A History of New York Jazz: 1920-1950

Introduction

The term “Jazz” has become a common part of the American vernacular, both as a noun to describe a type of music and as a verb to describe something that is fancy or enhanced beyond the norm, such as a “jazzed up” car or even another piece of music. For all of the free use of the term Jazz, however, very few people have likely given much thought, or taken the time to realize, exactly where the musical genre of Jazz came from, where it blossomed, and who helped it to do so. Controversial from its inception, often reviled in the mainstream press, but loved by a huge number of people of many different races and backgrounds, Jazz has had the power to ironically entertain, inspire, and offend simultaneously. Interestingly enough, however, this musical genre is generally accepted as being a truly American musical style, and from it, many other musical styles have been born, blended, and augmented. All of this can be better appreciated by even the most casual music fan by looking closer at Jazz history and the highlights of it.

Upon taking a closer look at Jazz history, prominent sources on the topic universally agree that 52nd Street in New York, from the 1920s to the 1950s, was the place and time of the heyday of Jazz (Porter, Reed, Shaw). With this in mind, this paper will take a trip back in time to the Jazz clubs of 52nd Street during that pivotal time, discuss and identify the prominent artists of the time, and also discuss Bebop, a close musical relative of Jazz. Upon conclusion of this research, the reader will have gained a higher understanding/appreciation, for this music.
A “Visit” to 52nd Street, Circa 1920-1950

In order to fully understand, and appreciate, the circumstances of the Jazz period of 1920-1950 in New York, ultimately coming to rest on 52nd Street, it is necessary to take a trip back in time to that era and learn exactly how/why Jazz came to locate where it did.