New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest – A Preview, and a Look Back

The 50th anniversary of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is scheduled for April 25-28 and May 2-5, 2019.

Featuring many historic artists who’ve helped shape the musical landscape of the city, this year’s festival is sure to be an experience of a lifetime. Special tribute performances will be dedicated to Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, Jellyroll Morton; Professor Longhair, Mahalia Jackson, Clifton Chenier, James Booker, Allen Toussaint, Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, Louis Prima, Danny & Blue Lu Barker and many more, including a unique tribute to The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin.

“The Cultural Exchange Pavilion will celebrate many of the Festival favorites that have been highlighted in the Pavilion since its inception in 1996 including Chouval Bwa Traditionnel of Martinique, Crocodile Gumboot Dancers of South Africa, Ilê Aiyê of Brazil, Boukman Eksperyans of Haiti, and Septeto Santiaguero of Cuba; along with groups from throughout Africa and the Caribbean connecting to New Orleans’ unique cultural fabric.

Since 1970, Jazz Fest has annually celebrated the unique culture and heritage of New Orleans and Louisiana, alongside unforgettable special guest performances by the musical icons of our era and performances by nationally and internationally renowned artists. Jazz Fest features one of the world’s most diverse music festival lineups with over 600 bands on thirteen stages performing virtually every style of music.”

Here’s a look back through the years at some of the drummers who’ve graced the Jazz Fest stage. We’re looking forward to checking out the incredible talent this year!