Formed at the turn of the 20th century as an African-American neighborhood and epicenter for jazz and blues, Oklahoma City's Deep Deuce District is rich with history and culture. Historically, the district flourished with a variety of beauty shops, restaurants, clothiers, a newspaper, movie theater and cab company, as well as parades, street dances and New Orleans-style funerals.

Associated with jazz, blues and literature arts, this district - originally known as “Deep Second” - was similar to Harlem in the 1930s, producing legendary artists such as electric jazz guitarist Charlie Christian and big band blues singer Jimmy Rushing. Deep Deuce was also home to legendary writer Ralph Ellison, who electrified the world with his 1952 novel "Invisible Man," one of the most important works of American literature.

During its prime, Deep Deuce came alive at night with various nightclubs, dance halls, supper clubs and live music venues such as Slaughter’s Hall, Ruby’s Grill and the famous Aldridge Theater, which opened in 1919. By the late 1920s, Deep Deuce was the hottest jazz and blues mecca in the region.

Sitting just north of the Bricktown Entertainment District, today's Deep Deuce features vibrant dining, nightlife, shopping and entertainment. Visit Deep Deuce for a variety of live music, modern retail and innovative art, all within walking distance from several downtown neighborhoods.