The Newport Jazz Festival 2025 Celebrates 71 Years with Stellar Lineup

Surrounded by the beautiful waters of Narragansett Bay and Newport Bridge, Fort Adams is set to come alive as the Newport Jazz Festival will descend upon its grounds August 1st to 3rd 2025. This festival promises a vibrant and diverse celebration of seventy-one years of music and collaboration. This year’s line-up is jam-packed with excellence from all parts of the music world. 

The Newport Jazz Festival is steeped in history, not only within its own legacy but also from the historical site on which its multiple stages will sit. The festival can be traced back to a man by the name of George Wein. At 24, Wein decided he wanted to use his college savings to open a club, with the idea of presenting jazz as a "high art." At his club in Boston he was introduced to a woman by the name of Elaine Lorillard. Lorillard was a part of Newport high society, being the descendant of a tobacco tycoon. And although she loved Newport, Rhode Island, very much, she found it to be rather boring in the summer.  After a failed attempt to bring some excitement to the area the summer prior, she enlisted Wein's musical and visionary talents to create something grand. And, from there on July 17, 1954, the Newport Jazz Festival was born. 

Over its seventy-one years of history, the festival has navigated triumphs and challenges. Despite these ups and downs, one thing has remained the same. It continues to showcase an immense range of talent, offering an unparalleled view into the amazing and ever-changing world of music. Under the artistic direction of Christian McBride, who has curated the line-up since 2016, this year promises a truly eclectic experience.

Regardless of where their name may appear on the bill, there is some serious talent about to hit the stages at Fort Adams.  Janelle Monáe, the visionary artist known for her dynamic performances, will be gracing the stage. Joining her this year are soulful vocalist Jorja Smith, the legendary Roots, the multi-instrumental genius Jacob Collier, the electronic dance duo Sofi Tukker, the charm of Rachael & Vilray, and the extremely talented Willow. And those are just a few of the artists/bands slated to take the stage this year. 

In addition to show-stopping performances, this festival will excite your other senses as well. Food and beverage options from beloved vendors will be on-site to treat your taste buds between sets while the views are top-notch.

Don't miss your chance to experience this unforgettable weekend. Tickets for the festival are still available and can be purchased as 3-day passes or individual day tickets. Head over to the link below for all the Newport Jazz Festival information.

https://newportjazz.org/

Artist and Band Spotlight: 

Raye is not just a singer; she is a force of nature.  A powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and performer from England who has been in the music business for upwards of a decade. Behind the curtain, she has been penning music for some of the biggest names in the business: Beyoncé, Anitta, and Little Mix, to name a few. After years of being confined creatively by her label, she parted ways and, as an independent artist, released her debut album "My 21st Century Blues." The project was a masterpiece and a huge success, finally giving Raye the recognition she deserved. Since then, her work has earned her numerous awards, been nominated and performed at the Grammys, and has toured globally. Her music seamlessly blends R&B, soul, hip-hop, and jazz. With her electrifying stage presence and undeniable talent, Raye's performance is a must.

Parlor Greens is a dynamic trio whose impeccable talents have come together to create organ-centric, musical magic, wrapped in a soulful and funky vibe. Seasoned musicians Jimmy James on the guitar, Tim Carman on drums, and Adam Scone on keys are all masterful on their respective instruments. Each is a well-known fixture in the music community. In July of 2024 they released their debut LP, "In Green We Dream." Since then, Parlor Greens has been crafting more music, and with their alluring sound, this is one act you do not want to miss. 

Kokoroko is a talented septet from London, England. Their captivating sound fuses jazz and Afro beats. The band members-- Sheila Maurice-Grey, Onome Edgeworth, Noushy Nanguy, Yohan Kebede, Tobi Adenaike, Duane Atherley and Ayo Salawu bring their individual talents to the collective. They weave rich vocals with dynamic percussion and horns, inspired by their lives to create an infectious sound. With the release of their second studio album on the horizon, "Tuff Times Never Last," and a new single "Sweetie," out now, be sure to stop by their set.