The Rolling Stones perform at a celebration for the release of their new album, "Hackney Diamonds," Oct. 19, 2023, in New York. The 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage festival, which spans two weekends, was set to open Thursday, April 25, 2024, with dozens of acts big and small playing daily on 14 stages spread throughout the historic Fair Grounds race course. The Stones play next Thursday, May 2, and tickets for that day of music have long been sold out. Source: The Canadian Press
The anticipation is soaring as the 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage festival gears up for what seems to be the charm: The Rolling Stones are set to grace the stage once again.
This renowned festival, spanning across two weekends, is poised to kick off this Thursday with a plethora of performances across 14 stages scattered throughout the historic Fair Grounds race course. The Stones are scheduled to perform next Thursday, May 2, in a show that has been long sold out.
Back in 2019, festival organizers had high hopes of hosting the legendary rock band, only to be disappointed when lead singer Mick Jagger underwent heart surgery, prompting the cancellation of their appearance. They made another attempt in 2021, but unfortunately, the surge in COVID-19 cases led to the festival's cancellation.
Now, according to festival producer Quint Davis, there's an air of something extraordinary brewing. This marks the first time The Rolling Stones will grace the Jazz Fest stage, adding to the excitement.
The opening day lineup boasts an array of acts including rock bands like Widespread Panic and The Beach Boys, reggae sensation Stephen Marley, and jazz maestro John Boutte.
Davis expressed confidence in the talent lineup, the favorable weather forecast, and meeting the high expectations of attendees. The weather outlook for opening day promises blue skies, sunshine, and temperatures in the pleasant 80s, setting an ideal backdrop for the festivities.
While anticipation for The Stones' performance reaches a fever pitch, Davis noted the overwhelming demand for tickets, with fans eagerly seeking ways to secure a spot at the marquee event. The band's latest album release in October, "Hackney Diamonds," has only heightened the excitement, with fans expecting a mix of classic hits and new releases.
Despite no confirmed special guests joining The Rolling Stones on stage, Davis hinted at the possibility, keeping the element of surprise alive.
As the festival typically features performances on multiple stages simultaneously, all other stages will be silent on the day of The Stones' performance, ensuring all attention is focused on the iconic band.
Tickets for other festival days are still available for purchase online, offering attendees a chance to experience the diverse array of musical genres showcased at Jazz Fest, from blues and R&B to gospel and Afro-Caribbean rhythms.
This year, the festival also celebrates Colombian music and culture, with close to 200 Colombian artists scheduled to participate, including headliners like Bomba Estéreo and Grupo Niche.
And let's not overlook the culinary delights awaiting festival-goers, with a mouthwatering array of local delicacies on offer, from crawfish bread to turducken po-boys, ensuring a sensory feast alongside the musical extravaganza.
