The 2024/2025 season at Ravinia in Highland Park, Illinois, will captivate audiences with an array of standout performances that span genres, eras and cultures. This eclectic mix not only highlights the festival’s commitment to musical diversity but also showcases some of the most influential and innovative artists in the R&B, rap, jazz and soul today. From the legendary rhythms of Angélique Kidjo to the smooth, jazzy melodies of Samara Joy, this season is poised to be a memorable one for music lovers.
Angélique Kidjo and Meshell Ndegeocello – August 8
Angélique Kidjo, the Grammy Award-winning Beninese singer-songwriter known for her diverse musical influences and spectacular live performances, will take the stage alongside Meshell Ndegeocello, the American singer-songwriter, rapper, and bassist known for her poignant lyrics and blend of R&B, jazz, funk and soul who spearheaded the neo soul genre. This performance promises to be an electrifying fusion of African rhythms, jazz and soul, offering audiences a unique and enriching musical experience that transcends borders and genres.
Robert Glasper and J. Ivy – August 14
Robert Glasper, an acclaimed pianist and record producer known for his innovative blend of jazz, hip-hop and R&B, will perform with Chicago’s very own J. Ivy, a Grammy award-winning spoken word poet whose rhythmic verses touch on themes of love, faith and social justice. This collaboration is expected to offer a night of introspective poetry set to the backdrop of Glasper’s genre-defying compositions, making it a must-see for fans of contemporary jazz and spoken word.
The Roots, Digable Planets and Arrested Development – August 24
A triple-header featuring some of the most influential acts in hip-hop history, this performance is a dream come true for hip-hop aficionados. The Roots, known for their live instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics; Digable Planets, with their smooth, jazz-infused hip-hop; and Arrested Development, pioneers of alternative hip-hop, will come together for a night that celebrates the depth and diversity of hip-hop. This lineup not only pays homage to the genre’s roots but also highlights its ongoing evolution.
Samara Joy – August 25
The following evening, Samara Joy, a rising star in the jazz world with a voice that seems to echo the greats of the past while injecting her unique modern flair, will grace the stage. Her performance is highly anticipated by jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike, promising an intimate journey through the standards of jazz infused with her distinct style and charisma. Joy’s ability to connect with the audience and her passion for the genre makes her performance a standout event of the season.
Norah Jones with very special guest Mavis Staples – July 14
Norah Jones, known for her soothing voice and beautiful songwriting, will perform alongside the legendary Mavis Staples, an iconic figure in the soul and gospel music scene. This concert is poised to be a night of soul-stirring music that spans generations, combining Jones’s gentle piano-driven songs with Staples’s powerful and emotive vocals. The collaboration between these two artists — each celebrated for their contributions to music — underscores Ravinia’s role as a gathering place for extraordinary musical talent.
The 2024/2025 season at Ravinia represents more than just a series of concerts; it’s a celebration of music’s power to unite, inspire and move people. Each of these performances, with their unique blend of styles and sounds, embodies the festival’s commitment to providing audiences with unparalleled musical experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the rhythms of African music, the soulful strains of jazz, the depth of hip-hop or the emotive power of soul, this season at Ravinia offers something for every music lover, ensuring that the summer of 2024 will be remembered for its rich tapestry of sounds and stories.
See the full Ravinia schedule here.
