This year’s Jazz Fest lineup is likely its broadest, and it’s a safe bet that nobody—festival staff included— knows everybody. Here’s a guide to who’s who.
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Artists A-Z
# | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
Stage Codes
ACU – Acura Stage
GEN – Gentilly Stage
CON – Congo Square Stage
JAZ – Zatarain’s/WWOZ Jazz Tent
BLU – Blues Tent
ECO – Peoples Health Economy Hall Tent
FDD – Sheraton New Orleans Fais Do-Do Stage
J&H – Jazz & Heritage Stage
GOS – Gospel Tent
LAG – Lagniappe Stage
AMMH – Allison Miner Music Heritage Stage
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101 Runners, 4/28, J&H, 3p: Carrying on the proud tradition of fusing Mardi Gras Indian chants with funk, this group includes Big Chief Monk Boudreaux of the Golden Eagles, War Chief Juan Pardo of the Wild Comanches, and a star cast of players.
A
Craig Adams & Higher Dimensions of Praise, 5/6, GOS, 6:05p: This dynamic, 16-voice gospel group is led by Houston/New Orleans native Adams on keyboards.
Yolanda Adams, 4/29, CON, 3:40p: Grammy-winning gospel singer has also made waves in the pop world. Her latest, Becoming, is partly secular R&B but maintains a sense of uplift.
Gregory Agid, 5/6, JAZ, 12:45p: Young clarinetist made his Jazz Fest debut in 2008 when he played a tribute to his mentor Alvin Batiste. He’s also played with Trombone Shorty, Ellis Marsalis, and Irvin Mayfield.
Shamarr Allen & the Underdawgs, 4/28, GEN, 1:30p: Jazz-funk-hip-hop trumpeter Allen aggressively resists categorization, having performed live with Willie Nelson and Asleep at the Wheel and written the local anthem “Meet Me on Frenchmen Street.” He made his phone number the title of his most recent album, 504-799-8147, to encourage fans to communicate with him.
Alto Saxophone Woodshed feat. Aaron Fletcher, 5/3, JAZ, 1:45p: Saxophonist Fletcher worked with Terence Blanchard’s band before relocating to California. Joining in this set will be fellow alto saxophonist Wess Anderson, formerly of the Wynton Marsalis Septet.
Theresa Andersson, 5/4, GEN, 12:40p: After a maternity absence from last year’s fest, musical chameleon Andersson is back with a new disc, Street Parade—which she launched in a big way by performing atop a puppet goose borne by the Krewe of Muses during Mardi Gras.
Glen David Andrews, 5/6, BLU, 1:30p: This singer/trombonist, cousin of Troy and James Andrews, is a brass traditionalist and a testifying R&B vocalist who honed his entertaining chops in Jackson Square. As his Live at Three Muses album attests, he’s figured out how to make New Orleans standards speak for him.
James Andrews & the Crescent City Allstars, 4/27, BLU, 1:40p: Grandson of Jessie Hill and brother of Trombone Shorty, Andrews has gone in a funky, expansive direction with his Allstars. At previous Jazz Fest shows, a neighborhood’s worth of players has joined the core band onstage.
Archdiocese of New Orleans Gospel Choir, 4/28, GOS, 12:50p: The Archdiocese represents the largest religious demographic in New Orleans; its choir conflates a tradition of Crescent City Catholicism dating back to 1793.
Mac Arnold & Plate Full o’ Blues, 5/5, BLU, 1:30p: Unsung blues hero whose first band, J. Floyd & the Shamrocks, included James Brown on piano. He later played bass with Muddy Waters in the ‘60s and Bill Withers in the ‘70s, and even played on the Sanford & Son theme song.
AsheSon, 5/6, LAG, 4:25p: The name of this New Orleans Afro-Cuban band translates roughly as “good karma through rhythm.” Its members bring diverse backgrounds in classical, jazz and Latin music.
Asleep at the Wheel, 5/6, AMMH, 2; FDD, 3:45p: In the ‘70s, this band embodied the hippie roots movement that swept through Austin, TX; four decades later they’re the last of the classic Western swing bands. Towering frontman Ray Benson has guided the band through all its phases, including a recant collaboration with Willie Nelson.
Astral Project, 5/3, JAZ, 5:55p: All four members of this band—guitarist Steve Masakowski, saxophonist Tony Dagradi, bassist James Singleton and drummer Johnny Vidacovich—are band leaders in their own right; together they’ve been one of New Orleans’ premier jazz groups for three decades.
B
Baby Boyz Brass Band with New Generation and Undefeated Divas SAPC, 5/5, Parade, 1:30p: One of the younger brass groups in town, Baby Boyz is led by trumpeter Glenn Hall III, kin to the musical Andrews family.
Marcia Ball, 5/4, ACU, 1:55p: A perennial Jazz Fest favorite, the statuesque singer/pianist is lately spotlighting her songwriting as much as her formidable piano-pounding. Last year’s Roadside Attractions was the first CD for which she wrote or cowrote every track.
Tarriona “Tank” Ball & the BlackStar Bangas, 5/5, CON, 11:20a: This young R&B singer is also a poet and a former member of the Liberated Soul Collective. Despite her nickname, she stands a petite five foot one.
Bamboula 2000, 4/28, J&H, 5:50p: “Bamboula” was originally a form of drum and dance ceremony held in Congo Square. Bamboula 2000 leader Luther Gray brings that spirit into the present with a troupe of drummers and dancers.
Baritone Bliss, 5/4, JAZ, 1:40p: The Dirty Dozen’s Roger Lewis put together this band featuring sax on the lowdown side, with Tim Green (Africa Brass), Dan Oestreicher (Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue), Tony Dagradi (Astral Project) and Calvin Johnson (Irvin Mayfield, Glen David Andrews) joining him on the baritone sax.
The Batiste Brothers, 4/29, CON, 12:25p: The Batistes are one of New Orleans’ musical dynasties, and this version of the band lit up the funk and soul circuit during the late ‘70s. “Louisiana” and “(Gon’ Be Dat) New Orleans Music” show the love for their hometown.
A Living Tribute to Harold Battiste feat. Jesse McBride, Ellis Marsalis, and Germaine Bazzle, 5/6, JAZ, 2:05p: Producer/arranger/saxophone player Battiste’s accomplishments include founding AFO, the first label owned by a black musician, in 1961. Six years later he and Mac Rebennack channeled money they’d earned on Sonny & Cher sessions into the first Dr. John album, Gris-Gris. Today some of his notable peers and protégés pay tribute.
Germaine Bazzle, 5/4, JAZ, 2:45p; also see A Living Tribute to Harold Battiste feat. Jesse McBride, Ellis Marsalis, and Germaine Bazzle: Locally prized jazz singer can caress a ballad or scat- ing an uptempo number with the best. Her history includes a stint playing bass on Bourbon Street with Alvin “Red” Tyler. She has logged 50 years as a teacher.
The Beach Boys Reunion, 4/27, ACU, 5:30p: The inaugural show of the tour reuniting the Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine and Bruce Johnston. Obsessive Beach Boys fans—and there are plenty—are hoping they’ll feature some of Wilson’s creative triumphs from the Smile/Pet Sounds era. Less obsessive fans are just hoping for wall-to-wall surfin’ hits. Odds are good that both will walk away satisfied.
BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, 4/27, FDD, 3:40p: Cajun music was way off the radar when fiddler Doucet formed this band in 1975. BeauSoleil’s success went a long way toward putting Cajun music and culture into the spotlight. They’re virtuoso players who incorporate swing, Celtic and swamp-rock while staying true to their tradition.
Tab Benoit, 4/29, BLU, 5:55p: Bayou guitar slinger equally adept at swamp grooves and sizzling blues. He has also been one of the most outspoken advocates for wetlands preservation. His best-of album Legacy was released this month.
Better Than Ezra, 5/5, GEN, 3:35p: The long-running alternative band remains a national attraction, and their sound has toughened up with the addition of drummer Michael Jerome.
Big Sam’s Funky Nation, 5/5, CON, 1:55p: The charisma of trombonist Sam Williams makes him an able focal point for a musical party that blends brass, Meters-style funk, hip-hop and rock.
Black Feathers Mardi Gras Indians, 5/5, J&H, 4:25p: This downtown Mardi Gras Indian tribe was led by the great Big Chief Lionel Delpit until his death last Summer.
Black Seminoles Mardi Gras Indians, 5/3, J&H, 3p: This marching group’s chief, Cyril Green, presides from a wheelchair that he calls his “iron horse.”
Blodie’s Jazz Jam, 5/6, JAZ, 5:40p: Blodie is better known as Dirty Dozen trumpeter Gregory Davis, whose jamming partners include other members of Dirty Dozen, Trombone Shorty’s Orleans Avenue, and other horn men on the Fair Grounds that day.
Spencer Bohren, 4/29, LAG, 2:20p: A singer, guitarist and musicologist with a flair for traditional blues and gospel, Bohren explored classic country blues on his recent CD The Blues According to Hank Williams.
Donnie Bolden & the Spirit of Elijah, 5/4, GOS, 1:45p: Former leader of the gospel group Sons of Thunder, Donnie Bolden, Jr. is musical director at Lighthouse for Jesus Ministries in Abbeville.
Bombino of Niger, 5/5, BLU, 2:40p: This Tuareg guitarist’s trademarks are a distinctively clean tone and trance-like grooves. He was the subject of a documentary film while living in political exile, and Keith Richards was among the first Western players to work with him.
Bon Iver, 4/27, GEN, 5:25p: Bon Iver mastermind Justin Vernon is part of a noble line of American indie artists, from Tim Buckley through American Music Club and Bright Eyes, whose roots are in folk but whose songs are haunting and otherworldly. He seemed as surprised as anyone to win two Grammys this year.
Bonerama, 5/4, GEN, 3:45p: What began as a novelty—a multi-trombone band playing jazz, funk and classic rock—has turned into a local favorite and a national go-to group. They’re currently working on a new album that is likely to feature some high-profile guests.
Mia Borders, 5/3, GEN, 12:35p: This soulful and energetic New Orleans songwriter began drawing national attention over the past year, via extensive touring and her album Magnolia Blue. A follow-up is due later in 2012.
Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, 4/29, J&H, 4:30p: Boudreaux is one of the most prominent Indian performers and a soulful vocalist; his performances with the Golden Eagles often get into heady, near-psychedelic territory.
The Bounce Shake Down feat. Big Freedia, Katey Red, Keedy Black, and DJ Poppa, 5/6, CON, 2:35p: Once an underground phenomenon, the “sissy bounce” scene has done much to revitalize interest in all forms of bounce. Big Freedia’s hit “Azz Everywhere” launches some of the most acrobatic booty-shaking you’ll ever see.
John Boutté, 5/5, JAZ, 2:45p: A local favorite with a high and haunting voice, Boutté is an inspired, passionate interpreter of songs, and has started making more of a mark with his original songs—notably his “Treme Song,” the theme of the HBO series.
Boutté Family Sunday Praise, 5/6, GOS, 3:30p: Beloved pop singer John Boutté joins his sisters for a return to his family gospel roots.
Bonnie Bramlett: See Chuck Leavell & Friends
Brass Bed, 5/4, LAG, 5:45p: Not a brass band, this excellent Lafayette pop group is steeped in the tunefulness of XTC, Big Star and the Elephant 6 bands, and recently released On Nilsson, a tribute to the late pop genius Harry Nilsson.
Mark Braud’s New Orleans Jazz Giants, 5/4, ECO, 1:40p: The grandson of trumpeter John Brunious plays regularly at Preservation Hall and with Harry Connick, Jr.’s group when not leading his own band.
Brother Tyrone & the Mindbenders, 4/28, BLU, 11:20a: Tyrone Pollard, a.k.a. Brother Tyrone, is a deep-soul vocalist whose original songs could pass for long-lost vinyl nuggets.
Jeffery Broussard & the Creole Cowboys, 5/5, FDD, 1:30p: Once a member of the funky zydeco band Zydeco Force, singer/accordionist Broussard turns to old-school Creole and zydeco with this group.
Zac Brown Band, 5/4, ACU, 5:20p: 2008’s “Chicken Fried” established Brown as one of the biggest hitmakers in modern country; his good-timey sound attracts everyone from honky-tonkers to Parrotheads.
Wendell Brunious & the Music Masters, 5/5, ECO, 12:25p: Trumpeter Brunious took over as the leader of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band in 1987 and remained a Hall regular for many years. He’s also played with Lionel Hampton, Linda Hopkins and Sammy Rimington, with whom he made the New Orleans Reunion CD in 2009.
Courtney Bryan, 5/4, JAZ, 11:15a: Born in New Orleans and now based in New York, Bryan is a pianist/composer who’s written for dance and film, small groups and symphony orchestras. Her recent debut CD Quest for Freedom features trumpeter Marcus Belgrave.
