JAZZ IN THE GARDENS 2025 RECAP: TWO DAYS OF ICONIC PERFORMANCES, TRIBUTES & UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS
Jazz in the Gardens (JITG) 2025 delivered two days of legendary performances, emotional tributes, and once-in-a-lifetime moments, further cementing its reputation as one of the premier music festivals in the nation. From R&B powerhouses to hip-hop legends and reggae royalty, this year’s lineup gave fans an unforgettable experience.
DAY ONE HIGHLIGHTS: Ms. Lauryn Hill closed out day one in the only way she can—pure magic. A testament to her staying power, she opened with classics from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, her Grammy-winning and only solo album. The set turned into a family affair when “To Zion” played, and her firstborn, Zion Marley, took the stage, bringing an energy reminiscent of his late grandfather, Bob Marley. Keeping the legacy alive, her son YG Marley followed up with his hit Praise Jah in the Moonlight alongside some unreleased tracks, cementing the moment as a generational celebration of music.
Coco Jones, the fourth act of the evening, captivated the crowd with her commanding presence and stellar vocals. She performed her latest single, Taste, instantly engaging the audience with its catchy melody. Her performance of Here We Go showcased her vocal range and ability to connect deeply with the crowd. Closing out with the fan-favorite ICU, she left the audience in awe, many visibly moved by the song’s emotional depth. Her high-energy set and crowd participation set the perfect tone for Tye Tribbett’s electrifying performance that followed.
The legendary R&B group Xscape set the JITG stage on fire with their signature harmonies and dynamic setlist. From their first hit Just Kickin’ It to the soulful Do You Want To, where LaTocha Scott serenaded her husband, every moment was pure nostalgia. The group made the night even more special by inviting a lucky fan on stage to dance, creating an unforgettable memory for the crowd.
In a high-energy moment, Busta Rhymes made an appearance, delivering his signature rapid-fire flow that had the crowd on their feet. Meanwhile, rising stars Samara Cyn, Foggieraw, and Mannywellz each brought their own unique energy—whether it was soulful vocals, witty wordplay, or genre-bending vibes, they all proved why they are the next wave of musical greatness.
In a powerful moment of generational impact, Ms. Lauryn Hill—the first woman to ever win Best Rap Album at the Grammys—introduced Doechii, the most recent woman to take home that honor. Doechii lit up the stage with an electric, high-energy performance, proving exactly why she’s next up.
As if the night couldn’t get any more legendary, Ms. Lauryn Hill was joined by Wyclef Jean for a surprise Fugees reunion. The duo performed classics like Killing Me Softly and Ready or Not, sending the crowd into a frenzy and closing out the night in spectacular fashion.
DAY TWO HIGHLIGHTS: Kem delivered a show-stopping performance, showcasing his amazing stage presence and deep connection with the audience. Taking his energy beyond the stage, he waded into the crowd and invited three different men to sing along with him. Explaining that he was an “equal opportunity entertainer,” he brought a white man forward to sing I Can’t Stop Loving You, emphasizing unity and love amidst the world’s challenges. He also paid homage to Angie Stone, ensuring her spirit remained present throughout the night.
Reggae icon Beenie Man, who hasn’t played the U.S. in decades, turned JITG into a full-blown Caribbean dance party, with everyone—audience, staff, and even security—on their feet. The energy soared when he brought Mya on stage, sending the crowd into an absolute frenzy. Their chemistry was electric, creating one of the most talked-about moments of the night.
Toni Braxton captivated the crowd with an effortlessly stunning performance, her velvety vocals shimmering as brightly as her jeweled ensemble. Sharing the stage with her sister, Trina Braxton, she turned the night into an unforgettable celebration of music, emotion, and timeless R&B magic. In a heartfelt tribute to the late Angie Stone, Toni delivered a tearful, soul-stirring rendition of Breathe Again, sharing that it was one of Angie’s favorites. Her dazzling presence and flawless delivery left the audience in absolute awe.
New Edition closed out the festival with a performance that was nothing short of legendary. Their camaraderie was evident as they performed together like they were still the young kids who took the world by storm decades ago. The set was a perfect mix of group hits and solo highlights, giving the audience the best of both worlds. The crowd had an absolute blast, soaking in the rare opportunity to witness all of New Edition’s members performing as one while also appreciating their individual artistry.
Jazz in the Gardens 2025 once again proved why it remains one of the most anticipated music festivals in the country. With a lineup of legendary performers, heartfelt tributes, and unforgettable moments, this year’s event was one for the history books. Until next year, JITG fans—see you in 2026!
