NEWPORT JAZZ FEST 7.31.2022

Photos and Words By Sarah Hinzman

The Sunday lineup of Newport Jazz was, obviously, amazing. I was lucky enough to snag a spot in the pit and snapped a few of my favorites including Sampa the Great and PJ Morton, and some new faces that I’ll be sure to follow. Every performer was amazing, as were all of their bands, and it was interesting to see the contrast of performers, their acts and bands against the same consistent tent backdrop in classic blue with yellow text reading ‘Newport Jazz.’

Some standouts were the supporting band in Mononeon with some particularly high energy and solos. Sampa the Great brought supportive vocalists/dancers who all wore casual athletic neutral uniforms and an outstanding bassist.. I think PJ Morton had the whole stage bopping and singing together at one point, with a band of many talents behind him. His voice was beautiful and life changing in the ways you’d expect PJ Morton’s live vocals to be.

As always, Newport Jazz is a thoughtfully planned and unique festival, with traditions that blend between usual lines between audience and performers creating a tight-knit atmosphere that you can only find there.