Raheem DeVaughn and Kelly Price to Headline Saturday at the 37th Annual Clifford Brown Jazz Festival

June 13, 2024

The largest free jazz festival on the East Coast returns to Wilmington’s Rodney Square from Wednesday, June 19 to Saturday, June 22, 2024.

**WILMINGTON, Del.** – Get ready for a spectacular musical celebration as Mayor Mike Purzycki and Cultural Affairs Director Tina Betz proudly announce the addition of two sensational artists to the 37th Annual Clifford Brown Jazz Festival’s Saturday lineup. Joining the stage will be the soulful R&B sensation Raheem DeVaughn and the powerhouse vocalist Kelly Price. This festival, renowned as the largest free jazz event on the East Coast, promises an unforgettable experience with performances running from June 19 through June 22, 2024, in the heart of Rodney Square.

**🎷 Jazz Festival Highlights**

**Raheem DeVaughn**, a four-time Grammy-nominated artist, is known for his mesmerizing voice and captivating stage presence. Often hailed as “a masterful architect of soul music,” DeVaughn has created a unique blend of soulful melodies that connect deeply with audiences worldwide. Beyond his music, Raheem is a committed health and human rights advocate, having received accolades such as the 2023 Presidential Volunteer Award and the Key to the City of Washington D.C. for his impactful community work.

**Kelly Price** burst onto the music scene in the early ‘90s, earning fame with her double platinum debut album “Soul of a Woman,” featuring the hit “Friend of Mine.” Over her illustrious career, Kelly has blended contemporary gospel with soul-infused R&B, earning Grammy nominations and a spot on Whitney Houston’s iconic “Heartbreak Hotel.” Her remarkable journey from background vocalist to celebrated solo artist exemplifies her enduring influence and dynamic vocal prowess.

**Festival Schedule & Activities**

The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival will feature an array of performances from Wednesday through Saturday, with main stage acts kicking off each evening at 5:30 p.m. and continuing until 10:00 p.m. On Saturday, June 22, the festival will extend its performances from 1:00 p.m., providing a full day of incredible music. Each day will begin with performances by the alumni of the Boysie Lowery Living Jazz Residency, showcasing emerging jazz talent and celebrating the festival’s commitment to education.

But the excitement doesn’t end with the main stage! **Post-festival Jam Sessions** will take the festivities into the night, happening from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. at various local venues including Nomad Bar, Le Cav, The Queen, and the Wilmington Public Library. These sessions will feature an impressive lineup of local and national artists, offering a more intimate jazz experience in some of Wilmington’s favorite spots.

**Jam Session Schedule:**

– **Wednesday, June 19**: John Coley Trio at Wilmington Public Library, 10:00 p.m.

– **Thursday, June 20**: jeffjazz trio at Wilmington Public Library, 10:00 p.m.; Bill “Mr. B3” Dilks & Friends at Nomad, 10:00 p.m.; Aaron Walker Trio at Le Cav, 9:00 p.m.

– **Friday, June 21**: Dave Zipse Trio at Wilmington Public Library, 10:00 p.m.; Bill “Mr. B3” Dilks & Friends at Nomad, 10:00 p.m.

– **Saturday, June 22**: Tony “The Big Cat” Smith & Friends at Wilmington Public Library, 10:00 p.m.; Ty Mathis at The Queen, 10:00 p.m.; Bill “Mr. B3” Dilks & Friends at Nomad, 10:00 p.m.

**A Tribute to Clifford Brown**

The festival is a heartfelt tribute to Clifford Brown, a legendary jazz trumpeter and Wilmington native. Brown, affectionately known as “Brownie,” was a towering figure in jazz, despite his short life. His timeless compositions like “Joy Spring” and “Daahoud” continue to inspire generations of musicians. The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on the world of jazz.

**Plan Your Visit**

To ensure a smooth festival experience, please be aware of the following downtown Street Closures from June 19 to June 22:

– Market Street between 10th and 11th streets – ALL DAY

– 10th Street between King and Shipley streets – 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. DAILY

The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival is proudly presented by Cityfest, Inc., and the City of Wilmington, with generous support from New Castle County, WRTI 90.1 FM, BPG, Downtown Visions, Gerald Chavis Music, the Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, and local hotels and venues. 

Stay updated on festival announcements and details by visiting the festival website and following on Facebook or Instagram. The festival is free for all, but donations to Cityfest, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit, are encouraged to support this vibrant cultural event. Contributions can be made via the Cityfest, Inc. website or by check to Cityfest, Inc., 800 North French Street, Wilmington, DE 19801, Attn: Tina Betz, President.

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**Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of an exhilarating celebration of jazz, culture, and community at the 37th Annual Clifford Brown Jazz Festival!**