The 17th Annual Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival | Jan. 24th-26th, 2013

40TH ANNIVERSARY

The
festival will celebrate with Third World Band on their 40th anniversary
in what is shaping up to be an eclectic musical journey of a successful
career spanning the globe. Rootz Underground, whose career was launched
on the talent stage of the festival several years ago, returns to the
main stage to demonstrate the prowess which makes them one of Jamaica’s
most popular bands worldwide.

Walter Elmore, producer of the
event, says his team is working hard to put together an experience
patrons will never forget. “It’s a pleasure to have Mary, who is a
powerhouse, along with John and Michael. We know Jamaicans love their
music and we are working to create a package they will thoroughly enjoy,
” he said

Onstage, Mary J. Blige, loved by Jamaicans for her
dynamic and passionate music and delivery, will be a powerhouse with
favourites such as No More Drama, All I Need and Mr Wrong. Michael
Bolton returns to the festival and promises a love affair with Jamaicans
with hits such as How am I Supposed to Live Without You, Said I Loved
You But I Lied and his ardent rendition of When a Man Loves a Woman.
John Legend, who considers himself a friend of the festival, will bring
an intimate performance to his fans with hits such as Ordinary People,
Everybody Knows, The Best You Ever Had and the mega hit Stay With You,
covered by reggae star Tarrus Riley.

Elmore promises a heightened
wholesome entertainment experience on and off the stage for patrons.
“We have a tradition of a great entertainment experience at the Jamaica
Jazz and Blues Festival, and this year, we will return aspects of the
experience favoured by our patrons and add some new elements. So 2013
will be even more interactive and engaging for persons at the event,
with the introduction of our digital lounge and an integration of our
social-media spaces, ” he said.