Sundays are made for unwinding, and there’s no better soundtrack than the vibrant, soulful tones of live jazz. At The Improv Cafe, the radio station prides itself on exclusively playing live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz—and every single song aired is the live version, capturing the energy, spontaneity, and authenticity that recordings simply can’t replicate. Tonight, listeners can continue this tradition with the Singing with Swing Radio Show, an evening dedicated to the finest vocal jazz performances designed to complement a cozy night in.

This past week, Newark, New Jersey, came alive with the 14th annual TD James Moody Jazz Festival, leaving both attendees and critics raving about the experience. Social media was alight with praise for the festival’s atmosphere and artistry, with one concertgoer remarking on the “all the Black joy in the air at The Blues Is Alright,” a standout moment featuring legendary tap dancer Savion Glover and other stellar performers.

The festival’s appeal extended beyond social media snapshots. Critics consistently highlighted the high level of artistry, noting that the event masterfully combined the improvisational spirit of jazz with modern influences such as R&B, hip-hop, and spoken word. Under the artistic direction of bassist Christian McBride, the festival presented a carefully curated blend of performances that celebrated jazz’s rich heritage while embracing new, genre-bending interpretations.

A Celebration of Live Music and Community

For the many fans who tuned in or attended in person, the TD James Moody Jazz Festival was more than just a series of performances—it was a cultural moment. Social media users emphasized the diverse audience and the shared sense of joy, calling out how the festival created spaces where music and community intertwined seamlessly. Highlights like The Blues Is Alright exemplified the festival’s ability to channel raw emotion and collective celebration through performance, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Critics also noted that the festival isn’t just about showcasing talent; it’s about making jazz accessible and relevant to all arts lovers. From established headliners to emerging stars, each act contributed to a vibrant, multi-dimensional musical experience. By weaving in elements of other genres without losing the essence of live jazz, the festival became a true destination for those who value both tradition and innovation in music.

Why Live Jazz Matters

At The Improv Cafe, the philosophy is simple: nothing compares to live music. Every broadcast is a testament to the energy, spontaneity, and authenticity of artists performing in real time. Listening to live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz allows fans to feel the nuance of each performance—the subtle improvisations, the dynamic interplay between musicians, and the unique atmosphere of a live show—all from the comfort of home. Tonight, the Singing with Swing Radio Show continues this tradition, delivering exquisite vocal jazz that perfectly complements the lingering excitement from the Newark festival.

From Newark to Your Living Room

Even as the TD James Moody Jazz Festival concludes today with its final jazz brunch, the echoes of its live performances resonate far beyond the city streets. For those who missed the festival—or for fans who want to relive the magic—The Improv Cafe brings the same live energy straight to your speakers. Every tune is a live rendition, every swing a true capture of performance art in motion.

By tuning in to The Improv Cafe and programs like Singing with Swing, listeners can celebrate the spirit of jazz daily, enjoying the same energy that festival-goers experienced in Newark. From the jubilant tap routines of Savion Glover to the electrifying solos on stage, the essence of live jazz is preserved and shared with every broadcast.

Whether you’re an aficionado of classic Big Band arrangements, the intricate improvisation of swing, or the soul-stirring resonance of live vocal jazz, The Improv Cafe ensures that the music is always authentic, always live, and always unforgettable.

Tonight, settle in, pour a glass of something smooth, and let the magic of live jazz fill your Sunday evening. Join Singing with Swing and experience the vibrancy, warmth, and pure joy that only live jazz can deliver.

The 14th Annual TD James Moody Jazz Festival, which ran from November 8–23, 2025, at NJPAC and other venues in Newark, featured a wide range of performers spanning jazz, R&B, hip-hop, blues, and spoken word. 

Headliners and Featured Artists

• Christian McBride: The festival’s co-curator and jazz advisor performed with his Big Band and various special guests.
• Stanley Clarke: The four-time Grammy-winning bassist and NEA Jazz Master performed with his N•4Ever fusion group.
• Arturo Sandoval: The trumpet icon was a featured performer.
• Stanley Jordan: The legendary guitarist presented a special tribute to Jimi Hendrix.
• Andra Day, José James, and Ledisi: These vocalists joined Christian McBride’s Big Band for a concert celebrating new album releases.
• Savion Glover: The acclaimed tap dancer performed with his group, PROjECt. 9, in a show highlighting tap as a percussive art form.
• Rachael Price & Vilray: The lead singer of Lake Street Dive, Rachael Price, teamed up with singer-guitarist Vilray for a show of 1940s-inspired duets. 

Special Concerts and Events

• “Represent! A Night of Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Poetry”: This event featured hip-hop pioneers Chuck D (of Public Enemy), Rakim, and Slick Rick, along with poets Tyehimba Jess and La Bruja (Caridad de la Luz), and DJ Spinna.
• “The Blues Is Alright” Tour: This concert featured Southern soul and blues artists including Tucka James, King George, Pokey Bear, Lenny Williams, Theodis Ealey, and West Love.
• Cuban Rhythms: Performances in this category included singer-songwriter Carlos Varela with special guests Jackson Browne and Diana Fuentes, as well as Omar Sosa Quarteto Americanos and the Luisito Rosario Orchestra.
• Emerging Artists and Local Talent: The festival showcased the talents of the NJMEA All-State Jazz Band and Choir, and the Nat Adderley Jr. Quartet, who performed the closing jazz brunch.