This past weekend, the Newport Jazz Festival celebrated an incredible milestone—70 years of bringing the world the best in jazz music. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Fort Adams State Park from August 2 to August 4, this year’s festival was a testament to jazz’s enduring legacy and vibrant future. The lineup featured an extraordinary blend of legends and rising stars, each adding their unique flavor to the rich tapestry of this iconic event. 
Jazzmeia Horn: A Soulful Tribute at Newport
Jazzmeia Horn’s performance at the Newport Jazz Festival was a revelation. Her rendition of Abbey Lincoln’s “Long As You’re Living” was a masterclass in emotion and artistry. With a voice rich and deep, Horn breathed new life into the classic, transporting the audience on a soulful journey. Her powerful interpretation, coupled with the band’s impeccable support, created a magical moment that will be remembered long after the festival’s end. 
The Legacy of Wayne Shorter: A Tribute to a Jazz Giant
Day two of the festival kicked off on the Fort Stage with a powerful tribute to the late, great Wayne Shorter. Titled “The Legacy of Wayne Shorter,” the performance featured drummer Teri Lyne Carrington and a host of other talented musicians who paid homage to Shorter’s unparalleled contribution to jazz. The set was a beautiful exploration of his music, reminding us all of the profound impact Shorter has had on the genre. It was a poignant start to a day filled with extraordinary performances. 
Artemis: The Power of Women in Jazz
Following the tribute, Artemis, an all-female jazz supergroup, took the stage and brought an electrifying energy to the festival. With Nicole Glover on saxophone, Allison Miller on drums, Ingrid Jensen on trumpet, and Renee Rosnes on piano, Artemis showcased the immense talent and power of women in jazz. Their set was a masterclass in musical synergy, with each member bringing their unique voice to the collective sound, creating a performance that was both technically brilliant and deeply soulful.
ARTEMIS
Samara Joy: A Dreamlike Performance
Later in the day, the young and immensely talented Samara Joy graced the stage, continuing the festival’s journey through the different shades of jazz. She delivered a mesmerizing performance, capturing the hearts of the audience with her rich, velvety voice. Her rendition of “You Stepped Out of a Dream” was a particular highlight, blending the timeless elegance of classic jazz with her fresh, contemporary interpretation. Samara Joy’s performance was a reminder that the future of jazz is bright and full of promise.
SAMARA JOY
Vibrant Performances Across the Quad and Harbor Stages
Beyond the Fort Stage, the Quad and Harbor stages pulsed with energy, offering a diverse array of acts that added even more color to the festival. Julius Rodriguez captivated the crowd with his innovative blend of jazz and modern beats, while Cimafunk brought a fiery Cuban flair that had everyone dancing. Shabaka’s spiritual jazz resonated deeply, creating a transcendent experience, while Noname’s unique fusion of hip-hop and jazz brought a fresh, lyrical twist to the lineup. Christian McBride’s Jam Jawn, a festival favorite, delivered a high-energy set that showcased the incredible talent and camaraderie among the musicians.
CIMAFUNK
DAY 2 PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
DAY 3 PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Laufey 
Just when you think the Newport Jazz Festival couldn’t get any better, along comes Laufey, the Icelandic songbird who left us all mesmerized! With her unique blend of jazz, classical, and contemporary sounds, Laufey took the stage and brought a fresh breeze of magic to the festival. Her velvety voice, rich with emotion, made every note feel like a journey through time and space. A rising star with roots in both Iceland and China, Laufey is redefining the jazz scene with her distinct sound and style.
This young artist is not just a singer, she’s a storyteller, a musician who pours her soul into every performance. Keep an eye on this incredible talent, because Laufey is on her way to becoming a global sensation!
Nile Rodgers & Chic: A Funky Finale
As the festival drew to a close, it was Nile Rodgers & Chic who brought down the house with an unforgettable performance. Their infectious grooves and iconic hits had the entire crowd on their feet, dancing and celebrating the end of a perfect weekend. Rodgers, a legend in his own right, proved once again why he’s a master of funk and disco, seamlessly blending these genres with the spirit of jazz to close out the festival on a high note.
As the sun set on the final day of the Newport Jazz Festival, the air was filled with the lingering notes of a weekend well spent. For 70 years, this festival has been a beacon for jazz lovers around the world, and this year’s celebration was no exception. With outstanding performances from both legendary and emerging artists, the Newport Jazz Festival once again proved that jazz is more than just music—it’s a living, breathing art form that continues to inspire and evolve. Here’s to the next 70 years!
- Photo Credits by L.Barnes