Coltrane JazzFest Brings Labor Day Celebration with Exceptional Music and End of Summer Vibe

HIGH POINT, N.C., July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2025 John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival on Saturday August 30th to Sunday, August 31st, hosts a stunning mix of Grammy Award-winning music icons and innovative new artists at Oak Hollow Festival Park, a venue that is exceptional in its vistas and relaxing ambience.

The 2025 lineup includes Grammy^® Award-winning artists Snarky Puppy, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Stanley Clarke, a Bill Withers and Stevie Wonder tribute, and much more.

The Festival, now in its 14th year, honors John Coltrane, one of the world's most influential jazz musicians and composers, in the city where his musical journey began. For those wanting to explore more of John Coltrane's hometown while attending the Festival, Visit High Point has curated a weekend itinerary highlighting local gems. See where to stay, dine, and explore, including local attractions like the John Coltrane Statue.

Kicking off on Saturday August 30th, day one on the Festival will feature the five-time Grammy^® Award-winning collective, Snarky Puppy. With a rotating lineup of talented musicians who bring a myriad of influences to their sound, their music is known for its innovative blend of jazz, funk, and world music, intricate arrangements, infectious grooves, and the joy they exude during live performances.

Three-time Grammy^® Award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician Meshell Ndegeocello also takes the stage on Saturday. Winner of the Grammy^® for Best Alternative Jazz Album, Ndegeocello is far more than a musician. She is a visionary artist whose work spans genres and disciplines. A masterful spoken word artist and multi-instrumentalist who plays bass, keyboards, and drums, Ndegeocell has built a legacy rooted in fearless creativity and authenticity without limitation.

The Saturday lineup also includes a standout roster of artists:

Lizz Wright is one of the great, modern American singer/songwriters whose soul-searing vocals transcends social divides and conveys a deep sense of humanity.

Innovators of Jazz-Funk, The Headhunters, have continued to evolve the genre since recording their groundbreaking albums of the 1970s with Herbie Hancock.

"From Withers to Wonder" is a Saturday highlight celebrating the timeless genius of Bill Withers and Stevie Wonder. This powerful tribute brings together an all-star ensemble: acclaimed jazz vocalist and six-time Grammy^® nominee Nnenna Freelon; singing sensation Clint Holmes; and the incomparable, 10-time Grammy^® Award-winning a cappella group Take 6. Together, they'll honor two of music's most iconic voices with what promises to be an unforgettable performance.

The celebration continues on Sunday, August 31st, with four-time Grammy^® Award-winning bassist, Stanley Clarke^t. One of the most celebrated acoustic and electric bass players in the world, Clarke's spellbinding dexterity on the bass captivates listeners.

Clarke co-founded the groundbreaking jazz fusion band Return to Forever in the 1970s alongside legendary pianist Chick Corea, laying the foundation of the jazz-fusion genre. Clarke's trailblazing solo work and collaborations with keyboard master George Duke, the Rolling Stones, and numerous other musicians across genres and cultures, have been equally innovative and influential.

Smooth Jazz fans are in for a treat on Sunday as three of the genre's most celebrated chart-topping artists, trumpeter Rick Braun, saxophonist Richard Elliot, and guitarist Peter White, take the stage together. Braun has amassed over 20 top ten hit albums throughout his career. Grammy^®-nominated Elliot, known for his dynamic sound, is a former member of both the renowned jazz fusion band Yellowjackets and the outstanding funk band Tower of Power, whose horn section has a legacy all its own. White, revered for his artistry, stands among the most prolific acoustic guitarists in contemporary jazz today.

Joining Clarke and the Smooth Jazz Ensemble on the Sunday roster is eight-time Grammy^® nominated duo, The Baylor Project, featuring vocalist Jean Baylor and drummer Marcus Baylor. Jean was one-half of the platinum selling R&B duo Zhane' while Marcus also played with the multi award-winning Yellowjackets. As the Baylor Project, they deliver a unique blend of jazz, blues and gospel. Ruthie Foster won her first Grammy^® Award this year for Best Contemporary Blues Album for her 2024 release "Healing." The singer-songwriter is internationally known for her powerful voice and authentic blues and roots music.

A memorable Festival highlight will be a performance by The NC Coltrane All-Star Band, led by bassist and composer, John Brown. The ensemble will feature acclaimed vocalist José James, a celebrated singer, songwriter, bandleader, and producer who has been recording and touring internationally for over 17 years.

Brown has the distinction of touring internationally with the late, legendary drummer Elvin Jones, who was a revered member of John Coltrane's quartet from 1960-1966, contributing to some of his most famous works including, "A Love Supreme."

Festival goers are invited to enjoy live performances of world class musicians all weekend, rest back in their chairs, lay their feet in the grass, and enjoy the breeze coming from Oak Hollow Park's natural lake.

About
The John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival honors the great saxophonist and composer in the city where his musical journey began. Coltrane's legacy-inspired festival includes artists whose styles cross the music spectrum, standing for the spirit of improvisation, innovation and excitement. The Festival is sponsored by the Friends of John Coltrane, Inc., a 501c3, non-profit organization.

The two-day celebration is held annually over Labor Day Weekend. Gates open at 3 p.m. Full details and ticket information available at coltranejazzfest.com.

CONTACT:
Logan Garrett
[email protected]
423-519-9979

SOURCE John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival