Monty Alexander
The Amelia Island Jazz Festival is honored to present Monty Alexander, world-renowned pianist and one of the most beloved figures in jazz. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, and based in the U.S. for nearly six decades, Monty brings a joyful blend of jazz and Caribbean rhythm to every performance. Grammy®-nominated and featured on over 75 recordings, Monty is celebrated for his vibrant personality, soulful melodies, and unmatched ability to fuse jazz with calypso, reggae, gospel, and the blues. Whether interpreting the Great American Songbook or channeling island grooves, his performances ignite the stage—swinging hard, lifting spirits, and “kicking up a storm.” Monty has received Jamaica’s highest national honors and was named one of the top five jazz pianists of all time by The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players (Hal Leonard). In 2024, he celebrates his 80th birthday and the release of D-Day (PeeWee!), commemorating the WWII Normandy landings through music. Prepare for a powerful, uplifting evening with this true jazz legend.
Jane Monheit
The Amelia Island Jazz Festival is thrilled to welcome internationally renowned vocalist Jane Monheit as this year’s headliner. Celebrated for her lush, expressive voice and deep connection to the Great American Songbook, Jane has enchanted global audiences for over two decades. At just 20, she gained national attention as a finalist in the prestigious Thelonious Monk Competition. By 22, she was recording and touring with jazz legends like Ron Carter, Kenny Barron, and Tommy Flanagan. Her collaborations include Terence Blanchard, Ivan Lins, and John Pizzarelli, among many others. Jane has released twelve acclaimed albums, appeared on major TV shows such as The Tonight Show, CBS Sunday Morning, and Good Morning America, and contributed to film soundtracks like Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow. From Carnegie Hall to Birdland, Jane continues to light up stages worldwide. Join us for an unforgettable evening with this extraordinary talent at the 2025 Amelia Island Jazz Festival!
Tony Cruz & The Latin Jazz Legends
Get ready to move and groove with Tony Cruz & The Latin Jazz Legends at the Amelia Island Jazz Festival's hot Latin Jazz Concert and Dance! Feel the pulse of irresistible rhythms that'll keep you on your feet all night long. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just love the vibrant energy of Latin music, this is the event for you. Gather your friends and join us for a night filled with infectious tunes and plenty of fun. Don't miss out on unleashing your inner mambo at this sizzling concert!
Les DeMerle
Les DeMerle, world-renowned drummer, clinician, bandleader, Founder and Artistic Director of The Amelia Island Jazz Festival toured and recorded with the Harry James Big Band from 1970 to 1982.
Bonnie Eisele
Extraordinary defines the talents of Bonnie Eisele who just illuminates…with her powerful voice…in some ways reminiscent of Keely Smith with a faint touch of Billie Holiday. – EJazzNews.com
