Venue Focus: The Jazz Cafe, London

Image: Talib Kweli

Undoubtedly a venue rich with charm and history, The Jazz Cafe first opened its doors back in 1990. Live music was there for those who wanted it seven nights a week, the passion and dedication for the genre was shared between crowds and organisers alike from day one. 

The Jazz Cafe was then taken over by MAMA & Company and re-positioned as a Jazz, Soul, Funk, World, Dance and Hip Hop venue and has continued to host events featuring the freshest, most forward-thinking artists. The event listing for July is looking as exciting as ever.

Jehst - Saturday 5th July

Kent born Jehst has been at the forefront of the UK Hip-Hop scene for the past decade and a half and has defined a generation with his creative and skillful approach to his chosen art. Following his 1999 classic 'Premonitions', Jehst became a legend in the circuit and asserted himself as one of the most influential rappers to hail from the UK. 

For information and tickets head here. 

Boot Camp Clik - Sunday 13th July

American Hip-Hop supergroup Boot Camp Clik will also be headed to The Jazz Cafe this July (check out their track Casualties of War above). The group is made up of Heltah Skeltah, Buckshot, Smif N Wessun and O.G.C. With a combination like that, it's no surprise that their live performances are renowned for being explosive.  

For information and tickets head here. 

Freshlyground - Saturday 19th July & Sunday 20th July

Made up of seven immensely talented and diverse artists from South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Freshlyground are one of the areas most successful young acts, their album Nomvula sold over 300,000 copies in South Africa alone (listen to the track 'I'd Like' from the album above) and every one of their live performances oozes energy and charisma. 

For information and tickets head here. 

Talib Kweli (DJ/MC performance) - Thursday 24th July

Brooklyn based rapper Talib Kweli is set to play a special DJ/MC show at The Jazz Cafe. Kweli is one of the few artists that is currently making commercial music that matters. His understanding of Hip-Hop and innovative approach to the delivery of music makes him one of the most respected artists in his industry. 

For information and tickets head here.