TOP JAZZ FEST PICKS FOR THURSDAY, APRIL 24
Rockin' Dopsie Jr.
FESTIVAL STAGE | 1:30-2:25 P.M.
Rockin' Dopsie Jr. carries on his father's legacy by blending traditional Louisiana rhythms with just a bit more soul. Dubbed the James Brown of zydeco, his high-octane performances fuse New Orleans funk, soul, R&B, and zydeco to create a sound all can enjoy.
Grayhawk presents Native American Lore
OCHSNER CHILDREN'S TENT | 1:50-2:35 P.M.
Grayhawk Perkins is a respected storyteller and musician from Louisiana who just published a collection called Grayhawk's Native American Folktales in March 2025 that reflects his Houma and Choctaw heritage. As part of the United Houma Nation, he is dedicated to Native American music and stories.
Papa Mali's Shantytown Underground
LAGNIAPPE STAGE | 2:55-3:45 P.M.
Known for his work with deep soul blues, psychedelic rock, and other genres, Papa Mali will put on a can't miss show. His Shantytown Underground event features an eight-piece, horn-driven ensemble, connecting New Orleans R&B with the roots of Jamaican ska, rocksteady, and reggae.
Goose
SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 5:10-7:00 P.M.
With humble beginnings playing in Connecticut basements, this American jam rock band has become known nationwide for their unique sound, improvisational live performances, and their dedicated fan base. Bringing an electrifying energy everywhere they tour, no live Goose performance is ever the same.
Sam Bush
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
A master mandolinist, Sam Bush is widely considered the father of progressive bluegrass. Inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame as himself and as part of New Grass Revival, Bush continues to push the boundaries of what is considered bluegrass.
Shemekia Copeland
BLUES TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
This electric blues singer, known for her commanding voice, is ready to perform for Jazz Fest. Shemekia Copeland has earned a Grammy nomination for her blend of blues with gospel, R&B, and electronic elements, which gives her a unique sonic style.
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
Son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, Suen Kuti carries on his father's musical legacy by leading Egypt 80, the group formed by his father, while incorporating his own distinct style. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Suen Kuti released his latest album in 2024.
Poulet Fricassee (Chicken on a Stick)
Bennachins | Congo Square
Made with browned, boneless chicken on a stick, poulet fricassee is an African take on a traditionally French dish, often stewed in a white, cream mushroom sauce. Bennachin's poulet fricassee has a deliciously rich flavor and is definitely worth experiencing.
Fry Bread
United Houma Nation | Louisiana Folklife Village
A traditional Native American dish, fry bread is a flat dough bread typically fried in oil or shortening. While it usually acts as the base for Indian tacos, including the United Houma Nation's fry bread, it can also be topped with sweet or savory flavors.
Andrew Pollack
Pollack Glass | Contemporary Crafts
Andrew Pollack specializes in hand blown glass, as well as torchworking, enameling, casting, and much more. Most of his glass works are on the smaller side and include everything from beads and marbles to intricate sculptures of different animals and nature.
TOP PICKS FOR FRIDAY, APRIL 25
Ronnie Lamarque
SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 11:15 A.M.-12:10 P.M.
Known across NOLA for his trademark cover of "Volare," which was used to advertise his car dealerships, Ronnie Lamarque's catchy tunes are GNO staples. Starting as a teen solo artist and vocalist in the Nobles, he was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.
Rosie Ledet
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 12:20-1:20 P.M.
Rosie Ledet is a Creole/zydeco accordion player and singer with a spunky sound and sultry lyrics. Popular for hits such as "Sweet Brown Sugar" and "You Can Eat My Poussiere," Ledet has opened shows for James Brown, Bob Dylan, and others on global tours.
Wanda Rouzan & A Taste of New Orleans
BLUES TENT | 12:25-1:15 P.M.
A beloved New Orleans educator, entertainer, and singer, Wanda Rouzan exudes the city's unique flair. With decades of experience, Rouzan has appeared in films and TV such as HBO's Treme. Her band, A Taste of New Orleans, brings funky, jazzy tunes to the stage.
L.B. Landry Gospel Choir
GOSPEL TENT | 1:00-1:45 P.M.
More than just a high school gospel choir, L.B. Landry showcases uplifting, powerful performances as they blend traditional gospel with contemporary influences. This talented young choir performed at Jazz Fest last year and is ready to take the stage again with their soulful sounds.
