Photography by: Terrance Mcgree
A Spectacular Weekend at
Montreux Jazz Festival Miami 2025
The second annual Montreux Jazz Festival Miami delivered a sold-out weekend of extraordinary music at The Hangar at Regatta Harbour in Miami’s Coconut Grove. From Jon Batiste’s high-energy performance to the legendary sounds of Chaka Khan and Janelle Monáe, festival-goers
were treated to an unforgettable celebration of musical artistry.
Friday Night: A Love Riot with Jon Batiste
The festival opened with a mesmerizing set by Jon Batiste & Friends, featuring a 20-piece band that set the tone for an electrifying night. Surprise appearances from JoJo, Lauren Daigle, Maxwell, and Matteo Bocelli thrilled the audience, while trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf and opening act Justin-Lee Schultz added to the excitement. The highlight? Batiste’s “Love Riot” parade, where he and his band immersed themselves among the crowd, creating an intimate musical moment. The night reached new heights when WILLOW’s ethereal performance led into a late-night jam session featuring over 30 musicians, including Shania Twain and Lauren Jauregui, keeping the music alive for nearly two hours.
Saturday Night: Chaka Khan & Janelle Monáe Light Up the Stage
Saturday night was a showcase of powerhouse vocals and soul-stirring performances. The evening kicked off with British artist Griff, an Eras Tour opener, who delivered an impressive set with Batiste on piano. Then, Chaka Khantook the stage, thrilling fans with legendary hits like “Ain’t Nobody” and “I’m Every Woman”, proving why she remains a timeless icon. Janelle Monáe followed with an electrifying performance, captivating the crowd with her dynamic stage presence and boundary-pushing artistry. The night concluded with another legendary jam session, once again led by Batiste, Twain, and Jauregui, bringing together artists for an organic and soul-stirring musical fusion.
Sunday Night: A Grand Afro-Cuban Jam
The festival closed on a high note with “La Descarga”, an Afro-Cuban jam session co-hosted by Jon Batiste and Cimafunk. The night saw an all-star lineup, including Chucho Valdés, Paquito D’Rivera, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Pedrito Martinez, Alfredo Rodriguez, and Emily Estefan, performing for over two hours with nearly 30 musicians on stage at once. Standout moments included dueling pianos between Rubalcaba and Batiste and a spirited rendition of Fania All Stars’ “El Ratón”. Earlier in the day, Monsieur Periné and Alfredo Rodriguez set the stage with vibrant performances that primed the audience for the grand finale.
More Than Just Music: Culinary and Cultural Delights
Festival attendees were treated to an elevated experience, indulging in exquisite cuisine crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa and exploring a Wynwood’s Dante’s HiFi vinyl bar pop-up installation. These additions enhanced the festival’s cultural depth, offering attendees a taste of Miami’s rich artistic and culinary scene.
A Legacy of Excellence: Montreux Jazz Festival’s Global Reach
The Montreux Jazz Festival Miami is an extension of the legendary Montreux Jazz Festival, which has been an integral part of global music culture for over 59 years. Originating in Switzerland, the festival has hosted some of the world’s most iconic artists, including Miles Davis, Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, and David Bowie. Miami’s iteration continues this legacy, embracing diverse sounds and expanding the festival’s global footprint.
Prestigious Partnerships Elevating the Experience
The Montreux Jazz Festival Miami 2024 was made possible through remarkable partnerships that enhanced the event’s quality and prestige:
Audemars Piguet, the Global Partner, reinforced its connection to music and culture.
Meyer Sound, the Official Sound Partner, ensured world-class audio throughout the weekend.
Saratoga® Signature Blue, served throughout the event, complemented the festival’s refined ambiance.
Blacklane, the luxury chauffeur service, provided seamless transportation for artists and VIP guests.
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) supported the festival, further promoting Miami as a world-class destination for live music events.
Hospitality partners, including Taittinger, La Fête Wine Co, Bacardí Ocho, SWAF Beer, and Mr. C Miami Coconut Grove, provided festival-goers with exceptional beverage experiences.
Looking Ahead: Montreux Jazz Festival Miami’s Bright Future
As the festival wrapped up its second successful year, anticipation for Montreux Jazz Festival Miami 2025 is already building. The event continues to push boundaries, curate unforgettable experiences, and bring together music lovers from around the world.
For more information, visit the Montreux Jazz Festival Miami website or follow them on Instagram.
Montreux Jazz Festival Miami 2024 was a celebration of artistry, diversity, and musical excellence.
Whether you were in the crowd or reliving it through the highlights, one thing is certain: this festival has solidified its place as one of Miami’s must-attend events.
Comments