Kevin Bryan, 4/28, ECO, 3p: NYC-based jazzman is currently lead trumpeter for Harry Connick, Jr. and plays with the Duke Ellington Orchestra.
The Bucktown Allstars, 5/4, ACU, 11:20a: This nine-piece R&B band from Metairie is a perpetual winner for Best Cover Band in OffBeat’s Best of the Beat Awards.
Buckwheat Zydeco, 4/27, BLU, 6p: One of zydeco’s longest-running and best-loved performers, Buckwheat went in a more progressive direction with 2009’s Lay Your Burden Down. Recent sets have featured him doing soul and funk at the B3 organ before picking up his more familiar accordion.
Jimmy Buffett, Acoustic with Mac McAnally, May 3, ACU, 5:55p: The Troubadour of the Gulf South returns with his acoustic guitar and band member/country artist Mac McAnally to fill in at the last minute after Eddie Vedder’s cancellation.
Henry Butler, 5/3, CON, 3:55p: A wildly eclectic pianist who can play New Orleans standards as they’ve never been played before, his 2008 CD PiaNOLA Live spotlights his solo performances. Blind since birth, Butler is also an accomplished photographer.
C
Carolina Chocolate Drops, 4/28, FDD, 4:20p: Drawing their repertoire from rarely-played black string-band music of the pre-World War II era, the trio’s charisma has pegged them as roots music’s next big thing. Their latest CD, Leaving Eden, is likely the first acoustic roots album to include a human beatbox.
Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band, 4/27, FDD, 2:05p: This third-generation bandleader won the last Best Zydeco or Cajun Album Grammy for his Zydeco Junkie in 2010.
Terri Lyne Carrington’s Mosaic, 5/4, JAZ, 3:50p: Seasoned drummer Carrington won a Grammy for the recent Mosiac Project album, which was both an exploration of her funk/R&B influences and a celebration of women in jazz. She still tours with Wayne Shorter and teaches at the Berklee School of Music.
Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters, 5/4, BLU, 12:20p: Carson’s imposing 400-pound frame and equally mighty voice are familiar attractions at the Funky Pirate on Bourbon Street, but he’s also a regular contributor to Lars Edegran’s Creole Christmas shows.
Kim Carson & the Enablers, 4/27, LAG, 12:55p: A longtime New Orleans local who now resides in Houston, Carson is a classic-model honky tonk angel.
Regina Carter’s “Reverse Thread,” 5/3, AMMH, 2:30p; JAZ, 4:15p: Funded partly by a MacArthur Foundation genius grant, violinist Carter’s latest music is built on modern and traditional African folk tunes, adding accordion and kora to her band.
Pat Casey & the New Sound, 4/29, JAZ, 12:15p: This young band taps into a broad pool of jazz influences, and holds court Sunday nights at the Spotted Cat.
Hadley J. Castille Family and the Sharecroppers Cajun Band, 4/29, FDD, 11:20a: Cajun fiddler Castille is known for the song “200 Lines: I Must Not Speak French,” part of his drive to preserve Cajun culture in public schools. His guitarist son Blake and fiddler granddaughter Sarah Jayde are in his band.
Cha Wa, 5/5, J&H, 11:15a: Mardi Gras Indian singer Eric “Yedi” Boudreaux (brother of Monk Boudreaux) formed this band to fuse Indian chants with blues; their name is Indian slang for “We’re coming to get ya!”
Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony, 5/4, ECO, 4:20p: Once a singing waitress on Bourbon Street, Topsy Chapman appeared in the musical One Mo’ Time and now appears at home between European tours. Solid Harmony is a five-woman group with a gospel-inspired vocal blend.
Leah Chase, 4/27, JAZ, 1:40p: A classically trained opera singer who’s turned to sultry jazz, she’s also the daughter of two of New Orleans’ most famous restaurateurs.
C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, 4/29, FDD, 2:05p: Zydeco king Clifton Chenier’s son has long emerged as a bandleader in his own right. His latest CD Can’t Sit Down was made in one day and has a killer version of Tom Waits’ “Clap Hands.”
Kim Che’re, 5/6, GOS, 12p: NYC-born, New Orleans-based gospel singer who is also a radio host for Praise 94.9 FM. Her debut CD, Free to be Me, was recently released.
Chico Trujillo of Chile, 5/3, J&H, 4:20p: Chile’s most popular cumbia band, Chico Trijullo revitalized traditional dance music with modern influences; some of its members were originally in punk/ska bands. Its gigs range from large dance venues at home to Lollapalooza last summer.
Tribute to Alex Chilton feat. Dave Pirner, Alex McMurray, Susan Cowsill, Doug Garrison and Rene Coman, 4/29, GEN, 12:45p: When OffBeat staged this tribute at its Best of the Beat Awards in 2011, it was one of the night’s highlights. Alex Chilton alumni Doug Garrison and Rene Coman selected collaborators with whom the late pop/rock icon had relationships, and they focused on songs that he still had affection for.
Evan Christopher, 4/28, JAZ, 1:25P: Clarinetist has lived and played in both New Orleans and Europe; his last CD Finesse was chosen as best jazz CD of 2010 by the UK Sunday Times.
City of Love Music & Worship Arts, 4/28, GOS, 6:05p: This Jackson, Mississippi choir has performed at Jazz Fest in the past under the name of Greater Antioch Full Baptist Church Mass Choir.
Gary Clark, Jr., 4/29, BLU, 4:30p: A young gun of Texas blues guitar, Clark cut his teeth at Austin’s famous club Antone’s. Though steeped in Albert Collins and Stevie Ray Vaughan, he can mix it up with some funk and jazz touches.
Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, 4/28, ACU, 1:40p: UK-born keyboardist and local funk mainstay built his profile leading the Absolute Monster Gentlemen and playing in Bonnie Raitt’s band, but has lately branched out. His latest Occapella is a truly solo disc throwing fresh spins on Allen Toussaint tunes.
Cranston Clements: See Guitar Masters
Chris Clifton & His All-Stars, 5/6, ECO, 11:15a: Chris Clifton met and had an association with Louis Armstrong, playing with the great trumpeter’s second wife Lil Hardin. He still honors the traditional sounds of Satchmo.
Rene Coman: See Tribute to Alex Chilton
Comanche Hunters and Semolian Warriors Mardi Gras Indians, 4/27, J&H, 3:05p: Two of the city’s long-established tribes; the Comanche Hunters were among the first to return to the streets after Katrina.
Connie and Dwight with the St. Raymond/St. Leo the Great Choir, 5/4, GOS, 12:50p: Seventh Ward couple Connie and Dwight Fitch have done romantic R&B as well as gospel; she has sung in the past with Ray Charles and Dr. John.
Walter Cook & Creole Wild West Mardi Gras Indians, 4/28, J&H, 12:30p: Claiming to be the oldest, this Mardi Gras Indian tribe has been documented marching since the late 19th Century.
Lesa Cormier & the Sundown Playboys, 5/4, FDD, 11:20a: Founded in 1945 and now run by the original leader’s daughter, this Cajun group cut the single “Saturday Night Special” for the Beatles’ Apple label in 1970. Morrissey later covered it.
James Cotton “Superharp” Band, 5/3, BLU, 5:45p: A giant of blues harmonica, Cotton was part of Muddy Waters’ classic band and began leading his own band in the ‘60s. Though recent health problems have left him unable to sing, his playing skills are undiminished.
The Courtyard Kings, 4/28, ECO, 11:20a: Guitarist Carl Keith and violinist Michael Harvey lead this acoustic group, playing a style they call “modern gypsy jazz.”
Cowboy Mouth, 4/29, GEN, 3:55p: Regardless of the band’s lineup, Cowboy Mouth’s shows are part party and part revival meeting. Singer/drummer Fred LeBlanc treats the band’s shows as a celebration of life, particularly in New Orleans.
Susan Cowsill: See Tribute to Alex Chilton feat. Dave Pirner, Alex McMurray, Susan Cowsill, Doug Garrison and Rene Coman
Sugarboy Crawford: See Jo “Cool” Davis w/ special guest Sugarboy Crawford
Creole String Beans, 5/6, GEN, 11:20a: Fronted by photographer Rick Oliver and including former Iguanas and Cowboy Mouth members, the Creole String Beans began as a “Yat cover band” doing vintage local gems. Their recent Shrimp Boots & Vintage Suits is a mix of classics and classic-styled original tunes.
Riccardo Crespo & Sol Brasil, 5/5, LAG, 11:20a: A South Brazilian native now based in New Orleans, acoustic guitarist Crespo plays “World Music with New Orleans flavoring.”
B.J. Crosby: See The Gospel According to Jazz feat. B.J. Crosby, Judy Davis, Danon Smith, and Yolanda Windsay
Cubano Be, Cubano Bop, 4/27, JAZ, 5:30p: Percussionist/bandleader Poncho Sanchez and trumpeter/composer Terence Blanchard teamed up last year on Chano y Dizzy, which salutes and updates the pioneering Latin-jazz fusions that Chano Pozo and Dizzy Gillespie did in the late ‘40s.
D
Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band, 5/4, FDD, 2:55p: One of the few major Cajun artists based in New Orleans. The singer/accordionist has been playing a weekly fais do do since 1980, currently Sundays at Tipitina’s.
Jeremy Davenport, 5/5, JAZ, 1:30p: Schooled as the featured trumpeter in Harry Connick, Jr.’s band, the St. Louis native has carved out a nice career with that aching/tender tone to both his playing and singing on romantic standards and originals.
Davina and the Vagabonds, 5/5, BLU, 12:20p: Davina and the Vagabonds are known in Minnesota’s Twin Cities as the busiest band in town because of their hard-working professionalism, high-energy stage performance, and original sound. They’ve shared the stage with the Neville Brothers, Irma Thomas, Bobby “Blue” Bland, and many others.
Jo “Cool” Davis with special guest Sugarboy Crawford, 5/6, GOS, 12:50p: Former Tipitina’s bouncer Davis has long been a popular figure on the local gospel scene; Crawford is renowned for the original hit of “Jock-a-Mo” (a.k.a. “Iko Iko”) and now sings only gospel.
Judy Davis: See The Gospel According to Jazz
Deacon John, 5/4, BLU, 4p: The singer/guitarist’s long history in New Orleans music includes leading the band at debutante balls, performing at the Dew Drop Inn and playing on some of the city’s classic records.
Debo Band: Ethiopian Groove Collective, 4/29, J&H, 3p: This “Ethno-Groove” band hails from Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, a culturally diverse and artist-friendly suburb of Boston.
Dee-1, 4/27, CON, 12:40p: New Orleans native David Augustine, better known as Dee-1, is a rapper and former middle school teacher who believes in keeping his message positive.
Joey DeFrancesco, 5/6, JAZ, 3:45p: See David Sanborn
Brother Dege, 5/6, BLU, 11:20a: This South Louisiana slide guitarist and songwriter puts some psychedelic strangeness into traditionally-inspired Delta blues. His “Hard Row to Hoe” was the theme for Discovery Channel’s After the Catch.
Phil DeGruy: See Guitar Masters Gospel Diva Lois Dejean, 4/29, GOS, 12:50p: A member of the gospel group Johnson Extension, Rev. Dejean is also a community advocate in New Orleans.
Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie, 4/27, FDD, 12:40p: Originally the drummer in his late father John Delafose’s band, Geno took to accordion and became one of the most popular bandleaders in Southwest Louisiana, specializing in country-styled zydeco.
Delgado Community College Jazz Ensemble, 4/28, LAG, 11:20a: This student ensemble hails from the emerging music program at the city’s largest community college.
Cheick Hamala Diabate of Mali, 5/3, J&H, 12:20p; AMMH, 3:30p; LAG, 5:10p: Born to a family of storytellers, Diabate is one of the world’s foremost players of the rigoni, the African predecessor to the banjo. His From Mali to America was Grammy-nominated in 2007.
Kristin Diable & the City, 4/28, LAG, 4:40p: This deep-voiced Baton Rouge native made a name in NYC’s singer/songwriter community before returning to New Orleans. She recently released the first album with her new band, the City.
Ani DiFranco, 5/3, FDD, 4:15p: This inexhaustible songwriter is a bestselling artist and a model of indie integrity. She’s been based in New Orleans for the past decade, and her latest CD, Which Side Are You On?, features a notable local influence.
Thierno Dioubate: See Kora Konnection
The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, 5/3, ACU, 3:45p: This band was formed in 1977 by Benny Jones and introduced bebop and funk into the brass band sound; they’ve continued to evolve by adding drum kit and electric guitar. Their 35th-anniversary CD, Twenty Dozen, is due May 1.