Youssou NDOUR
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 2:40-3:55 P.M.
A popular Senegalese singer/songwriter and politician known for popularizing mbalax music globally, Youssou NDOUR is a beloved musical ambassador for Senegal. His genre-blending collaborations with international artists and cultural activism have won him a Grammy Award and international praise.
Kacey Musgraves
FESTIVAL STAGE | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
Since starting her career in the early 2000s, country star Kacey Musgraves has become well known for her unique blend of various musical styles. Her distinct voice and introspective lyrics have won her eight Grammy Awards and a fan base across genres.
Gladys Knight
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 5:50-7:00 P.M.
Known as the "Empress of Soul," Gladys Knight will deliver timeless hits with her entrancingly powerful voice this Jazz Fest. Her contributions to the R&B and soul genres have led to a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction and a multi-Grammy Award-winning career.
Soft Shell Crab Po-Boy
The Galley's | Food Area 2
This classic Jazz Fest dish features fried soft shell crab from the Gulf Coast on classic New Orleans French bread. As one of the festival's most famed dishes, it's hard to find flavors more rooted in the region's culinary culture.
Tenzin Dolker
Tenzin Dolker Photography | Contemporary Crafts
Based out of New Orleans, Tenzin Dolker is a Tibetan self-taught photographer and performing artist who travels the country to capture her work. Dolker uses photography as a means of capturing the life she has transitioned to in the U.S.
James Michalopoulos
Original Paintings | Bruce Brice Art Village and Poster Art Tent
Michalopoulos paints energetic and vibrant depictions of New Orleans' culture of celebration with distinctive thick layers and explosive colors. Showcasing the city's essence, his iconic paintings of shotgun houses, Creole cottages, and local entertainers capture the beauty of New Orleans.
TOP PICKS FOR SATURDAY, APRIL 26
Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 1:35-2:30 P.M.
Master accordionist Bruce Daigrepont leads this authentic Cajun ensemble, delivering traditional Louisiana French dance tunes with contemporary energy. Drawing from deep cultural roots, the band's infectious rhythms and masterful musicianship keep the fais do-do dance floor at Jazz Fest moving all afternoon.
The Zion Harmonizers
GOSPEL TENT | 1:55-2:40 P.M.
New Orleans' gospel luminaries the Zion Harmonizers will bring their soul-stirring quartet harmonies back to Jazz Fest. Drawing from century-old a cappella traditions, these legendary curators have anchored the festival's spiritual core for over four decades, delivering powerful, spirit-moving performances.
James Andrews & the Crescent City All Stars
BLUES TENT | 2:50-3:50 P.M.
New Orleans trumpet legend James Andrews, grandson of Jesse Hill and mentor to Trombone Shorty, will be leading his powerhouse ensemble the Crescent City All Stars. Drawing from his Tremé roots and Danny Barker's tutelage, the "Satchmo of the Ghetto" delivers electrifying brass band performances.
Tribute to Pete Fountain featuring Tim Laughlin
ECONOMY HALL TENT | 3:05-4:05 P.M.
New Orleans clarinet virtuoso Tim Laughlin will be paying tribute to the legendary Pete Fountain, carrying forward the city's rich traditional jazz legacy. A master of his craft, Laughlin's soulful interpretations honor Fountain's iconic style while adding his own contemporary flair.
Lil Wayne & The Roots
FESTIVAL STAGE | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
Hip hop icon Lil Wayne joins forces with legendary band The Roots for an unprecedented collaboration. Fresh from their "Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special" performance, this groundbreaking fusion promises Wayne's iconic verses backed by The Roots' renowned live instrumentation and impeccable groove.
Diana Krall
WWOZ JAZZ TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
Multiple Grammy-winning jazz pianist and singer Diana Krall brings her sophisticated artistry to this year's fest. Known for her mesmerizing contralto vocals and masterful piano skills, Krall's interpretations of jazz standards have earned her worldwide acclaim and over 15 million album sales.
Taj Mahal & the Phantom Blues Band
BLUES TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
The Phantom Blues Band is reuniting again with blues legend and two-time Grammy-winning artist Taj Mahal, creating a signature blend of Texas blues, Memphis soul, and reggae rhythms. This powerhouse collaboration showcases decades of musical mastery through electrifying performances and dynamic arrangements.
