Jazz activity precipitiously declined in the 1970s, as compared to the 1960s in Cincinnati. Venues which had presented touring jazz stars closed down, with the exception of the Viking Lounge on Vine St. across from the Cincinnati Zoo, which continued until closing down in the mid-70. Ed Moss' series of clubs - The Golden Triangle Coffeehouse, Emanon, and Mozart's Ristorante - continued to present vibrant, pure jazz. However, the most dedicated and committed local pro players persisted in finding and creating jazz gigs, while sometimes playing pop music in order to survive financially. The tastes of the general public had swayed toward rock 'n roll and jazz became less viable as a commercial music. It became more underground and Bohemian but still existed.
The Blue Wisp Jazz Club began its jazz policy in 1978 and spurred a resurgence that continued through the club's 35 year lifetime at four separate locations.
