Ledisi announced as a premier headliner for the 15th Anniversary John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival, taking the stage September 5, 2026 in High Point, NC.
HIGH POINT, NC, March 25, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The soulful voice and dynamic stage presence of Grammy Award–winning artist Ledisi will take center stage at the 15th John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026 at Oak Hollow Festival Park in High Point, North Carolina.
This year marks a momentous 15-year milestone for the festival, which celebrates the history, legacy, and the lasting influence of John Coltrane in his hometown. To commemorate this decade and a half of excellence, the festival is proud to announce Grammy winner Ledisi as a premier headliner for this landmark anniversary celebration.
Widely recognized as one of the most captivating vocalists of her generation, Ledisi will showcase her extraordinary four-octave mezzo-soprano range in a performance that promises to be one of the highlights of the festival's milestone year. She has built a career defined by passion, virtuosity, and an unwavering commitment to musical excellence.
"Ledisi's artistry perfectly mirrors the spirit of innovation and soul that this festival was built upon," said Joe Williams, the Director of the Festival. "We are absolutely thrilled to have her join us for this landmark anniversary."
Throughout her career, Ledisi has earned 15 Grammy nominations, including a win for Best Traditional R&B Performance for the song "Anything for You." Her chart-topping singles, including "I Need to Know," "Pieces of Me," and "Alright," have become staples of contemporary soul music and have earned her a devoted following among fans across generations.
Born in New Orleans and raised in Oakland, California, Ledisi's musical roots are steeped in a rich blend of jazz, gospel, soul, and R&B. She has developed a signature sound that moves effortlessly across genres, making her a natural fit for the 15th Anniversary line-up.
Ledisi's current projects further emphasize her connection to musical history. Her latest release, "For Dinah," pays tribute to the incomparable Dinah Washington, following her critically acclaimed 2021 project, "Ledisi Sings Nina," which honors her biggest artistic influence, Nina Simone. These works highlight Ledisi's ability to connect the legacy of classic jazz and blues with contemporary audiences—a mission shared by the John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival.
Beyond the music stage, Ledisi has built a diverse and impactful career as an actress, author, and advocate. Her film appearances include acclaimed portrayals of gospel legend Mahalia Jackson in the films Remember Me and Selma.
In 2023, she was inducted into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., previously serving as president of the organization's Los Angeles chapter. In recognition of her artistic achievements and influence in the music industry, Ledisi received an honorary Doctorate of Music from Berklee College of Music in 2024.
The John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival honors the great saxophonist and composer in the city where his musical journey began. Over the last 15 years, the festival has hosted some of the biggest names in music, representing the spirit of improvisation, innovation, and cultural excitement including Stanley Clarke, Patti LaBelle, Gregory Porter, Lakecia Benjamin and more.
"Catch the 'Trane" September 5–6, 2026 at Oak Hollow Festival Park, High Point, NC.
The two-day celebration is held annually over Labor Day Weekend. Gates open at 3 pm daily. Full details and ticket information available at coltranejazzfest.com.
About the Friends of John Coltrane, Inc.
The Festival is sponsored by the Friends of John Coltrane, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of John Coltrane and providing music education and cultural enrichment to the community.
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