THE NEW ORLEANS JAZZ AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL

The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, one of the largest music festivals in the world, spans two long weekends and features over 5,000 musicians performing across 14 stages. This iconic festival attracts half a million attendees and showcases a diverse array of music styles, transcending its jazz heritage roots to encompass a multitude of genres and cultures.

Notably, the Rolling Stones made a memorable appearance at the festival on their third attempt, captivating the crowd by closing all other stages for their performance. They paid homage to local music by inviting the “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” Irma Thomas, to join them on stage for her rendition of “Time is On My Side,” a song famously covered by the Stones. Additionally, they featured Louisiana’s own “King of the Accordion,” Dwayne Dopsie, adding to the vibrant local musical tapestry of the event.

Blues enthusiasts were treated to incredible performances by artists such as Christone “KingFish” Ingram, Mr. Sipp, Kenny Neal, Toronzo Cannon, Jontavious Willis, Samantha Fish, Johnny Sansone, George Thorogood, and Tab Benoit, among others, showcasing the enduring influence of blues music at the festival.

The rich cultural heritage of New Orleans shone through with appearances by Big Chief Boudreaux, his son Joseph Boudreaux Jr and his band The Rumble, as well as sets by Cyril and Charmaine Neville, highlighting the city’s musical lineage. Closing the festival with an electrifying performance, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue encapsulate the spirit and sound of contemporary New Orleans music.