The Dixie Cups, 4/27, ACU, 2:15p: New Orleans’ contribution to the ’60s girl-group sound, they scored nationally with “Chapel of Love,” its even-better follow-up, “People Say,” and the Mardi Gras Indian-derived “Iko Iko.” Founding sisters Barbara Ann and Rosa Lee Hawkins remain two-thirds of the group.
DJ Captain Charles, 5/6, CON, 4:55p: The self-proclaimed “most renowned DJ in New Orleans,” Captain Charles has been spinning and fortifying his collection for more than 20 years.
DJ Soul Sister, 4/28, CON, 3p: Her years of crate-digging and rare-groove expertise have given this WWOZ and nightclub personality one of the most desirable soul/funk vinyl collections in town.
Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias, 5/6, J&H, 4:25p: The Magnolias made one of the first landmark Indian funk records, the 1970 single “Handa Wanda”. Bo Dollis, Jr. has taken over leadership of the renowned crew, but despite illness his dad usually makes an appearance.
Sam Doores & the Tumbleweeds, 5/5, LAG, 12:35p: A New Orleans acoustic Americana group drawing from earlier blues, gospel, folk and country.
Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, 5/5, FDD, 2:40p: This second generation accordion slinger carries on the blues-infused style of his dad Dopsie Sr., often with a whole lot of added speed and volume.
Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters, 5/6, FDD, 5:45p: One of the few rubboard players to lead a zydeco band, Dopsie Jr. is more of a party starter than his accordionist dad, but is also one of zydeco’s most dynamic frontpeople.
Dr. John & the Lower 911, 4/29, ACU, 2:30p: In the past year, Dr. John has recorded two albums—one a yet-to-be-released Louis Armstrong tribute, the other the Voodoo-fied rock Locked Down with the Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach. Last summer, he performed his 1974 album Desitively Bonnaroo with the Meters to great acclaim.
Lynn Drury, 5/6, LAG, 11:20a; AMMH, 5p: Mississippi-born Americana artist earned acclaimed for her songwriting, and her recent Sugar on the Floor CD shows how her writing has deepened and matured.
Andrew Duhon, 4/28, LAG, 1:45p: The New Orleans-based artist won OffBeat’s Best of the Beat Award earlier this year for Best Singer/Songwriter.
Dukes of Dixieland, 5/3, ECO, 1:30p: The Dukes are one of the most storied names in traditional jazz. This incarnation of the venerable jazz band was formed in 1974. For a few years afterward they ran their own club atop the Hotel Monteleone, taking the space over from Louis Prima. A who’s who of the city’s trad jazz players has passed through the group.
Cameron Dupuy & the Cajun Troubadours, 4/28, FDD, 11:15a; AMMH, 3:30p: Originally an offshoot of Bruce Daigrepont’s Cajun band, this group has lately re-emerged with a new lineup. Leader Dupuy plays one of Marc Savoy’s custom Acadian accordions.
E
The Eagles, 5/5, ACU, 5p: Given their status with the baby boomers, the real surprise is that the Eagles have never played Jazz Fest before; though they reportedly came close last year. Their set is guaranteed to include all the hits they would have played all along.
Steve Earle and the Dukes with Special Guests the Mastersons, 5/5, FDD, 4:15p: Earle has become an unofficial New Orleanian since playing a dramatic role on Treme and writing its season one closing theme “This City.” His recent Dukes tours have spotlighted the country/bluegrass side of his catalogue; guests the Mastersons are a husband/wife duo just signed to the New West label.
E’Dana & Company, 4/29, GOS, 12p: A young gospel singer from an Oakland musical family, E’Dana Richardson made her performing debut fronting the Avondale Community Choir at age 15.
Lars Edegran and the New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra, 4/28, ECO, 1:40p; AMMH, 4:30p: Founded in 1967 by Swedish-born pianist Lars Edegran, this band plays rags, cakewalks and other classic pieces from the original ragtime era.
Bishop Sean Elder & the Mount Hermon Baptist Church Mass Choir, 4/29, GOS, 1:50p: Elder leads this choir from the church on North Broad Street.
Electrifying Crown Seekers, 4/27, GOS, 11:15a: Founded in 1965, this blues-based Marrero-based gospel quartet are 20-year Jazz Fest veterans, and still include founding member James Williams, Sr.
Ceasar Elloie, 5/6, CON, 11:10a; AMMH, 3p: As a high-school student in New Orleans, Elloie was dubbed “the next Al Green” by his classmates. He began singing with Kidd Jordan’s Jazz Ensemble in 1975, and has since played extensively abroad.
ELS, 5/6, CON, 1:30p: Classic-soul show band whose name comes from frontwomen Erica, Lisa and Smiley. They’re likely the only Jazz Fest act who’s worked with both Allen Toussaint and the hair-metal band Cinderella.
Empress Hotel, 4/28, ACU, 11:20a: Brothers Ryan and Eric Rogers lead this New Orleans alternative band, whose listed influences—Prince, Sparks, Roxy Music and Dwight Twilley—evince an especially hip take on ‘70s-inspired rock.
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Erica Falls, 5/4, CON, 12:20p: Jazz-soul vocalist Falls has sung and recorded with locals Dr. John, Irma Thomas and Wardell Quezergue. The CD Me Myself & Music is her debut as a frontwoman.
Feist, 4/28, GEN, 5:40p: A former member of the alt-rock band Broken Social Scene, Leslie Feist came into her own with intimate piano-driven ballads. She recently won a Juno—her native Canada’s Grammy—for Artist of the Year, and her latest Metals has some left-field touches that bring vintage Kate Bush to mind.
Lionel Ferbos & the Palm Court Jazz Band, 4/29, ECO, 12:20p: The most seasoned performer in New Orleans jazz, Creole singer/trumpeter Ferbos continues to play Saturday nights at the Palm Court nearly a year after celebrating his 100th birthday there.
Feufollet, 5/4, FDD, 12:25p: The young Cajun band’s En Couleurs won a Grammy nomination and made OffBeat’s Top 20 for 2010. They appear on a just-released DVD Cambridge Folk Festival with Richard Thompson and Justin Townes Earle.
Fi Yi Yi and the Mandingo Warriors, 5/3, J&H, 11:15a: The Fi Yi Yi tribe of Mardi Gras Indians uses African instead of the traditional American Indian themes. Big Chief Victor Harris marched for 25 years with legendary Indian Tootie Montana.
Amina Figarova Sextet, 5/3, JAZ, 2:55p: Born behind the Iron Curtain, pianist Figarova was classically trained but fell under the spell of Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. She’s now based in the Rotterdam and has toured and recorded extensively with her husband, flautist Bart Platteau.
First Emmanuel Baptist Church Choir, 5/5, GOS, 6:10p: This choir is based at the Central City church on Carondelet, and is one of the most celebrated in the city.
Patrice Fisher and Arpa and the Garifuna Connection, 5/5, LAG, 3:05p: Multicultural summit led by harpist Fisher, whose work in Latin jazz, Celtic music and classical make her one of the more eclectic players in town.
Florence + the Machine, 5/3, GEN, 5:30p: South London dynamo Florence Welch took the pop world by storm with 2009’s Lungs, a seamless mix of vintage soul and moody Brit-pop, and her appearance at 2010’s Voodoo Experience was one of the year’s stand-out sets. Last year’s Ceremonials featured one 2011’s more addictive singles in “Shake It Out.”
Flow Tribe, 5/3, GEN, 11:25a: “Backbone cracking music” is the chosen genre of this New Orleans funk/rock band, which adds Red Hot Chili Peppers and hip-hop to the Meters on its list of funk influences.
Erika Flowers, 4/29, CON, 11:15a: This Bronx-born singer has appeared locally in the operas Porgy & Bess and Romeo & Juliet. This is her Jazz Fest debut with her R&B band.
Foo Fighters, 5/6, ACU, 3:10p: Dave Grohl’s group is living proof that a punk-inspired guitar band can still become one of the biggest in the world. When not crafting platinum albums like last year’s Wasting Light (which includes his old Nirvana bandmate Krist Novoselic), Grohl makes high-profile cameos like his recent Grammy spot with Paul McCartney.
Louis Ford & his New Orleans Flairs, 4/27,ECO, 11:20a: Ford’s group performs big-band favorites from the 1930s and ’40s as well as traditional New Orleans jazz.
Forever Jones, 5/3, GOS, 3:45p: When Shreveport couple Dewitt and Kim Jones were first married, they were told by their doctor that they could never have kids. Today they perform gospel music with their five children.
Forgotten Souls Brass Band, 5/4, J&H, 1:40p: Though one of the city’s newer brass bands, Forgotten Souls have included some of the finest players from the funk and jazz circuits, including Kirk Joseph, Eric Traub and Roderick Paulin.
Tyronne Foster and the Arc Singers, 5/5, GOS, 1:45p: These Jazz Fest regulars started in 1987 when Foster started working with St. Joan of Arc Youth and Young Adult Choir. In 1992, they opened their ranks to singers from all denominations.
Pete Fountain, 4/29, ECO, 4:20p: The legendary clarinetist is now past 80 and doesn’t play as often as he used to, but he remains one of New Orleans’ most-beloved figures.
Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band, 5/6, FDD, 1:55p: Hard-driving zydeco band whose accordionist leader, known as the “Zydeco Boss,” bears out its “tougher than the rest” image.
Franklin Avenue Baptist Church Mass Choir, 4/29, GOS, 6:05p: One of the city’s biggest and most powerful choirs, and a former winner for Best Gospel Group in OffBeat’s Best of the Beat Awards.
Free Agents Brass Band, 5/3, J&H, 1:25p: Bass drummer Ellis Joseph formed this band in September 2005 with other musicians who’d return to New Orleans after Katrina before their regular bands did.
George French and the New Orleans Storyville Jazz Band, 5/6, ECO, 4:20p: As a bassist, French played on some landmark ’60s sessions with Earl King, Red Tyler and Robert Parker. As a vocalist, he brings a silky touch to jazz and blues standards.
Funky Meters, 5/6, GEN, 2p: Guitarist Brian Stoltz is back in the fold, joining longtime drummer Russell Batiste and Meters founders Art Neville and George Porter, Jr. This lineup is now a funk institution in its own right.
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Galactic, 5/6, ACU, 1:25p; AMMH, 4p: Always open to new input, Galactic is often touring with two guest Coreys: Living Colour singer Corey Glover and Rebirth trombonist Corey Henry. This means you may get funky horn jams, soul shouter tunes, or probably both.
Doug Garrison: See Tribute to Alex Chilton feat. Dave Pirner, Alex McMurray, Susan Cowsill, and Rene Coman
Banu Gibson, 5/3, ECO, 2:55p: A singer/dancer who specializes in the Great American Songbook, Gibson has been instrumental in popularizing the New Orleans Traditional Jazz Camp.
Cynthia Girtley, 5/5, GOS, 12p: This New Orleans jazz and gospel singer performs a Mahalia Jackson tribute.
GIVERS, 4/27, GEN, 3:45p: World beat meets dance meets modern indie-pop in this Lafayette band, which has stirred up a notable national buzz in the past year on the strength of their live shows and their debut album, In Light.
Victor Goines, 4/29, JAZ, 2:45p: Saxophonist/clarinetist Goines is also a walking jazz encyclopedia, having taught at Loyola, Xavier University and the University of New Orleans. He currently directs jazz studies at Northwestern.
Golden Star Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, 4/29, J&H, 11:15a: Led by Big Chief Larry Bannock for more than 30 years now, the Golden Star Hunters battle for the preservation of the beaded and feathered traditions of this singular subculture.
Golden Voices Community Choir, 4/27, GOS, 12:50p: This world-renowned choir based at Tuskegee University in Alabama was founded more than a century ago.
Gomez, 4/27, GEN, 2:10p: A band out of time and proud of it, Gomez was one of the few UK acts championing R&B roots and loud guitars in the late ‘90s, loving their Stones and Faces as much as Oasis loved their Beatles. Last year’s Whatever’s on Your Mind continued their run of solid albums.
Wycliffe Gordon Quintet: Hello Pops Tribute to Louis Armstrong, 5/4, AMMH, 3:30p; ECO, 5:50p: Trombonist Gordon has been a mainstay of both Wynton Marsalis’ septet and his Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. He’s long been steeped in classic jazz and should do the Armstrong catalog full justice.
The Gospel According to Jazz feat. B.J. Crosby, Judy Davis, Danon Smith, and Yolanda Windsay, 4/28, JAZ, 6p: Four proiminent New Orleans singers blend the traditions. Windsay was a featured singer in Dave Bartholomew’s band; Crosby a Tony nominee for her work in Smokey Joe’s Café.
Gospel Inspirations of Boutte, 5/3, GOS, 12:10p: This five-member group sing contemporary gospel backed by a band.
