactive. The reason goes back to cultural significance. Jazz in America was conceived as sophisticated social music, especially after the 1950s, when it became “sit down and listen” music. Before that era, jazz was dance music. International audiences often still carry that older, more physical relationship with the music.

Can you share a moment from touring where you felt, “This is exactly why I do this”?

Sharing with other musicians is such an amazing experience. These are memories that can only be created with each other. Some of the greatest musicians I’ve ever met were from overseas. Every act at the Valparaiso Jazz Festival had a completely unique sound. That’s the thing about festivals – you’re not just performing, you’re absorbing.

How have the cultures and styles you’ve encountered influenced the projects you’re working on now?

It adds more colors to my palette. Having influences outside of jazz is what expands the human experience of being a musician. If you’re a rock musician, have more influences outside of rock. If you’re a jazz musician, have more influences outside of jazz. If you’re a country musician, have more influences outside of country. The broader your palette, the more honestly you can express what you’re hearing.

How do you prepare to collaborate with musicians from different cultural or musical traditions?

The same way I’d prepare to collaborate with anybody: listen. The more I listen and remind myself to be myself, the more music flows out of everyone. Music is a very unifying experience. It is the universal language of the world. That’s what makes traveling so beautiful.

Are there international artists who’ve significantly influenced your direction?

I’ve been great friends with Felipe Duhart, Felipe Canales, Daniela Conejero, Italo Aguilera, and Felipe Conejero for the past three years, ever since my mother Angela Ward’s first visit to South America for the Semanas Musicales Rhythm Between River & Lake Festival in Frutillar, Chile. We’ve been avid collaborators ever since.

How do the stories from your travels show up in your compositions?

I want to write more music about the experiences I’ve had in recent travels. I still feel like I’m processing. What I have been expressing is my love for modern Asian fashion and Chile’s modern street fashion. I really love the use of denim in Asian clothes, and the use of woven wool clothing in South America. I’d like to incorporate all of that into my compositions – the textures, the layering, the way different cultures approach material and form.

If you could choose one venue to return to for a dream performance, where would it be?

Blue Note Beijing, Jazz at Lincoln Center Shanghai, and the Municipal Theater of Valparaiso. I also want to visit Santiago – quite a few musicians from Santiago were in Valparaiso when I was there, and I’d love to see what’s happening in their home city.

What challenges have you faced touring internationally?

I only learned enough Spanish and Chinese to get by at grocery stores and basic situations. I had to always travel with someone who could speak both English and the native language. That’s a real limitation, and it makes you appreciate the people who bridge that gap for you.

How do you stay grounded while constantly moving between countries and time zones?

Eat less. It gets difficult when you want to try everything. At the same time, food in other countries is a lot more filling, so it’s actually easier to stay healthy traveling internationally than in the States. Jetlag, though – that’s another story. It wasn’t bad flying there, but coming back I had to sleep throughout the day and take as many naps as possible on the plane to maintain my sleep pattern.

Is there a festival or stage that pushed you creatively?

Anytime I’m sharing the stage with Bobby Watson, it’s not only an educational experience in music, but in life. I feel very privileged and grateful to have shared the stage with Bobby Watson at the Super Bund festival.

How has global exposure shaped your identity – not just as an artist, but as a person?

It’s given me a chance to see my influences not only in music, but in fashion, art, and social and political perspective. You come back different. You can’t unsee the world.

What advice would you give young musicians who dream of taking their music international?

Absorb every aspect of art from other countries – visual art, architecture, sculpting, music, literature, languages, the cultural significance of historical events. This will shape you into a unique musician. It’s also equally important to gravitate toward the cultures you connect with most, and to study the culture of your own heritage as deeply as possible. Then find the correlations between them. That’s where your voice lives.

Jaylen Ward is a Kansas City-based drummer and member of the Ward family rhythm section. He has performed internationally with Bobby Watson, Charles Williams, and James Ward as part of the American Jazz Museum’s cultural exchange programs. Follow the American Jazz Museum for more artist stories and conversations at americanjazzmuseum.org.

Join us today at the Blue Room for Jazz at Noon featuring the extraordinary Charles Williams on piano. The music starts at 12 pm, admission is free, and you're welcome to bring your lunch and enjoy the show.

