Nice Jazz Fest 2025: where rhythm knows no boundaries

A thousand voices, one festival: Nice Jazz Fest lights up the summer

Four nights, two stages, twenty-eight concerts: from July 24 to 27, Nice becomes the capital of rhythm as the Nice Jazz Fest returns to the heart of the city, between the Jardin Albert 1er and the Théâtre de Verdure.

Following its recent rebranding, the festival confirms its identity: not just a tribute to jazz, but a celebration of living music in constant evolution. It’s an event that breaks boundaries, embracing groove, fusion, and experimentation to turn each evening into a collective, emotional experience.

Jazz in motion: from legends to rising stars

The 2025 lineup is a vibrant blend of tributes, icons, and fresh voices. Among the highlights: guitarist John Scofield, a jazz legend, and the trio of Sullivan Fortner, John Clayton, and Jeff Hamilton performing a heartfelt tribute to Oscar Peterson. Christian McBride, Benny Green, and Gregory Hutchinson will honor Ray Brown, while young New York talent Tyreek McDole brings a fresh and dynamic perspective to the stage.

Urban grooves and soul sophistication: a festival of fusion

Nice Jazz Fest also dives into rap, soul, pop, and electronica. Look out for names like Freddie Gibbs, GoldLink, EarthGang, and El Michels Affair—artists who push rap beyond clichés, exploring sonic complexity with style.

Six powerful female voices will lead the soul and jazz fusion: China Moses will open the festival with a powerful soul set, followed by the silky-voiced Raye, Jorja Smith blending pop and R&B, the delicate Ekep Nkwelle, the boundary-pushing Nubya Garcia, and the magnetic presence of Jalen Ngonda, a modern-day crooner.

Five unmissable moments

Among the standout acts: M (Matthieu Chedid) with his Lamomali project, joined by Malian diva Fatoumata Diawara; the elegant quintet performance of bassist and vocalist Avishai Cohen; and the poetic rock of Feu! Chatterton, known for their introspective yet energetic live shows.

Also not to miss: JoeyStarr, rapper, actor, and DJ, who will take over the Village La Merenda with curated DJ sets and culinary experiences by top chefs.

To close the festival in grand style: Santa, the synth queen from Nice and this year’s festival ambassador, is ready to set the stage on fire with a bold, emotional performance.

Practical information

📅 July 24–27, 2025
📍 Jardin Albert 1er and Théâtre de Verdure – Nice
🎟️ Tickets:
– Adults: €45–48
– Children 0–3 years: free admission
– Youth 4–17 years and students: €32–35

👉 Full program and details at: www.nicejazzfest.fr