48th Hampton Jazz Festival

HAMPTON

The 48th Annual Hampton Jazz Festival took place over a three-day period at Hampton Coliseum on June 26-27-28, 2015. 

 Friday’s show featured one of Hampton’s favorite female singers – Jill Scott. Considered to be at the top of her game, Jill was an exciting closer for opening night. Other artists performing on Friday night included the famous Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave, Eric Benet and Avery*Sunshine. All three artists appeared at Hampton Jazz Festival for the first time. 

Saturday’s show featured one of the hottest names in the business right now – Jennifer Hudson. Not only did she appear on the Grammys – but at the Academy Awards as well. Also appearing were KEM – always a Hampton favorite – and The Whispers – perhaps the last of the iconic R&B groups. Opening on Saturday night was Hampton Roads native – Myra Smith.

Sunday’s show featured the return of Frankie Beverly and Maze…one of the Hampton Jazz Festival’s greatest stars. Also appearing was Fantasia – who has carved quite a niche for herself in the R&B world after winning American Idol several years ago. 

A great jazz fusion band – BWB featuring Norman Brown, Kirk Whalum, and Rick Braun added to Sunday’s talent heavy line-up.  The Unifics – lead by Newport News native, Charlie Lockhart, opened up Sunday’s festivities.