Stevie Wonder returns and the rhythms go Cuban

It’s, well, just a wonder that the incredible music master Stevie Wonder found it in his heart to return to the 2017 edition of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (Friday, April 28 — Sunday, April 30 and Thursday, May 4 — Sunday, May 7). Last year, the extraordinary pianist/vocalist/harmonica player and composer’s scheduled performance was unfortunately, yet rightfully, canceled due to terrible, and we do mean awful, weather — torrential rain, lighting and wind. Yikes.

Some less soulful and caring artists, wary of repeat weather conditions, might have declined this year’s invite. But Wonder, being who he is, his love of New Orleans and his loyalty to his fans, agreed to come back and fulfill his promise for a memorable set. He’s playing the second weekend, of course, closing the Acura Stage on Saturday, May 6, yet even at the Fest’s onset, the anticipation for his show remains way high.

This year, Jazz Fest celebrates Cuba and its many connections with New Orleans music and culture. Cuban musicians will abound not only at the specifically designated Cultural Exchange Pavilion, a small tent that glows happily with its intimacy, but also at various stages around the Fair Grounds.

The Pedrito Martinez Group, led by percussionist/vocalist Martinez is highly represented throughout the weekend. A frequent visitor to this city, Martinez once said, “The only reason that I’m not living in New Orleans is because I’m stupid. It’s a very inspiring city.”

New Orleanians, particularly musicians, who have been lucky enough to visit Cuba, and Cuban artists who have come here all express that their experiences have led to their greater realization of how much their countries have in common. For instance, Conga Los Hoyos stands as a second line band in the island nation just as Rebirth or any other New Orleans brass band does on this city’s streets. It’s got its sharp-stepping dancers, heavy percussion and in Cuba, Chinese cornets replacing trumpets.

Septeto Nacional Ignacio Pineiro prides itself on its amazing 90 year history and its legacy of expanding the historic son style. It definitely looks to some straight-up jazz too with instrumentation that include acoustic piano, trumpet, bongos, maracas and vocals.

Some more contemporary, urban sounds come from Telmary y Habana Sana that collaborated with pianist/vocalist/composer Dr. John in a tribute to trumpet legend Louis Armstrong. It is a small world after all.

When in doubt, go to the Gospel Tent — it always swings — is a Jazz Fest motto to rely on. The first weekend includes the old-school traditional style of Leo Jackson & the Melody Clouds that was first established in 1965. This group knows how to testify. At noon on Sunday, April 30, the gospel community will pay tribute to the much-loved vocalist Jo “Cool” Davis, who passed away last year. He will always be remembered for closing his set with a wonderful rendition of Sam Cooke’s “Touch the Hem of His Garment.”

On Saturday, New Orleans legendary clarinetist Pete Fountain will be honored with a second line led by the Storyville Stompers and the Half Fast Marching Club. His image will be placed in the Ancestors area of the Fair Grounds alongside other Louisiana greats.

This might be the last chance for some, or the first time for others, to see the suits created by the Mardi Gras Indians for the 2017 Carnival. Catch the spectacle and the rhythms of the Black Indians on parade or at the dance-friendly Jazz & Heritage Stage.