Ten free popup performances in the historic heart of the community
All Events Free • All Are Welcome
Culturally rich and vibrant, the Black Bottom community's physical neighborhood was demolished
in the 1950s and '60s to make way for the nation's first science and technology center, now known
as the University City Science Center, and to expand the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel
campuses. From 32nd Street in the east to 40th Street in the west, Lancaster Avenue in the north,
and University Avenue in the south, some 5,000 persons — mostly African American — were
dispersed across the city. In the face of physical destruction, the community remains strong and
determined to thrive. The Black Bottom Lives On! Jazz Series celebrates that community.
Black Bottom partners are currently producing an internet digital mobile tour of the historic
neighborhood. Follow this page for updates about the tour.
Market Street looking east from 36th Street
3D reconstruction — the elevated rail line ran above this corridor until it was put underground, 1948–1955
Club Zell-Mar — 37th & Market Streets
3D reconstruction of one of Black Bottom's landmark venues
3D models by Aayush Singh, student, Drexel University • The Black Bottom Lives On!
2026 Performance Series
Friday, June 12 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Rich Tucker’s Universal Concept featuring Ms. Denise King
Drexel Square — 3025 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Thursday, June 25 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Sherry, M.Ed. & The Powerhouse Band
PA Arts Gallery — 5011 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia
Thursday, July 9 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
The Dahi Divine Quartet
3500 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia
In case of rain the event will be held indoors at the C.E.C., 3500 Lancaster Avenue.
Sunday, July 19 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
The Brett Jolly Experience
Belmont & Parkside, Philadelphia
Thursday, July 23 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Tonya Lynette & Company
Location TBA
Thursday, August 6 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
The Webb Thomas Super Band
Babe & Young’s Fashions — 110 South 52nd Street, Philadelphia
Thursday, August 13 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
The Actual Proof Band
Trolley Portal Gardens — 40th Street & Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia
Thursday, September 10 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Artist TBA
Location TBA
Thursday, September 24 • 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Artist TBA
Location TBA
Wednesday, October 7 • 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Denise King & Friends
Black Bottom Historical Marker & Street Renaming Ceremony
Northwest corner of 36th & Market Street, Philadelphia
