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The 32nd Istanbul Jazz Festival, one of the most established international music events in Türkiye, welcomed two celebrated American artists this week: Grammy-winning musician Meshell Ndegeocello and jazz vocalist Jazzmeia Horn. Both artists performed at Swissotel The Bosphorus Sultan Park in Istanbul, drawing enthusiastic crowds and leaving lasting impressions with their unique musical styles and deeply personal messages.
Marking her first-ever performance in Türkiye, Jazzmeia Horn took to the stage with a setlist that featured songs from her latest album Messages. Backed by a tight ensemble—Joel Holmes on piano, Ameen Saleem on bass, and Ryan Sands on drums—Horn delivered soulful interpretations of tracks such as Free Your Mind, Submit to the Unknown, and Don’t Forget Your Love.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency before the show, Horn said she had been warmly welcomed since arriving in Istanbul. “This is my first time in Türkiye. I haven’t had the chance to fully absorb Turkish culture, but based on what I’ve experienced so far, everyone seems really nice,” she said.
Horn emphasized that much of her music revolves around themes of self-love, resilience, and personal balance. As both a touring artist and a mother, she acknowledged the emotional challenges that come with balancing professional ambition and personal well-being. “Most of the songs are about love and taking care of yourself...I think it’s really important not to forget yourself or the love within you,” she said.
Recognized for her broad vocal range, vibrant stage presence, and distinctive style, Horn blended jazz tradition with contemporary rhythms, offering a performance that resonated deeply with the audience. Her colorful clothing and accessories further highlighted her roots and identity, adding a visual depth to her musical narrative.
Sharing the same venue the following night, Meshell Ndegeocello captivated audiences with her genre-defying approach to music. Accompanied by Abraham Rounds on drums and vocals, Chris Bruse on guitar, Jake Sherman on organ, and Justin Hicks on vocals, Ndegeocello presented pieces from her Grammy-winning album No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin.
The album, released in honor of Baldwin’s 100th birthday, had been in development since 2016 and was inspired by his seminal work The Fire Next Time. Opening the concert with a warm message, Ndegeocello acknowledged the historical link between Baldwin and Istanbul. “James Baldwin wrote most of The Fire Next Time here. This is why being here tonight is really special,” she told the crowd.
Ndegeocello first rose to prominence in the mid-1990s with her album Plantation Lullabies, which brought her four Grammy nominations and established her as a powerful voice blending soul, R&B, and pop. Her recent recognition in the “Best Alternative Jazz Album” category reflects her ongoing exploration of sound and message through experimental jazz.
Organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV) with support from Garanti BBVA, the 32nd edition of the festival will continue through July 17. The program includes a diverse mix of global and Turkish talent.
Upcoming performances include Brazilian musician Roge at Esma Sultan Mansion on July 9, and a joint concert by Turkish jazz vocalist Meltem Ege and American trumpeter Matt Von Roderick at Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus on July 10. Kerem Gorsev Quintet will also take the same stage on July 11.
The festival’s signature Jazz Boat will sail from Kabatas on July 13, offering live performances against the scenic backdrop of the Bosphorus. Meanwhile, the “Night Out” concerts on July 16–17 will bring emerging voices to venues such as Kadikoy Cinema and Moda Stage.
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