Jazz and Blues Festival on Big Island commences today

Jazz and Blues Festival on Big Island commences today

The Twelfth Annual Big Island Jazz and Blues Festival is set to unfold this weekend on the Kohala Coast, attracting music enthusiasts from far and wide. The festival, happening from today through Sunday at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Resort, boasts a diverse lineup of artists, featuring illustrious talents from New Orleans and Chicago.

This year's event promises a riveting symphony of jazz, blues, Hawaiian, and zydeco Cajun music. With over a dozen outstanding acts set to captivate the audience, the festival will showcase a variety of performers, including:

• Wayne Toups, a Grammy-winning zydeco legend and Music Hall of Fame inductee known for his high-energy shows and infectious sound.
• Donald Harrison, a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master and Big Chief of Mardi Gras, celebrated for his innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary jazz.
• Steve Freund, a renowned Chicago blues guitarist whose soulful renditions have won the hearts of audiences globally.
• Camile Baudoin, the lead guitarist of the acclaimed Radiators band, recently bestowed with the Professor Longhair FESS Award 2025, demonstrating his unique style and skill.
• Bruce "Sunpie" Barnes, a zydeco maestro and former NFL player, debuting in Hawaii after hosting the Creole Accordion Kings concert.
• The Iguanas, a beloved New Orleans band, admired for their enthralling blend of rock, blues, and Latin influences, with their music gracing Hollywood films.
• Charlie Halloran, a trombone master of the Squirrel Nut Zippers, making his Hawaii debut, bringing his Grammy-winning experience garnered from working with U2, Rickie Lee Jones, and John Cleary.
• Lynn Drury, a gifted singer-songwriter and guitarist sensation, also making her Hawaii debut, recognized for her powerful lyrics and enchanting melodies.
• John Keawe, a highly-decorated Grammy and Na Hoku Award winner, renowned for his mastery of slack guitar.
• Larry Dupio, a talented Na Hoku Award-winning blues guitarist, contributing to the festival's rich musical tapestry.
• Bill Noble, a Na Hoku Award-winning saxophonist, delivering dynamic and soulful performances.
• The Jazz Alley TV Band, an ensemble dedicated to bringing the essence of jazz to life on stage.

The Big Island Jazz and Blues Festival is more than just a music celebration—it embodies culture, community, and a shared love for melodies. Attendees can look forward to not only unforgettable performances but also engaging culinary experiences and an opportunity to connect with fellow music enthusiasts.

Tickets for the festival can be purchased at Eventbrite. For detailed information and updates, visit Bigislandjazzandbluesfestival.com.

1. At the Twelfth Annual Big Island Jazz and Blues Festival, music enthusiasts are invited to immerse themselves in a vibrant community that celebrates not only a symphony of jazz, blues, Hawaiian, and zydeco Cajun music, but also a shared love for cultures and melodies.
2. Over the course of the festival, attendees will be treated to an array of entertainment, with renowned artists like Wayne Toups, Donald Harrison, Steve Freund, Camile Baudoin, Bruce "Sunpie" Barnes, The Iguanas, Charlie Halloran, Lynn Drury, John Keawe, Larry Dupio, Bill Noble, and The Jazz Alley TV Band set to captivate the audience with their exceptional talents in jazz, blues, and more.

Read also:

• Still no breakthrough on the 2024 budget in sight - FDP in no hurry
• Paris attacker shows no remorse after killing a German tourist
• SPD parliamentary group: No more adoption of the 2024 budget this year
• EU agrees on new energy requirements for buildings - no refurbishment obligation