Charles Williams is a Kansas City native who has been playing piano for over 40 years. A product of the legendary Sumner High School jazz program -- the band that was named "the best High School Band in the World" at the 1972 Paris International Jazz Festival -- Charles cut his teeth playing alongside giants like Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, Clark Terry, and Cannonball Adderley during the Turner House Jazz series in the 1970s. Today he serves as pianist for the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, a role that has taken him to festivals in Germany and Poland. He is also an instructor at the American Jazz Museum's Jazz Academy, a member of the Museum's board of directors, and a dedicated mentor to young musicians across the KC area.

Don't miss this chance to hear one of Kansas City's own keeping the tradition alive. See you at noon.

Joining The Blue Room in 1997

When asked how her journey began, Bronya’s answer is simple: “I joined The Blue Room on October 3rd, 1997. Andre hired me. Back then, the City didn’t own The Blue Room. It was contracted out, and every two years people would bid to run it.”

When management changed, she stayed—and has been here ever since. What began as a server position has grown into a nearly 30-year legacy.

A Server, a Storyteller, and a Steady Presence

Bronya was originally hired as a server but soon found herself helping with bartending and special events. Over the years, she gravitated back to serving, where her consistency and skill shine most.

“I’m good at my job, and they like that. That’s where I’m most needed.”

Her warmth and professionalism have become part of The Blue Room’s fabric.

Her Most Unforgettable Night: The Night Prince Walked In

Of all her memories, one stands above the rest: the night Prince visited The Blue Room.

“It was a Monday Night Jam. Prince had a concert downtown the next day, but he and his band came in. His band jammed with the musicians here. Just as he was coming to the stage, the electricity went out. They never turned the lights back on.”

Only one staff member was allowed into Prince’s private seating area—Bronya.

“Every chance I got, I checked on him. I asked for a picture, an autograph, and he just said, ‘No, baby, I don’t do that.’ But being right there with him? That was excellent. Prince is a legend.”

Keeping Her Energy Up: The Kombucha Ritual

Long nights require stamina, and Bronya swears by one ritual: “I drink kombucha. Every night we’re open, I bring one. It gives me a burst of energy when I get tired. I drink all the flavors. Synergy is the brand.”

How The Blue Room Has Evolved

While the venue has remained true to its roots, a few changes have shaped its modern feel:

- Pillars that once separated upper and lower seating were removed after guests complained about blocked views; they now line the East Wall.

- The iconic Blue Room sign above the stage was added later.

- Otherwise, the vibe has stayed classic, intimate, and uniquely Kansas City.

Friday Nights, Indigo Hour, and Crowd Favorites

Fridays are her longest and busiest shifts. “Indigo Hour starts at 5:00 PM, the main show at 5:30 PM. Before COVID, we stayed open until 1:00 AM. Now we close at 11:00 PM.”

Saturdays vary depending on who’s performing—regulars have their favorites.

The Blue Room OGs

With nearly three decades at the venue, Bronya is one of its longest-serving team members. When asked who else qualifies as an “OG,” she names a few standouts:

- Ronnie — “Everybody calls him ‘the mayor.’ He came shortly after I started and did an excellent job keeping the place up.”

- Gerald and Drew — Became more involved after the City took over operations and folded The Blue Room into the museum’s staffing structure.

Hopes for the Future of 18th & Vine

As new development continues across the district, Bronya has a clear vision for preserving The Blue Room’s identity.

“I would not turn it into a restaurant. Food grease and odors would destroy the historical artifacts. You can’t get that back.”

She also believes the long-discussed idea of uniting two cultural pillars is overdue: “The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the American Jazz Museum should merge. When the Monarchs played and Satchel Paige pitched—jazz was happening too. It’s all Black history.”

Gratitude, Growth, and God’s Grace

When reflecting on her years of service, Bronya’s gratitude is front and center: “God has blessed me. I owe everything to Him—the time I’ve had here, the people who believed in me, the strength to do this work.”

She speaks proudly of the team’s dedication, especially during short-handed nights, and of how much effort goes into making every guest feel welcome.

