Jessy J

Celebrating a stellar career spanning more than 17 years, acclaimed contemporary jazz saxophonist Jessy J continues to reach new heights with a string of musical milestones that have solidified her place among the genre’s elite. With eight Billboard chart-topping albums, 13 hit singles, a strong global streaming presence, and sold-out international tours, Jessy J remains one of the most in-demand artists in contemporary jazz today.

As part of the 2026 Branford Jazz Series, Jessy J will take the stage on Thursday, July 9, at 6:00 p.m., performing live behind Branford Town Hall. This highly anticipated outdoor concert promises an evening of vibrant energy, world-class musicianship, and unforgettable jazz under the summer sky.

Jessy’s latest release, TERRANOVA, marks a powerful reunion with multi-GRAMMY® Award-winning producer Paul Brown, their fifth collaboration together. Brown, who produced her breakout 2008 debut Tequila Moon, joins Jessy in crafting an electrifying eight-track project that seamlessly blends contemporary jazz with her signature Latin flair.

TERRANOVA features two dynamic ensembles that bring distinct sonic textures to the album. The “East Coast” group, anchored by GRAMMY-nominated bassist Brian Bromberg, includes standout performances by keyboardists and guitarists Jeffrey Leroy Smith, Buddy Jordan, and Shane Theriot, along with guitarist Derryl Bannerman. The “West Coast” sound shines on select tracks with contributions from keyboardists David Garfield and Jay Rowe, drummer Gorden Campbell, and percussionist Richie Gajate Garcia.

The album reflects Jessy J’s artistic vision of boundless creativity, combining original compositions with imaginative reworkings of beloved classics. Highlights include spirited takes on Mister Magic and No More Blues, alongside the Latin favorite Piel Canela. Her original tracks—such as the sultry title piece “Terranova” and the vibrant “Beso Del Sol”—showcase her rich tone, emotional depth, and dynamic range.

Marking her tenth studio album, TERRANOVA follows a series of diverse and critically acclaimed projects, including her 2022 release Blue, which was named the No. 1 Album of the Year by JazzTrax. In 2024, Jessy expanded her artistry with Now, Let’s Play, a children’s album inspired by her classical roots and family life, earning recognition from Spotify editors.

Beyond her recordings, Jessy J has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Gerald Albright, Euge Groove, and Peter White, and has appeared on major television programs including American Idol, The Voice, and Dancing with the Stars. Her global touring career has taken her to audiences across Cuba, Nigeria, Malaysia, Japan, and beyond.

“I’m so happy to be back at the 2026 Branford Jazz Festival—it’s always such a special, beautiful time of year to be together outside, celebrating jazz as America’s true art, and I’m truly proud to be a part of it,” said Jessy J.

Don’t miss this extraordinary evening of live music as Jessy J brings her signature sound and international flair to Branford’s beloved summer tradition.