50th Annual Hampton Jazz Festival

Friday's show features two of the greatest “neo-soul” artists of all time. Festival favorite Jill Scott – and everyone's favorite KEM.  Between them they will mark a fitting opening tribute to the 50^th Anniversary of the Hampton Jazz Festival. In keeping with the name “Jazz” - the Friday show will also have the enormously popular Brian Culbertson - and the fantastic duo of Gerald Albright and Jonathan Butler.

Saturday's show promises to be one of the best ever. Appearing for the umpteenth time will be the Mighty Mighty O'Jays – probably one of the 3 or 4 most favored artists in the history of the Festival. Making her fourth appearance at the Festival is soul singer Fantasia - no matter the song she sings, her spirit seems to resonate from the speakers along with her voice. Returning after several years will be Anthony Hamilton – another very important “neo-soul” artist. Tipping back to the “Jazz” scale will be the West Coast Jam – comprised of the fabulous trio of Richard Elliot, Norman Brown and Rick Braun.

Sunday's show is nothing short of an all-star tribute to the 50 years of the Hampton Jazz Festival. Probably the 2 most favorite acts at the Festival ever – Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Patti Labelle are sure to bring back memories from long-ago Festivals. And speaking of long-ago Festivals – Ramsey Lewis will be appearing at the 50th Hampton Jazz Festival and he also appeared at the very first Festival back in 1968. Rounding out the Sunday show will be local blues legend Bobby “BlackHat” Walters.