7th Annual Leimert Park Jazz Festival
About this Event
🎶💫 Leimert Park Jazz Festival creates space for artists across generations to come together to honor tradition, innovate, and keep jazz alive and evolving in South L.A. and beyond.
FREE and Pay-What-You-Wish General Admission + VIP options available.
Registration includes entry into an exclusive prize drawing.
For details, visit:
🎶 MEET THE ARTISTS
Bobby West: Pianist, composer, and cultural steward, Bobby West is a living legend and a central figure in the Los Angeles jazz continuum. West stands as both a master musician and a vital link between generations of the city’s creative community. His artistry is deeply rooted in the legacy of Central Avenue and Leimert Park, where he emerged as part of a lineage shaped by the visionary influence of Horace Tapscott.
José James presents Facing East: The Music of John Coltrane: Internationally acclaimed jazz singer and producer José James presents his most ambitious project to date: a soul-stirring homage to the legendary saxophonist John Coltrane. Thirty years in the making, Facing East had its world premiere in 2013 via a European tour, including performances at Ancienne Belgique, North Sea Jazz, Nice Jazz Festival, and Ronnie Scott’s. Since then, James has released over 10 albums for Blue Note Records and his own Rainbow Blonde Records while presenting transformative tributes to iconic artists such as Billie Holiday, Bill Withers, Erykah Badu, and Marvin Gaye. With Facing East, James turns his focus to his self-professed “musical father,” John Coltrane, continuing a profound musical exploration of the iconic composer’s work during the centennial year of his birth.
West Coast Get Down: Celebrating the Life and Music of Ryan Porter (1979-2026): West Coast Get Down is the acclaimed groundbreaking Los Angeles collective whose genre-defying blend of jazz, funk, soul, hip-hop, and fusion helped redefine modern jazz for a new generation. Porter was a founding member and creative force within West Coast Get Down, helping shape the collective’s distinctive sound through years of collaboration, experimentation, and community-building.
MELENA and her Afro-Cuban Jazz/Salsa Band: Afro-Cuban percussionist, educator and cultural ambassador, Melena brings the rhythms and traditions of Cuba.Born in Havana and trained as an ethnomusicologist at UCLA, Melena Francis Valdes has performed with an extraordinary roster of artists including Barry White, Stevie Wonder, Julio Iglesias and Macy Gray among others. Her electrifying performances are rooted in rhythm, heritage, and the enduring influence of the African diaspora.
Kenneth Brown II: Born in Inglewood and shaped by Los Angeles’ rich musical community, Kenneth has already performed alongside some of today’s most accomplished artists while developing a distinctive voice rooted in jazz tradition and contemporary Black music. A graduate of Morehouse College and UCLA, he is quickly emerging as one of Southern California’s most exciting young artists. Don’t miss Kenneth Brown II as the Featured Artist in this year’s Emerging Artist Set.
Pullum Center Youth Jazz Band: For decades, Fernando Pullum has mentored and inspired generations of young musicians throughout Los Angeles, helping launch artistic careers while preserving the traditions and values of jazz. This opening performance celebrates the importance of music education, mentorship, and creating pathways for the next generation.
ACTIVITIES
- Visual Art Pavilion
- Marketplaces
- Kids’ Zone (toddlers to teens)
- Food Court (non-vegan and vegan options)
- Wine & Beer Lounge
- Community Resources Zone
- and More!
Click the “KNOW BEFORE YOU GO” link below for important information before arriving at the festival, including a list of prohibited items.
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Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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