Spread across 14 stages the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April 24–May 4, 2025) transformed the New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course into a sprawling celebration of every style of American music. 5,000 musicians gave their all to nearly half a million fans, which is in itself an achievement of the monumental sort.
Those fans come from all around the world to soak in the culture, and the vibe, that has made the New Orleans a fertile place for American musical innovation. Jazz, blues, Cajun, and zydeco are highlights in week’s column.
Photographers Carl Beust and Astrida Valigorsky were there and share their photos with us, and Carl provided a report.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2025 by Carl Beust
While headliners like Pearl Jam, Santana, and Lil' Wayne drew massive crowds, the true soul of Jazz Fest pulsed within the Blues Tent and the Sheraton New Orleans Fais Do-Do Stage. These venues offered intimate, electrifying performances that celebrated rich musical traditions.
The Blues Tent was a powerhouse of raw emotion and masterful musicianship. Johnny Sansone, a staple of the New Orleans blues scene, brought his harmonica-driven sound, thrilling the crowd with gritty vocals and electrifying solos. Little Freddie King delivered a captivating Delta infused set. Walter Trout’s blistering blues reminded everyone of the genre’s power. Louisiana piano icon Marcia Ball brought her swamp-boogie. Shemekia Copeland's commanding stage presence was equally compelling. Finally, Eric Gales showcased his guitar skills, deliviering intricate solos that left the crowd in awe.
The Fais Do-Do Stage celebrated Louisiana's rich musical traditions, particularly highlighting the Cajun and zydeco genres. My favorite band from Louisiana, the Lost Bayou Ramblers' fused swampy accordion grooves with fiercely driven distorted fiddle. Singing in Cajun French, they channel Louisiana’s cultural heritage while pushing sonic boundaries. Rosie Ledet and C.J. Chenier both brought fiery, dance energy, each with a distinct flair. Ledet infused her music with sultry vocals and R&B-tinged grooves. Chenier, son of legend Clifton Chenier, delivered high-octane accordion riffs rooted in blues, funk, and Creole soul.
The 2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival's Blues Tent and Fais Do-Do Stage exemplified the event's dedication to preserving and celebrating the region's musical roots. Through unforgettable performances and a vibrant cultural backdrop, Jazz Fest reaffirmed its status as a cornerstone of New Orleans' rich artistic landscape.
Click on any photo to view the gallery as a full-size slideshow.
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