Louisiana Trout Dizzy
Baquet's Lil' Dizzy's Cafe | Heritage Square
This dish features Louisiana trout topped with shrimp and crawfish, bringing the flavors of Creole cuisine to life. Lil' Dizzy's is known throughout the city for their culinary traditions and seafood dishes that are rich in the Baquet family's Creole heritage.
Chocolate Beignet
Loretta's Authentic Pralines | Food Area 2
Founded by the late "Queen of Sweets" Loretta Harrison, Loretta's Authentic Pralines has perfected much more than her acclaimed pralines. Perfectly airy and just sweet enough, Loretta's chocolate beignet, a special take on the classic beignet, is a delicacy not to be missed.
Charmelle Dukes
Afrodesiac Worldwide | Congo Square African Marketplace
Directly from Ghana, Charmelle Dukes designs African clothing with beautifully intricate designs and flowing colorful patterns. Dukes is the CEO and creative director of Afrodesiac Worldwide, bringing the brilliant patterns and flowing colors of Ghana to the U.S.
TOP PICKS FOR SUNDAY, APRIL 27
The Smothered Brothers: Paul Sanchez & Alex McMurray
RHYTHMPOURIUM | 12:00-12:45 P.M.
This folk songwriter and country singer combo, the Smothered Brothers, is the perfect duo to check out this Jazz Fest. Made up of Paul Sanchez and Alex McMurray, their music is often comedic and irreverent, making them a fun show that should not be missed.
New Orleans Gospel Soul Children ft. Big Freedia
GOSPEL TENT | 1:55-2:40 P.M.
"Queen Diva" Big Freedia is one of the most well-known representatives of New Orleans bounce music. She will be joining the New Orleans Gospel Soul Children, which is a choir of more than 60 children and is adored for their rich sounds and joyful arrangements.
Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & The Golden Eagles
JAZZ & HERITAGE STAGE | 3:00-4:00 P.M.
New Orleans icon Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, who is the leader of the Golden Eagles, is the oldest living Mardi Gras Indian Chief. Experience the conservation of local culture at Jazz Fest through their blend of Native American and Creole music, blues, and jazz.
Burna Boy
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 5:20-6:50 P.M.
Burna Boy is going to electrify the stage with his blend of Afrobeats, hip hop, and dancehall music. The Nigerian superstar has 11 Grammy nominations and even won the 2021 Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album for Twice as Tall.
HAIM
SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
The HAIM sisters, known for their blend of soft rock, pop, and R&B sounds, are ones to watch during the first Sunday of Jazz Fest. The Grammy-nominated sisterly trio will light up the stage with their unique vocal and guitar skills.
Eric Gales
BLUES TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
For three decades, blues rock guitarist Eric Gales' passion for music has taken the world by storm. The two-time Blues Music Award winner, known for magnetizing audiences since 1991 with his blues and hard rock sounds, will be one not to miss this Jazz Fest.
The Branford Marsalis Quartet
WWOZ JAZZ TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
This celebrated jazz ensemble is the perfect example of what Jazz Fest is all about with their innovative interpretations of popular classics and jazz. The Grammy-nominated quartet is led by local saxophonist and composer Brandford Marsalis, who has recorded with many, many other musicians.
Cajun Chicken & Tasso with Creole Rice
TJ Gourmet | Food Area 2
TJ Gourmet's dish features Cajun chicken and tasso with Creole rice, bringing some of Louisiana's main culinary traditions together in a uniquely flavorful combination. Tasso is a spicy, smoked pork that is often referred to as "Cajun ham" and is mainly found in southern Louisiana.
Brandi Couvillion
Etched Metal Art Jewelry | Contemporary Crafts
Inspired by historic maps and architectural elements found around New Orleans and Washington, D.C., Brandi Couvillion crafts raw metal into artisanal etched jewelry. Her jewelry depicts riverways and architectural elements, and each one is a unique staple piece to compliment your collection.
Juli Juneau
Blown Glass | Louisiana Marketplace
Through a curious and compassionate approach, Juli Juneau creates unique glass art that reflects geographic and cultural aspects from Africa. Her works have been presented in a variety of collections across the globe, and she has received numerous awards for her unique pieces.