Henry Gray & The Cats, 4/27, BLU, 11:20a: Born in Kenner 86 years ago, Gray became the pianist in Howlin’ Wolf’s band in 1956 and appeared on many of the classic Chicago blues sides.
Al Green, 4/29, CON, 5:40p: The Memphis soul legend-turned-minister made the news cycles recently when President Obama sang a few bars of “Let’s Stay Together” on camera, but the original is still the greatest.
Cee-Lo Green, 4/28, CON, 3:35p: Green’s been behind some of the least predictable and most popular R&B of the past decade, with Goodie Mob, Gnarls Barkley and solo. The real question is whether he’ll flout the Fest’s no-cussing rule to play the song everybody knows and loves, known in more timid circles as “Forget You.”
Grupo Sensacion, 5/5, J&H, 12:25p: This New Orleans Latin band plays meringues, salsas, cha chas and more. Its members originally hail from Cuba, El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala.
Roland Guerin, 5/5, JAZ, 12:25p: This long-time bassist with the Marcus Roberts Trio and Allen Toussaint released a new solo album last year, A Different World.
Kristi Guillory & the Midtown Project, 5/3, LAG, 2:10p: Also part of the female Cajun supergroup Bonsoir Catin, singer/guitarist Guillory goes in a more roots- rocking direction with her new band and new album.
Guitar Lightnin’ Lee & the Thunder Band, 4/27, AMMH, 2:30p; LAG, 5:15p: Born 60 years ago in the Lower Ninth Ward, Lee apprenticed with Jimmy Reed in Chicago and came home to lead a rough and rocking blues band. He’s a long-time favorite at the Ponderosa Stomp.
Guitar Masters feat. Jimmy Robinson, John Rankin, Phil DeGruy, and Cranston Clements, 5/5, LAG, 4:25p: This is Twangorama plus one, with the three guitarists from that progressive fusion band joined by Rankin, who’s likewise built a strong profile as a solo acoustic guitarist.
Guitar Slim, Jr., 5/5, BLU, 11:15a: Slim, Jr. learned from two masters: His dad Eddie “Guitar Slim” Jones, who cut the blues standard “The Things That I Used to Do,” and Stevie Ray Vaughan, with whom he toured in the ’80s.
Pastor Terry Gullage & the Mount Calvary Voice of Redemption Choir, 5/4, GOS, 6:05p: From a young age, Elder Gullage knew he had a gift for music. He leads this choir from the church in Marrero.
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Joe Hall & the Cane Cutters, 5/4, FDD, 1:35p: This Lafayette band is led by a Creole accordionist who studied with the late Bois Sec Ardoin. Hall is also a musicologist who picked up songs for his band at the Archive of Cajun and Creole Culture at the University of Louisiana.
Reggie Hall & the Twilighters feat. Lady Bee, 5/4, BLU, 1:25p: Fats Domino’s cousin and also an R&B pianist, Hall was behind two New Orleans R&B classics—Joe Jones’ “You Talk Too Much,” which he co-wrote, and his own hit “The Joke”—though he tends not to perform those songs.
Herbie Hancock and his Band, 5/5, JAZ, 5:30p: This Grammy-winning keyboard player has done it all, from playing in Miles Davis’ classic band to absorbing hip-hop on the hit “Rockit.” His current group harks back to the funky fusion of the Headhunters era, with Zappa alumnus Vinnie Colaiuta on drums.
Glen Hansard, 5/3, ACU, 12:50p: This Dublin-born songwriter is frontman for the Frames, half of the Swell Season, and an Academy Award-winning songwriter for “Falling Slowly” from the 2007 film Once. This solo show will draw from his whole career.
Corey Harris & Phil Wiggins, 4/29, BLU, 12:30p: Intellectual bluesman Harris has collaborated with artists as diverse as Henry Butler and Wilco, and has lately devoted himself to reggae. His partner for this show is Phil Wiggins, half of the acoustic blues duo Cephas & Wiggins.
Donald Harrison, 5/4, CON, 1:30p: Harrison is a New Orleans Renaissance man whose profile is higher than it’s been for awhile thanks to his work on both sides of the camera in Treme. He has explored reggae, funk and Mardi Gras Indian music; his last CD, This is Jazz, is a trio set with Billy Cobham and Ron Carter.
Kourtney Heart, 5/3, CON, 11:15a: The 19-year-old R&B singer is an Edna Karr High School graduate who had a local hit with “My Boy,” then released her indie debut Eye Dee Kay. She’s now with Sony Music, which has re-released “My Boy” nationally.
The Heavenly Melodies Gospel Singers, 4/28, GOS, 11:15a: The five Penn Sisters formed this New Orleans gospel quintet during the mid-1950s. Currently the lineup includes two sisters and a niece
Lyle Henderson and Emmanu-El, 5/3, GOS, 5:55p: A former radio DJ at R&B station FM98 and gospel station WYLD, Lyle Henderson also coordinates the gospel brunches at House of Blues.
Heritage Hall Jazz Band feat. Jewel Brown, 4/28, ECO, 5:50p: Performing in the ’50s under the name Little Miss Julie Teasin’, Jewel Brown was then given offers to sing with either Duke Ellington or Louis Armstrong. She chose Armstrong and remained in his band for most of the ‘60s.
Heritage School of Music Band, 4/29, LAG, 11:30a: “Big Chief” and “Hey Pocky Way” are part of the curriculum for this band of high school-aged students, sponsored by the Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s community music education program.
Higher Heights, 5/6, J&H, 12:20p: This Washington D.C. area band calls its music “gospel go-go” or “holybeat”; it’s as funky as it is sacred.
High Ground Drifters Bluegrass Band, 4/28, LAG, 6p: This local group performs standards and rearranges songs from way outside the bluegrass tradition. This will likely be the first time that Yes and Pink Floyd songs have been performed at the fest.
High Steppers Brass Band, 5/6, Parade, 4:15p: This group’s repertoire includes brass-band standards along with R&B hits, including Stevie Wonder’s “Do I Do” and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s “We Are One.”
Gal Holiday & the Honky Tonk Revue, 4/28, GEN, 12:20p: Big-voiced Maryland native Vanessa Niemann fronts one of the city’s leading Western swing bands, which plays originals, honky-tonk favorites and lesser-known, worthy nuggets.
Honey Island Swamp Band, 5/3, ACU, 2:05p: Formed in San Francisco by Katrina exiles who’ve since returned to town, the HISB is a hard-driving rock band with roots in R&B, country and funk. Their second CD, Good to You, was released to much acclaim in 2010.
Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers, 5/4, GEN, 2:05p: Noise may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the eternally mellow Bruce Hornsby. If they don’t quite reflect their name, the Noisemakers do maintain a loose improvisational feel, carried over from Hornsby’s time in the Grateful Dead.
Hot 8 Brass Band, 5/4, J&H, 5:50p: The storied Hot 8 is a study in survival, having lost three members in shooting deaths. But the band has endured, and they carry on traditional brass-band sounds and add elements of hip-hop and jazz.
Hot Club of New Orleans, 5/5, LAG, 6p: Inspired by the swing of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grapelli, this band reaches beyond the traditional hot jazz repertoire.
Israel Houghton and New Breed, 4/28, GOS, 4:50p: Promoting social consciousness and embracing modern musical styles, Houghtion is one of the biggest names in modern gospel. His latest disc, Love God, Love People, was recorded at London’s famed Abbey Road studios.
Hurray for the Riff Raff, 5/3, ACU, 11:30a: Led by Alynda Lee Segarra, this alternative roots band has won international acclaim in the past year. The Times of London named their self-titled CD one of 2011’s ten best. A follow-up, Look Out Mama, is out now.
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The Iguanas, 5/3, FDD, 5:50p: With Tex-Mex rock ‘n’ roll as their base, the Iguanas can swing freely into jazz, country, garage and Caribbean music. Work on a new CD, the follow-up to 2008’s acclaimed If You Should Ever Fall on Hard Times, began last fall.
Iron & Wine, 4/29, FDD, 3:35p: Masterminded by bearded shaman Sam Beam, Iron & Wine embodies the adventurous side of modern indie-folk. Beam and his crew have moved up from the pioneering Sub Pop label to the majors, and from lo-fi acoustic to full-band electric, without losing the music’s otherworldly quality.
Ironin’ Board Sam, 4/29, BLU, 1:50p; AMMH, 4p: A return after ten years to Jazz Fest for the colorful character whose ‘80s and ‘90s sets—which found him making up songs on the spot, pounding a Casio keyboard mounted on an ironing board—made him a cult hero. His exploits include performing in a 1,500-gallon water tank, and utilizing a toy monkey as drummer.
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Leo Jackson & the Melody Clouds, 4/29, GOS, 2:45p: This family group was formed in 1965 and is now led by founder Leo Jackson’s son. It’s known for its rousing vocals and synchronized steps.
Jambalaya Cajun Band, 5/6, FDD, 11:20a: This group was founded in 1977 by fiddler Terry Huval, who’s also the director of the Lafayette Utilities System, and his drummer brother Tony Huval.
Robert Jardell & Pure Cajun, 5/3, FDD, 11:20a: A singer/accordionist who plays strictly traditional Cajun music, Jardell plays regularly at Festivals Acadiens in Lafayette. His “Where Were You Last Wednesday” was the Cajun French Music Association’s song of the year in 1998.
Sarah Jarosz, 5/4 FDD, 4:20p: Though only 20, Austin, Texas native Jarosz has already made waves in the acoustic world, touring nationwide before any of her band were old enough to drive. Her CD Follow Me Down includes a Shawn Colvin guest spot and a Radiohead cover.
Pastor Tyrone Jefferson, 5/4, GOS, 12p: The pastor of Abundant Life Full Gospel Baptist Church in New Orleans performs.
Flaco Jiménez: See The Texas Tornados
Jockimo’s Groove feat. War Chief Juan, 5/6, J&H, 11:15a: Funky rock ‘n’ roll meets Mardi Gras Indian chants in this collaboration between Eric Gordon, leader of the Lazy Boys, and War Chief Juan of the Golden Comanches.
The Johnson Extension, 5/5, GOS, 3:35p: The Rev. Lois Dejean leads this popular Marrero choir, whose name refers to the four generations of Johnson family in the lineup.
Joint’s Jumpin, 5/3, BLU, 4:05p: This theatrical show with musical director Larry Sieberth features a large cast doing New Orleans R&B and rock ‘n’ roll classics. The five lead singers are Luther Kent, Gina Brown, Tony Owens, Danon Smith and Johnny Vindigni.
Connie Jones and the Crescent City Jazz Band, 5/4, ECO, 11:20a: As a teenager, Connie Jones played trumpet in the Basin Street 6 with a young Pete Fountain. He later toured with Jack Teagarden’s last band before rejoining Fountain’s group in the late ’60s.
Leroy Jones & New Orleans Finest, 5/5, ECO, 5:55p: Trumpeter Jones once led Danny Barker’s Fairview Baptist Church Brass Band at age 13. Now he’s leading his own group between stints with Harry Connick, Jr.’s band.
Nayo Jones, 5/4, CON, 11:15a: Chicago-born jazz/soul singer, best-known in town as a featured singer with Kermit Ruffins’ band. Her solo CD, One Woman, is due shortly.
Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, 5/6, BLU, 5:30p: The queen of retro-funk, Jones grew up in James Brown’s hometown of Augusta, Georgia and made her debut for New York’s Daptone label at age 45. Her latest album, I Learned the Hard Way, cracked Billboard’s Top 20.
Marlon Jordan Quartet, 5/3, JAZ, 12:35p: The son of saxophonist Kidd Jordan and a childhood friend of Terence Blanchard and Wynton Marsalis, trumpeter Jordan signed to the Columbia label at age 18 in 1988. He continues to perform in jazz groups and classical orchestras.
Stephanie Jordan Big Band, 4/27, JAZ, 4:05p: From a prominent New Orleans musical family, Jordan has toured the world and been proclaimed “the classy lady of modern jazz” by the London Monthly Herald. Her signature song is “Here’s to Life,” also associated with her mentor Shirley Horn.
Kirk Joseph’s Backyard Groove, 4/27, CON, 1:50p: The world’s best and probably only “sousaphunk” band, led by the busy and popular co-founder of the Dirty Dozen Brass Band.
Kirk Joseph’s Tuba Tuba, 4/29, J&H, 5:55p: This group is to tubas what Bonerama is to trombones; expect to see at least a half-dozen of the heavy horns onstage.
Julio y Cesar, 5/3, LAG, 12:50p: This local brothers duo does Latin-American music on twin classical guitars.
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Josh Kagler & Harmonistic Praise Crusade, 4/28, GOS, 12:05p: This New Orleans gospel group performs with more than 20 singers and a full band.
