Among the Caribbean’s many summer jazz festivals, both established and emerging, the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival shines brightly as a premier event. And last night’s grand finale, The Ultimate Celebration, struck the perfect balance: an intimate atmosphere despite the vast audience, radiating effortless charm.
For nearly two weeks, the 2025 festival showcased exceptional global talent, from Africa and the Americas to regional and local artists, delivering a resounding triumph. It was a source of national pride, offering a rich, dynamic experience that stretched beyond jazz, embracing a variety of genres with heart.
The afternoon began under the threat of showers, but The Lao Tizer Band set the tone with contemporary flair. American Idol finalist Elliott Yamin delivered an effortless bluesy performance, while Eric Marienthal mesmerised the growing crowd with his fiery soprano and alto sax. His seamless fusion with the band transported listeners to another world.
Guitarist Chieli Minucci wove lively and romantic melodies, while Karen Briggs thrilled with strong violin skills blending jazz, gospel, Latin, classical, African and Middle Eastern styles.
By the time national treasure Ronald Boo Hinkson took the stage, the sun was setting behind hundreds of stylishly dressed patrons. They claimed their spots – on chairs, blankets, or standing – from the stage all the way up the hill, with more streaming in.
Fresh from a good musical year, Boo appropriately themed his set Show the World. He showcased original compositions including his students and collaborators. Pan met jazz and a little soca jazzy vibe and vocalists soared, their voices lifting to the heavens.
On his heels was another son of the soil, pianist Richard Payne. Under drizzles, his music washed over the crowd like a cleanse, melodically sweeping the clouds away with a jazzy R&B start which then transitioned into African-rooted drums kissed by Latin rhythms. His fingers moved so gracefully to the crowd’s delight and applause while the angelic voices of his backup singers filled the air. The amazing Haitian singer James Germain joined as a special guest and gave a great Creole jazz performance – a traditional, cultural and funky jazz fusion, yet soulful with a conch shell-blowing, jumbie-influenced spirit.
As great as the music had been, anticipation hummed in the air. By 7:45 p.m., amid intermittent showers and a light show from the stage and across the hills, the audience waited patiently for the last two acts. Then, at 8:20 p.m., the moment arrived.
Earth, Wind and Fire took to the stage, led by original members Philip Bailey and Ralph Johnson, as the crowd leapt to their feet from the first notes of Shining Star. The hype was real; the band, unmatched. Their sound and look – iconic.
For an hour, they unleashed legendary hits: Fantasy, Boogie Wonderland, Serpentine Fire, Let’s Groove, Sing A Song, Reasons, That’s the Way of the World, September and more. By their final bow at 9:30 p.m., the hills roared with euphoria.
Only one artist could top this Ultimate Celebration: headliner John Legend. At 10 p.m., he emerged in all white to deafening cheers, launching into Tonight, Best You Ever Had, Green Light, All of Me, Ordinary People, Love Me Now.
He brought some funk mixed with old-school reggae flair, giving his own twist. The many in attendance did not mind one bit.
The crowd, singing along like a backup choir, sealed the festival’s final night with soul, energy and heart.
