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For more than five decades, Hampton Jazz & Music Festival has brought the best of jazz, soul, blues, pop and R&B in one wonderful weekend of music. Each year, it’s gotten bigger and more exciting than the last.
In 1968, the first Hampton Jazz Festival was held to celebrate Hampton University’s 100th anniversary. Headliners included Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie Quintet, Thelonius Monk Quintet, Cannonball Adderly, Dionne Warwick, Muddy Waters & His Blues Band, Ramsey Lewis and Herbie Mann Quintet.
The popular event was held again in 1969 and has since become an annual tradition on the last weekend in June.
The Hampton Jazz Festival has traditionally featured major jazz, gospel, R&B, blues, pop and crossover stars. The lineup is known for having a mix of talent. Local musicians from the Hampton Roads area act as openers to nationally recognized headliners.
Music icons like Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Duke Ellington and Ray Charles have appeared at the festival. Newer artists, such as David Sanborn, Kenny G and Dave Koz followed closely in their wake.
The Hampton Jazz & Music Festival commemorated its 50th anniversary in 2017 with a special performance from jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis who performed in the inaugural lineup. Frankie Beverly holds the record for the most Hampton Jazz Festival performances with his 17 appearances.
Each year, thousands of people travel from across the country to celebrate an annual reunion with friends, family members and Hampton University alumni. The three day festival is co-produced by Hampton University, the city of Hampton, Virginia and the Santangelo Group, Inc.
The 55th Annual Hampton Jazz & Music Festival will be happening on June 27, 28, and 29, 2025, at the Hampton Coliseum.
Festival Schedule
Friday, June 27
- Anthony Hamilton
- Lucky Dave
- PJ Morton
- Lalah Hathaway
Saturday, June 28
- Keith Sweat
- Maze honoring Frankie Beverly The Legacy Band
- Jeff Bradshaw & Maysa
- Mike Phillips
Sunday, June 29
- Patti LaBelle
- Gladys Knight
- Stephanie Mills
- Damien Escobar
More artists will be announced.
Coupon
I’ve seen tickets for the festival going for as much as $147 for one ticket. Book your tickets here and you can save $51 on each ticket. The saving will be automatic.