Luther Kent, 4/28, BLU, 1:35p: This Southern-fried soul man has been a popular local attraction for decades. His latest CD is a tribute to his longtime inspiration Bobby “Blue” Bland, and he now performs regularly at the renovated Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone.
Leon “Kid Chocolate” Brown, 5/3, ECO, 4:30p: The young singer/trumpeter has recorded with Lenny Kravitz and Jill Scott, and now appears regularly at Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse. His recent My Take pays homage to Louis Armstrong.
Orange Kellin’s New Orleans Deluxe Orchestra, 5/6, ECO, 1:30p: The clarinetist moved from Sweden to New Orleans in 1966; four years later he played at Louis Armstrong’s 70th birthday show. His group plays classic early jazz by King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton and others.
Doreen Ketchen’s Jazz New Orleans, 5/4, ECO, 3p: When not performing nationwide through the sponsorship of Jazz at Lincoln Center, clarinetist Ketchen can be seen jamming with her band on the streets of the French Quarter.
Kinfolk Brass Band, 5/5, Parade, 4:15p: Formed in 2006, the Kinfolk are true to the traditional brass-band sound and perform “Bourbon Street Parade,” “I’ll Fly Away” and other standards along with their originals.
Little Freddie King Blues Band, 5/3, BLU, 1:35p; AMMH, 3:30p: The Mississippi Delta-born King plays raw juke-joint blues with style, and he’s one of the best dressers you’ll see on any Jazz Fest stage. This year marks his 36th-consecutive Jazz Fest appearance.
Kora Konnection feat. Morikeba Kouyate of Senegal & Thierno Dioubate of Guinea, 5/5, LAG, 1:50p: African traditional music meets New Orleans jazz in this multicultural band, which includes African kora master Kouyate and percussionist Dioubate with local saxophonist Tim Green, drummer Jeff Klein and Astral Project bassist James Singleton.
Morikeba Kouyate: See Kora Konnection
Dave Koz, 4/28, JAZ, 4:20p: A smooth-jazz saxophonist and former Richard Marx bandmate. This is absolutely the set to catch for anyone who thought Kenny G. was the highlight of last year’s Jazz Fest.
Joe Krown Trio feat. Walter “Wolfman” Washington & Russell Batiste, 5/6, BLU, 2:40p: Three instrumental powerhouses join forces in this trio that has become a full-time band, cutting two CDs, including last year’s Triple Threat.
Kumbuka African Drum and Dance Collective, 5/4, J&H 12:20p: Founded in 1983 and based in New Orleans, this troupe brings African music and dance to grade schools throughout Louisiana. Members range from ages 9 to 55.
Dayna Kurtz, 5/3, LAG, 3:35p: A smoky pop-jazz singer with an idiosyncratic eye for material, she surpassed herself recently by covering the notorious doo-wop nugget, the Blenders’ “Don’t F*** Around With Love.”
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80, 4/27, AMMH, 1:30p; CON, 3:25p: The youngest son of the late Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti and likewise an alto saxophonist, Seun became the frontman of Egypt 80 at age 14, following his father’s death in 1997. The current band is still comprised mainly of players who toured and recorded with Fela.
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Meschiya Lake & the Little Big Horns, 4/28, AMMH, 1:30p; LAG, 3:05p: Once a Royal Street performer, now a big name in the local traditional jazz scene, Lake and her big voice are getting more attention worldwide. Her Lucky Devil CD was named one of 2010’s best on NPR’s All Things Considered.
Sonny Landreth, 4/29, BLU, 3:05p: A thoughtful songwriter and scorching slide guitarist, Landreth can claim the likes of Clapton, Buffett, Knopfler and John Mayall as collaborators and fans. His latest release is an expanded version of his 2000 album Levee Town.
Reverend Jermaine Landrum & the Abundant Praise Revival Choir, 4/27, GOS, 5:45p: This New Orleans church founded the International Gospel Festival in Armstrong Park. The choir has played the Kennedy Center and toured Japan.
Yvette Landry Band, 5/4, LAG, 2:50p: Singer/guitarist Landry is part of the Cajun supergroup Bonsoir, Catin, and her own sets are solid, swinging honky tonk with the great Richard Comeaux on pedal steel guitar.
Tim Laughlin, 4/27, ECO, 1:50p: A protégé of Pete Fountain and lately a mainstay of his band, clarinetist Laughlin’s compositions are in the classic idiom, but they’re made for modern times.
John Lawrence & Ven Pa’ Ca Flamenco Dancers, 5/4, LAG, 1:45p: Guitarist Lawrence has played flamenco in New Orleans for more than a decade and was a protégé of flamenco master Carlos Sanchez.
Chuck Leavell & Friends with special guest Bonnie Bramlett, 4/27, BLU, 4:25p: As half of the Delaney & Bonnie team, Bramlett was the toast of the late ‘60s in-crowd. Their friends and sometime band members included Leon Russell, Eric Clapton and George Harrison. Leavell led the fusion band Sea Level and was lately the touring keyboardist for the Rolling Stones. The pair toured together in 1980, when both were in the Allman Brothers Band.
Rosie Ledet & the Zydeco Playboys, 5/3, FDD, 2:45p: Known as the Zydeco Sweetheart, singer/accordionist Ledet has long been zydeco’s premier female bandleader. She’s also a master of the lyrical double entendre, as evinced by her local hit “I’m Gonna Take Care of Your Dog.”
Bryan Lee & the Blues Power Band, 5/4, BLU, 11:15a: Blazing blues guitarist, called “one of the best I’ve ever heard” by Eric Clapton, was for many years a fixture at the Old Absinthe House on Bourbon Street. Saints fans will recognize him singing that local flavor is what he needs during an in- Dome commercial.
Lil’ Nathan & the Zydeco Bigtimers, 5/4, FDD, 6p: This young accordion player from Lafayette scored a regional hit with “That L’Argent,” a hip-hop flavored zydeco tune about the power of money. His dad is Nathan Williams of the Zydeco Cha Chas.
Eric Lindell, 4/27, BLU, 3p: Once a California skate-punk, Lindell had more success as a blue-eyed soul and bluesman after moving to New Orleans. West County Drifter is his latest.
Lindigo of Reunion Island feat. Fixi of France, 4/29, CON, 1:55p: A rare U.S. appearance by one of the hotter young dance bands on the island of Reunion, drawing from the rhythms of their native maloya music and those of neighboring Madagascar. Lyrics are in Creole French; the sound is polyrhythmic and percussive.
Little Anthony & The Imperials, 5/4, AMMH, 2:30p; BLU, 5:35p: Formed in Brooklyn in 1958, the group featured Anthony Gourdine’s soaring tenor on the hits “Hurt So Bad” and “Shimmy Shimmy Ko-Ko Bop.” Amazingly, they still have three-quarters of the original lineup.
L’Ivoire Spectacle feat. Seguenon Kone, 4/27, J&H, 1:45p: This West African dance company is led by Kone, a composer and choreographer who emigrated to New Orleans from the Ivory Coast. He plays the African wood xylophone known as the balafon.
Cheikh Lô of Senegal, 4/28, CON, 1:40p: Exuberant, dreadlocked singer who brought the Senegalese dance music known as mbalax to the world. In the studio, he often collaborates with Youssou N’Dour; over the years he’s worked reggae, Brazilian music and funk into his mix.
Los Hombres Calientes feat. Bill Summers & Irvin Mayfield, 5/6, J&H, 2:50p: After a few years on the back burner, trumpeter/entrepreneur Mayfield and percussionist Summers have relaunched their collaboration, flavoring New Orleans jazz with music from Africa, Trinidad, Jamaica and Haiti.
Los Po-Boy-Citos, 4/29, GEN, 11:20a: This funky Latin band made its name doing boogaloo versions of New Orleans favorites, and funkified versions of Latin tunes. Their last album, Brand New Dance, covered Eddie Bo and Ricardo Ray, and threw in some credible originals.
Lost Bayou Ramblers, 5/5, FDD, 6p: As the recent Mammoth Waltz demonstrates, this young Cajun band celebrates its tradition while staying open to new technology and rock-oriented musical influences.
Louisiana Repertory Jazz Ensemble, 5/6, ECO, 12:20p: Formed in 1979, this group faithfully recreates the earliest jazz. Taking their music from printed scores, old recordings and archival manuscripts, they use period instruments and “absolutely authentic formats.”
Bobby Lounge, 5/6, LAG, 5:50p: A one-of-a-kind mix of barrelhouse piano, Tom Waitsian poetics, Southern-gothic storytelling and just plain out-there-ness. USA Today, Rolling Stone and The New York Times have all raved about his Jazz Fest sets.
Loyola University Jazz Ensemble, 4/28, JAZ, 11:15a: This collegiate group includes many of the city’s most promising young players.
Ingrid Lucia, 5/4, LAG, 12:25p: A performer since childhood and a local favorite since her days with the Flying Neutrinos, the singer is now making a new CD, Living the Life, with the theme, “the exuberance and strength of the human spirit in this crazy journey called life.”
Jeremy Lyons with Members of Morphine, 4/28, BLU, 12:25p: Singer and mandolinist Lyons led the New Orleans-based Deltabilly Boys; he’s now based in Boston where’s he’s hooked up with saxophonist Dana Colley and drummer Jerome Deupree, who played with the late Mark Sandman in Morphine. They often perform under the name the Ever Expanding Waste Band, and their sound combines Lyons’ Delta roots with Morphine’s “low rock” groove.
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Kelcy Mae, 5/3, LAG, 11:30a: Shreveport roots-rocker who holds an MFA in poetry from the University of New Orleans. Pennies in Hand is her latest disc of original songs.
Magnolia Jazz Band of Norway feat. Topsy Chapman, 5/3, ECO, 5:50p: Once a singing waitress on Bourbon Street, Chapman has since toured worldwide and been featured in the musical One Mo’ Time. This year she teams with a Norwegian band that’s been playing traditional New Orleans jazz since 1972.
The Malone Brothers, 5/5, ACU, 12:15p: With the Radiators broken up and the subdudes on hold, brothers Dave and Tommy Malone have an ongoing band together for the first time, drawing material from each of their former bands.
Phillip Manuel, 5/4, JAZ, 12:25p: The local jazz-soul singer grew up on the same block as the Neville Brothers. Like Aaron Neville he makes a trademark of a silky smooth vocal tone.
Mariachi Jalisco, 5/5, J&H, 1:45p: Claiming to be the first original mariachi band in the state of Louisiana, this quintet was formed by Havana City conservatory graduates in Baton Rouge.
Delfeayo Marsalis’ Uptown Orchestra, 5/4, JAZ, 5:35p: The trombonist and younger brother of Wynton and Branford Marsalis is also a formidable composer; his last album, Sweet Thunder, is an original adaptation of work by two masters in their respective fields, Duke Ellington and William Shakespeare.
Ellis Marsalis, 4/29, JAZ, 1:30p: The legendary modern jazz pianist and patriarch of the Marsalis family still holds court Friday nights at Snug Harbor. He’ll also participate in a tribute to friend Harold Battiste on the second Sunday of Jazz Fest.
Peter Martin, 4/28, JAZ, 12:20p: The pianist is the musical director for Dianne Reeves and has toured in Christian McBride’s and Chris Botti’s bands. Last year he performed for the president of China at the White House.
The Pedrito Martinez Group, 5/4, CON, 2:45p; 5/5, AMMH, 12p, JAZ, 4:05p: Formerly of the popular Afro-Cuban band Yerba Buena, singer/drummer Martinez plays a complex but infectious fusion of Afro-Cuban rumba, African Yoruba chants, and Western funk. He’s now based in NYC and is working on his first disc as a leader.
Mas Mamones, 5/5, ACU, 11:10a: This Latin band made big noise on Frenchmen Street in the ’90s; it returned to Jazz Fest two years ago after a lengthy hiatus.
Sasha Masakowski, 4/27, LAG, 3:45p: The daughter of Astral Project guitarist Steve Masakowski has emerged as one of the city’s brightest young jazz vocalists, with a lively style that touches on torch songs and samba. She has recently returned to New Orleans after a residency in China.
Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, 4/28, JAZ, 2:40p: Mayfield is a performer and a crusader for jazz, having brought his Jazz Playhouse to the Royal Sonesta on Bourbon Street. The NOJO is his artistic base and provides an outlet for his compositional talents.
Maze feat. Frankie Beverly, 5/6, CON, 5:35p: A now-perennial last-set headliner at Congo Square, this classic Philadelphia soul group’s connection with New Orleans goes back to at least 1981, when their live album was made at the Saenger Theater.
