Blue Note Jazz Festival 2026 Lineup Revealed

- The Blue Note Jazz Festival was first established in New York City in June 2011 to mark the 30th anniversary of the iconic Blue Note Jazz Club. The inaugural event featured over 80 performances across 15 different venues throughout the month. - The festival has a history of expanding its reach, launching in Japan in 2015 and more recently adding editions in Napa Valley and a collaboration with the Hollywood Bowl. - Headliner Wyclef Jean has recently explored his love of jazz, making his debut at the Blue Note in New York in September 2025 with special guests like Buju Banton and Theo Croker. This February also marks the 30th anniversary of the Fugees' landmark album "The Score" and the 20th anniversary of his hit with Shakira, "Hips Don't Lie". - Fellow headliner Patti LaBelle has sold 50 million records worldwide and in 2025, she embarked on the successful "Queens Tour" alongside Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills. - The collaboration between Ron Carter and Ricky Dillard, "Sweet, Sweet Spirit," is a deeply personal project for Carter, honoring his late mother by reimagining her favorite hymns. The album, released on February 6, 2026, features collaborations with artists like The Baylor Project and Avery Sunshine. - The festival is known for utilizing a variety of prominent New York City venues, which have previously included Central Park SummerStage, the Beacon Theatre, and Sony Hall. - Headliner Gregory Porter's sixth studio album, "All Rise," released in 2020, was a return to his signature lyrical style, blending jazz, soul, blues, and gospel and was produced by Troy Miller, known for his work with Amy Winehouse and Calvin Harris. - The original Blue Note Jazz Club opened in Greenwich Village in 1981 and has since expanded to international locations including Tokyo, Milan, and Rio de Janeiro.