1955-1964
2203 E. Madison St.
In the same building as the Savoy Ballroom before it, Birdland showcased the best of jazz and rock’n’roll. From the local stable, Dave Lewis often presided, but the club also hosted R&B stars such as Percy Mayfield and T-Bone Walker. On the jazz front, Thad Jones and Pony Poindexter performed here. Birdland was popular. And hip. Bassist Buddy Catlett recalled walking in one night and seeing a band that featured Ray Charles playing bebop piano with Floyd Standifer, Roscoe Weathers, Milt Garred and Jimmie Rodgers. Gerald Brashear and his brother Buddy performed here, as well. Tenor sax man Gary Steele recalled running into Governor Rossellini and Count Basie singer Joe Williams at Birdland.
Jackson Street After Hours (print only). https://historylink.org/File/8415