The Hyde Park Jazz Festival is pleased to announce the 8th 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, including the annual Universal Alley Jazz Jam. 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.

2025 Back Alley Jazz

Back Alley Jazz will continue as a collaborative neighborhood initiative in an extended format. In 2025, Back Alley Jazz will include July and September free pop-up happenings across South Shore which connect to existing block club and other events in the area. Neighborhood groups will provide the performance location and serve as hosts. The Hyde Park Jazz Festival will provide a stage, sound equipment, tech support, and help curate the performances. Back Alley Jazz is funded in part by The Partnership for Safe and Peaceful Communities. 

Schedule:

July 26th, 2025 at Noon

7400 block of S. Oglesby (In partnership with 7200 block of S. Luella, and 7300 block of S. Paxton - Original BAJ location.)

2pm: Indigo

3:30pm: Meagan McNeal

5pm: Alexander-McLean Project

6pm: DJ Duane Powell