Seattle jazz has creatively defined the history of the Central District and Jackson Street, and in October 2024, its legacy and prominence was properly preserved with the launch of the Jackson Street Jazz Trail. Honoring the Emerald City’s deep connection with the genre, this comprehensive musical tour was spearheaded by jazz historian and co-founder of Earshot Jazz Paul de Barros and other community members, aiming to capture the deep spirit of local jazz legends that defined the city’s vibrant musical culture. 

De Barros, who began documenting Seattle's jazz scene in the early 1980s, shared a pivotal moment in his research. A conversation with tenor saxophone player Jabo Ward revealed the extensive, undocumented history of early jazz in Seattle, a history even modern-day musicians were largely unaware of. This discovery fueled de Barros's dedication to a project that would document and continuously evolve the heritage of jazz, particularly from the historically Black Central District and the iconic Jackson Street scene.

The trail itself begins at King Street Station, symbolizing the arrival of musicians to Seattle by train. It then winds its way along the Jackson Street corridor, highlighting various historical clubs before turning towards Washington Hall. In essence, it’s a vital portion of Seattle Black history that deserves to be preserved and celebrated for as long as possible. 

Visit earshot.org to experience Seattle’s current jazz scene at Earshot Jazz Festival through November 2, 2025. 

Catch Back2Besa every Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on FOX 13 Seattle and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on FOX 13+. Viewers can also stream episodes anytime on the FOX Local app.

#Back2Besa #FOX13Seattle #JacksonStreetJazzTrail #EarshotJazz #SeattleJazz #JazzHistory