“This job keeps me sharp. It teaches you to multitask and to be patient. I didn’t have patience when I started, but I’ve learned.”

A Legacy of Service

The Blue Room remains one of Kansas City’s most iconic cultural spaces—and team members like Bronya Vine are a big part of the reason why.

Her passion, loyalty, and lived history enrich every night of music, every guest interaction, and every moment inside the venue.

The American Jazz Museum is proud to honor her commitment as we celebrate the past, present, and future of jazz on 18th & Vine.

“Everything I do revolves around the care of our collections and maintaining their documentation, preventive conservation, curatorial work, and digitization.”
— Jordan M., Registrar & Collections Manager

At the American Jazz Museum, every artifact tells a story from the smooth brass of a trumpet to the handwritten notes of a jazz legend. Behind the scenes, Registrar & Collections Manager Jordan M. ensures those stories are preserved, documented, and shared with care.

For the past two years, Jordan has played a vital role in safeguarding the museum’s growing collection and keeping jazz history alive for generations to come.

A Week in the Life: Caring for a Living Legacy

Most days, Jordan can be found processing artifacts and identifying, cataloging, and assessing their condition. It’s meticulous work that blends science, history, and artistry.

She also collaborates with volunteers, conducts research, and supports curatorial projects. “Every day brings something new,” she says.“From assisting scholars to preparing artifacts for display, my work keeps me close to the heart of our mission.”

Collecting with Purpose

When the museum decides to acquire or retire an artifact,Jordan looks to its Scope of Collections, a guiding document that defines what stories the museum seeks to tell.

“We strive to collect artifacts that represent and embody the history of jazz and its influence on American culture,” Jordan explains.

This includes pieces connected to the 18th & VineJazz District, as well as broader American jazz stories. Each new object is carefully assessed for its authenticity, rarity, and contribution to the larger narrative.

Preservation in Practice

Preserving history takes more than storage space and it requires science, vigilance, and creativity.

“Two big challenges always stand out: the environment and time,” says Jordan. “We carefully manage temperature, humidity, and light levels to protect artifacts, and we work to slow their natural aging as much as possible.”

Her work ensures that everything from fragile instruments to vintage recordings is protected for future generations.

Making Jazz History Accessible

The museum’s collections come to life through exhibitions such as Jazz Abroad in the Ida McBeth Gallery and JazzIllustrated at the Black Archives of Mid-America.

Jordan’s next big goal? Expanding digital access.

“A major goal of the Collections Department is to build an online database where visitors can explore artifacts that aren’t on display,”she says.

In the meantime, she plans to highlight treasures like John Coltrane’s dog tags and original artwork byMiles Davis and Les McCann through social media and educational content.

A Favorite from the Archives

When asked to pick a favorite piece, Jordan doesn’t hesitate.

“It may not be the ‘jazziest’ thing we have,” she laughs,“but I love our graphophone. It’s one of the oldest objects in the collection and a fun way to talk about how music technology evolved—from mechanical playback to digital streaming.”

The graphophone may be a relic of the past, but in Jordan’s hands, it connects visitors to the continuous innovation of music itself.

Preserving the Pulse of Jazz

Jordan’s two years at the American Jazz Museum have been defined by her deep commitment to care, authenticity, and access. Whether cataloging a new donation or adjusting light levels in a gallery, her work ensures that jazz history remains vibrant and accessible.

“Our job in preservation is to slow time, to keep these stories alive for the next audience waiting to be inspired.”

About the American Jazz Museum

Located in Kansas City’s historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, the American Jazz Museum celebrates the past, present, and future of jazz through exhibitions, performances, education, and community engagement.

Follow us for more behind-the-scenes stories:

🌐 americanjazzmuseum.org
📸 @ajazzmuseumkc

#MeetTheTeam #JazzHistory #MuseumLife #JazzDistrict

“We are thrilled to welcome Jill into this pivotal role,” said Stephenie K. Smith, MSW, Chair of the Board. “Her strategic insight and dedication to quality will be instrumental as we continue to advance the Museum’s mission and build toward a vibrant future.”

Jill’s leadership marks an exciting chapter for the Museum, as we deepen our impact, expand community engagement, and honor the legacy of jazz.

