Exploring the city’s rich musical heritage
Seattle has long been known for its musical roots. From the smoky jazz clubs of yesteryear to the revolutionary sounds of grunge that echoed around the globe, Seattle’s rich musical legacy continues to captivate and inspire generations of music lovers. Today, you can still find echoes of the city’s illustrious musical past reverberating through its streets, as vibrant live music venues, eclectic record stores, and a thriving indie scene continue to uphold its reputation as a musical mecca. Join us on a guided walking tour as we trace the evolution of Seattle’s music scene, exploring iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and popular venues that continue to shape Seattle’s ever-evolving sound.
Pioneer Square –– Our tour begins where the sounds of jazz once filled the air. Pioneer Square was home to numerous jazz clubs and speakeasies, drawing crowds of music lovers and performers alike. By the mid-1920s, Jackson Street was lined with jazz clubs. Not even prohibition could tame the speakeasies that thrived there. Later, in the 1940s, jazz entered its heyday, showcasing legendary musicians like Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald. Not long after came Ray Charles and Quincy Jones. Today, Seattle Jazz Fellowship continues to honor that musical legacy with live jazz performances from some of today’s greatest musicians.
As you stroll through the area’s cobblestone streets, be sure to check out The Central Saloon, an establishment that has withstood the test of time. Dating back to the 1890s, it is considered one of the oldest saloons in the city—once catering to miners, loggers, sailors, and other settlers to the region. In the 1980s, it became the birthplace of grunge, hosting favorites such as Alice in Chains, Soundgarten, Nirvana, and more.
Capitol Hill — Next, we head to Capitol Hill, once an epicenter of Seattle’s grunge movement. Iconic venues like Neumos are still hotspots to see touring indie bands. Another must-visit spot for music enthusiasts is Life On Mars, reminiscent of a record store, this plant-based restaurant and bar features a wall with more than 6,000 vinyl records. During happy hour, you can select a record from the wall and hand it to the bartender, who will then add it to the rotation, a fun spin on the traditional jukebox format.
While in the neighborhood, you won’t want to miss a visit to the Electric Lady Studio Guitar, a life-size bronze sculpture of Jimi Hendrix by Daryl Smith, at the intersection of Broadway and East Pine Street. The rock guitar legend was born and raised in Seattle. For more on Hendrix and other Seattle musical influences, check out the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).
Belltown — In nearby Belltown, get your indie fix at The Crocodile. While it has moved locations since it first debuted, this venue is known for its incredible lineups. Not surprisingly, it helped establish Seattle’s grunge legacy, hosting Nirvana and Pearl Jam. In more recent years, Lizzo and Billie Eilish have taken the stage.
Downtown – Pioneer Square isn’t the only place to hear great jazz. Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley first opened its doors more than four decades ago. Since then, it has become an institution among jazz enthusiasts, with greats like Dizzy Gillespie and Eartha Kitt playing there.
Music lovers may also want to visit KEXP, the city’s listener-supported music station and home to the Gathering Space, a hub featuring music, art installations, wi-fi, and cozy couches; Caffe Vita; and Light in the Attic Record Store. There is even a window that lets you watch the on-air DJs at work. In West Seattle, Easy Street Records, an independent record store, serves triple duty as a café and an occasional performance venue.
These are just a few of the musical highlights waiting to be explored. As you wander through Seattle’s diverse neighborhoods and visit its most iconic venues, you might just stumble upon a new rising star. You’re certainly sure to feel the pulse of the city’s vibrant music scene resonating through its neighborhoods, keeping the spirit of Seattle’s musical heritage alive and thriving.
