PIANO OPEN MIC - World Famous Bob's Java Jive

2102 So. Tacoma Way

Description

Bob's Java Jive has a new owner who is busy rejuvenating the Java Jive, which is on the historic landmarks register in Tacoma, WA at 2102 So. Tacoma Way. This unique coffee pot-shaped building is such a delight and encompasses a stage, dance floor, pool tables, a 'round' bar, and more. Its decor is kept in the fashion of Bob Radonich, its owner who passed away, who made the Jive loosely Polynesian-themed, with a Jungle Room and two chimpanzees living there -- "Java" and "Jive." The chimps banged on a drum kit while Bob and Lylabell's son played the organ. Later the Java Jive ventured into karaoke and it also operated as a go-go bar. Bobby Floyd, who has also passed away, played the upright piano for years, putting on incredible performances of all sorts of music.The bar now opens at 4pm for happy hour till 6, then karoake ensues at 8pm, with comedy night on Tuesday evening. Built in 1927 as the Coffee Pot Restaurant by a Tacoma veterinarian, Otis G. Button, the 25-feet-high 30-feet-across concrete coffee pot was designed by local artist/promoter Bert Smyser, owner of a commercial display business. The big pot operated as a food drive-thru at one point, and as a speakeasy. In 1955, Bob and Lylabell Radonich bought the place and concocted the name "Java Jive," from a lyric in a popular Ink Spots song (the phrase "Java Jive" had been around at least since the 1930s). Bob transformed the big coffee pot interior to cater to new audiences as a music club. In the 1960s, when the instrumental surf band The Ventures became a national sensation, they were fresh from years as a lowly paid house act in the Java Jive. Bob's Java Jive has served as a unique backdrop for Hollywood films, including "I Love You To Death"(1990), and Cameron Crowe's "Say Anything"(1989). For years the local artist Teddy Haggerty, who has since passed away, sat at the bar collecting cover charge. Teddy is known for painting his jungle-theme murals on the Java Jive's exterior, in addition to being Alec Baldwin's movie stand-in. There's a photo hanging on the wall of Alec and Teddy. The Jungle Room is decorated with kitschy tropical paintings, fake foliage, and strings of Christmas lights. A clutter of memorabilia and photos are tacked onto every wall. A pattern of foil stars decorate the ceiling. **** You will love this place, so I hope many piano players will come on in. I am presently doing Wednesdays 4-6:30 or 7pm, but call the Java Jive after 4pm and I'm sure you can play piano other nights. (I won't be there this Weds. April 13, 2022, but please come in and play.) Thank you!