Ronnie Scott’s ranks among London’s most iconic music venues, steeped in jazz history since its 1959 opening. Legends like Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Buddy Rich, and Jimi Hendrix have performed here, drawing music fans for decades. Amid challenges to the city’s nightlife, the venue thrives with a relaunched upstairs space and ambitious expansion plans.
Preserving Downstairs Excellence
Managing Director Fred Nash highlights the downstairs venue’s exceptional acoustics, refurbished 20 years ago. “This is a weird room,” Nash says. “It’s almost like a recording studio; it sounds as good during sound checks in an empty room as when full. That works really well for jazz.”
Owners Sally Green and Michael Watt acquired Ronnie Scott’s in 2005 and reopened it in 2006 after upgrades. These improvements elevated the venue from shabby conditions to meet rising expectations, fueling two decades of success.
Stunning Upstairs Revamp
The revamped upstairs area features a marble bar opening to a luxurious, intimate space designed by Archer Humphries with fit-out by Tekne. Rich in wood, glass, and handmade furniture, a new skylight enhances the glamorous atmosphere. Three tiers of seating ensure optimal views, paired with pristine d&b audio systems.
“The PA and speaker systems are heavyweight for the bands we host,” Nash explains. “It’s got some beef, even for mostly acoustic acts.” A dedicated kitchen allows pre-show dining, unlike downstairs.
Expanded Musical Offerings
Upstairs enables diverse programming beyond traditional jazz. “We will feature classical music, piano trios, gospel, and jazz-adjacent genres,” Nash states. “We can explore these unapologetically without compromising the downstairs jazz legacy.” Historically, the space hosted events like the 1970s disco night Starsky & Hutch.
Phone-Free Experience
Ronnie Scott’s enforces a strict no-phones policy to promote respect for performers and immersion. “You need to be there in the moment,” Nash emphasizes. “Watching on a phone isn’t the same. Prince’s performance here had a photo embargo, and audiences respected it.”
Upcoming Green Rooms
A new members’ area, The Green Rooms, revives the vibe of the former Musician’s Bar. Located behind the upstairs stage, it honors backstage musician spaces and owner Sally Green’s legendary Christmas parties. Nash recalls, “One year, Mick Jagger and I sang carols with the London Community Gospel Choir.”
Set to open in six months with 60-person capacity amid 4,200 members, plans include renovating upper-floor offices for a 1960s Soho feel, distinct from modern luxury clubs.
