3 Harlem Jazz Spots Where Billie Holiday Once Sang—That Are Still Around Today
- Apr 7
- 1 min read
Happy birthday to Billie Holiday—born Eleanora Fagan on April 7, 1915.
As a young teen Holiday moved with her mother to Harlem, where she launched her singing career soon after.
The legendary vocalist didn't just get her start uptown, but sang at many of its jazz joints throughout her life.
Amazingly, three of them still stand today, including the spot where she was discovered.
Bookmark this post and make sure to visit them all (at least from the outside):
2116 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd and W 126th St
Built in 1905 as a vaudeville theater, this historic space became a hot spot during the Harlem Renaissance, hosting jazz stars including Holiday. Today the private event space has two renovated ballrooms that can be rented for weddings, parties, corporate events and more.
253 W 125th St between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. and Frederick Douglass Blvds
Holiday made her debut at the legendary Harlem venue in the 1930s at the age of 19. She went on to appear here nearly 30 times. Note: The Apollo Theater is currently closed while undergoing renovations.
148 W 133rd St between Malcolm X and Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvds
Now known as the jazz club Bill's Place, this address was once home to a speakeasy where, according to legend, record producer John Hammond first heard Holiday sing when she was 17.