Jesse McBride: See A Living Tribute to Harold Battiste feat. Jesse McBride, Ellis Marsalis, and Germaine Bazzle
Leyla McCalla, 4/27, LAG, 2:20p: New Orleans-based singer/cellist/guitarist recently contributed to the Carolina Chocolate Drops’ acclaimed album Leaving Eden.
Jim McCormick Band, 5/4, LAG, 4:15p: Once the frontman of local rock band the Bingemen, McCormick then relocated to Nashville, where he found success as a songwriter. His songs have been recorded by Tim McGraw, Trace Adkins, Trisha Yearwood and more.
Tom McDermott & Friends, 5/6, LAG, 1:40p: McDermott is one of New Orleans’ finest piano players and collaborators. His influences range from ragtime to Brazilian choros, and he’s worked with vocalists as different as Harry Shearer and Meschiya Lake, with whom he recently recorded a live album at Chickie Wah Wah.
McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir, 5/3, GOS, 2:50p: Thursdays at Jazz Fest traditionally feature high-school choirs in the Gospel Tent; this Treme school has been a regular.
Eleanor McMain “Singing Mustangs” Gospel Choir, 5/3, GOS, 11:15a: The gospel choir of the Uptown high school includes 55 students from grades 6-12. Director Clyde Lawrence has taught music in New Orleans for two decades.
Alex McMurray: See Tribute to Alex Chilton feat. Dave Pirner, Alex McMurray, Susan Cowsill, Doug Garrison and Rene Coman
D.L. Menard, 4/28, FDD, 12:15p: You don’t have to know much Cajun music to love and recognize “The Back Door,” or to understand why this singer has gotten a few decades’ worth of
Hank Williams comparisons.
Midnite Disturbers, 4/28, J&H, 4:25p: It took drummers Stanton Moore and Kevin O’Day to corral nine of New Orleans’ busiest players into one wild brass band. Skerik, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, “Big Sam” Williams, Jamelle Williams, Ben Ellman and Mark Mullins should all be familiar names to Fest watchers.
The Mighty Supremes, 5/3, GOS, 1p: No relation to Diana Ross, this Covington gospel quintet plays regularly at the House of Blues gospel brunch, and recently released a live CD, Awesome God.
Bill Miller, 5/3, FDD, 1:25p: Born on a reservation in northern Wisconsin, folk balladeer Miller explores the modern Native American experience with traditional and rock ‘n’ roll instruments.
Brice Miller & the Mahogany Brass Band, 4/29, J&H, 12:15p: A performance artist as well as a trumpeter, Miller has done avant-jazz gigs with a DJ and electronics, but plays more traditional jazz with this group.
Janelle Monae, 4/29. GEN, 5:35p: Trained in New York’s musical theater, Monae brings a performance-art sensibility to hip-hop. After early collaborations with OutKast, she was signed to P. Diddy’s Bad Boy label, which did nothing to tone her down. Her 2010 debut, The ArchAndroid, was a full-fledged, sci-fi concept album.
J. Monque’D Blues Band, 5/3, BLU, 12:25p: The song and album title “Chitlin Eatin’ Music” best describes this longtime harmonica wailer and Uptown character.
John Mooney & Bluesiana, 5/5, BLU, 3:55p: This blazing blues guitarist has been a local fixture since the mid-‘70s, when he arrived from the Mississippi Delta and began sitting in with Professor Longhair and Earl King. The season finale of season one of Treme presented him rocking up Grayson Capps’ song “Drink a Little Poison (4 U Die)” with the Soul Rebels.
My Morning Jacket, 5/5, GEN, 5:25p: Louisville’s My Morning Jacket is steeped in the classic country/rock tradition but is not afraid to mess with it. Frontman Jim James has worked lately with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and in a Woody Guthrie project; expect some vintage local covers to appear in their set.
Augie Myers: See The Texas Tornados
MyNameIsJohnMichael, 5/5, GEN, 12:40p: This popular rock band first drew attention when its leader posted a new song to the Internet every week in 2008. Since then, the band has adopted a more deliberate approach, and his integrated New Orleans instrumentation into its sound. The new album, Picture Perfect Past, should be due for release soon after a year’s work.
The Raymond A. Myles Singers 30th Anniversary Reunion, 5/3, GOS, 4:50p: Myles’ larger-than-life voice and matching personality provided some of the Gospel Tent’s most electrifying sets before his murder in 1998. Members of his group are coming from as far as New York, California and Hawaii to participate in this salute.
Mystikal, 5/4, CON, 3:55p: New Orleans rapper Mystikal cut one of the landmark Dirty South sides with 2000’s “Shake Ya Ass.” Later, he was featured in major Ludacris and Li’l Jon tracks we probably shouldn’t name. He signed with the Cash Money label last winter and broke a decade-long recording silence; the new single “Original” features Li’l Wayne and Birdman.
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Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, 4/28, FDD, 6p: Nathan Williams sprang from his brother’s club El Sid O’s in Lafayette to become one of zydeco’s biggest names.
Aaron Neville’s Gospel Experience, 5/5, GOS, 4:55p: His fans will testify that you haven’t really heard Aaron Neville until you’ve heard him in the Gospel Tent. In recent years, he’s brought a live band with his brother Charles on sax.
The Neville Brothers, 5/6, ACU, 5:45p: The brothers have confirmed their final tour this year under the name “The Neville Brothers,” but they haven’t said this is their last Jazz Fest. Still, it seems a fitting time to show some love for one of the cornerstones of New Orleans music.
Charmaine Neville Band, 5/6, BLU, 12:20p: Charles Neville’s daughter sings jazz with an upbeat, local slant, and her flexible voice is matched by her exuberant personality. Keyboardist Amasa Miller anchors her backup quartet.
Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk, 5/3, GEN, 3:35p: Dumpstaphunk is a classic-model funk band with twin bass guitars (Nick Daniels and Tony Hall) that give them one of the fattest bottoms in funk. Anything that doesn’t add to a song’s funkiness is left in the rehearsal room.
New Birth Brass Band, 5/5, J&H, 5:35pm: This long-running band has hornmen Glen David Andrews and Trombone Shorty among its alumni. They recently teamed with the Threadheads organization to make a new CD paying tribute to their mentors, the Olympia Brass Band.
New Leviathan Oriental Fox-Trot Orchestra, 5/5, ECO, 11:15a: This multi-generational, always-entertaining band plays strictly ’90s music. That would be the 1890s, when the shipboard dance music and early jazz they favor was first created.
The New Orleans Bingo! Show, 4/28, GEN, 4:05p: One of the definitive “Only in New Orleans” acts, combining rock, R&B, cabaret, burlesque, original videos, leader Clint Maedgen’s eclectic songs and yes, the game of Bingo. In his other life, Maedgen sings for the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
The New Orleans Classic Revue feat. Frankie Ford, Al “Carnival Time” Johnson, and Robert “Barefoot” Parker with Blue Eyed Soul Revue, 4/27, ACU, 12:35p: Crescent City legends hit the stage with some classic New Orleans R&B.
New Orleans Klezmer Allstars, 4/29, LAG, 3:45p: Doing a funky, localized spin on Jewish traditional music, this band’s had dozens of members and last year celebrated its 20th anniversary.
New Orleans Nightcrawlers, 5/6, J&H, 5:50p: This funky brass band represents the genre’s adventurous edge and includes familiar faces from Bonerama and Galactic. Their last album, Slither Slice, combined funk, hip-hop, Indian chants and a general spirit of rejuvenation.
New Orleans Spiritualettes, 4/29, GOS, 11:15a: Founded a half-century ago by still-current leader Ruby Ray, the Spiritualettes are the longest-active female gospel group in New Orleans, and have played Jazz Fest since its second year.
The New Orleans Suspects, 4/27, ACU, 11:20a: The Suspects are the post-split musical home of former Radiator Reggie Scanlan. He’s now joined in the rhythm section by drummer Mean Willie Green, and in the band by Jake Eckert, CR Gruver, and Dirty Dozen founding member Kevin Harris.
Ne-Yo, 5/5, CON, 5:35p: As a songwriter, Ne-Yo has been behind hits for Beyonce and Rihanna; as an artist he’s picked up where the silky/funky Michael Jackson/Quincy Jones collaborations left off.
Nineveh Mass Choir, 5/6, GOS, 2:30p: This church choir from the Nineveh Baptist Church in Metairie released the acclaimed CD Worship a few years ago.
NOCCA Jazz Ensemble, 4/29, JAZ, 11:15a: Student group from the secondary school whose graduates include Harry Connick, Jr., Nicholas Payton, Trombone Shorty and the Marsalis brothers.
Northwestern University Jazz Ensemble, 4/27, JAZ, 11:20a: Student group from the college just north of Chicago in Evanston, Illinois.
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Fredy Omar con su Banda, 4/27, CON, 11:20a: Once proclaimed the “Latin King of Frenchmen Street” by OffBeat, Omar is a Honduras-born singer with a sizzling band. He’s played Jazz Fest every year since 1998.
O. Perry Walker Charter High School Gospel Choir, 5/3, GOS, 1:55p: 40-plus member gospel choir from this West Bank high school.
Original Pinettes Brass Band, 5/3, J&H 6p: The first and possibly only all-female brass band, all of whose members attended the Catholic school St. Mary’s Academy.
Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, 4/27, ECO, 4:35p: For health reasons, Bob French resigned leadership of this band with one of the longest-running names in New Orleans jazz last year. His nephew Gerald now leads a band that includes Larry Sieberth, Lucien Barbarin and Tom Fischer.
Anders Osborne, 5/5, GEN, 2:05p: A scorching slide guitarist and an unflinching songwriter, Osborne did the most-praised work of his career with the confessional-themed American Patchwork. The follow-up, Black Eye Galaxy, was just released.
Otra, 5/3, CON, 12:20p: Led by bassist Sam Price, this local Afro-Cuban band stands out from the crowd with its strong, original compositions; they also do a heavily rearranged “Nature Boy.”
Tony Owens: See Tribute to Wardell Quezergue
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Palmetto Bug Stompers, 5/3, ECO, 12:20p: Traditional jazz sextet with some familiar players, including the ubiquitous Washboard Chaz. They are a dance band staple on Frenchmen Street.
Panorama Jazz Band, 4/29, LAG, 12:55p: Using only acoustic instruments, this hip band takes its style from all over the map, blending New Orleans jazz traditions with klezmer, Latin and Balkan influences.
Papa Grows Funk, 4/29, GEN, 2:20p: “Papa” John Gros’ B3-fueled combo includes some of the funkiest players in town. Their new CD, Needle in the Groove, was produced in part by Allen Toussaint and in part by Better Than Ezra’s Tom Drummond.
Robert “Barefootin” Parker: See Tribute to Wardell Quezergue
Beth Patterson & Potent Bathers, 4/27, LAG, 11:30a: New Orleans has plenty of guitar heroes but only one bouzouki hero in Patterson, a folk-rooted performer and silver-voiced singer (and closet Rush fan) whose music gets more eclectic by the year. Her sense of humor is reflected in her band’s moniker, an anagram of her name.
Paulin Brothers Brass Band, 4/28, ECO, 12:30p: Ernest “Doc” Paulin founded this band in the 1920s, and his sons now perform strictly traditional brass-band music, complete with the longstanding black-and-white uniforms and spiffy white caps.
Nicholas Payton XXX, 4/29, JAZ, 5:45p: This outspoken trumpeter broke out of jazz conventions with his last album Bitches, and he now maintains that “I don’t play the J-word. I play BAM—Black American Music.”
Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, 4/28, ACU, 5:10p: For at least a decade, Petty’s topped the list of big names people most wanted to see at Jazz Fest, and he’s finally been talked out of his reported dislike for playing in daylight. This would be the perfect time to dig into the last Heartbreakers album, Mojo, their take on blues-informed Southern rock.
Pine Leaf Boys, 4/28, FDD, 2:50p: This young band has spearheaded the latest revival of Cajun music, bridging new and traditional music and snagging three Grammy nominations. Leader Wilson Savoy is the son of Cajun music’s first couple, Marc and Ann Savoy.
Pinstripe Brass Band, 5/5, J&H, 3:05p: A fixture since 1978 at the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club’s Mardi Gras parade, the Pinstripes are easy to pick out for their bright yellow performing outfits, even if they’re not actually pinstriped.
Dave Pirner: See Tribute to Alex Chilton feat. Dave Pirner, Alex McMurray, Susan Cowsill, Doug Garrison and Rene Coman
George Porter, Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners, 5/3, GEN, 2p; AMMH 4:30p: OffBeat honored this bassist and funk cornerstone with its Lifetime Achievement in Music earlier this year. Porter maintains this band between stints with the original and Funky Meters, 7 Walkers and his many guest and session gigs. The Pardners’ latest, Can’t Beat the Funk!, throws fresh spins on lesser-known Meters tunes.
