9th Annual Program Collaborates With Neighbors To Produce Free Performances In South Shore And Surrounding Neighborhoods
The Hyde Park Jazz Festival is pleased to announce the 9th annual Back Alley Jazz Program. Back Alley Jazz is inspired by the original jazz alley jams that took place in various locations on the South Side in the 1960s and 70s, and which still continue today in different forms. The project creates a contemporary neighborhood “happening” that animates, builds on, and celebrates Chicago’s history and the continuum of culture and art within communities.
9th Annual Program Collaborates With Neighbors To Produce Free Performances In South Shore And Surrounding Neighborhoods
2026 Back Alley Jazz
Back Alley Jazz will continue as a collaborative, neighborhood initiative in an extended format. We’ll present two free live performances in July and August in the South Shore and Greater Grand Crossing neighborhoods on the South Side. These pop-up performances will connect with existing block club gatherings and local events, with neighborhood groups providing performance locations and serving as hosts.
This year is especially special as the Hyde Park Jazz Festival celebrates 20 years. We’re looking forward to another year of joyful music-making that celebrates Chicago’s deep culture and creativity — right where it lives.
2026 Schedule
July 25th, Noon-7pm
7200 block of S. Luella (In partnership with 7400 block of S. Oglesby, and 7300 block of S. Paxton – Original BAJ location.)
12pm: Jazz In The Alley Legend DJs
2pm: Alysha Monique & The Family Divine
3:30pm: Lenard Simpson Quartet
5pm: Meagan McNeal
6pm: DJ Cordell Johnson
August 15th, 1pm-6pm
77th & King Dr.
2pm: Reginald T. McCants
4pm: Ari Brown Trio
5:30pm: Thaddeus Tukes Quartet
