Atlanta is a city that moves to its own rhythm. For decades, it has been a center for both soul music and jazz, creating a unique sound that fans call soul-jazz. This genre mixes the smooth improvisations of jazz with the deep, emotional grooves of R&B and gospel. Today, the city is buzzing with the Atlanta Soul-Jazz Series, a collection of performances across various venues that celebrate this rich musical heritage.
For anyone looking to experience the best of this scene, knowing where to go is the first step. The city offers everything from intimate cafes to grand outdoor stages, ensuring there is a spot for every kind of music lover.
The Heart of the Scene: St. James Live
If there is one place that defines the soul-jazz experience in Atlanta, it is St. James Live. Located on the south side of the city, this venue has earned a reputation as a premiere listening room. It is designed for people who truly want to hear the music, with high-quality sound and a layout that puts the focus on the stage.
The venue frequently hosts the South City Jazz series, which features both local legends and national stars. In February 2026, the lineup included performances by Groove Centric and saxophonist Marion Meadows. These shows often sell out because they offer a rare chance to see world-class musicians in a space that feels like a private club.
“Our goal is to provide an environment where the music is the priority,” says the management at St. James Live. “When you walk in, you aren’t just a customer, you are part of a community that loves the soul of jazz.”
Intimate Vibes at Kat’s Cafe
While St. James Live offers an upscale experience, Kat’s Cafe in Midtown provides a more grassroots feel. This cozy spot is famous for its “good vibes” and intimate atmosphere. It is the kind of place where you might see a famous musician sitting in on a jam session after their own concert is over.
Kat’s Cafe is particularly well-known for its Thursday night open mic sessions and live band performances. These events often lean heavily into the soul side of jazz, featuring singers and instrumentalists who aren’t afraid to experiment. The venue is small, which means the audience is often just a few feet away from the performers. This creates a powerful connection that is hard to find in larger concert halls.
National Acts at City Winery
For those who want to see the biggest names in modern soul-jazz, City Winery is the place to be. Located in the Ponce City Market area, this venue combines a restaurant and winery with a professional concert stage. It regularly hosts residencies by major artists who represent the cutting edge of the genre.
A highlight of the February 2026 calendar is the multi-night residency of Robert Glasper. Glasper is a key figure in the modern soul-jazz movement, known for blending jazz with hip-hop and soul. His performances at City Winery are a perfect example of how the Atlanta Soul-Jazz Series brings global innovation to the local stage.
“The energy in Atlanta is different from anywhere else,” says a local musician who frequently performs at the venue. “The crowd understands the history of the music, but they are also excited to see where we take it next.”
The Grand Finale: Atlanta Jazz Festival
While the soul-jazz series continues year-round in various clubs, the biggest event on the calendar is the Atlanta Jazz Festival. Held every Memorial Day weekend in Piedmont Park, it is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the United States.
The 2026 festival, which takes place from May 23 to May 25, is placing a heavy emphasis on soul and funk influences. The lineup includes major stars like Kamasi Washington, Esperanza Spalding, and The Roots. This outdoor celebration brings together thousands of people from all walks of life to celebrate the city’s musical identity.
“This year’s festival features an exciting mix of national and local talent spanning traditional, smooth, contemporary, hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, and modern jazz,” said Adriane Jefferson, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. “There is something for every music lover, and we are excited to welcome everyone for an unforgettable weekend.”
Why the Series Matters
The Atlanta Soul-Jazz Series is more than just a list of concerts. It is an important part of the city’s economy and culture. These performances support local businesses, from the restaurants that host the shows to the music stores that supply the instruments.
More importantly, the music serves as a bridge between generations. At any given show, you will see older fans who grew up with the classic sounds of the 1960s sitting alongside younger listeners who discovered soul-jazz through modern samples and streaming platforms. This connection ensures that the music stays alive and continues to evolve.
As Virginia Schenck, Artistic Director of the Jazz at All Saints series, puts it, “We believe in the transformative power of jazz to bring people together in community and shared humanity. Our mission is to provide an evening of joy, soul, and resilience.”
Whether you are a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the genre, the soul-jazz scene in Atlanta offers a warm welcome. From the polished stages of Midtown to the hidden gems on the south side, the city’s rhythm is waiting to be discovered.
