Sofia Music Enterprises created MUSIC JAM with the idea to continue in the spirit of programming fascinating jazz and well... jam sessions. With the progression of time, and the changing trends of a more globalized music world, the festival enjoyed increasing popularity, establishings itself as one of the most highly anticipated events on the Bulgarian cultural calendar.
The festival initially launched under the name - Sofia Jazz Festival in 1996, and within several years it featured many world-famous artists, as well as some of best talent from Bulgarian and Eastern European jazz scene, all of which consider the festival a great and important event to be a part of.
In 1999 the festival expanded beyond its jazz-heavy leanings by following trends on the world music scene, and programming a diverse range of musical styles for local audiences.
Brandishing a newer more ambitous logo and name – MUSIC JAM - developed into an elegant combination of jazz, blues, rock, roots, and classical music. The festival features a series of shows, performed during the fall season in clubs and arenas.
Over the years numerous exceptional artists have been a part of the festival, such as AL DI MEOLA, DURAN DURAN, CHICK COREA, JON ANDERSON, DAVID SANBORN, SYLVIE VARTAN, JON LORD †, HERBIE HANCOCK, MANHATTAN TRANSFER, PAT METHENY, MEZZO FORTE, TANIA MARIA, YELLOWJACKETS, LENNY WHITE, JOE ZAWINUL, JOHN PATTITUCHI, ANDY SUMMERS, BILL BRUFORD, VICTOR BAILEY, PLANET X, BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB, FISH, CESÁRIA ÉVORA †, THIN LIZZY, PAUL GILBERT, STANLEY CLARKE, GEORGE DUKE †, JOHN MCLAUGHLIN, PACO DE LUCÍA and others.