In the words of festival director Ian Bowden: “This year the Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival (August 26 to 29) celebrates its tenth anniversary, an important milestone. We are exceptionally proud of all that the festival has achieved since its small beginnings and want the beautiful town of Rye to embrace our celebration year, benefitting from the additional footfall and visitors who now come to the town to enjoy not only its amazing history, shopping, and restaurants but also the incredible music that will be on offer over the August bank holiday weekend.
“The festival has announced a series of world-class headline concerts that will take place at St. Mary’s church in Rye, including the acclaimed American singer, saxophonist and songwriter Curtis Stigers; British soul singer and songwriter Roachford; Chicago-based Blues guitarist and singer Mud Morganfield; Irish singer and songwriter Imelda May; and Cuban pianist and singer Roberto Fonseca. Over the coming weeks there will news of further additions to the programme, including a fabulous free programme of live music on a dedicated outdoor community stage, street musicians, music workshops and fantastic live music at various venues within the town.”
As a precursor, the festival is presenting a fabulous concert with the acclaimed American singer Macy Gray on Friday, June 3 at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill. Our concert with Macy is a rescheduled date from June 2021 owing to the pandemic. It is so often said that some things in life are well worth waiting for, and none more so than the opportunity to see Macy performing with her talented band in early June. Her unmistakable rasp, unshakable grasp on soul, and funky spirit has ensured her status as a 21st century icon since her arrival with the triple-platinum ‘How Life Is’ in 1999.
She has sold over twenty-five million total albums globally, won a GRAMMY award and two BRIT Awards, collaborated with everyone from Ariana Grande to Galactic, and enchanted fans all over the world.
Support on the evening will be from Hastings DJ Bad Mutha Funker, spinning the best soul and funk tunes, guaranteed to get you into the groove: remember to bring your dancing shoes.
Those wishing to purchase tickets for the Macy Gray concert and the confirmed concerts at the August festival can do so by booking online at www.ryejazz.com.
Image Credits: Rye Jazz Festival .