2023 New Orleans Jazz And Heritage Festival: Weekend 1: Lizzo Big Freedia Mavis Staples Robert Plant & Alison Krauss - Friday in New Orleans - Apr 28, 2023

Mavis Staples

12 concerts

Mavis Staples and Levon Helm, stars in their own right, bonded on "The Last Waltz" set in 1976. Their collaboration on "The Weight" became iconic. Despite Helm's battle with throat cancer, his voice returned, earning him three GRAMMYs during a career resurgence. Both artists were admired by a younger generation, with Helm celebrated as a legendary drummer and patron of American music.

Tank and The Bangas

6 concerts

Tank and the Bangas, from New Orleans, blend quirky raps, poetry, and rich melodies. They gained fame after winning the NPR Tiny Desk Contest in 2017. Known for viral performances praised by artists like Miguel and Anthony Hamilton, they collaborate with producers like James Poyser and Robert Glasper. Their distinct style shines in the album "The Heart, The Mind, and The Soul."

Lizzo

1 concert

Lizzo, a 4x GRAMMY® and Emmy-winning artist, is known for hits like "Truth Hurts" and "About Damn Time." She made history by becoming the first Black woman to win 'Record of the Year' at the GRAMMYs since 1994 and "Truth Hurts" was named by Rolling Stone as one of the "500 Greatest Songs Of All Time." Lizzo has appeared on SNL, TODAY, and more, and headlined HBO's Lizzo: Live In Concert. She also launched the inclusive activewear line, Yitty.

Wu-Tang Clan

27 concerts

Emerging from Staten Island in 1993, Wu-Tang Clan revolutionized hip-hop with their debut Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), featuring core members RZA, GZA, Method Man, and Ol' Dirty Bastard. Known for gritty beats and martial arts themes, their solo projects turned massive hits like "C.R.E.A.M." into lasting legacies. They collaborated with popular artists, formed side groups like Gravediggaz, and inspired controversial moments. With awards and global acclaim, Wu-Tang's influence and innovation remain legendary in hip-hop history.

Big Freedia

5 concerts

Big Freedia is a New Orleans-born bounce music icon known for high-energy, body-positive, and LGBTQ-empowering anthems. She gained national attention with "Just Be Free" in 2014 and pop-infused "Central City" in 2023. Collaborations include Beyoncé, Drake, and Ciara. She's also starred in reality shows and documentaries.

The Soul Rebels

6 concerts

The Soul Rebels, born from New Orleans' brass tradition, blend funk, soul, hip-hop, jazz, and pop. Known for explosive performances, they've collaborated with stars like Nas, Metallica, and Katy Perry. Featured on NPR's Tiny Desk and The Late Show, they tour globally, making waves with their dynamic horns and drums.

Nicholas Payton

1 concert

Born in New Orleans, Nicholas Payton is a celebrated trumpeter known for his vibrant post-bop jazz infused with genres like funk, R&B, and hip-hop. He gained recognition in the '90s, touring with Elvin Jones and Marcus Roberts. Payton won a Grammy for his 1997 collaboration with Doc Cheatham and coined the term “Black American Music.” His notable albums include Gumbo Nouveau, Sonic Trance, and Afro-Caribbean Mixtape. He has collaborated with artists like Wynton Marsalis and Joshua Redman and showcased at venues like New York's Smoke Jazz & Supper Club.

Allison Russell

20 concerts

Montreal-born, Nashville-based Allison Russell is a Grammy, Juno, Americana, and Folk award-winning artist. Known for her work with Po'Girl and Our Native Daughters, she released "Outside Child" in 2021 and "The Returner" in 2023. An advocate and mother, she also co-founded Once and Future Sounds. Collaborating with Joni Mitchell, she performed with her Joni Jam band, and opened for Hozier in 2024.

Robert Plant

18 concerts

Robert Plant, born in the Midlands, is a top rock vocalist and Rock Hall of Fame inductee. Known for Led Zeppelin, he won multiple Grammys. His solo career features 11 acclaimed albums and collaborations with Phil Collins, Jimmy Page, and Alison Krauss. His diverse influences span from Morocco to Nashville, showcased in bands like The Honeydrippers and The Sensational Space Shifters. Plant also explores his musical journey in his popular Digging Deep podcast.

Alison Krauss

79 concerts

Born in Champaign, IL, Alison Krauss blends bluegrass with folk and country, earning acclaim with hits like her platinum 1995 album. Collaborated with Robert Plant and appeared on "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack. Pianist, violinist, and vocalist, she has won numerous Grammy Awards.

Kermit Ruffins

1 concert

New Orleans' Kermit Ruffins, born in 1964, is a charismatic trumpeter, singer, and bandleader known for his lively performances blending jazz and blues. Founding Rebirth Brass Band and leading the Barbecue Swingers, Ruffins has released acclaimed albums like "Swing This!" and "We Partyin' Traditional Style." His vibrant live shows often feature his famous barbecue events. Collaborated with Irvin Mayfield, he's a fixture at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Basin Street Records.