The last time Stevie Wonder took the stage at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, it was to break the news to the audience that he wouldn't be able to perform due to the thunderstorms. He didn't let the disappointed fans leave without giving them something for their troubles, though. He refused to let Mother Nature get the best of him, singing a brief rendition of Prince's "Purple Rain" to the crowd through a megaphone before later popping up for an impromptu performance alongside musician Irving Mayfield. While he made the best of the situation, Wonder and fans will get a chance at a do-over when he takes the stage again as one of this year's headliners.
Wonder won't be the only major draw when this year's Jazz Fest blows into town Friday, April 28th to Sunday, May 7th. Other top-notch acts include Patti LaBelle; Earth, Wind and Fire; Maze featuring Frankie Beverly; Alabama Shakes; Corinne Bailey Rae; Tower of Power and Leon Bridges. Snoop Dogg, who was also rained out at last year's festival, will also get the chance to make it up to fans when he performs. Festival-goers will also be in for a treat with two collaboration performances that are sure to please. Usher will be accompanied by The Roots when he performs, while Nas will be backed by New Orleans' own The Soul Rebels.
Fans of PJ Morton will also have a lot to cheer about when he hits the stage twice, once as a solo act and then again as a member of Maroon 5. Rounding out the lengthy list of talent are Darius Rucker, The Meters, Big Freedia, Jon Batiste and Stay Human, George Benson, Terence Blanchard and Mary Mary's Erica Campbell.
For the festival schedule and ticket information, visit the official website.