Ms. Johnson is a Kansas native and obtained her degree at Wichita State University. She continues her responsibilities as Director of Development at AJM and brings extensive leadership experience. Ms. Johnson comes from a strong background in the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism and Hospitality industries. She has served in the capacity as a Director of Development, Vice President of Operations, Interim President of Chamber of Commerce, and other senior leadership positions.

Ms. Johnson’s background in fundraising, operations, and community partnerships will help ensure continuity as the American Jazz Museum moves into its next chapter.

After parking, follow the sidewalk toward the Jay McShann Pavilion and enter through the museum’s recommended back entrance. Our updated parking map below shows the easiest route.

If you need help during your visit, call us at (816) 474-8463.

As of 2025-12-24, here is information on accessible sidewalks and entrances for the American Jazz Museum and Gem Theater.

These changes will apply Monday morning through the end of the workday on Thursday. During this time, some entrances along 18th Street will be unavailable.

An updated pedestrian access map is posted below, showing the ADA-compliant accessible route as well as alternate (non-compliant) paths to help visitors navigate safely to open entrances, including the Museum’s North Entrance, The Blue Room, and The Gem Theater.

Importantly, weekend access will remain the same as it has been—no additional restrictions are planned outside of the weekday construction window.

We appreciate your patience as this work is completed and encourage all visitors to use the marked accessible routes during this time.

Day Six will take place December 31, 2025, at the historic Gem Theater (1615 East 18th Street, KCMO).

The evening begins with the African Market opening at 6:00 PM, followed by a procession and program at 7:00 PM. This year’s theme is “Triumph in a Time of Crisis.”

This event is free and open to the public.

For more information, please contact 816-527-6616.

We look forward to welcoming the community for an evening of tradition, reflection, and celebration.

Please allow me to extend my deepest gratitude for the outstanding performances today. Our students represented the Jazz Academy with excellence, poise, and artistry—your work made us truly proud. Both students and instructors demonstrated the highest standards of musicianship and professionalism, and I could not be prouder of the Academy’s representation.

With much respect and admiration, I want to acknowledge Clarence Smith for his leadership grounded in excellence, patience, humility, and an unwavering pursuit of quality. Your dedication is evident in every success we celebrate.

I would also like to express sincere appreciation to CharCarol Fisher and Stan Kessler for their steadfast support of the Jazz Academy and its continued growth. Your commitment strengthens the foundation of our work and inspires our community.

A heartfelt commendation goes out to all of our instructors, who continue to model excellence not only through their guidance but also through their own performances. Your dedication, artistry, and tireless commitment provide our students with a clear and inspiring path forward.

I also wish to extend a special thank you to the parents, grandparents, and guardians who place their confidence in our organization by allowing your students to participate. We could not do what we do without your continued support, encouragement, and trust.

Thank you as well to our Board of Directors for attending and supporting the Academy today. Your engagement reinforces the value of our shared vision, and your presence means more than words can fully express.

As a final reminder, Jazz Academy registration is now open. We look forward to welcoming returning and new students as we continue this meaningful work together.

With respect and appreciation,
Jill Johnson

Interim Executive Director

A group of celebrated Kansas City jazz musicians recently traveled to China for a series of performances, community visits, and a masterclass highlighting the global reach of our city’s jazz legacy. Saxophonist Bobby Watson, pianist Charles Williams, bassist James Ward, and drummer Jaylan Ward were invited by the Edgar Snow Memorial Foundation (ESMF) to participate in their bi-annual symposium in October.

During the trip, the quartet performed in multiple cities and led a jazz masterclass for local musicians. “They love jazz, and we were over there to share our knowledge and have fun,” Williams said. “It was just fantastic.”

The musicians also joined staff from Children’s Mercy Hospital for visits to Chinese hospitals, where they performed for patients and met with families and clinicians.

The symposium honors the legacy of Kansas City–born journalist Edgar Snow, whose reporting in the 1930s and 1940s helped shape early Western understanding of modern China. ESMF board member Allan Gray helped organize and fundraise for the musicians’ visit.

Read and listen to the full story on KCUR