Even if you think you know a destination, you may be surprised to see it in a brand-new light under a symphonic backdrop. Since music is always a great way to experience a culture, these popular jazz festivals have become major international draws, inviting jazz fans and top-tier musicians from all over the world. And here, you’ll find more than a grove, you’ll find the perfect setting to explore the soul of these cities.
The two-day festival, now in its 20th year, draws in about 40,000 spectators, so there are plenty of opportunities to mix, mingle and people watch. But as the festival comprises mostly South African artists, you get a feel for the local musical tastes, including marabi and kwela, jazz styles that originated in the country. The festival also features an array of musical acts from all over the world, including the U.S. Past lineups have included Erykah Badu, En Vogue, The Internet, Trombone Shorty, the late Hugh Masekela and Corinne Bailey Rae. The festival also includes workshops, art and fashion vendors and more (capetownjazzfest.com).
Thanks to the HBO series, the Tremé neighborhood has received greater notoriety. But it has always been well known among jazz enthusiasts for its deeply rooted musical contributions. Furthermore, Tremé is headquarters to the Jazz and Heritage Festival Foundation, which produces the world-popular New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Presented by Shell.
From its start in 1970, the Jazz Fest routinely brings in the best performers of the era, such as Duke Ellington, Mahalia Jackson, Fats Domino, Miles Davis and James Brown. The festival, which recently drew a crowd of 450,000 for its 2018 showing, now operates across 12 sound stages and still draws the hottest names in music, such as Alabama Shakes, Snoop Dogg, Big Freedia and more. Held April 26 to May 5 in 2019, the festival will announce its lineup at the top of the year at nojazzfest.com.
The Bounce Showcase on the Congo Square Stage! #jazzfest2018 📸 @jmarquephoto
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Scene Boosters Social Aid & Pleasure Club parade. #jazzfest2018 @jbrasted
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In addition to jazz and R&B, expect to hear a mix of calpyso, soca, reggae and steel pan. For more than 20 years, the St. Lucia Jazz festival has become a staple in the Caribbean. Bringing in a range of talent from current chart toppers to old school artists with deep catalogues, lovers of the music of the African diaspora will find enjoyment in the annual festival. Names like Robert Glasper, Lalah Hathaway, the late Amy Winehouse, Vanessa Williams, OMI and Victor Provost were among past performers at the festival.
Held on Pigeon Island, the iconic landmark, which is also home to 18th-century military ruins, the festival is event is truly a sight and sound for the senses (stlucia.org/jazzfestival).