The Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival once again turned the historic Morristown Green into a hub of rhythm, soul, and community, bringing together world-class musicians and devoted fans for a day-long celebration of music. Despite muggy summer weather, the festival drew hundreds of attendees, proving once again that New Jersey’s passion for live music is unstoppable.
With a lineup spanning everything from big band swing to modern blues-rock, this year’s festival delivered something for every listener, reminding audiences why Morristown has become one of the Garden State’s most beloved stops for jazz and blues.
Dani G and Friends Featuring John Michalak
The festival kicked off with Dani G and Friends, joined by saxophonist John Michalak, setting the tone with jazz standards and timeless classics. Their smooth yet playful set brought an early energy to the Green, blending technical brilliance with the warm, welcoming vibe that makes this festival special.
U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors
Next up, the U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors, the official touring big band of the U.S. Army, filled the air with bold brass and swinging rhythms. Their set, rooted in the tradition of American big band jazz, honored the genre’s history while showing why it continues to inspire audiences today. For many, their performance was a highlight—discipline, precision, and soulful improvisation woven seamlessly together.
Blues People: Funk, Soul, and Rock Collide
The New Jersey-based quartet Blues People brought the crowd to its feet with a blend of funk, soul, and rock-infused blues. Known for their dynamic stage presence, the band has been making waves since winning the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge, and their set in Morristown showed why.
Frontman Kelton Cooper noted the “great crowd,” and judging by the cheers, the audience agreed. Their performance included a surprise duet with fellow guitarist King Solomon Hicks, adding a burst of spontaneity that made the afternoon truly memorable.
King Solomon Hicks: Young Guitar Phenom
Widely regarded as a rising star on the international blues scene, King Solomon Hicks dazzled the crowd with his virtuosic guitar work and soulful vocals. His set paid homage to the legends who came before him, including a fiery nod to Chuck Berry, while also showcasing the fresh, youthful energy that defines his sound.
The duet with Kelton Cooper was one of the festival’s defining moments—two generations of blues stylists meeting onstage for a crowd-pleasing jam.
Samantha Fish: Closing with Firepower
As the sun set, the festival closed with Samantha Fish, the Grammy-nominated blues-rock powerhouse whose reputation for explosive live shows preceded her. Fish delivered in full force—an electrifying performance that critics described as a “mane-tossing, whiplash-inducing explosion of supersonic riffs.”
Her blend of raw blues, searing rock, and late-night soul created a fitting finale, leaving fans buzzing long after the last note rang out. Publications covering the event called her set “a perfect close to a day steeped in rhythm and soul,” and audience videos captured the sheer energy she unleashed on stage.
Festival Atmosphere
While the weather was muggy, spirits stayed high on the Morristown Green. Families, longtime jazz aficionados, and casual music fans all mingled together, enjoying food vendors, community camaraderie, and—most importantly—the music. The crowd size reflected the festival’s growing popularity, proving that Morristown’s annual celebration of jazz and blues is as much a cultural tradition as it is a concert.
Why the Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival Matters
The Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival has become a cornerstone of New Jersey’s live music scene, attracting both nationally recognized talent and local favorites. It’s more than just a concert—it’s a gathering that highlights the state’s deep connection to jazz and blues while supporting the musicians keeping these traditions alive.
For fans, it’s a chance to experience intimate, world-class performances in a setting that feels uniquely communal. For artists, it’s an opportunity to connect with audiences who truly appreciate the craft.
👉 Discover more about New Jersey’s music scene and festivals like Morristown’s that keep live performance thriving across the Garden State.
The Bottom Line
From the smooth stylings of Dani G and Friends to the explosive closer from Samantha Fish, the 2025 Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival offered a full spectrum of sound and soul. The mix of legendary influences and bold new voices underscored the enduring power of jazz and blues—and why New Jersey continues to shine as a cultural hotspot for live music.
As fans left the Morristown Green, the air buzzed with conversations about guitar solos, vocal runs, and unforgettable duets. For many, the festival wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of music’s ability to bring people together, regardless of weather, age, or background.
