Savannah’s Soulful Soundtrack of Music, History & Beauty

Savannah, Georgia's cobblestone streets and centuries-old oaks draped in Spanish moss is a living melody of culture, music and memory. From legendary musicians to historic performance venues, the city’s soundtrack is as enchanting as its scenery.

Walk Through Savannah’s Musical Legacy

Back in 1859, Lord James Pierpont published his song, “Jingle Bells,” while working as organist and music director of the local Unitarian church. Johnny Mercer, the celebrated American composer and lyricist, grew up on Savannah’s Burnside Island, which overlooks Back River, and in honor of his Academy Award-winning song, “Moon River,” written with Henry Mancini, the Chatham County Commission renamed a stretch of the Back River “Moon River” in 1962. 

Several jazz greats have been associated with Savannah, including hard bop drummer Ben Riley, bassist Ben Tucker, saxophonist Sahib Shihab and trombonist Trummy Young. Rapper Big Boi, one-half of hip-hop duo OutKast, was born in Savannah, and Indie Arie once lived there and attended SCAD.

Explore Music Festivals & Events

Savannah Stopover began as a gig for East Coast bands who were heading to Austin, Texas for the annual SXSW gathering, but has since become a destination in and of itself. Recognized for showcasing emerging indie acts, the festival exudes a youthful energy and passion for music discovery. 

Just two weeks after Savannah Stopover is the Savannah Music Festival (SMF), Georgia’s largest musical arts event. SMF features more than 100 productions in 17 days. Classical Voice North America describes it as "...surely the broadest palette of any comparable festival in the world, ranging from country to folk to jazz to chamber...This can be a place to immerse yourself for a few days, with breaks to enjoy the glories of Savannah in peak azalea season."

In early September, Revival Fest, a day-long outdoor party with music, craft brew, bourbon and Southern fare, takes place at the Paint Shop and adjoining grove of the Coastal Heritage Society’s Georgia State Railroad. 

While the Savannah Folk Society hosts events throughout the year, including concerts, contra dances and open jams, its annual festival is held each October.

Sway Beneath Spanish Moss 

Find plenty of sounds to immerse themselves in—from the buskers in the squares to the dueling pianos at Savannah Smiles to the eclectic live music menu at “watering hole,” known as The Jinx.

But it’s not just the music that makes Savannah magical—it's the setting. As tunes drift through the air, so do the scents of jasmine and salt from the nearby coast. Visitors can enjoy live music in Forsyth Park or during an evening stroll among Spanish moss-draped trees and historical buildings, creating a multisensory southern experience that'll make you want to dance.