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, 5/4, ACU, 3:25p: This Vermont band supported its hard-driving, meat-and-potatoes rock with a few years of relentless touring; the jam-band and roots-rock audiences were the first to jump aboard.
Tonia Powell & the Left Field Band, 4/28, CON, 11:15a: A featured singer at Kermit Ruffins’ club gigs, Powell has formed her own band to do a mix of jazz, soul and hip-hop.
Preservation Hall Jazz Band, 5/5, AMMH, 2p; ECO, 4:25p; 5/6, GEN, 5:35p: The New Orleans institution is celebrating its 50th anniversary in high style; a celebration in January found them playing Carnegie Hall with Steve Earle, Jim James, Yasiim Bey (formerly Mos Def), Del McCoury, Allen Toussaint, Trombone Shorty, GIVERS and more. This year they’ll play both a traditional Preservation Hall set on Saturday and then close the Gentilly stage Sunday with a star-studded anniversary jam.
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Tribute to Wardell Quezergue feat. The Dixie Cups, Robert “Barefootin” Parker, and Tony Owens, 4/28, BLU, 5:55p: Known as the Creole Beethoven, Quezergue was the producer/arranger behind landmarks like Parker’s “Barefootin’,” the Dixie Cups’ Chapel of Love,” Professor Longhair’s “Big Chief,” Earl King’s “Trick Bag” and more. He passed away last year, and this set will revisit his career peaks.
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Bonnie Raitt, 5/6, GEN, 3:45p: Raitt has been a friend of New Orleans music since covering Allen Toussaint’s “What Is Success” in the ‘70s. Her latest disc, Slipstream, features a diverse batch of material, including two latter-day Bob Dylan tunes.
John Rankin: See Guitar Masters
Real Untouchables Brass Band, 4/27, J&H, 5:55p: Formed in 1999 by students of Southern University-Baton Rouge’s marching band, this young group mixes traditional and modern styles.
Rebirth Brass Band, 5/6, CON, 3:45p: Formed 29 years ago, Rebirth was one of the first bands to modernize and funkify the New Orleans brass band sound. Last year’s CD Rebirth of New Orleans marked a strong return to the studio after many years on the road, earning the band’s first Grammy.
Red Hawk Mardi Gras Indians, 5/4, J&H, 11:15a: This Mardi Gras Indian tribe from the Lower Ninth Ward performs.
Red Stick Ramblers, 5/6, FDD, 12:35p: The “red stick” is Baton Rouge, home of these Fais Do-Do stage favorites who mix traditional Cajun, Western swing, blues and old-school jazz. A follow-up CD to 2009’s acclaimed My Suitcase Is Always Packed is in the works.
Pastor Jai Reed, 4/28, GOS, 1:45p: New Orleans Baptist minister is a soulful singer in the Stevie Wonder tradition, doing gospel with a contemporary R&B influence.
Dianne Reeves, 4/29, JAZ, 4:05p: When you hear Dianne Reeves, you know you’re in the presence of something special. Her sultry, earthy voice can reach back to the sound of Sarah Vaughn and Ella Fitzgerald, and is as comfortable in the symphony hall singing Gershwin with Sir Simon Rattle as she in the nightclub with Wynton Marsalis.
The Revealers, 5/4, J&H, 4:15p: A long-running reggae band with a funkified New Orleans feel, the Revealers are best known for the local hit “I Like the Sound of That.”
The Revivalists, 4/27, GEN, 11:20a: New Orleans band has solid songs for the rock ’n’ rollers and free-flowing grooves for the jam-band crowd. They recently wrapped up their second album, City of Sound, with Galactic’s Ben Ellman producing.
Belton Richard & the Musical Aces, 5/5, FDD, 11:15a: Richard is a Cajun legend whose resume includes a handful of seminal early ‘60s singles, some innovation (his was the first Cajun band to use electric bass) and the occasional fluke hit, like his Cajun version of Ray Stevens’ “The Streak.”
Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, 4/29, FDD, 12:40p: One of the leading Cajun bands and one of the few that’s equally open to traditional and progressive styles. Recent gigs have featured a killer version of Neil Young’s “Down by the River” in French.
Sammy Rimington International Band, 4/27, ECO, 12:30p: This clarinetist led the New Orleans-inspired trad jazz movement in early-’60s England, and has recorded relentlessly since his first album in 1971. Two years ago, he celebrated a half-century in music.
James Rivers Movement, 4/27, JAZ, 2:50p: Versatile saxophonist who plays both straight-ahead jazz and funk, and can also jam away on bagpipes. Search the racks and you may find a nifty disco-funk album he made in the 70’s.
Jimmy Robinson: See Guitar Masters
Rocks of Harmony, 5/6, GOS, 11:10a: New Orleans gospel in its purest form, this group has been singing praises for half a century.
Rodrigo y Gabriela & C.U.B.A., 5/4, GEN, 5:35p: For their latest album, Area 52, the flamenco shredders have hooked up with a 13-piece Cuban orchestra and calmed down a bit, accenting the melodies in their catalog over the pyrotechnics.
Roddie Romero & the Hub-City Allstars, 4/28, ACU, 12:25p: This eclectic Cajun, zydeco, swamp pop and rock ‘n’ roll band is built around accordionist/guitarist Romero and pianist Eric Adcock. Their expansive double album The La Louisianne Sessions was nominated for a Grammy, and they’re preparing to return to the studio for its follow-up.
Rotary Downs, 5/6, ACU, 11:10a: This New Orleans indie rock band continues to receive national attention for its well-crafted tunes and multi-textured arrangements, heard most recently on the disc Cracked Maps & Blue Reports.
Wanda Rouzan, 5/4, BLU, 2:40p: A lifetime New Orleanian, Wanda cut her first single as part of the Rouzan Sisters and has since distinguished herself as a stage actress, educator and champion of the city’s R&B tradition.
Khris Royal & Dark Matter, 4/28, CON, 12:20p: This modern New Orleans funk band is led by singer and saxophonist Royal, who’s also a member of George Porter, Jr.’s Runnin’ Pardners and Pat Casey and the New Sound.
Paulina Rubio, 5/5, CON, 3:35p: The daughter of a Mexican film star, Rubio ruled the Latin pop world beginning with the 1992 hit “Mio”; her album Paulina was the most successful Latin album of 2001. Her song “Y Yo Sigo Aqui” topped the charts in 30 countries. And to top it off, E! Television named her one of pop’s 20 sexiest divas.
Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, 5/6, GEN, 12:30p: Still a fixture Thursday nights at Vaughan’s, Ruffins remains one of New Orleans’ favorite trumpeters and personalities. His Jazz Fest shows are traditionally as much a neighborhood party as a regular gig.
Rumba Buena, 5/5, CON, 12:35p: Led by percussionist Johnny Marcia, this popular New Orleans Latin band sports four singers, four percussionists, horns and rhythm to spare.
Bobby Rush, 4/28, AMMH, 2:30p; BLU, 4:25p: The Louisiana native is a longstanding cult hero of funky soul, whose early singles “Chicken Heads” and “Bowlegged Woman” are beloved by vinyl junkies.
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Shawn Sahm: See The Texas Tornados
David Sanborn and Joey DeFrancesco, 5/6, JAZ, 3:45p: Two of the most popular instrumentalists in contemporary jazz, saxophonist Sanborn and organist DeFrancesco respectively got their first breaks from Paul Butterfield and Miles Davis. They’ve gone on to major success both creative and commercial, if not always at the same time.
Tommy Sancton’s New Orleans Legacy Band, 5/5, ECO, 1:45p: This clarinetist hails from a family of writers and served as Time Magazine’s Paris bureau chief for 22 years. As a child, he took music lessons from Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s George Lewis, something he documents in the book Song for My Fathers. A live show based on the book was performed during the Tennessee Williams Festival this March.
Paul Sanchez & the Rolling Road Show, 5/5, GEN, 11:25a: Once the relatively quiet guy in Cowboy Mouth, Sanchez has since been a friendly godfather to the local songwriter scene, and the co-writer of the post-Katrina musical Nine Lives. His Rolling Road Show could include any number of musical friends.
Jumpin’ Johnny Sansone, 4/29, ACU, 11:30a: A multi-instrumentalist who draws from swamp-rock, blues and zydeco, Sansone’s ace in the hole is his songwriting. His latest, The Lord is Waiting and the Devil Is Too, features drummer Stanton Moore and producer/ guitarist Anders Osborne.
Savoy Center of Eunice Saturday Cajun Jam, 4/28, FDD, 1:25p: Folklorist musicians Marc and Ann Savoy bring all their jamming friends, of which there’s plenty. Expect to see a good half-dozen fiddles and at least as many accordions onstage.
Cindy Scott, 4/27, JAZ, 12:30p: This versatile jazz singer lived and performed in Germany before studying with Steve Masakowski at the University of New Orleans. Her CD, Let the Devil Take Tomorrow, won OffBeat’s Best of the Beat award for Best Contemporary Jazz disc in 2010.
Tonia Scott & the Anointed Voices, 4/28, GOS, 2:40p: Choir formed at Ebenezer Baptist Church in New Orleans. They appeared as Ray Charles’ hometown choir in the biopic Ray, and were also seen in the films The Skeleton Key and Last Holiday.
Shades of Praise, 4/27, GOS, 3:35p: Unity is the message of this mixed choir whose members come from across the city representing Christian, Jewish and Asian religious backgrounds.
Mem Shannon & the Membership, 5/6, CON, 12:25p: This funky bluesman and Jazz Fest veteran has a fine stack of original songs both witty and soulful. His new CD is due shortly under the Threadhead banner.
Jamil Sharif, 4/27, ECO, 6p: This local trumpeter studied with Ellis Marsalis at NOCCA and went on to do a number of soundtracks, including the Ray Charles biopic Ray, for which he was music coordinator.
Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys, 4/28, GEN, 2:40p: Now out of her teens and signed to Irvin Mayfield’s label, the fiddle prodigy and Cajun rocker is coming into her own. Her latest CD, Good Southern Girl, ranged from modern funky rock to a Clifton Chenier cover.
Silky Sol, 5/3, BLU, 2:45p: Known as the “Red Afro Queen” for reasons that will be obvious, she’s a Minneapolis blues/soul belter whom Narada Michael Walden described as “soulful yet sexy.”
Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, 5/6, BLU, 4p: This Grammy Award-winning singer/accordionist is one of zydeco’s masters and ambassadors. He’s now writing a children’s book about Creole culture, and this will be his 27th consecutive Jazz Fest.
Kid Simmons’ Local International Allstars, 5/4, ECO, 12:30p: Trumpeter Simmons is a Fest veteran who’s been active in traditional jazz since he first came to came to New Orleans in 1966. He’s also a musicologist and WWOZ DJ who’s unearthed some overlooked classics of the ragtime era.
Lil’ Buck Sinegal Blues Band, 4/27, BLU, 12:25p: One of Ponderosa Stomp’s stalwarts, Sinegal played guitar with Clifton Chenier and Slim Harpo, and once led a band that included a young Stanley “Buckwheat” Dural on organ.
Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes, 4/27, GEN, 12:40p: Fronted by a cellist turned guitarist, they’re a funky rock band with a few gonzoid touches. The band’s philosophy can best be summed up by the sentiments of last year’s single and video, “Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance.”
Slavic Soul Party!, 4/27, J&H, 4:25p: This nine-piece NYC band lives up to its name, throwing brass band, klezmer, funk and Latin elements into a party-ready mix.
Danon Smith: See The Gospel According to Jazz feat. B.J. Crosby, Judy Davis, Danon Smith, and Yolanda Windsay
Smitty Dee’s Brass Band, 5/4, Parade, 5p: This band was formed in 1991 by former Olympia Brass Band sousaphonist Dimitri Smith. They play regularly at Preservation Hall and nightly on the Creole Queen riverboat.
Soul Rebels, 4/28, CON, 5:20p: This funk-inspired brass band has been through a few lineups and is now riding high with its Rounder debut Unlock Your Mind and a tour opening for (and jamming with) Galactic.
Esperanza Spalding’s Radio Music Society, 5/3, CON, 5:25p: A sensation in the Northeast soon after graduating from the Berklee School of Music, bassist Spalding soon caught on nationwide and last year became the first jazz musician to win the Best New Artist Grammy. The new Radio Music Society brings together noted players from the jazz, hip-hop and R&B worlds.
Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, 4/29, ACU, 4:30p: Springsteen’s post-Katrina set with the Seeger Sessions Band has gone down in Jazz Fest lore as one of the most resonant sets ever played by a visiting artist. With Springsteen reconvening the E Street Band after the loss of Clarence Clemons and the release of the hard-hitting Wrecking Ball, there’s every reason for history to repeat itself.
