Due to COVID-19 capacity restrictions, Newport Jazz will be doing things a little differently this year. They’ll be focusing on creating three intimate days of amazing Jazz performances and surprise collaborations at Fort Adams – July 30th to August 1st.
The festival brings a lineup that includes Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave., Mavis Staples, Robert Glasper, Khruangbin, Ledisi, Christian McBride, Kenny Garrett, Yola, and more.
However festival founder George Wein will not be attending this year’s festival.
Wein announced on Wednesday that due to travel difficulties he will miss this year’s festival.
“Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend the 2021 Newport Jazz Festival. At my age of 95, making the trip will be too difficult for me. I am heartbroken to miss seeing all my friends,” Wein wrote on Facebook.
“What makes me happy is that after producing the Newport Jazz Festival starting in 1954 and the Newport Folk Festival (1959), I can see that my legacy is in good hands with a dedicated Board of Directors, a staff headed by the brilliant producer, Jay Sweet, and artistic direction on the jazz festival by the wonderful Christian McBride. This team will continue the 67 years of musical traditions and excellent production of these festivals,” he added.
