One of the best and biggest jazz festivals in the world is back for its 38th year! The Montreal International Jazz Festival will take place from June 28th to July 8th and like previous years, promises great shows and exceptional performances. Thousands of people fill up the Quartier des Spectacles each year to catch one of the many shows Jazz Fest puts on. It’s become a cultural event here in Montreal. Jazz Fest is one of the top local festivals everyone looks forward to going to each year. Even for the non- or newbie jazz enthusiasts, it’s just a perfect time to get out and enjoy some Montreal summer fun. For a complete list and schedules, check out their website. But for now, here’s a list of some of the great shows in the 2017 line-up that just may convince you even more that Jazz Fest is the place to be this summer.
Bob Dylan and his Band
The man, the voice, the legend that is Bob Dylan will be performing his hits as well as some new tracks from his 38th studio album! He’s not only sold over 1250 million records worldwide but is also the winner of the 2016 Nobel Prize for Literature.
When: June 30th at 8pm
Where: Bell Center
How much: $62.50-$137.50 (buy tickets)
La La Land in Concert
We’ve all seen the multi award winning and nominated film with Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. Don’t miss a chance to re-watch this beautiful story come to life on stage with its original music and catchy songs you’ll have in your head for days after.
When: July 2nd at 7:30pm
Where: Salle Wilfred Pelletier
How much: $78.75-$103.75 (buy tickets)
Feist
You know her as the voice behind that infectious tune “1234.” Canadian singer/songwriter Feist will be gracing Jazz Fest with what’s sure to be a very mesmerizing performance. R&B singer Charlie Day Wilson will be her opening act.
When: July 4th at 7:30pm
Where: Salle Wilfred Pelletier
How much: $57.25-$78.75 (buy tickets)
Walk Off the Earth
Walk Off the Earth will be giving their fans a real treat: a free concert at this year’s Jazz Fest. This Ontario-based group became famous the way most artists have these days: on YouTube! They’ve since been appearing everywhere (including Ellen DeGeneres) and have really made a name for themselves in the music industry.
When: July 4th at 9:30pm
Where: TD Stage Place Des Festivals
How much: Free!
The O’jays and the Four Tops
A double dose of legendary performers! R&B groups the O’jays and the Four Tops will be joining forces for one show and transporting old and new fans to the 70’s! With legendary smash hits like “Baby I Need Your Loving,” “I Can’t Help Myself,” and “Love Train,” their music is still loved and constantly played. Nothing like hearing classic songs from the original performers!
When: July 6th at 7:30pm
Where: Salle Wilfred Pelletier
How much: $88.75-$118.75 (buy tickets)
Melissa Etheridge and Joss Stone
After 28 years since her last appearance at Jazz Fest, legendary rocker Melissa Etheridge is back and is joined by another immense talent: Joss Stone! Individually, both singers are known for their powerful voices and catchy songs. They even combined forces at the 2005 Grammy Awards to perform a tribute to Janis Joplin. A show not to be missed for fans!
When: July 5th at 7:30pm
Where: Salle Wilfred Pelletier
How much: $93.75-$114.75 (buy tickets)
Bobby Bazini
Quebec’s own Bobby Bazini is back, performing right here in Montreal after a successful show in February at Metropolis. With his soulful voice and beautiful anthems, it’s no wonder he’s developing a huge fan base outside of la Belle Province. He’ll be joined by British-born blues singer Jack Broadbent as his opening act.
When: July 7th at 7:30pm
Where: Salle Wilfred Pelletier
How much: $42.25-$62.25 (buy tickets)
Serena Ryder
Another huge Canadian talent tops the list of amazing performers at this year’s Jazz Fest: Juno winning singer/songwriter Serena Ryder! Fans love her husky and soulful voice and not to mention, her addictive hits like “Got Your Number” and “Stompa.”
When: July 9th at 9pm
Where: Metropolis
How much: $43-$48 (buy tickets)
The Gipsy Kings
Bringing a little (or a lot) of Spanish flair, the Gipsy Kings will be back at Jazz Fest after a 7 year absence. With 25 years of flamenco, salsa, and pop music under their belt, this show is sure to be a fun time and will get everyone dancing. Especially when they whip out their classic hits “Bamboléo” and “Volare.”
When: July 1st at 8pm
Where: Theatre Maisonneuve Place Des Arts
How much: $88.75-$94.75 (buy tickets)
Pink Martini
Stylish American orchestra group Pink Martini returns to Jazz Fest and will be delighting audience members with their mix of Latin, jazz, classical, and retro music. Led by Thomas Lauderdale and China Forbes, Pink Martini has been entertaining music lovers since their debut album Sympathique in 1997 and show no signs of slowing down with the release of their 10th album, Je Dis Oui in 2016.
When: July 8th at 3pm & 8pm
Where: Salle Wilfred Pelletier
How much: $70.75-$94.75 (buy tickets)
Featured image by @jfsavaria.