St. Joseph the Worker Choir, 5/4, GOS, 2:40p: Led by Clark Knighten, this Catholic ensemble from Marrero sings hymns with a traditional flair.
Gregg Stafford’s Jazz Hounds, 5/6, ECO, 3p: This group is led by trumpeter Stafford, who made his Bourbon Street performing debut in 1970. He has led the Young Tuxedo Brass Band for 28 years.
Mavis Staples, 5/4, GOS, 4:50p: Renowned for her soaring leads on the Staples’ Singers’ “I’ll Take You There” and “Express Yourself,” the soul legend is earning new popularity for You Are Not Alone, her collaboration with fan and fellow Chicagoan Jeff Tweedy.
The Stars of Heaven, 5/6, GOS, 4:50p: This female gospel quintet was formed in Chicago by the late Flora Liggins in 1990; her daughter Sharon Liggins now leads the group.
Steel Pulse, 4/27, CON, 5:30p: England’s longest-running reggae band and one of its best, equally comfortable with hardcore Rasta doctrine and lighter numbers like the U.S. hit “Steppin’ Out.” David Hinds is one of reggae’s most recognizable front men for his voice and his towering dreadlocks.
Marc Stone, 4/28, LAG, 12:30p: This blues guitarist has been active onstage and behind the scenes in New Orleans music. 2010’s Trickeration and Rascality features a stellar support cast, including Terrance Simien, Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Bonerama Horns.
Stooges Brass Band, 5/3, CON, 2:40p: Formed in 1996, the Stooges are one of the best brass bands on the circuit. They won the Red Bull Street Kings brass competition in 2010, and recently cut tracks with Mannie Fresh at Red Bull’s Los Angeles studio.
Storyville Stompers Brass Band, 4/28, J&H, 1:35p: This traditional New Orleans brass band formed in 1981, and it performs a number of rarely-played vintage jazz tunes. Its membership includes some of the top players in town, and it’s always in demand for parades.
SUBR Jazzy Jags, 4/28, GEN, 11:15a: Student group from the Southern University of Baton Rouge. The school’s modern jazz program was designed by the late Alvin Batiste.
Bill Summers & Jazalsa, 4/29, J&H, 1:30p; AMMH, 5p: Known for his membership in Los Hombres Calientes and Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters, percussionist Summers explores Latin and world music with his latest band.
Sunpie & the Louisiana Sunspots’ International Accordion Summit, 4/29, FDD, 5:35p: A performer who’s done blues, funk, island music and zydeco, Sunpie Barnes is a longtime fest favorite. This year he plans to pull in some guest squeeze-boxers from around the globe.
Supagroup, 5/6, ACU, 12:15p: Supagroup’s music was made to be listened to loudly in muscle cars; good thing muscle cars are making a comeback. Their latest disc’s title track, “Hail! Hail! (Rock & Roll),” says it all.
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Tanya & Dorise, 5/6, LAG, 12:30p: A jazz-pop duo blending violin and guitar, they can be found performing most weekends on Royal Street.
Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble, 5/5, FDD, 12:20p; AMMH, 1p: Originally the drummer in his father’s zydeco band, Jude Taylor & the Burning Flames, Curley went on to drum for Steve Riley and Geno Delafose before taking to the accordion to front his own rocking zydeco group.
TBC Brass Band, 5/6, J&H, 1:25p: If a brass band on Bourbon Street ever stopped you in your tracks, it was probably TBC Brass Band. The group’s sometimes-tragic story was told in a recent documentary, From the Mouthpiece on Back.
The Texas Tornados feat. Flaco Jiménez, Augie Myers, & Shawn Sahm, 4/27, AMMH, 3:30p; FDD, 5:30p: The late Doug Sahm conceived this Tex-Mex supergroup in 1990. Original members Sahm and Freddy Fender have since died, but Doug’s son Shawn carries on the tradition with the great conjunto accordionist Jimenez and Myers, whose Vox organ in the Sir Douglas Quintet defined garage-rock keyboards.
Goldman Thibodeaux & the Lawtell Playboys, 4/27, FDD, 11:25a: Accordionist Thibodeaux, who began performing at age 52, now leads the traditional Creole band that was established in 1946.
Irma Thomas, 5/5, ACU, 3:10p: The “Soul Queen of New Orleans” recently celebrated her 50th year as a recording artist. While she still plays “It’s Raining,” “Time is on My Side” and the other early hits, she continues to introduce new material.
Irma Thomas’ Tribute to Mahalia Jackson, 4/27, GOS, 4:40p: If you heard 1993’s Walk Around Heaven or witnessed one of her church performances, you know how stirring Thomas can be as a gospel singer. She has a personal rule against singing gospel during a secular set, so this will be a rare chance to hear her sacred side in full flight.
Butch Thompson’s Homage to Jelly Roll Morton, 4/27, ECO, 3:10p: Known for his decade-plus stint with Garrison Keillor on A Prairie Home Companion, Thompson is a longtime scholar of New Orleans jazz and recorded his first album of Jelly Roll Morton’s music in 1974. Though known mainly as a pianist, he is also an accomplished clarinetist.
Javier Tobar & Elegant Gypsy, 4/28, J&H, 11:20a: Flamenco guitarist Tobar, who’s worked in both Nashville and New Orleans, has led versions of this fusion band since the ’80s.
Wayne Toups & Zydecajun, 5/4, ACU, 12:35p: This Crowley singer/accordionist was one of the first Cajun/zydeco artists to sign with a major label in the ‘80s. While his band draws strongly from rock onstage, Toups has also embraced his roots, most recently on a trio album with Wilson Savoy and Steve Riley.
Allen Toussaint, 5/5, ACU, 1:35p: One of the guiding lights of New Orleans music and a man whose songs virtually define New Orleans R&B. His last album, the jazz set The Bright Mississippi, brought new acclaim, and he’s since worked in the studio with Aaron Neville and Papa Grows Funk.
Treme Brass Band, 4/29, ECO, 2:50p: One of the longest-running traditional brass bands in town, the Treme made their own contribution to the Carnival repertoire with “Gimme My Money Back.”
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, 4/29, ACU, 12:45p: A street-parade trombonist when he was barely out of diapers, Shorty now does funky, jazz-informed R&B with plenty of style and swagger. 2010’s Backatown put him close to a national breakthrough; last year’s For True clinched it.
Tulane University Jazz Ensemble, 5/3, JAZ, 11:25a: A student group from the local university with a long tradition of jazz education.
Evelyn Turrentine-Agee, 4/29, AMMH, 2p; GOS, 4:50p: A life-long gospel singer based in Detroit for her four-decade career, she earned national recognition for the 2000 single “God Did It.” She currently performs with her sons leading the band.
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UNO Jazz Allstars, 5/6, JAZ, 11:30a: Student group directed by guitarist Brian Seeger.
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Val & the Love Alive Fellowship Choir, 5/5, GOS, 2:40p: Few things sound more spirited than 100 school-age kids singing praises. Valerie Bemiss- Williams directs this large choir.
Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders, 4/29, ECO, 5:45p: This eclectic banjo player has made a career of exploring his Creole heritage through music, whether it’s traditional jazz, island music, or with Otis Taylor, Keb’ Mo’, Alvin Youngblood Hart, and Corey Harris as part of the Black Banjo Project.
Seva Venet & the Storyville String Band, 5/3, ECO, 11:20a: This New Orleans group aims to match the sound and repertoire of a marching brass band, but with stringed instruments rather than horns.
Ernie Vincent & the Top Notes, 4/29, BLU, 11:20a: Guitarist Vincent was the wah-wah man on the ‘70s soul collectors classic “Dap Walk,” and he played some memorable gigs with Ernie K-Doe at the Mother-in-Law Lounge. He has been energized by his new, young lineup of the Top Notes.
Vivaz!, 5/4, GEN, 11:20a: Bolivian-born guitarist Javier Gutierrez leads an 11-piece band covering a sweep of Latin music from Tito Puente to Gipsy Kings to New Orleans-flavored originals.
Voice of the Wetlands Allstars feat. Tab Benoit, Dr. John, Cyril Neville, Anders Osborne, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Johnny Vidacovich, Johnny Sansone & Waylon Thibodeaux, 4/28, ACU, 3:15p: Guitarist and activist Tab Benoit pulls together a band of ecologically minded musical heavyweights, which did its first U.S. tour last year. Core members include familiar names Cyril Neville, Anders Osborne, Johnny Sansone, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux and Cajun fiddler Waylon Thibodeaux.
Voices of Peter Claver, 5/5, GOS, 12:50p: This adult choir is based at St. Peter Claver Church on St. Philip Street.
Ed Volker, 5/6, LAG, 3p: While the rest of the Radiators have developed active musical careers since the band split up this time last year, Volker has kept a low profile. This may be his first public performance since the break-up.
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Michael Ward, 5/3, CON, 1:30p: Son of jazz vocalist Carol Ward, Michael is an electric violinist whose repertoire includes a smooth-jazz version of “Hotel California.”
Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the Roadmasters, 4/28, BLU, 2:55p: Local favorite who played with Lee Dorsey and Johnny Adams before striking out on his own, doing funky blues with some jazzy and soulful touches.
Washboard Rodeo, 4/29, LAG, 5:25p: When not playing blues with his Blues Trio or rock and swing with the Tin Men, Washboard Chaz leads this Western swing band comprised of Frenchmen Street mainstays.
Watson Memorial Teaching Ministries Mass Choir, 4/28, GOS, 3:35p: This large, energetic choir founded by Thomas Benjamin Watson more than three decades ago sings a mostly contemporary-gospel repertoire.
Dr. Michael White & the Original Liberty Jazz Band feat. Thais Clark, 4/28, ECO, 4:20p: Clarinetist and jazz scholar White fused traditional and modern styles on his last CD, Adventures in New Orleans Jazz, Volume 1. He’s joined by Clark, a Seventh Ward blues singer steeped in the sounds of Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith.
Clive Wilson’s New Orleans Serenaders feat. Butch Thompson, 4/29, ECO, 1:30p: Jazz players steeped in the tradition. Trumpeter Wilson and pianist Thompson first met in the ’60s as spectators at Preservation Hall.
Ruby Wilson’s Tribute to Bessie Smith & Ma Rainey, 5/6, ECO, 5:50p: Born in Texas, based in Memphis and known as the blues queen of Beale Street, Wilson has become a crusader for health since recovering from a recent stroke.
Wimberly Family Gospel Singers, 4/27, GOS, 12p: This Marrero family group has been singing traditional gospel for nearly four decades.
Yolanda Windsay: See The Gospel According to Jazz feat. B.J. Crosby, Judy Davis, Danon Smith, and Yolanda Windsay
Betty Winn & One-a-Chord, 4/27, GOS, 1:45p: Formed in 1995 by Betty Winn and her husband Thomas, this choir traces the history of gospel from slave spirituals to new compositions. They perform with as many as 40 singers.
Ted Winn, 5/4, GOS, 3:35p: This Memphis gospel-soul singer was formerly half of the duo Ted & Sheri, who had a hit with the Roberta Flack/Donny Hathaway song “Come Ye Disconsolate.” Winn went solo with the 2009 CD Balance.
Kipori Woods, 5/3, BLU, 11:20a: Blues guitarist Kipori Woods recently returned to action, playing on his own and in Cyril Neville’s band. He recently released a new CD, Blues Gone Wild.
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Xavier University Jazz Ensemble, 5/5, JAZ, 11:15a: A student group from one of New Orleans’ great training grounds.
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Young Pinstripe Brass Band, 4/27, J&H, 12:25p: Formed in 2009 and led by fourth-generation musician Herbert McCarver IV, the group puts a funk and hip-hop spin on the brass band sound.
Young Tuxedo Jazz Band, 5/5, ECO, 3:05p: Founded in 1938, this band cut the album New Orleans Joys for Atlantic in the late ‘50s. Now led by Gregg Stafford, it remains true to the sound of the original lineup.
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Zazou City, 5/4, LAG, 11:20a: Pianist/keyboardist Bart Ramsey leads a band dedicated to taking New Orleans gypsy jazz in new directions.
Zebra, 4/27, AMMH, 12:30p; ACU, 3:40p: Zeppelin-inspired arena rock is not a sound often associated with New Orleans, but this band made big waves with its self-titled 1983 debut, led by guitarist and lead howler Randy Jackson. The band rode out the hair-metal backlash and still tours to this day.
Zion Harmonizers, 5/6, GOS, 1:35p: This venerable group has been a Jazz Fest favorite since the beginning. Its late leader Sherman Washington coordinated the first Gospel Tent in 1969. The group’s history goes back to 1939, when the first lineup was formed in the Zion City neighborhood.
Zulu Male Ensemble, 5/4, GOS, 11:15a: This gospel singing group is associated with the well-known Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club.
